I'm considering going to Phoenix for the first time in October. How's the weather that time of year? Also, are there any festivals or other major events that I need to schedule around? (I realize a lot of people go to cities to experience these sorts of things, but I find they usually just make the place too crowded and make all the hotels really expensive).

Thanks in advance.

Oh yeah, I meant to add that I would certainly be willing to postpone until mid-November if that would make a significant difference weatherwise.

Phoenix is a great place. If you want to know what's going on there in October, just do a google search for info on Phoenix. You will get lots of sites.

Also, as far as prices for hotels and rental cars, go to Priceline for both. I always get a 3 star hotel in Phoenix for $45 and a rental car for $20 a day.

If you head to Phoenix, I suggest you make the drive up to Sedona.

Have a great time!

The weather can be anywhere from 80-95 during the day. 60's at night.

Average high temp:
Sept: 99
Oct: 88
Nov: 75

Average nighttime low:
Sept: 72
Oct: 61
Nov: 48

weatherbase.com


Hotel rates start to climb in October. High season is Oct-May.

Thanks for the help. I think I'll aim for the last week in October or the first week of November. Incidentally, can anybody tell me whether the Desert Botanical Garden is worth the visit? I love cacti and succulents, so it looks like a pretty good place to go.

Ogling Cacti?
YUCCA!
What's the POINT?
Are you simply NEEDLING us?

All seriousness aside, yes, the DBG is worth a visit. Check the archives for several similar opinions.

Oh, the Botannical Gardens are well worth the visit! Its a lovely view at how the desert looked before development ruined for most of Phoenix. If you have time, also try to make a visit to the Boyce Thompson Arboreteum, and go south to Tucson to visit the Saguaro National Park, and the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum. Well worth the trip!