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Top cities between Bisbee and Greater Palm Springs
Best stops along Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs drive
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38 Best Stops Between Bisbee and Greater Palm Springs

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 10, 2023

How long is the drive from Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs?

The direct drive from Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs is 479 mi (771 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 15 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Tucson, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tombstone, Joshua Tree National Park, Mesa, Glendale, and Tempe, as well as top places to visit like O.K. Corral and Boothill Graveyard, or the ever-popular The Bird Cage Theatre.

Visiting Bisbee or Greater Palm Springs? See our Bisbee Trip Planner and our Greater Palm Springs Trip Planner.
479 mi
Total Distance
7 hrs 15 mins
Drive Time
38 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Bisbee and Greater Palm Springs

The top cities between Bisbee and Greater Palm Springs are Tucson, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tombstone, Joshua Tree National Park, Mesa, Glendale, and Tempe. Tucson is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Bisbee and 6 hours from Greater Palm Springs.
1

Tombstone

Tombstone, located in southeastern Arizona, is a town steeped in Wild West history. The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park features exhibits such as a replica gallows, while the O.K. Corral outdoor theater re-enacts the famous 1881 cowboy gunfight. The Bird Cage Theatre is rumored to be haunted by resident ghosts and Boothill Cemetery is the resting place of outlaws and local townsfolk from 1878.
21% as popular as Tucson
1 minute off the main route, 7% of way to Greater Palm Springs
2

Tucson

Tucson, located in Pima County, Arizona, is a city known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The Santa Rita Mountains in the south provide a diverse habitat for various species and offer hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. The city also celebrates the Agave Heritage Festival, highlighting the historical and commercial importance of the agave plant. Additionally, Tucson has a rich history dating back to the Hohokam people and the establishment of Fort Lowell in 1873.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 25% of way to Greater Palm Springs
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3

Mesa

Mesa, located just east of Phoenix in Arizona, offers a blend of ancient history and modern attractions. Visitors can explore the Mesa Grande Cultural Park with its ancient ceremonial mound and artifacts from the Hohokam people, as well as the Arizona Museum of Natural History showcasing dinosaur skeletons and archaeological discoveries. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits at the i.d.e.a. Museum while art enthusiasts can experience theater, musicals, and contemporary art at Mesa Arts Center.
10% as popular as Tucson
13 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Greater Palm Springs
4

Tempe

Tempe, a city in Arizona just east of Phoenix, offers a vibrant cultural scene at the Tempe Center for the Arts and outdoor activities at Tempe Town Lake. Visitors can enjoy water sports and festivals at Tempe Beach Park or hike Hayden Butte to see ancient rock art. The city also hosts sporting events and concerts at Wells Fargo Arena. Additionally, craft beer enthusiasts can explore local breweries like Crush Craft Cider Company, The Shop Beer Co., and Fate Brewing Company for unique tasting experiences.
8% as popular as Tucson
7 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Greater Palm Springs
5

Scottsdale

Scottsdale, a desert city in Arizona, is renowned for its luxurious spa resorts and world-class golf courses like TPC Scottsdale. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers picturesque trails through a stunning desertscape of hills, rock formations, and cacti. Visitors can explore Taliesin West, the former home and studio of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as the charming Old Town Scottsdale with its historic buildings and century-old olive trees.
51% as popular as Tucson
12 minutes off the main route, 46% of way to Greater Palm Springs
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6

Phoenix

Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, is famous for its sunny weather and luxurious spa resorts. The city boasts Jack Nicklaus–designed golf courses and a lively nightlife scene. Visitors can explore the Desert Botanical Garden to see a variety of cacti and native plants. Novawest, a Phoenix-based developer, envisioned an iconic project for downtown Phoenix - an observation tower designed by Bjarke Ingels.
90% as popular as Tucson
2 minutes off the main route, 46% of way to Greater Palm Springs
7

Glendale

Glendale, a city in Maricopa County, Arizona, is situated just nine miles northwest of Phoenix. It's famous for being home to the State Farm Stadium where the Arizona Cardinals play and also boasts the Arrowhead Towne Center shopping mall. In recent years, Glendale has seen growth in its brewery scene along with neighboring Peoria. The area now offers a variety of traditional and innovative brews that reflect the pioneering spirit of greater Phoenix.
7% as popular as Tucson
11 minutes off the main route, 48% of way to Greater Palm Springs
8

Joshua Tree National Park

National park
Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert park in Southern California, covering nearly 800,000 acres of the Mojave Desert. It is known for its unique geologic formations and iconic Joshua trees. The park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including wildflowers, bushes, palms, and various species of cacti.
7% as popular as Tucson
52 minutes off the main route, 86% of way to Greater Palm Springs

Best stops along Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs drive

The top stops along the way from Bisbee to Greater Palm Springs (with short detours) are Musical Instrument Museum, Pima Air & Space Museum, and O.K. Corral. Other popular stops include San Xavier del Bac Mission, Taliesin West, and Kartchner Caverns State Park.
1

The Bird Cage Theatre

Mentioned on 
+65 other lists 
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Bird Cage Theatre, a renowned landmark in Tombstone, is steeped in history and legend. Dating back to 1881, it was a bustling hub of activity, operating around the clock with various amenities such as a cantina, bar, theater, and massage parlor. Notorious for its association with gambling and brothels, the venue attracted both famous and infamous figures of the time.
A very unique museum with an easy self-guided tour experience. I'm glad this place is here and I'm happy that I went though it. Is it worth $16.50 per person? I'd give it a "soft yes." The museum's artifacts are not perfectly curated and it was a bit dusty, but it's a good place to spend 30 minutes while in Tombstone if you're interested in the history.
David M — Google review
This theatre offers a truly unique and thrilling ghost-hunting experience, and I absolutely loved it! The biggest highlight by far was the woman who led the tour she was incredible. Her energy, storytelling, and deep knowledge of the local history made the entire experience feel authentic and captivating. She brought just the right mix of spookiness, humor, and historical insight, keeping everyone engaged the whole time. The atmosphere of the theatre added to the eerie charm, and the ghost-hunting equipment made it feel interactive and fun. Even if you're a skeptic, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. Overall, it was a memorable and entertaining night, and I’d highly recommend it especially thanks to the amazing guide who truly made the experience come alive.
Nicholie G — Google review
The Birdcage Theatre – Tombstone, Arizona If Tombstone is the heart of the Wild West, then the Birdcage Theatre is its cathedral. Think of it as the Lambeau Field of football or the Carnegie Hall of music—the place where history, legend, and atmosphere all come together. Many museums claim “nothing has been touched” over the years, but few deliver. The Birdcage does—and in spades. Walking inside feels like stepping directly into the 1880s. Hundreds of authentic items remain in place from nearly 150 years ago. The rooms, the furniture, even the air carries the weight of the stories that shaped the American West. It’s not just a museum—it’s living history. On a personal note, I experienced something here I’ve never felt elsewhere. While exploring the basement on a daytime self-guided tour, I had a haunting encounter I can’t easily explain. I’m not someone who buys into things quickly, but this one gave me chills. If you’re interested in the paranormal, this place more than delivers. Overall, this is the experience of Tombstone. Worth every bit of the entrance fee, even in the 2020s. Take your time, let the history sink in, and if you only see one thing in Tombstone, make it the Birdcage. I’ll be returning—again and again.
Bryan R — Google review
My husband and I are avid travelers and obsessed with paranormal investigations. This did not disappoint! I know I sound crazy to some but for those that have experienced it themselves completely understand me- I walked to one side (away from the group) and immediately felt like a 50 lb weight was on my stomach. I walked towards my husband and told him what just happened, immediately took a picture of the area where I felt the unusual feeling. I captured a ghost on camera! I captured several orbs, one entire human figure and one mist over the Black Moriah. Well worth every penny and every minute spent- it was the highlight of my trip!
Katie S — Google review
This is the original building of The Bird Cage Theatre. It was built in 1881 and is now a museum, but retains a lot of the original theater details. We found the exhibits fascinating and really enjoyed the museum. There is also a nice gift shop loaded with Tombstone souvenirs.
Louis E — Google review
Historic, Haunting, and Totally Worth the Visit. During our trip to Tombstone, we stopped by the Bird Cage Theatre—and it did not disappoint! Hearing the history of the building, seeing the original bar still marked with bullet holes, and viewing the old paintings and artifacts really brought the Wild West to life. The stories behind the place are fascinating, and it’s incredible how much has been preserved. If you’re in Tombstone, this is definitely a must-see spot for a deeper, more vivid look at its past.
Mint M — Google review
I spent a solid three hours here taking in every detail—and if they weren’t closing for the day, I would’ve stayed longer. If you’re in Tombstone and skip the Bird Cage Theatre, you’re missing out. Period. Ignore the cheapskates whining about the $18 admission—it’s worth every cent if you have even a remote appreciation for history. This place is a time capsule, and absolutely essential if you want to understand the real Tombstone.
Michael K — Google review
We had alot of fun...our tour guide was really knowledgable.
Laura P — Google review
4.7
(2243)
•
4.5
(1731)
535 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638, USA
https://www.tombstonebirdcage.com/
(520) 457-3421
2

