Car Hire Phoenix

As one of the most populous cities in the south-west of America, you'll have no problem navigating your way around Phoenix. Both the inner-city roads, and routes out into the desert are easy to drive along, so you'll be able to get a true taste of Arizona in your hire car.

Finding your bearings in the city centre is simple thanks to Interstate 17, which runs from the north Phoenix to the south. The I-10 is also one of the city's major routes – follow this road west and cross the state border into California, or head south for Tucson. 

There are plenty of parking options in the city, including multi-storey garages and metered on-street spaces which start from just $1 per hour. Make sure you carry some change with you, as some of these machines only accept coins.

East of Phoenix there are miles of rugged canyons to explore and incredible desert views to admire along the Apache Trail. Beyond the Trail itself, pass through the city of Apache Junction and follow Highway 88 northwards to the Superstition Mountains, which eventually give way to glorious Tonto National Forest. 

For driving enthusiasts there’s another reason Arizona is so popular and that's the famous Route 66 - 173 miles of which pass clear through the state. This iconic stretch of road, as well as being the subject of multiple movies and books, is a fine place to have a few real life adventures.

The most marked difference about driving in the here and the UK is that Americans drive on the right-hand side of the road. Wearing seat belts is mandatory on US roads, and speed limits must be carefully adhered to. Arizona has a 75mph interstate speed limit, or 20mph in urban areas. 

Phoenix is a desert city like no other. Surrounded on all sides by the most stunning, other-worldly terrain, the city itself has some areas where independently-minded communities thrive and you can get a truer flavor of authentic Arizona. With great outdoors and an abundance of history, you're sure to find something to suit your interests.  

Absorb the history

Some 250,000 visitors make their way to the Heard Museum of Native Cultures and Art every year. Known locally as the Heard, this fantastic museum offers a brilliant insight into the living cultures and arts of Native societies. Originally opened as a humble folk museum in 1929, today the Heard is a jewel in Phoenix’s crown with exceptional exhibitions, education programmes and festivals. Look out for the wonderful Hopi kachina dolls and the incredibly beautiful jewellery on display.

Meanwhile, the Arizona Capital Museum provides visitors with a permanent overview of the historical link between those who govern the 48^th state and those who call it home. However, Phoenix’s impressive museum offering caters for more than simply history lovers. Music fans should head to the MIM, aka the Musical Instrument Museum, an entirely unique venue that’s home to a vast array of unusual music-makers, as well as a few that boast very famous past-owners. Those with a scientific outlook should put the Arizona Science Center on the itinerary, while families are sure to appreciate the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.

Enjoy epic South Mountain Park

This massive urban park gives visitors a real sense of having escaped the city. Sprawled across an area of almost 17,000 acres, South Mountain Park represents endless days of activity enjoyed in a stunning landscape. From horse-trekking to hiking, mountain biking to geological explorations, there’s certainly plenty to occupy your time at this phenomenal destination. Some 150 animal species live in the two mountain ranges that march through the South Mountain Park – the Ma Ha and the Guadalupe. Look out for the Mystery Castle, which is nestled in the foothills and was built in the 1930s by the park’s founder for his daughter to live in.

Live the sporting life

Following and playing sports is big news in Phoenix. Whether you’re an ice hockey, basketball, baseball or football fan, you’re catered for here. From the University of Phoenix Stadium (home of the NFL Cardinals) to Chase Field (where the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team reside), the city is dotted with impressive grounds. Golf too is a local passion and there are golf courses to try out at every point on the compass.

Marvel at the desert’s flora and fauna

It’s one of biology’s greatest achievements – the ability of a dry, barren desert landscape to sustain life. One of the best places to get a sense of this wonder is at Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden. Here, visitors can discover the incredible mammals, insects, plants, butterflies and birds that thrive in a seemingly formidable place. As well as permanent displays, the gardens boast one-off activities, professional gardener-led tours and innovative hands-on stations that teach, inspire and entertain. 

Whether you're travelling on business or enjoying a trip with the family, organise car hire in Phoenix and make the most of your time in the city.