Elite 15 Majors - more info to come soon! Rumours predict that the event will be held in February 2026, but this date has not been confirmed as yet
Phoenix delivers a race-cation experience that balances big-city amenities with easy access to Arizona’s desert landscapes. Late January is prime time to visit — mild winter weather means you can race hard in perfect conditions, then recover under sunny skies without the intensity of summer heat. The city’s downtown core offers modern hotels, craft coffee shops, and athlete-friendly eateries, while neighborhoods like Scottsdale bring a more upscale, resort-style vibe.
What sets Phoenix apart is the mix of competition and outdoor adventure. Within a short drive you can explore Camelback Mountain for sunrise hikes, or head out to Papago Park’s red-rock trails for active recovery with stunning desert backdrops. If you’ve got more time, Sedona’s famous red canyons and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon are within reach for a day trip or overnight. Add in the energy of a thriving sports culture — from basketball and hockey to golf and baseball spring training — and Phoenix makes for a race-cation that blends performance, relaxation, and discovery in true Southwestern style.
Phoenix is one of the more affordable U.S. HYROX destinations. Hotel rates near downtown or the convention center typically range from $90–150 USD per night, with solid budget options under $100. Dining is wallet-friendly—local spots and casual eateries offer meals for $10–20. Rideshares and parking are manageable, and light rail provides an inexpensive transport option. Many outdoor attractions, like desert hikes and botanical gardens, are free or low-cost. Phoenix offers strong value with year-round sun and space—ideal for athletes looking for performance without the premium.
Since the official venue for HYROX Phoenix hasn’t been announced, downtown Phoenix is your safest base. It’s centrally located, walkable, and well-connected via light rail. Top picks include the Hyatt Regency Phoenix and Kimpton Hotel Palomar for full-service comfort, or the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown for solid mid-range value. Budget travelers can check out the Found:Re Phoenix or Best Western Downtown for quality without the cost. Wherever the venue lands, staying near downtown ensures convenience, transit access, and close proximity to post-race food and recovery spots.
Public transit exists but is limited — this is a car-first city. Most HYROX athletes will use rideshare or rent a car to balance venue, gyms, and desert adventures.
The Valley of the Sun is medal-shot paradise: red rocks, desert sunsets, and modern cityscapes collide. January skies are typically crystal clear, giving athletes vibrant backdrops without the blistering summer heat.
February in Phoenix delivers ideal racing weather, with daily highs around 20–24°C (68–75°F) and cool, dry mornings near 8–12°C (46–54°F). Rain is rare, and the skies are typically sunny, offering a low-humidity, high-performance climate. This desert city is perfect for athletes looking to escape winter and compete in comfort. Bring layers for early starts, but expect T-shirt weather by midday.
Fuel up in Phoenix with a mix of Southwestern flair and clean eats perfect for race prep and recovery. For nutrient-dense bowls, smoothies, and plant-based options, check out Original ChopShop or Flower Child, both within easy reach of downtown. Craving gluten-free? Pomegranate Café in Ahwatukee offers organic, vegan, and allergy-conscious meals packed with flavor.
Post-race, try a local favorite: Sonoran-style tacos or green chile burritos from spots like Gadzooks Enchiladas & Soup or Barrio Café. Whether you’re carb-loading or celebrating, Phoenix serves up sunshine and spice in every bite.
Local Gyms – Phoenix + Scottsdale
Phoenix’s fitness scene leans toward rugged desert endurance, while Scottsdale adds a polished, luxury edge. Together, they make the region one of the most versatile HYROX prep hubs in the U.S. Athletes can choose from hardcore sled-pushing warehouses to boutique recovery-focused studios, often just 20–30 minutes apart.
Following the high-intensity competition at HYROX Phoenix, athletes can take advantage of several excellent recovery facilities in and around downtown Phoenix. The city offers a variety of wellness centers that cater specifically to sports recovery, including deep tissue massage clinics, cryotherapy chambers, and infrared sauna studios, all designed to reduce inflammation and speed muscle repair.
One standout is Restore Hyper Wellness, which offers a combination of cryotherapy, compression therapy, and IV hydration therapy—ideal for athletes seeking cutting-edge recovery technology. Additionally, the nearby Spa Avania provides soothing massage treatments and hydrotherapy pools, perfect for post-race muscle relaxation.
Phoenix’s warm, dry desert climate also lends itself well to outdoor recovery activities. Gentle walks or yoga sessions in nearby parks like Steele Indian School Park allow athletes to stretch and cool down in a refreshing, sunny environment. For a unique twist, some athletes opt for altitude simulation therapy nearby, helping to enhance oxygen uptake and endurance recovery.
With its combination of modern recovery services and beneficial desert climate, Phoenix offers a solid environment for athletes to recharge and prepare for their next performance.
