SPORTS & RECREATION / PARKS & NATURE
Arizona leads the nation in offering scenic and diverse environments for exploration and enjoyment, from the Grand Canyon to the alpine splendor of the White Mountains. In fact, the state is dominated by public land preserved by various governmental agencies in forests, parks, national monuments, and other recreational sites. Enjoy day trips, weekend getaways, or spend an entire vacation at one of these exceptional natural playgrounds. Closer to home, city and county governments manage a comprehensive array of lush parks, scenic trails, first-rate sports and entertainment facilities, and supervised programs for all age groups.
STATE/FEDERAL PARKLAND
Arizona National Forests
US Forest Service
Region 3 Headquarters
Albuquerque 505-842-3292
www.fs.fed.us/r3
Millions of acres of Arizona land are preserved in national forests and monuments. For a complete listing, contact the regional headquarters or visit the website.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
928-333-4301
www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf
More than two million acres in east-central Arizona encompasses the Mount Baldy, Bear Wallow, and Escudilla wilderness areas along with the Blue Range Primitive Area. This water-rich paradise features 34 lakes and reservoirs and more than 680 miles of rivers and streams—more than any other Southwestern National Forest.
Coronado National Forest
520-388-8300
www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado
Elevations range from 3000 feet to 10,720 feet in 12 widely scattered mountain ranges or “sky islands” rise dramatically from the desert floor. The forest covers 1.8 million acres in southwestern Arizona, home to premier fishing lakes and the nation’s southernmost ski area.
Tonto National Forest
602-225-5200
www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto
More than three million acres north of Phoenix to the Mogollon Rim and east to the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations offer lakes, streams, trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas surrounded by Pinon, Juniper, and Ponderosa Pines.
Arizona National Parks/Monuments
Canyon de Chelly
Chinle 928-674-5500
www.nps.gov/cach
Varnished canyon walls rival the beauty of the Grand Canyon, towering over ancient petroglyphs and five periods of Native American civilization.
Casa Grande Ruins
Coolidge 520-723-3172
www.nps.gov/cagr
Hohokam architecture at its finest in a 650-year-old four-story structure amid village sites and irrigation canals.
The Chiricahuas
Willcox 520-824-3560
www.nps.gov/chir
“Wonderland of Rocks” features fantastic formations carved by nature from volcanic rock on land once controlled by the Apache Nation under Chief Cochise.
Fort Bowie Historic Site
Willcox 520-847-2500
www.nps.gov/fobo
Built to protect the early settlers against famous Apache chiefs including Cochise and Geronimo, the area preserves the fort and Butterfield Overland Mail Route.
The Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon 928-638-7888
www.nps.gov/grca
Incomprehensible in its majesty, the canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and one of the most visited locations on the planet.
Lake Powell & Glen Canyon
Page 928-608-6200
www.nps.gov/glca
Boaters, anglers, nature lovers, and campers are all drawn to the unrivaled beauty of aquamarine waters beneath chiseled canyon walls.
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Camp Verde 928-567-3322
www.nps.gov/moca
Intact five-story cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua Indians in 1250 was mistakenly named for Montezuma by Spanish explorers.
Organ Pipe National Monument
Ajo 520-387-6849
www.nps.gov/orpi
Pima County claims this extraordinary collection of wildlife and plants of the Sonoran Desert, including the rare organ pipe cactus.
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest 928-524-6228
www.nps.gov/pefo
Presenting the world’s largest display of petrified wood, the forest also preserves the Puerco Indian ruins.
Pipe Spring National Monument
Fredonia 928-643-7105
www.nps.gov/pisp
Living history ranch near Utah is the site of a historic Mormon Fort built in the 1870s.
Saguaro National Park
Tucson 520-733-5153
www.nps.gov/sagu
More than 54,000 acres in two districts showcase stands of saguaro cacti that are especially stunning in spring bloom.
Sunset Crater National Monument
Flagstaff 928-526-0502
www.nps.gov/sucr
This awe-inspiring rose-colored cinder cone lies among the San Francisco Peaks, believed to be formed around 1066 A.D.
