Arizona is well-known for its beautiful deserts and huge cacti spread all over the state, but Phoenix does have its own share of hidden gems for your next Instagram photo-op. It offers a variety of backdrops—from organic views to giant cacti, and colorful hotel walls.
With these five places, your Instagram feed will feature a variety of looks your friends and family would love to see.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, the SMoCA museum is highly known for the “Knight Rise” by James Turrell—an installation that features an elliptical opening, giving the museum’s visitors an illusionary view of the sky descending upon them. The SMoCA exhibits several art installations, but aren’t just limited to paintings. They also host events to showcase architectural pieces, terrariums, and other contemporary designs that would be a feast for the eyes.
The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is open from Tuesdays through Sundays and closed on Mondays and major holidays. Tickets are sold individually but are also available for family and group tours on their website.
Berdena’s
In the mood for coffee and beautiful latte art? Look no further than Berdena’s cafe, located at Old Town, Scottsdale. This coffee shop attracts tourists and locals alike with their best-selling espresso, avocado toast, and the most delicious almond milk in Arizona. Apart from its Insta-worthy lighting, filters may seem unnecessary when you start clicking away on your phone. It’s your home away from home with its quaint set-up and cozy ambiance.
And the best part? The most expensive thing on their menu is their $8.50 Berdena’s Breakfast Sandwich. Everything under $10? Sounds perfect.
Street Art Sanctuary
Get your walking shoes and start exploring the streets of Phoenix. Street Art Sanctuary in Roosevelt Row was ranked Top 22 (out of 25) of the most Instagrammable art spots in Phoenix back in 2016 by VICE.
If you’re into artsy graphics and street shots, this is the perfect place for you. Street Art Sanctuary does not fall short when it comes to murals and graphic arts for your next Instagram collage.
Saguaro Hotel
Inspired by Mojave Desert floral species, the designers of Saguaro Hotel chose this color palette to showcase a fun and cheerful spot in Phoenix. Most Scottsdale buildings and structures don neutral hues due to their prescribed building code, so you can just imagine how the Saguaro Hotel stands out from the rest of the bunch.
Every nook and cranny of this hotel boasts Instagram-worthy backdrops because of the vibrantly colored walls and sun-kissed patio. If you want to add a burst of color into your Instagram feed, this is the best place to get those shots from.
Lux Central
The art lovers have had their fair share of Insta-worthy spots; food lovers, rejoice! Keeping up with the theme of all things colorful, Lux Central isn’t only known for its hip rustic vibe and java, but for its colorful, camera-ready food.
They open as early as 6 in the morning and close as late as midnight. Not only do they serve breakfast, but they also have a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and of course: espresso.
Trust us when we say that the best souvenirs you can take home with you are these beautiful photographs you take at each of these spots. These are the ones that will stay in your memory (and in your feed!) forever.