Now that the temperatures outside are starting to dip below 90 degrees during the day, it’s finally pleasant enough to spend the day out while the sun is still up and enjoy the glorious Fall weather. With the sunshine beaconing us outside, now is the best time to get out and explore everything that Arizona has to offer. When it comes to outdoor activities or restaurants and bars with fun, outside spaces, there are an abundance of hidden gems throughout the Valley that are fit for families and adults looking for quality time with friends. Here are our top four best kept secrets in the Valley:

Sunrise Trailhead

Arizona is blessed with hundreds of scenic hikes sprinkled throughout the Valley, with options for all levels of expertise and fitness. For those looking for a hike with a view, minus the busy trails that you’ll find at Camelback or South Mountain, families and friends can opt for the Sunrise Trailhead located in the McDowell Mountains. This trail is a decent cardio workout which offers rewarding panoramic views from the neighboring Fountain Hills area all the way to the Superstitions. 

The Teapot

Located in a historic house in the Roosevelt neighborhood in downtown Phoenix, this quaint coffee shop offers a unique British twist. The Teapot boasts a large outdoor space which includes a kid-friendly play place and plenty of seating, so you can enjoy the outdoors while sipping tea and nibbling on scones. The one-stop caffeine shop also holds plenty of fun events that the whole family can enjoy, including yoga and bouquet-making classes. 

The Farm at South Mountain

Coined “Arizona’s Secret Gem”, The Farm at South Mountain is the ultimate destination in the Valley to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some local cuisine. With three restaurants on site each offering their own unique menus, you could realistically stay at The Farm all day. Stop by Morning Glory Café for some signature breakfast dishes, enjoy a picnic-style lunch in a basket from The Farm Kitchen and end the day with a romantic dinner at the fine-dining restaurant, Quiessence. The Farm sits on several acres of land and features groves of pecan trees, gardens and a modern market offering a variety of local goodies. Grab the kids, a frisbee and a picnic-blanket for the perfect family-friendly day outside. 

The Churchill

A more recent addition to the downtown Phoenix foodie scene, The Churchill offers 10 different restaurants, bars and boutiques inside of a shipping container marketplace. From pizzas, artisan sandwiches, cocktails to draft beers — The Churchill has something for everyone. Enjoy it all inside the expansive covered courtyard which features plenty of seating among the wooden picnic tables. For a little adult fun, head over to The Churchill after 9 p.m. to enjoy a 21 and up after hours. 

This Fall season offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in Arizona. With cooler days and longer nights, now is the time to explore our Valley’s best kept secrets. Whether you’re looking for some family-friendly fun or to grab some drinks with friends, you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your desire to get outside, no matter what you’re in the mood for.