Tumacacori
Tumacacori 520-398-2341
www.nps.gov/tuma
Ruins of a partially complete church and museum mark the site of a former Pima village that became a Spanish mission in 1697.
Tuzigoot National Monument
Clarkdale 928-634-5564
www.nps.gov/tuzi
Located in one of Arizona’s most beautiful canyons, this hilltop fortress-village of Indian ruins features exhibits in its visitor’s center.
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Flagstaff 928-526-3367
www.nps.gov/waca
Centuries ago the Sinagua Indians built tiny cliff dwellings in this horseshoe-shaped canyon.
Wupatki National Monument
Flagstaff 928-679-2365
www.nps.gov/wupa
North of Flagstaff on U.S. 89 lies more than 800 structures that constitute one of the world’s greatest assortment of Indian dwellings.
Arizona State Park System
Catalina State Park
Tucson 520-628-5798
http://azstateparks.com/
Opportunities for hiking and horseback riding combine with scenic Catalina Mountain vistas and spring wildflowers.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Cottonwood 928-634-5283
http://azstateparks.com/
Set at 3,300 feet in elevation, the developed 423-acre site is ideal for camping, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and wading in the Verde River.
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
Show Low 928-537-3680
http://azstateparks.com/
Fishing, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating are popular pastimes in this alpine setting east of Phoenix.
Fort Verde State Historic Park
Camp Verde 928-567-3275
http://azstateparks.com/
Frontier fort showcases daily life among the soldiers in country haven of Camp Verde.
Jerome State Historic Park
Jerome 928-634-5381
http://azstateparks.com/
The area’s mining history is enhanced by tourist attractions in former ghost town.
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Benson 520-586-4100
Reservations 520-586-CAVE
http://azstateparks.com/
World-class attraction rivals the finest show caves, remaining as fragile and colorful as it was 50,000 years ago.
Lake Havasu State Park
Lake Havasu City 520-855-2784
http://azstateparks.com/
Water lover’s paradise includes Windsor Beach and Cattail Cove for camping, picnicking, and launching all varieties of watercraft. Cattail Cove State Park offers more than 140 boat-only access campsites as well as modern lakeside camping.
Lost Dutchman State Park
Apache Junction 480-982-4485
http://azstateparks.com/
Hiking trails command magnificent views at the edge of the Superstition Mountain Wilderness Area.
Lyman Lake State Park
St. Johns 928-337-4441
http://azstateparks.com/
Expansive 1,200-acre park encompasses the shoreline of a 1,500-acre reservoir at an elevation of 6,000 feet.
Oracle State Park
Oracle 520-896-2425
http://azstateparks.com/
Reaching 4,500 feet in elevation, the park serves as an environmental education center and consists of oak grassland, riparian woodland, and mesquite scrub habitats.
Patagonia Lake State Park
Patagonia 520-287-6965
http://azstateparks.com/
Water ski, fish, camp, picnic, and hike on the lake created by the damming of Sonoita Creek between Nogales and Patagonia.
Picacho Peak State Park
Picacho 520-466-3183
http://azstateparks.com/
The 1,500-foot peak northwest of Tucson attracts hikers, nature lovers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts to trails and picnic areas.
Red Rock State Park
Sedona 928-282-6907
http://azstateparks.com/
Nature preserve and environmental education center includes Scenic Red Rock Crossing.
Roper Lake State Park
Safford 520-428-6760
http://azstateparks.com/
Nestled at the foot of Mount Graham just south of Safford, the lake is an oasis for fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking, and swimming.
Slide Rock State Park
Sedona 928-282-3034
http://azstateparks.com/
Breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon features smooth sandstone water chutes with deep swimming pools and picnic area.