O.K. Corral

Mentioned on 
+87 other lists 
Historical landmark
Museums
History museum
O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona is a legendary historic site known for its daily reenactments of the famous gunfight involving Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The town has preserved its National Historic District designation with the help of the National Park Service, offering visitors a glimpse into the Old West. Tourists can explore snack shops, restaurants, small hotels, B&Bs, and enjoy horseback, stagecoach and wagon tours.
Beautiful town with wonderful people. Full of history and unique shops. Also, who doesn't want to see an old West gunfight? I wish I had had more time to explore. I will definitely be back!
Ashley S — Google review
We had a really good time at the OK Corral. The gunfight reenactment was so much better than I had expected. The museum collection was impressive. I wish we had spent a little more time there. So much to see.
Joey Z — Google review
So much fun! The gun fight was Awesome. Perfect for a family day. There are three shows a day retelling the gun fight at O.K. Corral. There is also a mini museum of the history of Tombstone's hayday 😉
Jessica W — Google review
The show was worth the price of entry ($10 pp over 5). Very comical but the history lesson behind it was very interesting as well. My children 10, 8, & 5 all stayed entertained the whole 30 min. Gun shots are loud in the "arena"
John L — Google review
We had such a great time at the show. It was funny, the acting was amazing, and it kept us entertained from beginning to end. After the show we went on a tour and learned so much about the history of Tombstone. The guide made everything easy to understand and very interesting. It is a fun and educational experience for all ages. We truly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tombstone.
Jessica T — Google review
Very entertaining with comic relief. Guns shoot blanks and can be scary to small children (like 2 and under for sure). Lots of fun places before you enter for kids to climb and play. Lots of photo opportunities.
Laura P — Google review
Very fun place, with a great history lesson, and the gunfight reenactment was entertaining to watch. The walk through museum outside was informative and interesting. Definitely worth the price of the ticket!
Melody M — Google review
There us more history than just the gun fight at the OK coral on Oct 26, 1881. It's all great and you feel like you can almost touch it.
Karl W — Google review
4.6
(7133)
•
4.5
(2748)
326 E Allen St, Tombstone, AZ 85638, USA
http://www.okcorral.com/
(520) 457-3456
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Travelers
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3

Boothill Graveyard

Mentioned on 
+39 other lists 
Cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
Boothill Graveyard, located in Tombstone, Arizona, is a must-visit attraction for those interested in the town's history. Situated on the outskirts of town and home to around 276 graves, it serves as the final resting place for individuals involved in shootouts, lynchings, and hangings. Notable figures such as Billy Clanton and the McLaurys from the infamous OK Corral fight are buried here.
Very cool to experience and history in person! This place offers a in-depth descriptions of the these people lived hundreds of years ago. Many of them tell of how they died. Most ended in tragedy with either being hung, shot, stabbed, and even poisoned! Take your time reading and learning of these individuals who made history. February 2025, $6 for adults. 12 and under free. Gift shop offers many unique items with fair prices. Staff were very friendly and helpful in answering any questions.
Alex — Google review
We found our visit to Boothill Graveyard to be very interesting. Fortunately the graves were covered with rocks to prevent animals from digging. This also made locating them easy. Many of the tombstones have been restored and a few have pretty humorous messages.
Louis E — Google review
Boothill Graveyard – Tombstone, AZ Just outside of Tombstone, Boothill Graveyard brings you face-to-face with the real people who shaped the Wild West. Standing only feet from their resting places makes the history feel tangible, yet it’s less macabre than you might expect—especially if you’ve studied the history or enjoyed the classic Western films. I recommend saving this stop for the end of your Tombstone visit. It provides a sense of closure, showing not only how the legends lived but also how their stories ended. As a bonus, the grounds are dotted with beautiful examples of Sonoran Desert cacti, making it a rewarding visit for history lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.
Bryan R — Google review
This was my husband's and my favorite stop in Tombstone. We were greeted by a friendly man who was running the gift shop. He kindly showed us a map of the town and alerted us to areas not to be missed. The woman selling the tickets into the cemetary was very informative. She spoke animatedly about those who are laid to rest there. We enjoyed our walk through the graveyard. I was particularly moved by the Jewish memorial. This graveyard illuminates the lives of people who were brave or crazy enough to settle the west.
Kathryn B — Google review
A Fascinating Step Back in Time We visited Tombstone and had such a great time learning about the history of the town. After hearing the stories and seeing the sights, we were inspired to visit the Boothill Graveyard to see where many of the town’s famous figures are buried. It really brings the Old West to life. It was a unique and memorable visit—definitely worth it if you’re into history or just want to experience something different and authentic. Tombstone has a charm all its own!
Mint M — Google review
$6 to enter and dogs are allowed. They give you a pamphlet to tour the graves that tells you what happened to most and there were so many violent deaths. Very peaceful resting place. There is a gift shop with clean restrooms.
Tony J — Google review
The cemetery itself is 100% a place to stop and see. The pamphlet with information on those laid to rest here is very interesting and really shows how brutal life in the 1880s could be. However before coming, probably call and check their hours are correct. We were all but locked into the graveyard at what we thought was an hour early of closing (it was 5pm). When we rushed back to the building upon realizing it the lady closing the store was a bit harsh. The store was shut down lights off doors locked. She said they were at their winter hours. Which were not posted anywhere, and no one said anything to us when we got our tickets to enter. The lady’s response was to “go online to wherever it’s wrong tell them” so I guess here I am posting to beware of hours and let you know they will lock you in. Posting a photo with the hours for today, still showing they are open til 6, they are not! Worth the stop but super bummed we didn’t get our souvenir as we collect one everywhere we go.
Zoe L — Google review
As a longtime fan of Western films and history, visiting Boothill Graveyard was such a unique and interesting experience. Walking among the old tombstones, reading the epitaphs, and soaking in the rich history of Tombstone felt like stepping back in time. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the Old West and wants to see a piece of real frontier history!
Anthony B — Google review
4.3
(207)
•
4.0
(1859)
408 AZ-80, Tombstone, AZ 85638, USA
https://discoverboothill.com/
(520) 457-1450
4

Bowlin's The Thing Travel Center

Gas station
Shopping
Mysterious Sites
Gift & Specialty Shops
Specialty Museums
It is a nice gift shops. With dairy queen store. Many many options. Did not go in the thing tour due to time constraints but got my dad a bell.
Magilas S — Google review
At the time of this review, Bowlin's Travel Center's hours of operation are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The staff is very friendly. It's conveniently located right off Interstate 10. The restrooms are clean and tidy. The large driveway and parking lot is a little rough, something you should know if you're riding a motorcycle. There's plenty of parking for both cars and trucks. There are eight gasoline pumps for cars. At the time of this review, only regular unleaded fuel ( 87) was available. The price of gas seems slightly higher than other locations in the area. The location is a combination of things. It's a museum, souvenir shop, and mini mart. If you're looking for Southwest, dinosaur related, alien related, and/or knick knack souvenirs, this is your place. There's a Dairy Queen joining the location. The hours of the restaurant may be different than the travel center.
Roy A — Google review
Wow 🤩 as a kid my Dad would not spend the money !! He said it was a gimmick to get people to come in, Well he was right and So what !!! Yes I paid my $5 and saw it all and you know ow they said take all the pictures you want so here you go. This Road Side Show IS worth going to and the Gift Shop has 2 of everything you never knew you needed !!! Take a road trip break here and take a Dilly bar in the car !! Dad this chocolate on the seat is for you !😆😆🤣
John P — Google review
Awesome Store!! Definitely not a gas pump it’s a great experience for the family. This Thing has everything from rocks to fireworks, even a DQ. So cool just wished we had more time but I hear the museum is cool. Well until next time
Gama M — Google review
This is my Go To rest stop whenever I travel. It is big, bright, beautiful and clean! Plus the people there are always nice and helpful. Do grab a bag or 3 of the candied pecans, almonds, and cashews. They are the best I've ever had from anywhere. Plus if you're into oddities, the exhibit of "The Thing" is probably right up your alley. If you're hungry the DQ has you covered with burgers fries, chicken strips, etc., and of course a variety of yummy ice cream concoctions to satisfy any hankering and sweet tooth!
Miss V — Google review
This is a must stop!!! I love the billboard advertising along the highway and was 100% intrigued. Upon stopping, you will find the neatest gift shop with so many different things, really clean bathrooms, friendly staff, the most fun museum for $5. I don't want to spoil the fun - just stop in and check it out.
Stacy L — Google review
Very interesting gift shop/museum! We started seeing signs for "The Thing" and the kids were excited when we finally reached the building with the mysterious creature! We did the tour and it was fun! Prices were $10 per family or $5 per person. They also had a Military deal. If your passing by I highly recommend you check it out!
Ben T — Google review
It was interesting. I had seen the signs but never stopped before. It is $5 to see the museum. The staff is very friendly. There are so many knickknacks to buy at the gift shop. There is also a burger place. The has os Shell. So you cam take care of all your needs here.
J P — Google review
4.4
(5097)
•
3.7
(249)
2631 N Johnson Rd, Benson, AZ 85602, USA
https://www.bowlintc.com/
(520) 586-2581
5

Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Mentioned on 
8 lists 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Ramsey Canyon Preserve, situated near Sierra Vista in Hereford, Arizona, is a haven for nature lovers seeking an extraordinary getaway. Encompassing almost 300 acres, this sanctuary is particularly beloved by bird enthusiasts and is renowned nationwide as a prime habitat for hummingbirds. The diverse array of wildlife thriving in this seemingly harsh environment captivates visitors from the moment they set foot on its trails.
Stunning preserve. Hike, canyons, wildlife, loops, benches - all well cared for by kind staff. Absolutely worth a stop!
Mary M — Google review
Stunning preserve! Birders paradise. Get here early to spot incredible birds and wildlife. Parking is also limited. The staff is very knowledgeable and will tell you the latest sightings and maybe where they were spotted. I recommend this for everyone who truly wants to enjoy and connect with nature. If you have someone with a disability or walking issues they can enjoy the area beyond the entrance or walk a little ways. Once inside the preserve there are benches surrounding hummingbird feeders and one can sit for hours! There is a good bit of shade and benches. I would consider allowing 90 minutes minimum for the lower loop. Closed Tuesdays.
Christina E — Google review
This place is incredible!!! 😭😭 So many hummingbirds. We also saw tons of butterflies, deer, squirrels, spiders, frogs, hawks, ladybugs, lizards, and woodpeckers. The walk is gorgeous. I would absolutely come here again and again.
Mon M — Google review
Such a gorgeous hike, suitable for kids and older adults. We go every year for the fall foliage.
Tabitha Y — Google review
Lovely birding area with nice walking trails (somewhat steep). Lots of rare hummingbirds and other species.
James M — Google review
A true natural paradise. Ramsey Canyon Preserve is a magical spot for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the peace of nature. The trails are well-marked, offering stunning scenery, clear streams, and abundant wildlife. During spring and summer, you can see hummingbirds and butterflies everywhere. The staff at the visitor center are friendly and very knowledgeable about the local ecosystem. A hidden gem in Arizona that’s absolutely worth visiting.
Harry S — Google review
This was our first visit, and we will definitely be back! Absolutely beautiful, and the scent of pine everywhere was wonderful. We had several wildlife encounters (see photos). We made it to the first viewing area of the Overlook. We would have loved to make it all the way to the top, but I was feeling it. Lots of steps on a fairly steep trail, thankfully there's lots of shade on the way. Will have to get to the top another time, when I'm in better shape. There are lots of benches along the way, and the map the volunteers gave us was helpful in seeing how much further we had to go! The map details about the numbered stops were very informative. There is so much to see here! Bring lots of water and wear your sunscreen, even with the intermittent shade. We're considering the annual membership pass since we will certainly be back. Thanks to the volunteers for helpful tips before starting our hike. *We had a Coues deer calmly graze very close to us, then cross the trail right in front of us. Unfortunately I tried uploading an .mov clip of this, and also after converting to Mp4. No go.
Jennifer H — Google review
It really is a nice hike to the top! Worth the hike too. We had 5 kids with us, none of which are too outdoors oriented. They all did fine with some benches to rest as you go. Friendly staff, will be back!
B. B — Google review
4.8
(745)
•
4.5
(306)
27 E Ramsey Canyon Rd, Hereford, AZ 85615, USA
https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/ramsey-canyon-preserve/
(520) 378-2785
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

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Create your ultimate travel itinerary

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6

Kartchner Caverns State Park

Mentioned on 
10 lists 
State park
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Kartchner Caverns State Park is a remarkable limestone cave system that offers guided tours to explore its living rock formations. Discovered in 1974, it remained a secret for 25 years before opening to the public. The caverns feature spires, shields, columns, and other unique formations that have been developing for over five million years. It's home to the world's longest stalactite formation and the tallest natural column in Arizona.
Majestic & otherworldly! We were extra fortunate to get spots on the monthly photography tour. Even the visitors center is beautifully designed, starting with the fascinating discovery and development story in a lovely amphitheater. Each staff member was genuinely proud of their part in the visitor experience - warm, friendly and knowledgeable. Can’t wait to return and share this special place with our visiting family and friends!
Anita M — Google review
Site 44 (ours) was very unlevel/ 6” leveling ramps still was not enough! Website should apply this info on each space; take the time to do so! We left early because of this and no refunds! Website gives no idea if level or need super high lifters; awful! I have vertigo so it was not fun. Unless you personally go to rv park and chk each one, you may get one like ours that is more than 6” off! Be prepared. Campsite is clean, shower water is hot but hubby says in mens bathroom toilet paper rolls are in a “ weird place so legs are catiwompass while sitting”…. Odd they would do that. $50 a night tho makes it hard to wanna go back. Nice views of mountains and they have a loop for hiking so that is nice. The unleveled lots make this hard to come back to not knowing if you choose online a decent spot… in pics they all look level. Beware! No one expects more than 6 inches!!!!! Also do not drink the water or use for cooking. Had brown , gray water with sediment come out. Use bottled water for cooking or drinking or coffee!
Margaret B — Google review
One of, if not the best State Park in the system. The cave tours are excellent. The campground is top notch with well spaced sights. The surrounding area is rich in historical sites, and the Sonoita opportunities for food (The Copper Brothelbrew pub), wine, and distilleries is a great adult day trip. And, the incredible Empire Ranch is also near Sonoita. Wildlife opportunities are abundant both summer and winter. We really enjoy White Water Draw in the winter to see 10's of thousands of Sandhill Cranes. So, its just not the cave and campgrounds - there is a vast area to explore.
Mark L — Google review
Great experience on our cave tour today! Our guide Rich was knowledgeable and funny! It was great to learn about the history and geology of the cave system. We’re planning a trip back when we can visit the Great Room (closed this time of year for the bats). Also enjoyed a short walk on one of the trails. Beautiful area!
Marion B — Google review
This is a nice park, plenty of hiking trails, not far from tombstone and Sierra vista. Cave is cool but not much else to do except hang out . Spots are big and lots of privacy so you can let it all hang out if you like, after dark gets interesting careful where you look you might get an eye full, just because Rv windows are tinted real dark doesn’t mean you can’t see through them at night especially if your inside lights are on. So bring your cards or Yahtzee or board games. Leave your inhibitions at home. No judgement here.
Rick — Google review
Great tour, good location. Cafe not so good. The tour was excellent and very informative. No photos allowed unfortunately. Some outside shots.
Ron A — Google review
One of the best state parks to enjoy a few days camping, have stayed in #16, #1 and last weekend #4. Always a five star experience and with hosts like Paul and Melinda all was perfect, but here is my very unfortunate con. Having enjoyed the cave tours, either one is great, this time our 230pm tour included a very unruly child that was much to young and much to spoiled. Could barely hear the information given by Brody our guide and constantly ran back and forth on the stops we were supposed to be enjoying. I do believe this child has never heard the word no. No negative reflections towards staff at all and we will continue to return to this campground and complete more tours
Wes A — Google review
The caverns are stunning and a must see! Amazing creation by God! I'm from OR and have been through the Oregon caves many times and the explored the lava beds in CA, so I'm used to the caves being very cold, so I came all bundled up and with my heavy coat and the ranger told us when we bought our tickets that it would be hot and humid inside! I was shocked 😳. After we were done with the cavern tour, we went on one of the trail loop hikes. It made it a great day!
Becky C — Google review
4.7
(3734)
•
4.7
(1859)
2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, USA
https://azstateparks.com/kartchner/
(520) 586-4100
7

Kief-Joshua Vineyards

Winery
Food & Drink
Vineyard
Wineries & Vineyards
4.2
(51)
•
4.5
(129)
370 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611, USA
8

