Phoenix - Surroundings

At Pueblo Grande are the ruins of a 12th century Hohokam settlement and remains of old irrigation channels.

The site is a National Historic Landmark where you can see both excavations and reproductions of historic features. An interpretive trail and walking paths lead past the prehistoric ruins of a Hohokam village which existed approximately 1,500 year ago. Inside the museum are galleries and a video offering information on the site and cultures that once inhabited the area. One of the three galleries is a children's area with interactive exhibits.

There are also picnic sites for anyone who wants to simply enjoy a little time in the desert.

South Mountain Park in Phoenix is the largest city park in the United States, covering over 16,000 acres of desert landscape. The miles of trails which run through the park are ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Views out over the desert and beyond to the city are fabulous. This is a nice place to come at night as well with a wonderful view over Phoenix and the city lights.

The highest point in the park is Mount Suppoa at 2,690 ft but the highest lookout which can be reached by trail or road is Dobbins Lookout at 2,330 feet.

Agua Fria is home to Perry Mesa and Black Mesa. It is 71,000 acres of semi-desert area with at least 450 prehistoric sites. Abundant wildlife includes mountain lion, pronghorn, common black hawks and many species of neotropical migratory birds.

Ashley Furniture HomeStore Pavilion, which has had a couple of name changes over the years, is an outdoor amphitheater located west of downtown Phoenix. It seats 8,000 under the roof and another 12,000 can sit on the hillside grass.

The Mystery Castle is located just south of downtown Phoenix near the entrance to South Mountain Park. It was built by Boyce Luther Gulley before his death in 1945 but his daughter lived her for decades afterwards.

The castle is a unique piece of architecture to say the least. It is made largely of stone and other odd pieces that were recycled into use. The house has all kinds of whimsical features and inlaid pieces. Although most people would not consider it a castle or a masterpiece, it is definitely one of a kind.

North Mountain Preserve is a popular recreational area with all kinds of hiking trails. North Mountain stands at an elevation of 2,104 ft and Shaw Butte, the tallest mountain in the preserve, stands at 2,149 ft. Together these mountains are a landmark features in Phoenix.

The more advanced hiking trails in the preserve lead to the summit but easier hikes offer access to all levels of abilities. This is a lovely way to experience the local flora and fauna, with many plant species, including saguaro cactus. It is also home to rattlesnakes and various hazards so care should be taken on the trails.

The Energy Information Center of the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station features hands-on displays dealing with various energy sources.

The Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum north of Phoenix is a reconstructed village with 28 buildings, including an opera house, blacksmith, and a school house. This 90 acre site takes you back to the 1800s with costumed interpreters recreating a bygone age, complete with a cowboy show.

It can be very hot during the summer months so plan accordingly and perhaps try to schedule your visit early in the day.

The Salt River Indian Reservation is home to the Pima and Maricopa Indians who established a relationship as they migrated towards each other. The Pima's are known for their basket weaving, while the Maricopa are known for their red clay pottery.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) handles over 30 million passengers each year. The interior of the airport features a number of exhibits highlighting the work of Arizona artists.

Sonoran Desert National Monument has an extensive saguaro cactus forest and three distinct mountain ranges. There is evidence throughout the monument of ancient villages, campsites, rock art, and artifacts of the prehistoric Hohokam and other native peoples. An array of wildlife can be found in the area including desert bighorn, sheep, mule, deer, bobcats, raptors and owls.

THE ATTRACTION IS CLOSED.

The collection at West Valley Art Museum contains ethnic dress, textiles and ethnographic Arts as well as ethnographic artifacts and decorative arts.

The American art collection of the West Valley Art Museum focuses on 19th and 20th C works from the likes of Henry Varnum Poor and George Resler. Other featured displays include cultural artifacts from Africa, Asia and South America.