Sonoita Creek Natural Area
Patagonia 520-287-6965
http://azstateparks.com/
Nearly 5,000 acres in development at Sonoita Creek preserves a unique riparian area with hiking trails, viewing areas, and educational opportunities.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Payson 928-476-4202
http://azstateparks.com/
The world’s largest natural travertine bridge measures a full 183 feet high and 400 feet in width.
Arizona Lakes
Arizona claims more than 65 natural and man-made lakes, the largest group being the six reservoirs in Tonto National Forest: Apache Lake, Bartlett Reservoir, Canyon Lake, Horseshoe Reservoir, Roosevelt Lake, and Saguaro Lake. The vast water playground of Lake Mead just inside the Nevada border, Lake Powell in northern Arizona, and the southwestern Arizona Lake Havasu are additional points of pride.
Lake Havasu
928-855-4115
www.havasuchamber.com
Lake Mead
702-293-8906
www.nps.gov/lame
Lake Pleasant
602-372-7460
www.maricopa.gov/parks
Lake Powell
888-896-3829
https://www.lakepowell.com
Lyman Lake
928-337-4441
http://azstateparks.com/
Patagonia Lake
520-287-6965
http://azstateparks.com/
Roper Lake
928-428-6760
http://azstateparks.com/
Tonto National Forest Lakes
602-225-5200
www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto
REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Abraham Lincoln Park
8280 E. Escalante Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
http://ovfps.org/lincoln_park.html
Nature trails combine with a host of sports and recreational facilities including a recreation center in this park that covers more than 190 acres.
Christopher Columbus Park
4600 N. Silverbell Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/
Serving as a regional recreation area, this 345-acre park features boating and fishing opportunities, model airplane and model boat areas, an off-leash dog area, and picnic facilities.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park
16721 E. Old Spanish Trail
Vail 520-647- PARK
www.colossalcave.com
Cavern tours combine with scenic views, stories of history and legends, a museum, opportunities for trail rides, a butterfly garden, and picnic areas.
Greasewood Park
1075 N Greasewood Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/
Designated as a Metro Natural Resource park, Greasewood offers nature trails and a multi-use path as well as picnic sites on 160 acres.
Houghton Park
5600 S. Houghton Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate this undeveloped park covering 70 acres, designated as a Metro Natural Resource park.
Kennedy Park
3700 S. La Cholla Boulevard
Tucson 520-791-5909
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/
One of the highlights of this regional park is the Fiesta Area, a grassy amphitheater with a stage and permanent vendor booths and a capacity of 7,500 for spectacular special events.
Kitt Peak National Observatory
Tohono O’odham 520-318-8732
www.noao.edu/kpno
Featuring the world’s largest collection of optical telescopes operated under some of the finest night skies in the world, Kitt Peak is just 56 miles southwest of Tucson.
Lakeside (Charles Ford) Park
8300 E. Stella Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
http://www.tucsonaz.gov/
Boating and fishing are just two of the many activities supported in this 50-acre park that also provides an array of sports facilities.
Mount Lemmon & Ski Valley
Mount Lemmon 520-576-1321
www.mt-lemmon.com
With alpine temperatures that are generally 30 degrees cooler than those in neighboring Tucson, this Catalina Mountain attraction in the Coronado National Forest offers trails, five biological life zones, camp sites and picnic grounds, and a trout lake.
Paseo de los Arboles Park
Santa Cruz River Corridor
Tucson 520-877-6000
www.pima.gov/nrpr
Equestrians, cyclists, hikers, and rollerbladers can all take advantage of scenic riverfront views and park amenities from Grant Road to 29th Street and Ajo Way to Irvington Road.
Rillito River Park
Rillito River Corridor
Tucson 520-877-6000
www.pima.gov/nrpr
Equestrians, hikers, rollerbladers, and cyclists enjoy the lush path along Rillito River from Interstate 10 to Craycroft Road; includes picnic areas and exercise stations.
Roy P. Drachman-Agua Caliente Regional Park
12325 E. Roger Road
Tucson 520-877-6000
www.pima.gov/nrpr
Visitors enjoy wildlife and aquatic viewing, historical sights, warm springs, a walking path, an art gallery, a nature shop, and games areas.
