Brunch and a slow Sunday plan in Phoenix

A good Sunday in Phoenix starts with breakfast at a local restaurant, moves on to a museum or a bookstore, and leaves the afternoon open. The directory lists locally owned breakfast spots, museums and shops across the Valley, each with a phone number. Go early for breakfast, since weekend waits can be long.

A simple plan for a slow Sunday

Morning. Start with breakfast. Matt's Big Breakfast in downtown Phoenix is the original location, opened in 2004, and lists breakfast and lunch. The directory also lists other local breakfast spots across the Valley, including family-run places in Peoria, Goodyear and Gilbert. Arrive early, or call to ask about a waitlist.

Late morning. Walk off breakfast at a museum. Heard Museum in Phoenix shows American Indian art in 12 galleries and lists a museum shop and a cafe. Call ahead for Sunday hours, since they can differ from weekdays.

Afternoon. Wander. A bookstore is an easy choice on a hot day. Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe has served Tempe and Phoenix since 1974. In Glendale, downtown shops sell comics, toys and clothing.

Evening. Keep it simple. Go home, rest, and have an early dinner.

Where to eat, browse and visit

Here are the breakfast spots, museums and shops you can browse:

Tips for a Sunday out

• Go early. Many popular breakfast places fill up by mid-morning, especially in winter and spring.
• Call ahead for hours. Some breakfast spots close after lunch, and some shops and museums have shorter Sunday hours.
• Bring something for the heat. In summer, plan to go from air conditioning to air conditioning, and keep water in the car.
• Check parking. Downtown has meters and lots, and some places have their own parking.
• Mix indoors and out. In cooler months, pair brunch with a short walk. In summer, go straight to a museum.
• Take your time. One breakfast and one stop is a full Sunday.

What time should I go to brunch in Phoenix?

Before 9 a.m. is the easiest. After 10 a.m. on a winter weekend, many places have a wait. If you go later, put your name in and ask how long the wait is.

Questions people ask

What is a good Sunday plan in Phoenix when it is hot?

Eat breakfast early, then go to a museum or bookstore. These are all indoors. Save outdoor time for after sunset.

Are Phoenix breakfast restaurants open on Sunday?

Many are, but hours differ. Call to confirm, and ask whether they take reservations or waitlist names.

Is there a bookstore near downtown Phoenix?

The list includes Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe, which is a short drive from downtown. Call for hours and events.

Plan your day with the trip planner, or browse breakfast and brunch in Phoenix.