Double R Guest Ranch

Horseback riding service
Tours
Ranch
Horseback Riding Tours
Rides & Activities
Day Trips
We visited the ranch as a church group, around 40+ adults/kids. The kids went through some equine history, animal care and handling, riding tack maintenance and use, and a trail ride. The instructional portion wasn't boring; it was interactive and entertaining. The kids were matched up with horses and staff members based on their comfort level and experience; very safety minded. We had a couple around 8 y/o and a few with no experience, they enjoyed themselves. The adults that didn't ride had a nice bunkhouse to relax in and wait. We brought food with us. The road is several miles of dirt, but providing the conditions are dry, it's not a big deal. My little econo car made it no problem. A great experience and memories.
Micah P — Google review
I took my daughter who has Down syndrome here and they were fabulous!!! She has therapeutic riding experience and we were looking for just a trail ride , a treat for my own birthday, mother/daughter time 💕 It was perfect -so relaxing…lessons and horse shows can be stressful so it was nice to watch her simply enjoy the horse. Nice to ride myself and not just watch her…Beautiful horses Cowboy Tony was awesome!! Left feeling refreshed and happy, had a great ride. Highly recommend!!
Lisa A — Google review
I loved everything about my stay. I stayed for 4 days for a full ranch experience and I got everything I hoped for and more. Accommodation was very comfortable. I was welcomed like a guest, not like a tourist, I ate all my meals with them. It really felt like I was part of the family. I came to ride and I definitely spent a lot of time on a horse. Ranging from 3h to 7h a day depending on the number of rides you choose to do. I also took a private lesson with Trina that was really good. Even got to try a little bit of roping. My horse Dante was amazing, very nice to ride and well trained. Ron and Trina are amazing, they took me to Tombstone on Saturday so I could visit the city and they even invited me to a bull riding event. I wish I could have stayed longer, there is so much to do. I definitely recommend this ranch, it was my best horse riding experience.
Sophie G — Google review
Hannah and Gary were great guides. They were very good at giving instructions and made everything very easy. Everyone there is super friendly. They took us on a beautiful ride. Highly recommend, I will definitely be returning.
Christina P — Google review
Very personalized and special. More like riding with a new friend than a company. I really really enjoyed connecting with the horses, dogs and people and the views were better than any expectation. I appreciate the flexibility and thoughtfulness. The other people who were going on another trail ride seemed to already be close with the horses and the staff
Monica B — Google review
What a delightful experience! From rides on the trails. To sunsets and happy shared meals. I lived my bunkhouse. My lesson with Trina was the cherry on the top…
Sarah W — Google review
We had a delightful experience at the Double R Ranch on the day before Thanksgiving. We're from the East Coast (that's me, my wife, and our two adult children), so we had NO idea what to expect, only that the reviews were good and that we wanted to go for a horseback ride. It was all we could have asked for and more. I bought the sunset ride with dinner. The ranch hands were friendly and professional (two of them accompanied us on our hour+ ride along the Arizona trails). It was beautiful, austere, rugged, and right out of the old West! Ron (the owner) gave us some instruction before departure, and the whole thing was very straightforward. My steed (Max) knew the drill and performed like a Double R Ranch professional, as did the other mounts in my family's party. As the sun set, we returned to the ranch for dinner. Family-style arrangement that we shared with another family who were there for extended lessons over a series of days. Great food and lively conversation as we supped and got to know one another . . . just like in the movies when strangers gathered in a western hotel for a meal. The day was a great success, because as we drove home, EVERYONE was very pleased and content. There was talk of buying a ranch and riding horses. We were all energized! Thanks to Ron and Trina and the rest of the staff. The family and I give the Double R Ranch our highest recommendation.
William C — Google review
This place was amazing. I do not normally write reviews even though I’m very adamant about reading them but this place deserves all the praise. They were kind hearted people with all intent to please their guests. The help was super kind and very knowledgeable. We went on the sunset ride with a great tour guide who led us into the beauty of Arizona. They seemed to pair us with all the right horses as well. I rode bright eyes, which is only six and she was definitely curious as to what the world had out there and loved to snack. I tried to take charge till she hypnotized me with those eyes and I couldn’t resist to just let her have a snack or two along the trail. Other than her love for snacks she was perfectly behaved and a pleasure to ride. On our return she gave me hugs and snuggles as I thanked her for giving me the joy of riding her. We came back to dinner which was fantastic with great company of fellow riders, the cook, and our lovely tour guide. I think that is the best apple pie I have ever had in my life. I would recommend this place to any of my friends and family and will definitely be back for more of their services. Thank you so much for a fabulous experience and thanks for having us on your beautiful piece of property, I can’t wait for my next trip out there!
Laura Z — Google review
4.8
(232)
•
4.9
(567)
48 Hay Canyon, Elgin, AZ 85611, USA
http://www.doublerguestranch.com/
(520) 988-0222
9

Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Museums
Campground
Colossal Cave Mountain Park is a captivating destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its stunning cave tours and beautiful butterfly garden. Nestled along the Arizona Trail, this park invites adventurers to explore its rich history, dating back to 900 A.D. when the Hohokam people thrived in the area. Families can enjoy guided tours led by engaging guides who bring the cave's fascinating stories to life, making it especially enjoyable for children.
My boyfriend and I visited Colossal Cave on our one year anniversary. It was a beautiful rainy day, and we were both filled with excitement. We entered the cave with a group and with Arik as our guide (who smelled amazing btw). The tour was amazing and Arik was informative yet funny and engaging. As we went deeper into the cave Arik showed us an area called the “Alter” in which he revealed his true form. Out of nowhere, Arik rose up and bats began swarming him. Arik was in fact the Bat Overlord and we were all here to be sacrificed. Panic ensued, one member of our group was so terrified he ran directly through solid rock, creating a key hole formation. Everyone else in the group scattered like cockroaches while Arik flew at us, engulfing those he captured in his giant wings. As my boyfriend and I ran from Arik and towards the exit, Arik flew face first into the “bone breaker” rock formation, knocking him out and disintegrating him back to his human form. My boyfriend and I along with the remaining group members surrounded him scared, confused and a bit concerned. When he finally came to, he congratulated us on our survival, and informed us this was a test to ensure we could conquer the ladder tour on our next visit. He then showed the group where those who fail go to perish, a 50 ft hole with nothing at the bottom but a dropped IPhone and a silverback gorilla. I would highly recommend the tour, this was an unforgettable experience.
Jasmine P — Google review
The tour guide was great. Corny jokes but he warned you ahead of time. They're invested in educating people of the damage that we can do to nature in caves as well as the rich history of the cave. The cave itself is impressive although you only get to see ~ half mile, the caves network is a known 37 miles. Awesome place to visit if you're in the area as the surrounding park is also great.
Steve — Google review
I booked the ladder tour at CCMP, and had an extraordinary experience! Our guide, Arik, was not only knowledgeable about the cave system, its histories, and its navigation, but was charming and hilarious as well. It takes a special set of skills to combine an educational activity with jokes and banter, and our time with our group in the cave system absolutely flew by. The tour itself was not overly physically demanding but still felt as if you accomplished something unique by the end. If you were debating between the ladder tour and the standard tour, I would wholeheartedly tell you to book the ladder tour. You get to do some minor climbing, you spend some time in true darkness, and you get a lot more value for the extra time spent in the caves. The entire staff were professional but passionate- you can tell everyone who works there care about the land they’re showing to the public. At no point did I feel unsafe or worried about their standards, and from start to finish felt like they truly wanted our entire group to have a wonderful time. After the tour I had a soft serve prickly pear ice cream at their cafe which was adjacent to their impressive gift shop and it might be the best ice cream I’ve ever had in my life. 10/10. If you’re visiting the Tucson area I cannot recommend this park and tour enough.
David M — Google review
What a great experience! The staff at Colossal Cave Mountain Park were all incredibly friendly and helpful. I especially want to thank our tour guide, David. He did an amazing job sharing the history of the cave in a way that was both fun and educational. His passion and humor really made the tour memorable. We'll definitely be back!
Jason H — Google review
Hands down, BEST experience at Colossal Cave Mountain Park today on the Ladder Tour. Our tour guide was Arik and he did an amazing job! He was super informative and told us so many fun facts about the cave and surrounding area. While the tour can be tight in some spots, I would HIGHLY recommend it! You get to explore parts of the cave not on the standard tour as well as experience complete darkness. It’s a great experience!
Jessica F — Google review
Adam was our tour guide and our family had a great time! We only wish we had visited sooner! Easy 50 minute tour with lots of neat tidbits, and the cave is cool (literally). We didn’t do anything else as we live right next door, but I’d recommend it to anyone stopping by.
G&B — Google review
Ladder tour is worth it! We did ladder tour with Arik, he was brilliant and the tour was brilliant, some tight squeezes but I’m a big guy and fitted through without getting stuck. I would definitely recommend the ladder tour over the normal tour any day was so different and fun.
JAMES C — Google review
Beautiful drive out there. It's a dry cave system. Temp is always 71 w no humidity. They have different difficulty tours. We took the basic. Guides are really good.
Kim B — Google review
4.7
(3711)
•
4.5
(749)
16721 E Old Spanish Trail, Vail, AZ 85641, USA
http://colossalcave.com/
(520) 647-7275
10