Sabino Canyon
Catalina Foothills
Tucson 520-547-7510
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=80532
Just northeast of Tucson, visitors can picnic amid cottonwood and sycamore trees by a quiet stream or hike and bike the lush terrain in this area closed to automobiles.
Santa Cruz River Park
Santa Cruz River Corridor
Tucson 520-877-6000
www.pima.gov/nrpr
This riverfront park includes the Anza Trail, part of a national trail system that follows the historic route taken by Juan Bautista de Anza on his trek to establish what we know today as San Francisco.
Sentinel Peak Park
1000 S. Sentinel Peak Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
www.tucsonaz.gov
Known locally as “A” Mountain and the site of Tucson’s July 4 fireworks extravaganza, this 278-acre Metro Natural Resource park provides breathtaking vistas of the city and a nature trail.
Tucson Mountain Park
Gates Pass Road
Tucson 520-791-4873
www.tucsonaz.gov
Sprawling over 20,000 acres of panoramic Sonoran desert, the park protects one of the most magnificent saguaro forests in the world. Hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, picnicking, archery, and camping are among the recreational opportunities.
NATURE CENTERS & GARDENS
Aravaipa Canyon Preserve
Highway 77
Dudleyville 928-828-3443
www.nature.org
Just 50 miles north of Tucson, this spectacular canyon is noted for its desert stream, majestic cliffs, and bighorn sheep. The 10-mile central gorge is a federal wilderness area and access is by permit only from the Bureau of Land Management.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Superior 520-689-2811
http://azstateparks.com/
Nestled at the base of the Picketpost Mountains in southeastern Arizona, the park is a major center for plant research and offers a lush desert garden on 35 scenic acres. Trails, gardens, visitor’s center, greenhouse, Ayer Lake, Queen Creek, picnic tables, and other attractions make this a day’s retreat.
Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve
Pennsylvania Avenue
Patagonia 520-378-4952
www.nature.org
Sonoita Creek protects some of the region’s richest remaining riparian habitat and preserves a rare Fremont cottonwood-Goodding willow riparian forest.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve
Ramsey Canyon Road
Sierra Vista 520-378-2785
www.nature.org
On the eastern flank of the Huachuca Mountains, this canyon is renowned for its outstanding scenic beauty and the diversity of plant and animal live, especially numerous hummingbirds.
Reid Park Zoo
Gene C. Reid Park
1100 S. Randolph Way
Tucson 520-791-4022
www.tucsonzoo.org
More than 500 animals enjoy natural habitats in one of Tucson’s most popular attractions.
Rose Test Garden
Reid Park
Lake Shore Lane
Tucson 520-791-4873
www.tucsonaz.gov
More than 160 varieties of roses are located just west of Reid Lake, most impressive in April when the bushes are in full bloom.
Tohono Chul Park
7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Tucson 520-742-6455
www.tohonochulpark.org
Walk the winding nature trail through beautiful gardens and tour the renovated historic home and exhibit hall. Nearly 40 acres of natural beauty includes a stream and ramadas, tea room, museum shops, and greenhouse.
Tucson Botanical Gardens
2150 N. Alvernon Way
Tucson 520-326-9686
www.tucsonbotanical.org
Conveniently located in midtown, the gardens provide an oasis on 5.5 acres featuring native plants, herbs, and flowers in gardens that include low-water use, cactus and succulent, herb, wildflower, sensory, bird, and butterfly.
University of Arizona Arboretum
Campuswide Locations
Tucson 520-621-7074
www.ag.arizona.edu/arboretum
A stroll through the University of Arizona campus reveals a collection of plants from arid and semi-arid climates around the world. More than 50 campus trees are the only existing specimens in Arizona, and several are unique to the Southwest. Tour the campus in person or take the virtual tour online.
