It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Phoenix, Arizona.
The largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the country, Phoenix Zoo has more than 1,400 animals on display and 2.5 miles of walking trails. The zoo is split into four themed areas or trails: Arizona Trail, Africa Trail, Tropics Trail and Children’s Trail. Animals include giraffes, lions, cougars, cheetahs, orangutans, wallaby, pythons and more. © Tom Dowd | Dreamstime.com
Every year, Phoenix’s Heard Museum, dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art, hosts the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest. Drawing more than 100 dancers from various tribal backgrounds throughout Turtle Island, this event is filled with exciting dances, food and drinks, and hoop-themed activities. © Sam Antonio | Dreamstime.com
Hike up Camelback Mountain and take in views of Phoenix below. The mountain is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing and, for avid hikers, strenuous trails up the mountain are available. © Phartisan | Dreamstime.com
You’ve heard of a botanical garden, but how about a desert botanical garden? Spanning 140 acres, Desert Botanical Garden boasts more than 50,000 plants across more than 4,000 taxa, with one third native to the area. You’ll also find 379 rare, threatened and endangered species. Don’t miss the agave collection and wealth of cacti. © Nytoaz | Dreamstime.com
Drive (or hike the 4 miles) up to Dobbin's Lookout to escape Phoenix’s busy atmosphere. At the top, you can take in high-up views of the city, as well as spot Native American petroglyphs on trails leading to the top. © Tom Dowd | Dreamstime.com
As its name denotes, Hole-in-the-Rock is a natural, geological formation in Papago Park. Formed between six and 15 million years ago, the unique feature is accessible by a smooth path, promising a neat view from within the hole of the city. Expect to feel a constant wind blowing through the rock’s openings. © Gregory Clifford | Dreamstime.com
Papago Park isn’t just home to Hole-in-the-Rock. The park is hilly and a desert covering 1,200 acres, and includes Hunt’s Tomb, Papago Ponds teeming with fish and hiking trails. © Chrisflores45 | Dreamstime.com
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