Patagonia Lake State Park

State park
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Park with a 265-acre, manmade lake as its main attraction also features camping & fishing.
Great place for a perfectly getaway! I'm not necessarily a birder and I don't fish, but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy my stay here. It is definitely geared more for those hobbies. I was in the area to do some cycling out of Patagonia and this was a great base camp. I definitely recommend the East side for a quieter setting. Spots are nice and spread out with electric and water hookups. Showers were clean with hot water.
Phil S — Google review
Our first time. It was awesome. We had the place to ourselves. Showers were out of order. Clean restrooms. Port a potty’s available. We found a plug to get some power. Multiple grills and picnic benches available. We swam around and also brought an inflatable boat with oats. There were lid jackets available for use there for free, they were hanging on a rack.
Kimiko W — Google review
This is a great park, lots of trees, large Rv spots, lots of privacy. Water is great, they have a sandy beach. Lots to view, even saw a naked person roaming their Rv, just cause the windows are tinted doesn’t mean you can’t see through them, especially when your lights are on, I’ve enclosed pictures, blurred of course. Cool bridge to walk over at night as well. Price has gone up way too much for what you get here and nothing else near by. 50 a night is a bit pricey.
Michelle — Google review
For the money spent on camping the camp grounds should be level and weed free. The picnic area lake view is non existent do to overgrown bushes tree's and weeds other than that it's a nice place to hang out with friends.
Michael S — Google review
We camped at Patagonia for a week. There’s 2 different sides to the campground. Each has its advantages. Most spots on the side we stayed on had a water access trail. There were lots of bare trees around. The power to the campground went out 2 days in a row. A note notifying us in advance would have been nice. But that was not the case. The state park is pretty far from any stores so bring everything you may need. There’s a Walmart 17 miles away in Nogales
Nelida S — Google review
Looks great, like a well worth destination for some downtime. We'll be back!
Carmen K — Google review
Great park, spaces are large, lake is nice, close to Nogales , and Sonoita . Lots of shade trees. They now have floating toilets around the lake. There is also a cool bridge that crosses over the marina area which is lit up at night. Boats and floaty toys welcome, water is usually perfect for swimming. Sites are big and have plenty of privacy if you want to cut loose a little, plenty of trail and bird watching. There is a small store that has just about everything you might have forgotten. Fun place no judgement, let loose and have fun. Sad they had to raise the price to 50 it was a good deal at 35, not so much at 50.
Rick — Google review
What an amazing gem! Our family stayed in a cabin. Although there is no plumbing in the cabins, the public restrooms were nearby and clean. Fantastic views, great walking paths, bird watching, kayaking, etc.
Claudia J — Google review
4.6
(2750)
•
4.0
(302)
400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621, USA
https://azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake
(520) 287-6965
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11

Rincon Mountain Visitor Center

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Visitor center
Hiking area
Rincon Mountain Visitor Center is a fantastic place to start your exploration of the impressive national park near Tucson, Arizona. The center offers excellent displays covering various topics such as flora, fauna, and human activity in the area. It also provides essential amenities like restrooms and a water filling station. Visitors can explore the well-maintained desert landscape and may encounter wildlife like roadrunners, quails, and rock squirrels while hiking on the trails.
What an amazing park! We took some hikes off the LV trailhead - highly recommend it. Pink Hill was very easy and had some great cacti viewing. Over 2 million cacti populate the entire Saguaro National Park!
Neal B — Google review
Very friendly staff. Mike was very helpful in explaining the available activities, scenic lookouts, and trails to us. The visitor center has a small gift shop and a nature display. The restrooms outside the building are nice and clean. The loop drive took us through landscapes and scenery we had never seen before.
PL — Google review
The employees were very helpful and answered all our questions. The 20 minute movie about the Sonoran desert was very interesting. The 8 mile drive to view all the Saguaro cacti was very good.
Reed B — Google review
The staff inside were very knowledgeable about their park and walked us through their park map. They helped us decide what to do with the time we had, and it was over all a great experience! Lots of gift shop items, a bathroom and cool AC!
Dylan B — Google review
saguaro national Park is a great place to visit and has a nice bike loop and plenty of trails
David B — Google review
Nice stop (Rest Stop) a lot the road; enjoy the images! The roadrunner is made of recycled materials/scrap, 20 ft tall.
Jim W — Google review
Large 8 mile circle a one way most of it. Not near as busy as the West saguaro national Park in the Tucson mountains. The road is paved on the 8 Mile loop with more hiking options along the way. Lots of places to pull out. RVs not recommended there are not large parking spots. You have to obtain a national Park day pass or greater to enter. There is a guard shack with a ranger in it. Enjoy!
Darin L — Google review
Great park, was not very busy, amazing weather. Loved seeing all the flowers. Beautiful location, very quiet and peaceful.
Teena — Google review
4.7
(1607)
•
4.7
(1165)
3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, USA
http://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm
(520) 733-5153
12

Tumacacori National Historical Park

Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Park comprising ruins of 3 Spanish mission communities, including a restored church, plus a museum.
Such a beautiful building to explore and very informative information inside the visitor center. The garden was also very beautiful. Yummy tortilla sample and a great time had by all. Highly recommend stopping by if in the area. Also fun to visit while reading Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather.
Jenevieve H — Google review
A Beautiful tranquil place. Went to the firefly event. The Ramadas were made of mesquite, the roofs were Ocotillo canes. We hiked in the dark to the river to see them. The rangers educated us, provided literature, a model they made of a firefly that lit up, and red flashlights. Great place for birding.
Michelle T — Google review
A lovely piece of preserved history that is maintained and protected by our National Park Service. The NPS staff are deeply knowledgeable and eager to share their knowledge with visitors especially on a quiet Monday in the off-season. We spent an enjoyable couple hours exploring the grounds and learning about the Spanish Mission system's impact on the region and the continuing influence that history has had all the way to the current day.
Bryan G — Google review
This was suck a fun afternoon visit. To walk around so much history that's still standing! Amazing.
Tom J — Google review
Arizona’s missions tell the story of Spanish exploration and colonization of indigenous people. Jesuit missionary Father Francisco Kino visited this site along the Santa Cruz River in 1691. We revisited this National Historic Park today after four years of our last visit. Such a well maintained and staffed facility. Don’t miss out of the courtyard featuring a fountain and plants and birds indigenous to Arizona. A must see if in the area
David H — Google review
This was an amazing location with great history. I love when I see historical locations that were saved and well taken care of!!! 🥰🎉🥳 We have to protect as much of this world as we can and all the history around it.. we can't let them continue to overbuild and tear down this beautiful world.
Myzterious 9 — Google review
Loved everything moment. Park and walk in to pay and pick up the walking guidebook at the visitor center. $10 or use the National Park Pass. The garden is by the washrooms. The architecture is well designed to frame the Mission as you turn the corner and look out. Great bilingual history placards with illustrations. It's a short walk. On a hot day, protection is necessary. Today was cool and sunny. The Spanish influence is beautiful in construction. The church walls are slowly devolving safely and feel authentic and raw. Evidence of how structures break down over time. The building by the cemetery has no roof, and access is via the paved path, so go around. The walking trail to the real orchard with fruit trees representative of what was cultivated then had some budding pomegranates. The ground was wet from last nights rain. The nature trails to the river (teeny stream) are shaded by over arching desert trees and quiet. Most of the areas linking the main communal areas are paved. The trails are not. There is a small gift shop and the volunteers are friendly. Monday morning is a good time to visit. The museum is informative and well put together with high quality artifacts.
Michelle P — Google review
We watched a 17-minute video before walking around the grounds. Interesting history. We skipped the guided tour because it was 45-60 minutes and we didn't have enough time. We walked down to the creek, which was pretty and serene. Got in free with a senior national parks pass.
Andrea B — Google review
4.7
(1494)
•
4.5
(297)
1891 I-19 Frontage Rd, Tumacacori, AZ 85640, USA
http://www.nps.gov/tuma/index.htm
(520) 377-5060
13