Birdwatching & Nature Study
Southeastern Arizona is distinguished as one of the world’s premier birding destinations. Because this area is so well known for its resident birds and rare species, many clubs and organizations are available to promote and share this pastime. The Southeastern Birding Trail is being developed by a collaboration between several of these groups. Through this new service, newcomers have the advantage of full-color maps, birding tips, site descriptions, and information for 50 of the hottest locations in the region.
The main trail begins in Tucson itself, the starting point for many of the birding enthusiasts, heading south and east to the borders of Mexico and New Mexico. Loops and spurs extend to many “hot” sites that include Sulphur Springs Valley near Safford and the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. These sites include points in Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Cochise, Graham, and Greenlee Counties. For up-to-date information, contact:
Southeastern Arizona Birding Trail
Online Map & Information
Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory
520-432-1388
www.sabo.org
The following contacts and websites will be helpful as you plan your nature-study excursions throughout the southeastern part of Arizona. These chambers and visitor’s centers can answer questions about local attractions and services:
Arizona Office of Tourism
602-364-3700
https://tourism.az.gov
Arizona Public Lands Information Center
National Bureau of Land Management
602-417-9300
www.blm.gov/az
Benson Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center
520-586-2842
www.bensonchamberaz.com
Bisbee Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center
520-432-5421
www.bisbeearizona.com
Discover Southeast Arizona
Online Information
www.discoverseaz.com
Graham County Chamber of Commerce
928-428-2511
www.graham-chamber.com
Green Valley Chamber of Commerce
800-858-5872
Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau
520-624-1817
800-638-8350
www.visittucson.org
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
520-287-3685
https://www.thenogaleschamber.org
Patagonia, Sonoita, Elgin Visitor’s Information
888-794-0060
www.patagoniaaz.com
Sierra Vista Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
800-288-3861
www.visitsierravista.com
Tombstone Chamber of Commerce
520-457-3456
www.tombstoneaz.com
Tubac Chamber of Commerce
520-398-2704
www.tubacaz.com
Willcox Chamber of Commerce
520-384-2272
800-200-2272
www.willcoxchamber.com
PARKS & RECREATION CONTACTS
Arizona State Parks
Phoenix 602-542-4174
http://azstateparks.com/
Celebrated for the diverse habitats and natural beauty they preserve, Arizona’s 27 parks protect ancient ruins, offer recreational opportunities, and provide glimpses into the natural world.
Tucson Parks & Recreation
Tucson 520-791-4873
www.tucsonaz.gov
In addition to overseeing beautiful parks throughout the city and Pima County, the department offers a wide selection of facilities that include swimming pools, tennis and racquetball courts, and golf courses. Activities encompass sports leagues, classes, year-round special events, concerts, and other entertainment.
Pima County Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation
Tucson 520-877-6000
www.pima.gov/nrpr
The park division services 34 parks covering 2,273 acres, responsible for the care of natural treasures like the stately saguaros in Tucson Mountain Park as well as special programs for residents of all ages.
US Bureau of Land Management
Arizona Public Lands Information
602-417-9300
www.blm.gov/az
US Forest Service
Region 3 Headquarters
Albuquerque 505-842-3292
www.fs.fed.us/r3
Millions of acres of Arizona land are preserved in national forests and monuments that provide premier opportunities for outdoor recreation.
ARIZONA GETAWAYS
Few states can claim the sheer diversity of topography and natural environments that have made every corner of Arizona a popular tourist attraction. From the world-famous Grand Canyon to the White Mountains, the Mogollon Rim, and crystalline Lake Powell—Arizona is a wonderland waiting to be explored. Many Tucson residents travel to nearby Phoenix for professional sports, world-class cultural events, and unique attractions. For even more ideas on getaways and vacation destinations, contact:
Arizona Office of Tourism
602-364-3700
https://tourism.az.gov
Flagstaff & the San Francisco Peaks
North of Metropolitan Phoenix on Interstate 17 or available on scenic 89A through Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon is the alpine community of Flagstaff, home of Northern Arizona University. Nestled among towering Ponderosa pines at the base of the state’s highest mountains, the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff is the hub of northern Arizona. Cool summers and snow-clad ski slopes draw visitors to this charming community year around.
