FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Phoenix for the Family

by Angelique Platas

Mar 31, 2018

© Hpbfotos | Dreamstime.com

Budget

Seeing the uniquely beautiful deserts and otherworldly scenery of Phoenix, Ariz., can easily be done on a budget — you just have to know where to look. Active families, be prepared to get physical as seeing the sights in Phoenix requires a lot of walking, hiking, light climbing and traversing the impressive landscape for a better view — but then again, that’s kind of the beauty of this destination.

Begin with a morning hike at Camelback when the crowds will be low and the weather is cooler. Inspire the kids for the hike with a thought of a hearty breakfast after, but be sure to pack a couple snacks for younger children so they don’t get too cranky. Think granola and berries. As one of the more popular destinations in Phoenix, Camelback offers exquisite views from the “hump,” an iconic picture point, so don’t forget your camera or phones.

One of the red sandstone buttes of Papago Park near Phoenix Arizona

© Hpbfotos | Dreamstime.com

Rent a bike for $2 from Grid Bike Share and hit Papago Park for some incredible sightseeing. While there, be sure to check out Desert Botanical Garden and some 50 acres of cacti, towering desert plants and unique blooms against the red rocks in the distance. The landscape is so uniquely beautiful and your family will love the Wild West-style plant life.

Learn about indigenous cultures that inhabited this amazing land at the Heard Museum, $18. See Native American art and learn about history, culture and incredible stories. Plan to attend one of the rotating events from museum yoga and the Indian Fair and Market to a student-run art show, perfect for your aspiring artists, history buffs and culturally curious children.

On a sunny day, opt for lunch or snacks at the museum and sit outside in the courtyard. Enjoy hummus, $9, and a variety of salads, $13–14, or go big with a southwestern entrée, $12–14. Pack a family picnic and enjoy a typical Phoenix day of sunshine and clear skies.

Conveniently, the museum is centrally located and offers easy access to more of the city’s attractions on foot (for free) or by bike. After an active day exploring for free, or close to it, check out the booming restaurant scene and nightlife and feel free to splurge at T. Cook’s or Chelsea’s Kitchen.

Read more about the bustling city and desert atmosphere here and plan your family trip during one of the city’s many fun festivals and family-friendly events.

#WhereverFamily

Insta Feed
Destinations / North America
Sep 22, 2023

These Omni Hotels and Resorts Have Haunting Ghost Stories for a Spooky Stay

Part of a family who just loves a good scare or ghost story? This fall, wherever your travels might take you, chances are you’ll be near an Omni hotel or resort with a history of haunted sightings and other scary happenings. So, why not learn a bit about where you’re staying to make the experience all the more eerie …

Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet

United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.

Destinations / North America
Sep 22, 2023

Here’s Why Brunswick, Maine, is the Perfect Getaway for Couples

Overshadowed by nearby Portland and overlooked by tourists bound for the popular coastal towns of Camden and Boothbay Harbor, Brunswick is not on the radar of most family travelers in Maine. But couples looking for a cozy getaway will find fine dining, antiques, art and quiet streets for strolling, many lined by distinguished homes and well-kept gardens.

Destinations / North America
Sep 21, 2023

The World’s Largest Indoor Beachfront Waterpark Opened This Summer

Not quite ready to say goodbye to summer? If the weather is forcing you to head indoors, you can still take advantage of a few opportunities to splash around in the waves, without even being that far from the beach — thanks to the world’s largest indoor beachfront waterpark, which opened this summer in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates

As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.

Destinations / North America
Sep 21, 2023

Spooky Haunts to Visit in Cayuga County, New York, This Halloween

Halloween is right around the corner, which means its time to start making plans for spooky and scary stops for having fun with the family this fall. New York’s Cayuga County is always a fun visit for family travelers, but if you plan on being in the area this October, you will definitely want to explore its haunted history with some choice spots along New York’s Haunted History Trail. This curated list of haunted and spooky stops throughout New York features incredible locations showcasing the perfect combination of the state’s beautiful charm and fascinating history.