Pima Air & Space Museum

Mentioned on 
+94 other lists 
History museum
Museums
The Pima Air & Space Museum is a sprawling 80-acre complex that houses over 400 historical aircraft, making it one of the largest non-government-funded aerospace museums globally. Visitors can explore indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing a wide range of aircraft, including the iconic Wright Flyer from 1903, the legendary Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, and even a modern marvel like the 787 Dreamliner.
Brought my son from Florida here for his first visit. He was totally impressed. I hadn't been in a couple of years and there were many improvements. So many aircraft. Maybe the third best air museum after Wright Patterson and Smithsonian. Outside exhibits as well as indoor. The restrooms have been remodeled and are air conditioned as is the Cafe. So there is much to see inside on a hot day.
Roger C — Google review
First rate air museum, been to a few this is by far the best I have been too. Going back again for a thorough visit. They really have too many planes to see. Mainly from WWII and forward. Went on tour ride worth the extra price well explained.
Laurence G — Google review
This had been on my bucket list for a while, but when they acquired the Philippine Mars, it made it that much more a "need to go"! It is an all day, or two day visit if you are a real plane buff. We were fortunate that the day we visited, (1st day) the 390th Memorial Museum on site, had a special guest. Colonel Richard B. Bushing Ret. It was amazing the get to talk to someone that was such a part of shaping the world in our lifetime. He is 102 and very much still a firecracker. It is amazing to see the variety and volume of aircraft on display. Go early and wear good walking shoes.
Greg W — Google review
This place is amazing. Make sure you give yourself enough time to see everything. Lots of it is outside too, so plan on going in the morning maybe to see the outside stuff. We gave ourselves 3 hours and it was not even close to enough time. Really amazing. We were really impressed and in some cases in awe of what we were seeing. I would recommend this place for anyone even remotely interested in planes or historic aircraft.
Angry G — Google review
Interesting aviation museum covering mostly military aircraft spread over a large area. Summer opening hours are 0900-1500h, but by 1430h the outdoor exhibits are not open to visit. It's not easy to cover every exhibit in one day, and there's a lot of walking to do. A cap and plenty of water are recommended, as it can be brutally hot and there are few places to sit. One hangar contains a beautifully restored B-17G that is well worth the visit, as are several hangars containing well-restored aircraft, mainly from WW2. There is some equipment and other artifacts also on display that make for interesting reading. It's easy to get app-based cabs to and from the museum, and there is a covered waiting area at the entrance.
Arjun S — Google review
On a road trip from El Paso up to Page, AZ my son and I wanted to check this place out as we have never been. HOLY COW, what a place!!!! I had no idea that we would spend over 4 hours there, the amount of aircraft and exhibits is truly amazing. AND on top of it, we were lucky enough that a retired Colonel Richard Bushong that flew missions during WW2 through Vietnam was speaking with visitors, telling stories and signing his book. The people too that work at the museum were so informative, just adding to the overall experience.
Brian M — Google review
It has really grown since the last time I was there. Huge variety of aircraft and most buildings are climate controlled. Most of the museum is out doors so bring your sun screen. The new B17 standalone museum with in a museum is open. Tons of staffing with good air conditioning. They will ask you for donations on top of the normal entrance fee but it is optional.
D G — Google review
Beautiful displays with informative placards. Well layed out, spacious and clean. A classroom of aviation history with more information than you can take in in a day, but worth any amount of time that you have available. Outdoor static displays are numerous so wear your walking shoes or take the tram. As an aviation buff I can't recommend this more! Well done Pima Air & Space, you knocked it out of the park!
Craig D — Google review
4.8
(9972)
•
4.7
(4959)
6000 E Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85756, USA
https://www.pimaair.org/
(520) 574-0462
14

Titan Missile Museum

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
Museum
History museum
Military Museums
Nestled just south of Tucson in Sahuarita, the Titan Missile Museum stands as a remarkable testament to Cold War history. This unique site is the last remaining missile silo of its kind, offering visitors an immersive experience into a pivotal era. Guests can embark on guided tours that take them underground to explore the Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Site 571-7, where they can witness firsthand what life was like during those tense years.
Amazing! Went here on a Thursday in December 2024. Wow, just wow! Felt like a combo of Minuteman Missle NHS, Star Trek First Contact, and X-Files. Great tour. Great insight from the tour guide. Limitless access to pretty much everything in the complex. And the cherry on top was touring outside above ground. I would have paid triple and still thought it was a great value. Super easy to get to with plenty of parking, gift shop, and restrooms. You will not regret your visit.
Jimmer W — Google review
Very cool place to visit! At the Titan Missile Museum you go underground into a real Cold War missile silo and see the massive missile up close. The scale of everything is incredible and really makes you feel the history. The guides are excellent — they explain everything in a very interesting and easy-to-follow way. Definitely worth it if you’re in Tucson!
Daria K — Google review
This place is awesome!!!! My son and I really liked it and we BOTH want to recommend it. The tour was very informational and going down into the complex was very cool. The price was very reasonable, able to take pictures (obviously) and if you go......when asked for volunteers in the control room, do it.
Brian M — Google review
This museum is absolutely worth a visit! Our guide, Steve, brought the experience to life with a great mix of humor and deep knowledge. After the tour, I even had the chance to connect my ham radio to the original 80-foot-tall, 60-year-old Collins Discage antenna — and made contacts all the way to Hawaii and my uncle in Tennessee. A truly unforgettable experience!
Daniel G — Google review
I attended the guided tour, I recommend the tour over topside viewing. It’s a fun adventure into the military tech of the 1960s. Just thinking about being stationed here waiting for a fight that never happened in a secret location had me imagining the lives of these young men. What an interesting time the Cold War was. Having grownup in the 80/ and 90s we had more of a sense of purpose in those days. Great tour and guides.
Bryan H — Google review
Great experience. Definitely recommend stopping out. Learned a bit about our history I never knew. Love how they kept it original for every thing.
Donald W — Google review
Very interesting and informative tour. Celeste was great and very knowledgeable answering everyone's qusstions. Highly recommended if you are in the area.
Justin T — Google review
Very interesting history and exhibits in the lobby as well as a view through the fence of a disassembled missile. Big draw back of the guided "tour" for us was the 45 steps down and the 45 steps up.
Teresa C — Google review
4.8
(4376)
•
4.8
(1582)
1580 W Duval Mine Rd, Green Valley, AZ 85614, USA
http://www.titanmissilemuseum.org/
(520) 934-1863
15

San Xavier del Bac Mission

Mentioned on 
+92 other lists 
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Colonial Catholic mission built in 1783 that is now a National Historic Landmark. This beautiful church features baroque architecture and painted artwork and it is still used for religious purposes, making it a great place to visit if you are interested in history or religion.
Just an exquisite safe haven for the heart and mind. The long rich history of the Mission is full of breathtaking artistry, attention to detail, and skilled craftsmanship. We visited on a Sunday, and the sanctuary was full, and the Sunday Mass was about to begin, so we didn't get to see the entire sanctuary (note: I am not Catholic, and don't know if there is a different word for that area of a church. I apologize!) There is also a shrine up in the hill to the right. I was up there some 30 years ago. A very peaceful, secluded place to pray or think. One of my favorite places on this planet. 🥰🥰🥰
Deborah W — Google review
I visited San Xavier del Bac Mission today, just south of Tucson, and it hit me all over again why they call it the White Dove of the Desert. The mission rises out of the land with this quiet power, even now with scaffolding wrapped around the front while they work on the old façade. You can see where time, weather, and a few bad repair choices from the past have worn it down, and now there’s a careful crew out there trying to bring it back the right way. Even with the construction, or maybe because of it, the place feels alive and in motion instead of frozen in a postcard. Inside, the air is cool and still. Candles, color, carved figures, and old paintings all carry that mix of Catholic history and Tohono O’odham spirit. It feels like a living church, not just a museum, and you can sense how many prayers have soaked into those walls. Outside, the desert light hits the towers and scaffolding together, and it feels like you’re watching an elder being cared for. If you are anywhere near Tucson, it is worth stepping into that space, even while the work is going on. Maybe especially now, while you can see the effort it takes to keep something this old, this sacred, standing strong. Grateful Traveler’s Note 🌿
Chris K — Google review
Incredible. The detail is stunning, takes you back in time. So peaceful. Museum portion is very informative. No tickets are needed but donations are helpful for preserving this amazing site and the community.
Maria V — Google review
A very beautiful place to visit. Very calming and the history all around the grounds. The gift shop is so nice. Staff is friendly and outside vendors have yummy Popovers Indian Bread. We will be back soon.😊
Specialk3266 — Google review
San Xavier del Bac Mission truly lives up to its nickname, “The White Dove of the Desert.” This magnificent and spiritual Spanish Catholic mission, completed in 1797, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and features breathtaking painted artwork throughout. The atmosphere inside the church is deeply moving. It was incredibly touching to see all the candles purchased for the sick, the dead, and for miracles. The fact that a candle, which costs just $8, will burn for an entire week is a beautiful gesture. The mission grounds are equally charming. We loved strolling through the courtyard with its beautiful fountain and browsing the quaint gift shop for unique Arizona trinkets. The food vendors outside were a great addition, offering delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. This is a must-see for anyone in the Tucson area, whether you appreciate history, architecture, or are simply looking for a peaceful and spiritual place to visit.
Littlemsdetroit — Google review
Amazing and beautiful! The architecture was amazing, the museum and the church still continues to serve the Tohono O’odham community! Definitely check it out when in Tucson. Also, if they do have mass, please do not enter. And bring water as well!
Kimberly F — Google review
San Xavier del Bac Mission, built in 1797, is a stunning example of Mexican Baroque architecture. The intricate carvings, vibrant frescoes, and preserved religious relics make it a deeply spiritual and historical site. Inside, the ornate altars and centuries-old artifacts reflect the rich Catholic heritage of the region. It's both a place of worship and a must-see tourist destination near Tucson. The peaceful desert setting adds to its beauty, and guided tours offer valuable insights into its cultural and architectural significance. A true gem of Arizona history and a remarkable experience.
Eric L — Google review
TLDR: I am not Catholic, but have visited various cathedrals, churches and missions and this is one of the most interesting I’ve ever been to. “Founded by Padre Kino in 1692 and completed in 1797, San Xavier del Bac Mission is Arizona’s oldest European structure and a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial architecture.” - stolen from the website 😎. I’m always blown away by the artistry and commitment to detail ensconced in the decoration of religious places of worship, and the beauty of the San Xavier del Bac Mission is no exception. You really have to visit to take it all in. The staff is welcoming, and there is a gift shop where I picked up a handmade (I think) souvenir ornament and some DELICIOUS prickly pear gummy bears. Seriously, they were really good and I haven’t seen them anywhere since that visit.
Kaylin — Google review
4.8
(8515)
•
4.6
(4437)
1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746, USA
https://www.sanxaviermission.org/
(520) 294-2624
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16