Among the many attractions in this area is Lowell Observatory, famous for its historic contributions as well as current scientific research. Founded by Percival Lowell in 1984, the famous observatory is credited with discovering the expanding nature of the universe and the planet Pluto. Also one of the Southwest’s finest historic facilities, the Museum of Northern Arizona presents exhibits that cover the region’s archeology, ethnology, geology, biology, and fine arts.
Flagstaff’s downtown historic district is filled with charming restaurants, quaint shops, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and old-world architecture. Often compared to Boulder, Colorado, Flagstaff excels in opportunities for outdoor adventure. Hiking the Kachina Peaks Wilderness trail leads to Humphreys Peak, the highest of Arizona’s mountains at more than 12,600 feet in elevation. Rock climbers can choose from several excellent locations, while geology enthusiasts will be amazed at the volcanic field with more than 400 cinder cones. From its natural beauty to lively nightspots, Flagstaff continues to be a favored retreat. For more information on attractions in the Flagstaff area, contact:
Flagstaff Visitor’s Bureau
800-842-7293
www.flagstaffarizona.org
Grand Canyon National Park
Over a mile deep and encompassing nearly 2,000 square miles, this immense canyon is distinguished as one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders. A 220-mile shuttle takes visitors between the South and North Rims, overlooking 277 miles of the Colorado River far below. World renowned for its overwhelming size and intricate, colorful landscape, the canyon is unparalleled as a dramatic example of arid-land erosion. Carved by the mighty Colorado River, the canyon’s history spans an estimated four to six million years. This geological wonder manages to display nearly half of the earth’s 4.6-billion-year history of erosion, offering exposed rock strata that ranges from the 1.7 billion-year-old Vishnu Schist of the inner gorge to the Kaibab limestone deposited a mere 250 million years ago in the western canyon.
Six of the seven life zones recognized throughout the world are represented in the Grand Canyon, from the lowlands to alpine elevations. The canyon itself ranges in elevation from 2,000 feet at the Grand Wash Cliffs to peaks that rise 9,000 feet high along the North Rim. Wildlife in this diverse and expansive region encompasses nearly 90 species of mammals, 26 species of fish, 305 species of birds, 58 species of amphibians and reptiles. The flora encompasses 1,500 flowering plants. Both rims as well as the canyon slopes are clad with a glorious, seasonal shawl of brilliant wildflowers.
Native American communities claim an ancient history in relationship to the Grand Canyon and still carry on their cultures and traditions. As long ago as the late 1800s, fine crafts created by native artisans were being marketed. Native American tribes with close ties to the Grand Canyon region include the Havasupai, Hualapai, Kaibab-Paiute, Hopi, and Navajo.
Although millions of visitors arrive by bus and automobile, the nearby town of Williams is home to a century-old railway line into the heart of the Grand Canyon. Historic equipment and trains offer a taste of the “Old West,” stopping just a few steps from the South Rim’s viewpoint. Another popular attraction associated with the canyon is the IMAX Theater. In a half an hour, visitors can learn the hidden secrets of the canyon on a 70-foot-high screen with state-of-the-art sound. For complete information on the canyon and area attractions, contact:
Grand Canyon National Park
928-638-7888
www.nps.gov/grca
Phoenix Metro Area
Rodeos and opera, symphony and NASCAR racing, vast expanses of high desert and canyon lakes — the Valley of the Sun north of Tucson offers attractions that please every age and interest. Those who enjoy spectator sports can look forward to cheering professional teams for stadium and arena football, baseball, hockey, and basketball. Annual events like the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament and the All-Arabian Horse Show draw international crowds.
