You know what they say: Instagram, or it didn’t happen.
The Prada “store” in Marfa, Texas, Sketch restaurant in London, the Rose Main Reading Room at the New York Public Library, Las Vegas’ Neon Museum, or, anywhere in Iceland, Morocco, or Santorini, Greece. What do these locations share in common? Each are bucket-list destinations not simply for what they are, but for what it means to broadcast that you were there through the shared experience of social media.
These days the art of capturing our daily lives in compelling and creative ways is as much an expression of who we are as it is a visual report card of what actually happened, or where you happened to be. In an increasingly proactive effort by cities, businesses, and landmarks old and new, every place from your local art museum to your favorite taco shop are looking to tap into the zeitgeist, attempting to translate some of that cultural frenzy for Instagram bait into attendance, sales and awareness.
For brands looking to harness the power of creating “moments” or experiences in their brick-and-mortar locations that will attract, encourage and capture some of that coveted organic social media engagement of customers while on-property, observing what other businesses or organizations have done successfully will only help provide creative ideas on execution.
The Phoenix area is no exception when it comes to Instagram-worthy hot spots. Most people think of cowboy boots and cacti when they envision what they’ll discover here. That may be true, but it’s only part of the region’s growing—and diversifying—urban story. There’s so much more to explore, including unique restaurants, luxury hotels, cultural hotspots, and stunning views.
Whether it’s your first time in Phoenix or you’re scouting for the buzziest backdrops for your latest TikTok or Reels, this list of local Instagram-worthy spots won’t disappoint.
Located just north of downtown Phoenix, Roosevelt Row is a vibrant arts, shopping and dining district featuring countless colorful and hand-painted murals by emerging local artists, as well as popular monthly art and cultural events, in a pedestrian-friendly urban environment.
Take the easy hike to the infamous “hole in the rock” at Papago Park and take in the epic city views. Papago Park, located in south Scottsdale, is known for its short hikes, scenic rock formations and destination-worthy amenities like the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden.
Located at Water Tower Plaza in the heart of downtown Gilbert, the area also features a family-friendly community park, splash pad for kids and hosts the very popular weekly Gilbert Farmers Market.
Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, an intimate urban parkway located in Old Town Scottsdale, features restaurants, art museums, grassy open areas and fountains to explore. Stop at the LOVE sculpture for a photo!