Old Tucson

Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Movie set used in several Westerns now functioning as a family theme park with live entertainment.
Had a wonderful tour and tour guide, tour lasted about an hour and was quite informative with the history of western movies that were filmed here. Only thing we were disappointed with was when we talked to people who did this tour before said how did you like the costume room where John Wayne's pants were displayed, I said that they never showed us that room 🙁 Still enjoyed it.
Jim D — Google review
Old Tucson is the place many classic western movies were filmed. Old Tucson was a mixed bag of excitement and disappointment. The Old Tucson Website let us down by not making it apparent on its homepage the park is closed during the summer. No food, no rides, no games, no gunfights, and no entertainment during the summer months. The saving grace is a fabulous tour given by a wonderful guide for $20 per person. This gives you the history of this famous movie set. The photo opportunities without the crowds were nice. The website home page not saying tours only during the summer drops this review from a 5 star to a frustrated 4-star review.
Steve F — Google review
What a wonderful surprise and gem of a place to visit ! (Buy the all inclusive wristband)Not wheelchair friendly but plenty of parking and the staff are very friendly& were great & in costume. The shows were amazing . especially make sure you plan to see the stunt show & Can Can, ride the train and Carousel! There was plenty to do all day for all ages! There were seven of us and we had lunch at Jake’s barbecue and it was absolutely delicious ~ better than any I’ve had at other restaurants. Already planning our next trip back.
Lainie A — Google review
It wasn't open to rides. We did the tour because that was the only choice. You learn about western movies. Our guide was great, he did a great John Wayne impersonation, he did not do a great Arnold Schwarzenegger impersonation. When it's super hot, you go from Shadow to Shadow while the guide explains what you're looking at. I recommend watching Tombstone before going to the tour.
Christopher C — Google review
Blessed to have this back. Tucson staple. Old Western Town. Check out Nightfall & Yuletide. Great spot to visit with friends and family
אהבה א — Google review
I really enjoyed my visit. The personal was always nice, welcoming and ready to help you. We didn’t get any tour because we like to wonder and take our time and no regrets. They had different shows throughout the day so we never got bored. We only spent there 2 hours due to our itinerary but you can easily stay there until they close. There’s a restaurant, a bar and lots of snacks available.
Maria A — Google review
My family (from Minnesota) and our friend and her family (all from Ohio, randomly in town at the same time as us for a soccer tournament) thoroughly enjoyed our day at Old Tucson! With ages ranging from 2 to 60+, there was genuinely something for everyone. From things I read on Google and Reddit, I honestly went in with pretty low expectations, but any negative or neutral thing I read was disregarded shortly after our arrival. The cast members were excellent. They were engaging from the moment we walked in, they stayed in character all day long, and many of them, after meeting my daughter first thing in the morning, even remembered her name and greeted her throughout the day and as we left, making it extra special (and completely unheard of at larger theme parks - it was a weekday, so there’s a chance it also wasn’t as busy as it can get - for context, my daughter and I had a whole carousel ride to ourselves and plenty of empty seats on our train ride). One cast member even recommended a great place for our party of 11 to grab dinner (for which I’ll also be leaving a 5 star review). Our group had the most fun at the magic show, especially since 3 of us were asked to participate. I’ve seen a lot of magic shows in my day, and while this one doesn’t have the most awe-inspiring tricks, the performer was a natural comedian and really sold the tricks with exceptional narrative, banter, and quick wit. Same with the stunt show - these performers are effortless comedians and really excel at working the crowd - they may have been better at that than any similar show I’ve seen. We brought our almost 3 year old with a stroller and our friend uses a wheelchair - despite the bumps and dirt trails, most of the park felt accessible and getting around was smooth. My family will definitely be back here on some of our annual trips to visit my in-laws. As we were leaving, my daughter exclaimed, “I come back to cowboy town next year???”
Todd H — Google review
We went during the Saguaro Night Market, entrance was free and there were various vendors and actors in costume. It was an amazing atmosphere seeing the sunset, a cowboy band playing in the saloon and the filmsets illuminated at night.
Jessica E — Google review
4.4
(5049)
•
4.0
(1801)
201 Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735, USA
http://oldtucson.com/
(520) 883-0100
17

The Dolly Steamboat

Boat tour agency
Tours
Boat Tours
We had the best time on this boat tour. We are from our of town and our friends took us on this adventure. Boarding was done by ticket number. Easy process. The boat cruse was narrated. The captain was wonderful and took his time telling a little history of the area. He turned the boat around twice so we could see the mountain goats climbing the steep rock face. Super cool to see. The boat was running at a comfortable speed which made it very enjoyable. Snack food like popcorn, chips were available. Drinks and bar were also available at a reasonable rate. Definately would do this again.
Barbara W — Google review
Beautiful place to go with your family! The scenery is top notch and the weather is nice and sunny. This is also like a museum considering the fact that there are old parts of the scenery from thousands of years old. The wildlife is vast and there is a couple of birds of prey here. Totally recommend all day! P.S: Keep an eye out on the rams in on the cliff side!
Tom L — Google review
Very pleasant dinner cruise. Staff friendly and helpful. Great scenery, good music. Dinner was better than average (bbq ribs AND chicken - large portions. The 16 mile drive to and from Hwy 60 in the dark was a little hairy. Allow lots of time to go slow.
Carmen A — Google review
This cruise had unbelievably gorgeous views with great narration by the captain. We saw the Canyon Lake area including much desert scenery and stupendous mountain views! We even lucked out and saw a bald eagle on her nest and a group of Bighorn sheep! 10 out of 10 stars. A must see!
Kay M — Google review
April 5th 2025 Being an Az native, I’m sad to say I didn’t know this entertainment existed. I learned about the “sunset dinner cruise”from my mom who is actually friends with “Dolly” the original owner. The new owners kept the name and Dolly is still representing the company with enthusiasm. My wife and I did the sunset dinner cruise and boy did it not disappoint! Captain Ron was fun, knowledgeable about the lake and its history, the staff on board were attentive and hustled in our meal distribution. The food was excellent! The sites were amazing and stunning. We saw a lot of big horn sheep on the cliff face and witnessed up close 3 blue herons flying low across the water. For the price this was a fantastic way to spend the evening with my wife.
Brian L — Google review
We had been staying in Apache Junction for the winter and decided to take the Dolly Steamboat cruise on Canyon Lake. The regular cruise is 90 minutes long and takes you around the lake and back. The canyons are impressive and beautiful. I understand you sometimes get to see sheep, but we had no luck on this outing.
Steven P — Google review
I had a great time on this short afternoon cruise. You get to see beautiful views along the way as you listen to the history of the place.
Veneranda A — Google review
This experience was amazing. The only reason I’m not giving it 5 stars is because my friend and I almost got stranded with no ride back to the city and didn’t receive any help from the staff. They said it happens often that a ride share will drop people off only to leave them with no cell service to arrange for a ride back. We were refused access to WiFi at the ticket booth and had to find a shop that would offer WiFi to customers only. If you journey out it’s a great experience just make sure you have a ride back because you won’t get help finding one!!
Nicole H — Google review
4.8
(1947)
•
4.5
(1051)
16802 AZ-88, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, USA
http://www.dollysteamboat.com/
(480) 827-9144
18