Communities throughout the valley have developed wonderful museums, art galleries, performing arts venues, and colorful festivals. Glendale takes pride in its status as “Arizona’s Antique Capital,” while Scottsdale specializes in exclusive boutiques and high fashion. Downtown Phoenix has transformed in recent decades from a quiet business district into a bustling hub of activity. Dazzling performing art centers like Phoenix Symphony Hall, Dodge Theatre, the Herberger Theater, and Orpheum Theatre are surrounded by uniquely designed sports stadiums and the Arizona Center for shopping and entertainment. The following attractions are just a small sampling from the kaleidoscope of cultural, recreational, and educational attractions scattered throughout the metropolitan area.
Arizona Science Center
602-716-2000
www.azscience.org
More than 750 interactive exhibits join a planetarium and giant-screen theater to present fascinating displays on dinosaurs, energy, life sciences, and technology.
ASU Gammage Center for the Performing Arts
Arizona State University
480-965-3434
www.asugammage.com
A work of art in its own right, this Arizona State University performing arts center of Frank Lloyd Wright design hosts world-class productions for a regional audience.
Chase Field
602-462-6400
www.azchasefield.com
The magnificent home of the Arizona Diamondbacks major league baseball team is ingeniously designed to host a wide variety of events.
Cricket Pavilion
602-254-7200
www.cricket-pavilion.com
Arizona’s only venue dedicated solely to hosting musical concerts offers a spectacular, open-air setting with pavilion and lawn seating for stellar entertainment.
Desert Botanical Garden
480-941-1225
www.dbg.org
Boasting one of the largest collections of desert plants in the world, “The Garden” in Phoenix offers special events, live entertainment, and educational opportunities for all ages.
Phoenix Symphony Hall
602-534-5600
Beautifully renovated, this venue hosts a variety of premier cultural events and serves as the cornerstone of the downtown cultural district.
Jobing.com Arena
9400 W. Maryland Avenue
Glendale 623-772-3200
Praised for its superior acoustics and audience-friendly design, this sports arena is one of the most popular venues for top-billed concerts.
Mesa Arts Center
480-644-6500
www.mesaarts.com
With four state-of-the-art theaters and a contemporary arts gallery, this spectacular new cultural center is the largest in Arizona.
The Phoenix Zoo
602-273-1341
www.phoenixzoo.org
Explore five trails that showcase more than 1,300 animals from some of the world’s most beautiful and fragile ecosystems.
US Airways Center
602-379-2000
www.usairwayscenter.com
One of the state’s premier facilities for professional sports events, this venue also seats more than 16,000 for smash-hit performing artists and concert spectacles.
Wildlife World Zoo
623-935-WILD
www.wildlifeworld.com
Visit a veritable “Noah’s Ark” in Litchfield Park, where Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals enjoy natural habitats, offering a closer view of nature’s wonders.
Eastern Arizona Mountains
Surrounded by the largest Ponderosa pine forest in the world, the town of Payson anchors the attractions and communities that dot the Mogollon Rim region of Apache Sitgreaves National Forest. Filled with sparkling lakes and pine-clad hiking trails, the incredibly beautiful rim and mountain country offers some of Arizona’s finest outdoor adventure including cross-country and downhill skiing, horseback riding, fishing, and pure relaxation under the shade of tall pines.
Hike with llamas, attend rodeos and tribal dances, visit an archeology museum, explore wilderness areas, or take a scenic flight. Inexpensive golf, great food, festivals and vistas, fresh-air cool nights, and pleasant days are just a few of the reasons that Arizona residents return again and again to this alpine wonderland. Those who desire a quiet weekend of solitude beneath the splendor of tall pines will find the ideal haven. For complete information on eastern Arizona’s breathtakingly beautiful mountain and rim land, contact:
Payson & Mogollon Rim Country
800-672-9766
www.rimcountrychamber.com
White Mountains
800-573-4031
www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com
Sedona & Prescott Area
Between Metropolitan Phoenix and the alpine community of Flagstaff are several of Arizona’s most popular tourist destinations. Red rock splendor, an amazing array of resorts and boutiques, and the spectacular beauty of Oak Creek Canyon are just a few of the attractions that draw four million visitors each year to Sedona. Comparable to Santa Fe, New Mexico, for its Southwestern architecture, strong cultural community, wonderful restaurants, and world-class galleries, Sedona stands in a class of its own. Just beyond the residential and commercial areas are natural attractions like Slide Rock State Park, Oak Creek, varnished canyon walls, and fantastic crimson rock formations.
