by Shabana F. Pasha, MD, FACG, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale
Dear ACG Colleagues,
We’re counting down the days to welcome you to sunny Arizona for ACG 2025!
We can’t wait to share the tranquil views of our sunrise, spectacular sunsets, and breathtaking desert landscapes. And the warmth of our Sonoran skies that descends all the way to the hearts of our fellow Arizonians.
To help you plan and prepare to make your trip to Phoenix a memorable one, we’ve compiled a “welcome package” of our Hot Spots & What Nots. So, here’s a one-stop shop of popular activities in and around Phoenix and a guide with a few precautions from the “sometimes” unforgiving heat of our sun and the many critters that co-reside in our mountains and valleys!
1. Hike it ‘til you make it
Whether you’re a beginner who wants to test our rugged terrain or a professional hiker who wants to add to the list of all the trails you’ve conquered, we have a trail for everyone!
10 Best trails and hikes in Phoenix | AllTrails
2. Day trips and local destinations
We have the whole gamut of fun trips in and around Phoenix! From the red rocks of Sedona to the iconic views of the Grand Canyon, visits to our historic towns, canoeing and bass fishing at Lake Havasu, or a visit to “the Sunniest City in the World” (according to the Guinness Book of World Records!), there are plenty of fun trips you can plan while you’re here.
The 15 Best Things to Do in Phoenix (2025) – Must-See Attractions
The Best Day Trips to Take Around Phoenix, Arizona
And here’s how to get to the South rim!
How to Get from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon
Road Trip from Phoenix to The Grand Canyon
3. Gastronomics for gastroenterologists
For all the foodies, we have delectable cuisines for every palate and microbiome!
100 best restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix New Times
The 10 Best Healthy Restaurants in Phoenix (Updated 2025)
Best restaurants in downtown Phoenix 2025: 23 essential places to eat
4. Shop ‘til you drop
Take a break to splurge and self-indulge. And you might want to bring an extra credit card!
Phoenix Malls & Shopping Centers | Fashion, Food & Outlets
5. For your ‘Spa’re time
Here’s a list of resort spas vetted by travelers and locals alike, to take a respite for the body and soul.
7 Best Resort Spas in Scottsdale (2025 Guide)
6. Cool hangouts for curious minds
From wildlife zoos to botanical gardens, sky zones to aquariums, museums to railroad parks, butterfly wonderland to musical museum, Legoland to waterparks, these are only a few of the many cool hangouts and activities for curious minds to explore.
Phoenix with Kids: 50 Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona | Mommy Poppins
Top 20 Places to Take Kids in and Around Phoenix | Kids Out and About Phoenix
24 Fun Things to Do in Phoenix with Kids (for 2025)
7. Local treats – must-tries and take-homes
- Fry bread (Indian taco)
- Chimichanga
- Cheese crisp
- Mesquite-grilled steak
- Prickly pear jelly, syrup, and margaritas
- Saguaro cactus candy
- Handmade turquoise jewelry
- Navajo rugs
8. What’s in your bag?
Don’t forget to pack:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Cool, breathable clothes for the day
- Light jackets for the cooler evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Insect repellent
9. Don’t say we didn’t warn you
And, last but not the least, watch out for critters and tread lightly for your own and their safety!
Rattlesnakes, scorpions, Gila monsters, lizards, coyotes, javelinas.
Disclaimer: this is not an exhaustive list by any means!
A Field Guide to Phoenix Wildlife – PHOENIX magazine
Dangerous Wildlife: Which Animals to Avoid in Arizona | Valleywise
The Most Dangerous Animals in Arizona: Top 11 To Avoid – Travel Snippet
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Wishing you an amazing ACG 2025 in our corner of the world!
