Anything around Phoenix worth seeing?

So I found out I have a conference next year ( I know its 12 months away) begining of Feb. in Phoenix AZ. Without makng any real long drives is there anything worth seeing Landscape wise. Did a quick search on the NP website and not much pulled up. I am still in the 1st day of researching so anything will help.

If I cant find a reason to hang out in Phoenix after the conference I may rent a car and head up to southern Utah area for a few days (I have lots on the list already for that area).

Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon...though February may not be the best time.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum is good for a half day. Stop and hike around Lost Dutchman State Park en route.

Highway 67 to Payson and 260 east from there makes a nice drive up into the forest.

Zip south to Picacho Peak State Park.

The Tucson area has Catalina Highway, Dragoon Mountains (pretty, with great hiking/walking), Saguaro NP (pretty, but not nothing you can't find just east of Phoenix along 87 or 88), Chiricahua NP (a bit chilly in the winter, but a very photogenic place!), Madera Canyon, and a few more pretty places.

OTOH, if the weather in N. Az and S. Utah is seasonably fair, and you have enough time to burn the better part of two days getting there and back, I think it's probably the best photo option.

When you're staying in Phoenix and have a couple of hours to spare, check out Camelback Mountain. It's on the NE side of town and is a great place to get away without having to drive far.

Bryan

If you like airplanes, consider visiting the Pima County Air and Space Museum and AMARG, the airplane vineyard.