Snowbirds in Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, is a popular destination throughout the year for its incredible mountain views, delicious dining scene, and numerous exciting activities. From bachelorette parties to spring training games, there’s always a good reason to visit Phoenix.
While Phoenix is a delightful place to visit any time of year, many snowbirds flock here in the winter due to its temperate weather, plentiful activities, and welcoming atmosphere. Have you been considering settling down somewhere warmer for the winter months? In this piece, we’ll learn more about snowbirds in Arizona and why Phoenix is the perfect place to settle down for the colder months!
What is a Snowbird?
The term “snowbird” refers to folks who live in colder climates in North America who flock south for warmer weather in the wintertime. If you live up north, we welcome you to Phoenix for winter! You can enjoy life at a more reasonable temperature—and experience all the fantastic things Phoenix has to offer!
How Long Do Snowbirds Stay in Arizona?
Most snowbirds stay in Arizona from late fall to early spring. The beautiful weather draws people in as early as October, and some folks stay through April or May. With so many things to do in Arizona, it’s easy to see why.
What Do Snowbirds Do in Arizona?
Great question! There are so many activities for snowbirds to explore in Arizona. Here are just a few of our favorites:
Spring Training
Arizona Spring Training is a beloved local activity. Our state is home to ten spring training stadiums, so there’s ample opportunity to catch a ball game here.
Spring Training usually runs for about a month, from late February to late March—the perfect time for snowbirds.
Visit an Arizona Ghost Town
Ready for a scare? Visiting these Arizona Ghost Towns will do the trick. You’ll find that the towns carry a different sort of scary vibe; you won’t be peeking around corners for jump scares at any of these spots. Instead, there’s a bit of an eerie presence that lingers.
Ghost towns in Arizona are former mining towns that once boasted huge populations of settlers and were quickly abandoned after the copper and silver booms ended. Nowadays, many of them are popular tourist attractions.
Each town was abandoned for a different reason, and you can learn about the history of individual towns when you visit. Here are a few to add to your list:
Attend Annual Events in Phoenix
Phoenix is famous for the thrilling events it holds every year. Check out some of our favorites!
- Innings Music Festival – held annually in February
- Arizona Matsuri: Festival of Japan – held annually in February
- Arizona Renaissance Festival – held annually in March
- Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market – held annually in March
- Phoenix Pride – held annually in October
- Phoenix Greek Festival – held annually in October
- Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival – held annually in October
What is the Cheapest Way to Be a Snowbird?
Depending on where you travel from, the cheapest option is likely driving to your destination to save on airfare (and fees associated with paying for extra baggage!) and booking your stay directly with a local company. When you book your snowbird stay directly with a vacation rental company like Arizona Elite, you avoid the costs associated with third-party services like Airbnb and VRBO. You also have access to a team that knows the area inside and out, which is a huge plus!
What is the Number One Attraction in Phoenix, Arizona?
According to TripAdvisor, the number one attraction in Phoenix, Arizona, is the Desert Botanical Gardens. The gardens are absolutely gorgeous and totally worth the visit. Peruse over 140 acres of stunning natural beauty, from native cactuses on the Sonoran Desert Nature Trail to brightly colored blooms on the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Trail.
Other top attractions in Phoenix, Arizona include:
Where Do Most Snowbirds Live in Arizona?
Snowbirds settle in the Phoenix area, including Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale. Other popular destinations include Tucson, Sedona, and Lake Havasu City.
Where Do Snowbirds Stay in Phoenix?
The top choice is staying in an Arizona Elite vacation rental! We have a wide selection of properties in and around Phoenix to choose from.
How Many Snowbirds Come to Arizona Each Year?
It’s hard to pinpoint an exact number, as snowbird patterns are heavily affected by many factors, including weather patterns, trends, and, perhaps most importantly, the economy. Last year, it was estimated that 300,000 to 400,000 snowbirds visited the Phoenix metropolitan area. Colder winters up north lead to an influx of snowbirds, but economic and political factors can often drive folks away. We’re excited to see how many snowbirds fly to Phoenix in 2025!
Book Your Snowbird Stay Directly with Arizona Elite Vacation Rentals!
When it comes to choosing the best vacation rental accommodations for your snowbird stay in Arizona, look no further than Arizona Elite vacation rentals. You’re in the right place!
With years of trusted property management and vacation rental experience right here in Phoenix, it’s more than safe to say we know what we’re doing. Our long-term rentals were designed with snowbirds like you in mind; they provide comfort for an extended stay and all the amenities necessary to make Phoenix your true home away from home.
Ready to book your snowbird stay with us? Fantastic! We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect home amongst our extensive catalog. Browse our available Arizona vacation rentals now and book your stay directly with Arizona Elite!
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