The charming City of Prescott, once serving as Arizona’s first Territorial Capital, now offers historic sites, amusements, four-season recreation, and the natural beauty of the surrounding Prescott National Forest. Attractions include fine museums, art galleries, golf courses, five lakes, 450 miles of hiking trails, boutiques, fine dining, theatre, and 450 miles of recreational trails. Steeped in history and rural atmosphere, the nearby Camp Verde area offers everything from Anasazi Indian ruins and the original Fort Verde to hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting.
One of the most unique communities in this area is the ghost town of Jerome, where historic homes line the winding, climbing road through town. From a copper mining camp to a roaring community and later a ghost town, Jerome was designated a National Historic District by the federal government. Today, Jerome is a thriving tourist and artist community with delightful bed and breakfasts, boutiques, and galleries. For complete information on Arizona’s red-rock treasures, contact:
Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce
928-567-9294
http://visitcampverde.com/
Jerome State Historic Park
928-634-5381
http://azstateparks.com/
Prescott Chamber of Commerce
800-266-7534
www.prescott.org
Sedona & Oak Creek Chamber of Commerce
800-266-7336
www.visitsedona.com
Lake Havasu Area
Home to the world-famous London Bridge, Lake Havasu in western Arizona combines a water-oriented vacation destination with one of Arizona’s most scenic desert terrains. Visitors can enjoy a medley of accommodations from top-rated RV resorts to upscale condominiums with spectacular views. At least 300 days of bright sunshine each year make Lake Havasu ideal for golf, tennis, and desert tours as well as water recreation.
More than 400 miles of stunning coastline encourage exceptional water-sport activities including fishing, skiing, kayaking, and houseboating. Others prefer to explore the lakefront from beautiful beaches, panoramic campsites, or hiking trails. For details on the wide variety of activities, amenities, and attractions in the Lake Havasu area, contact:
Lake Havasu
928-453-3444
www.golakehavasu.com
South of the Border
Arizona’s location as one of the states bordering Mexico has encouraged the development of tourist attractions in neighboring Sonora, Mexico. From the excitement of bargain hunting in a border town to sun-kissed beaches and world-class shrimp, Mexico is known for its colorful and enchanting getaways.
Rocky Point
The sleepy small village of Puerto Penasco or “Rocky Point” has long been one of the Southwest’s most popular vacation destinations. Often dubbed “Arizona’s Beach,” this beautiful stretch of pristine beaches and great shrimp delicacies lies only 66 miles from the Arizona/Mexico border. The area enjoys an idyllic and serene location on the Sonora coast near the top of the Sea of Cortes on the Gulf of California. Restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, beach campsites, bungalows, and vacation homes dot this once rustic beachfront. Popular activities include fishing, winter whalewatching, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and skydiving.
Rocky Point Tourism
Information 877-843-3717
www.cometorockypoint.com
Intercultural Center for Study of Deserts & Oceans
Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico
Tucson, AZ 520-320-5473
http://cedo.org/en/home
Rocky Point Online Guide
www.puerto-penasco.com
Nogales, Mexico
Directly south of Metropolitan Phoenix past Tucson and Pima County lies Santa Cruz County, home to Nogales, Arizona. Many are familiar with this destination for its easy access to the charming curio shops across the border in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. Most visitors prefer to park their vehicles in Nogales, Arizona, and walk across into Mexico for a day’s shopping and bartering as well as authentic Mexican cuisine. Americans can travel in the “border zone” up to 12 miles into Mexico without obtaining a tourist permit or a vehicle permit. For further details or answers to specific questions, contact:
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce
Nogales, AZ 520-287-3685
http://www.thenogaleschamber.org/
Know & Enjoy Mexico
Online Tourism Information
www.knowmexico.com
