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  • Couple at Dobbins Lookout on South Mountain
    Provided by: Gregory E. Clifford/Shutterstock.com

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.​

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

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North America United States Phoenix, Arizona Do & See South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve

The guide was updated:
Spanning over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the United States, offering a vast array of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. The park’s extensive trail system invites visitors to explore by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. For breathtaking panoramic views, visitors can drive up Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout, where sweeping vistas of the Phoenix Valley await, or continue to Gila Lookout for stunning views of the Gila River Valley. Keep in mind that the road is shared with cyclists and hikers, and includes steep sections and sharp, blind curves—so it’s important to adhere to the 25 mph speed limit for everyone's safety.

Useful Information

Digital Travel Guide Download

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.​

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase
Phoenix Zoo

Phoenix Zoo

Nestled near the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from all over the world, with a special focus on the wildlife of the Sonoran Desert. The zoo features expansive exhibits where you can observe native creatures like coyotes, mountain lions, and desert tortoises up close. For a more immersive experience, the zoo offers interactive opportunities, including camel rides, stingray touch tanks, and a petting zoo where kids can brush and feed goats. In addition to its animal encounters, the Phoenix Zoo hosts daily educational programs and seasonal events such as ZooLights, where the park transforms into a winter wonderland of sparkling lights.
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Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain

Rising 2,704 feet above the Phoenix Valley, Camelback Mountain is an iconic destination for travelers seeking adventure and breathtaking views. The mountain offers two popular hiking trails, each challenging in its own way. The Echo Canyon Trail is shorter but steeper, while the Cholla Trail is longer and slightly less intense, though both demand a good level of fitness and preparation. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert landscape and city skyline. At the summit, you’ll experience the exhilarating feeling of accomplishment under the bright blue Arizona skies. Guided hikes are also available for those who prefer a more structured experience or need local expertise. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear proper hiking gear, as the trails are rigorous and the desert heat can be intense, especially in summer.
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S'edav Va'aki Museum

S'edav Va'aki Museum

The S'edav Va'aki Museum, formerly known as the Pueblo Grande Museum, offers a fascinating journey into the history and ancient cultures of the Phoenix area, particularly the Hohokam people. Located on a 1,500-year-old archaeological site, visitors can explore an outdoor interpretive trail that features the remnants of a Hohokam ballcourt, the prehistoric platform mound, ancient canal systems, and replicas of traditional Hohokam housing. The interpretive agricultural garden also highlights the innovative farming techniques used in the desert. Inside, the museum houses three educational galleries that dive deeper into the archaeology, history, and daily life of the Hohokam civilization. Through interactive exhibits and artifacts, guests can gain a richer understanding of how this ancient culture thrived in the harsh desert landscape.
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Orpheum Theatre Phoenix

Orpheum Theatre Phoenix

The historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix is a cultural gem, hosting a variety of performances from Broadway shows to comedy acts and live concerts. With its exquisite Spanish Baroque Revival décor, the theater’s lobby exudes old-world charm, while the 1,364-seat auditorium boasts grand columns and a stunning hand-painted ceiling that mimics a vibrant desert sunset. Over the years, the Orpheum has welcomed a wide range of talent, including renowned musicians like Bryan Adams and Feist, as well as comedians such as Lewis Black.
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Musical Instrument Museum

Musical Instrument Museum

Ever wondered what a Sanza sounds like? You can find out at the Musical Instrument Museum, where over 8,000 instruments from more than 200 countries and territories are on display. The museum brings the world of music to life, showcasing instruments used in traditional, popular, and classical music across the globe. Through interactive exhibits, you’ll learn about the cultural significance of these instruments, who plays them, and the eras they come from. A highlight of the museum is the Experience Gallery, where visitors of all ages can play instruments from around the world, from gongs to guitars. The museum also offers live performances in its intimate theater, featuring musicians from every corner of the globe.
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South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve

Spanning over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the United States, offering a vast array of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. The park’s extensive trail system invites visitors to explore by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. For breathtaking panoramic views, visitors can drive up Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout, where sweeping vistas of the Phoenix Valley await, or continue to Gila Lookout for stunning views of the Gila River Valley. Keep in mind that the road is shared with cyclists and hikers, and includes steep sections and sharp, blind curves—so it’s important to adhere to the 25 mph speed limit for everyone's safety.
Read more
St. Mary's Basilica

St. Mary's Basilica

Built in 1914, the Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Basilica is the oldest Roman Catholic parish in the city and the only basilica in Arizona. Its stunning stained glass windows, intricate interior, and iconic Carillon Tower make it a must-see for visitors of all faiths. The basilica's grandeur was further elevated by a historic visit from Pope John Paul II in 1987, a moment that continues to resonate with parishioners and visitors alike. With daily Mass still celebrated, the basilica serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a historical landmark. Visitors are welcome to admire its beauty, but please be respectful of ongoing services, keeping attire and behavior appropriate.
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Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Hall of Flame Fire Museum

The Hall of Flame Fire Museum is a fascinating tribute to the history of firefighting showcasing an extensive collection of fire equipment and memorabilia, which traces the evolution of firefighting from the 19th century to the present day. Visitors can explore vintage fire trucks, helmets, and gear, as well as interactive exhibits that highlight the challenges and advancements in firefighting techniques over the years. The museum also features displays dedicated to notable fires in history and the brave firefighters who responded to them.
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Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden

Spanning 140 acres, with 55 acres under cultivation, the Desert Botanical Garden showcases over 50,000 plants in carefully curated outdoor exhibits. From towering cacti to vibrant desert wildflowers, this oasis celebrates the resilience and splendor of plants adapted to arid environments. Visitors can begin their journey at the Ottosen Entry Garden and then explore the winding Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop Trail or the Desert Discovery Loop Trail. The latter serves as the garden’s main artery, connecting visitors to all trails, exhibits, and seasonal art installations. With educational programs, desert conservation efforts, and stunning nighttime exhibits like Las Noches de las Luminarias, the Desert Botanical Garden offers a fascinating and immersive experience for nature lovers, photographers, and families alike.
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Heard Museum

Heard Museum

Since 1929, the Heard Museum has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating Native American cultures with historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity. Collaborating closely with Native communities, particularly those from the Southwest, the museum is renowned for its educational programs, immersive exhibits, and vibrant festivals. Visitors can explore stunning works of art, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more, created by Native artists who offer their own, first-person perspectives on their traditions and history. The museum also hosts exciting annual events, such as the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market, which showcases Native art, music, and performances.
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Carnival of Illusion

Carnival of Illusion

A must-see for both locals and visitors, the Carnival of Illusion brings the charm and wonder of old-world magic to the Valley of the Sun. This intimate boutique theater experience combines Vaudeville-style magic, mystery, and romantic intrigue, offering a night of captivating entertainment that transports guests to a bygone era. With each performance limited to just a few dozen attendees, the show’s personal and interactive nature makes it truly unique. Advance reservations are highly recommended, as shows often sell out quickly. Please note, due to the sophistication of the performance, children under 13 are not admitted.
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