Barleens Dinner Show

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Dinner theater
Concerts & Shows
Performances
Barleens Dinner Show, located in Arizona, is a family-run business that offers an unforgettable night of entertainment and dining. The establishment opens from November through April and caters to senior individuals. With efficient service for a meal that includes beef, potatoes, carrots, and salad, the venue can accommodate close to 400 people. The talented musicians provide captivating performances with clean humor in a variety show. The reasonably priced drinks add value to the experience.
A fabulous experience: music, food and comedy all done in a family friendly atmosphere. It's a drive out to Apache Junction, but well worth the effort. Saw the Rock & Roll show. It is an excellent history of Rock. Can't wait to see another show!
D. H — Google review
I've been to a few dinner shows, and this was probably one of the best ever! Let's start with the food. I was expecting "cafeteria style" average food. Nope! It was a very delicious pot roast with mashed potatoes, cooked carrots, salad, and a dinner roll. Oh, and did I mention they also had BBQ pork ribs and BBQ chicken? I've never been known to shy away from food and your homeboy had the meat sweats! Oh man, was dinner good!!! They also had THE BEST root beer I've ever had and I consider myself a root beer connoisseur! My wife had the most amazing root beer float. Then, the show was absolutely fantastic. I play in a band so I know how difficult it is to play with that many musicians and all the different genres of music. These musicians were incredible! I was amazed at their technical skills from the steel drum, to the slide guitar, to the brass instruments, to the violin/fiddle players... I could not believe the talent level. I am hooked and am planning on taking family and friends to future shows!
Eric S — Google review
Oh my!! Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would be as good as it was. From the quality of the food, the attentiveness of the wait staff to the awesome show, I was flabbergasted! I couldn’t get over how talented these music professionals were. Mind blown! I would love to come back during the holidays and experience this once again. Definitely recommend!
Precious C — Google review
The food was okay, the show was okay. My hold out is the price and that they ask you to be there quite early compared to when food is served or the show starts. So hopefully you go with people you want to talk to for over an hour while you sit and wait. I think the music/show was a little more geared to the baby boomer generation. As a millennial I didn't mind the music, but I kept going back to the cost versus taking my wife to a steakhouse and a movie. I had to go back to my google timeline to see how long we were there. 4 hours (11:30 - 3:30)
Gary D — Google review
If you are looking for dinner and a family oriented dinner show, please attend. This location is supported by the Barleen family providing an amazing meal with live entertainment. Five stars.
Craig T — Google review
Variety show was amazing, such talented vocal and instrumental! Toward the end they sang version of Amazing Grace. It was so well done and the audience obviously loved it! Should have been the Finale!
Barb F — Google review
Absolutely a wonderful experience! We took family that where in town. They loved it. The food is like home cooking. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, carrots, roll,salad, cake. Plenty of coffee, teas, lemonades. You can purchase alcohol separately if you'd like a drink. Plenty of choices in alcohol. The entertainment spectacular!
R. B — Google review
This place is amazing!! Saw their Christmas show tonight and oh wow, do they ever put on one heck of a show. They had the whole place jumping. The staff and performers are so friendly and sweet. The Barleen family and friends are so talented.
Foxy T — Google review
4.8
(1382)
•
4.7
(840)
2275 E Old West Hwy, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, USA
http://www.barleensdinnershow.com/
(480) 982-7991
19

Fountain Park

Mentioned on 
16 lists 
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Fountains
Fountain Park is a 64-acre town park in Fountain Hills, Arizona, featuring a stunning man-made 28-acre lake with an iconic fountain at its center. The fountain, one of the world's tallest, shoots water up to 560 feet into the sky and is visible from miles around. This landmark has been attracting visitors since its activation in 1970. The park offers various amenities such as an 18-hole disc golf course, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Fountain Hills, Arizona, is a picturesque town located just east of Scottsdale, known for its stunning desert landscape, mountain views, and vibrant community. It is named after its iconic fountain one of the tallest in the world which shoots water up to 560 feet high and serves as the town’s centerpiece. Fountain Hills offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with art galleries, hiking trails, and golf courses, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors seeking natural beauty and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s also a great place for birders and bird photography, with many opportunities to capture unique desert birdlife.
Ubaya M — Google review
Really nice, very clean paved walking path around the lake. It is a reclaimed water lake so a little smelly at times. There is a really cool splash pad. A very nice playground. A musical instrument play area. Multiple covered areas to sit at. Such a nice little community surrounding it. Multiple bathrooms and drinking fountains. Parking was pretty easy.
Aaron D — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! The fountain is breathtaking to watch, especially when it shoots high into the sky — it’s the perfect centerpiece of the town. The park itself is very clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, with plenty of walking paths, green spaces, and spots to relax by the lake. It’s a great place for families, couples, or even just to enjoy some quiet time outdoors. Whether you come for a picnic, a walk, or just to see the fountain, it never disappoints. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in the area! 🌿💧✨
Horacio E — Google review
Very nice and peaceful park with a nice walking trail and a Frisbee golf course. It's a well maintained park with nice bathrooms and plenty of benches. Come right before the top of an hour and watch the magnificent fountain for 15 minutes. I've visited twice now and I enjoy this park.
Cody T — Google review
I was heading out of town but wanted to see th famous fountain. Found out it only goes off every hour on the hour for 15 mins. When I drove up it had already been going off for 8 mins. It is beautiful. Neat to see. They cut it off and water comes cascading down. I found that they normally only run 2 pumps so it shoots up about 300'. Only on special occasions do they use 3 pumps to get it 500 or so feet. Which I'm sure would be awesome. If you are in the area check it out. Parking was easy off a side street. Looked like the surrounding grounds were home to disk golf. And FYI the grass was sopping wet in certain areas so be mindful of that when waking to the waters edge.
Roberta P — Google review
The park was super relaxing and peaceful. It had a wide variety of birds, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I especially loved watching the Red-winged Blackbirds and the vibrant red patches on their wings. The park was clean, and thanks to the fountain, there was a refreshing breeze that felt amazing—especially in the Arizona heat.
Pegah K — Google review
Beautiful and excellently maintained park and lake and mile plus trail around it. Although I live 20 minutes away, I'll drive there often for a walk with wife and dog. People (and dogs) are always friendly and courteous. Get there on the hour in the evening so you can watch the fountain for 15 minutes.
Mark S — Google review
Visited Fountain Hills, Arizona around noon in early October. The weather was pleasant, and the place was calm and scenic. Plenty of open spaces and activities for kids — a great spot for a relaxing family outing.
Abhishek V — Google review
4.8
(6024)
•
4.5
(580)
12925 N Saguaro Blvd, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268, USA
https://www.fountainhillsaz.gov/266/Parks-Recreation
(480) 816-5100
20

Taliesin West

Mentioned on 
+80 other lists 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Taliesin West, the winter home of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Located in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains, this iconic structure is both a World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark. Constructed using materials from its natural surroundings, it embodies Wright's philosophy of organic architecture. Visitors can take tours to explore this unique desert home and learn about its significance in architectural history.
Taliesin West is a must see for any fan of Frank Lloyd Wright, architecture, history houses, or the desert southwest. I visited on an incredibly hot day in the summer during their morning opening hours. The audio tour, delivered through an app you download to your own device, is exceptionally good. The audio tour is one of the top 10 audio guides I’ve ever used anywhere in the world. It’s strikes the perfect balance guiding you through the site while at the same time providing just the right amount of interpretation of Wright’s work and time at Taliesin. The gift shop here is a must visit with a very well curated inventory of items connected to Frank Lloyd Wright, Asian art, and architecture in general. Simply excellent all around.
Andrew H — Google review
This tour—no kidding—changed my brain. Walking through the property was an expansive journey, and the audio tour was educational and really helped ground me in the space and pull me into the details of Frank Lloyd Wright’s design and philosophies. I can’t recommend this enough for lovers of design, story, and interesting spaces. I left inspired and with an augmented appreciation of the power of organic architecture, playfulness, and of spaces designed to foster community. If any questions come up for you, I highly recommend asking them to the staff present throughout the tour— they provided additional anecdotes and history that very much enriched our experience. My one regret is we didn’t go earlier in the day to be able to take more time soaking up the unique spaces.
Jessica R — Google review
It’s really easy to drive past the entrance since the sign blends in with the landscape. So keep an eye out! We took the self guided tour. The property was stunning, and we really enjoyed learning about Wright’s process and the history behind the property. Absolutely beautiful. The gift shop had so many unique items, too! Lots of locally made pieces.
Tiffani W — Google review
The house in relation to the geography creates an ethereal setting that will leave you dazzled. It's an incredible way to experience Right's genius as you look through a window or a vista and realize that every turn, every view was meant to inspire. The tour goes by too quickly, like a dream you don't want to end. The controlled number of guests is also very important as the interior spaces are smaller than you think.
The T — Google review
This was a great introduction to the complex. It was discovery day so the cost was only $5.00 each to go on a self guided tour. All the grounds and buildings were accessible and along the way they had hosts to provide details at various locations as well as answers questions. They also invited some other groups to provide information about their services. They also had some food vendors, activities and music. Free parking was provided and the fee allowed us to stay as long as we wanted. I was surprised that for a Saturday it not crowded and it was easy to view each location and enjoy the grounds.The store has a variety of keepsakes and beautiful creations for sale and the staff are very friendly.
Glenn L — Google review
Loved it! So informative and the guided tour was simply wonderful. Hard to imagine how all this was built in this hot landscape so many years ago! Very inspiring! Highly recommend!
Felicitas O — Google review
Frank Lloyd Wright's genius design skills are at work here. The buildings look like they have always been there, which is the hallmark of his designs. Definitely a must see attraction in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.
David F — Google review
Such a great tour. FLW was so iconic to both Arizona and architecture. We did the hour audio tour which was very informative. This is a must see attraction.
Derek A — Google review
4.7
(2410)
•
4.7
(4247)
12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA
https://franklloydwright.org/
(888) 516-0811
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21

Butterfly Wonderland

Mentioned on 
+71 other lists 
Outdoor Activities
Wildlife park
Zoos
Butterfly Wonderland is an indoor rainforest habitat located near an aquarium in the city. It houses thousands of beautiful butterflies, along with sections dedicated to insects, reptiles, and tropical fish. As the largest butterfly conservatory in the country, it boasts over seventy species fluttering among lush foliage and dense vegetation. The complex also includes other attractions like Odysea Aquarium and Dolphinaris for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
This was amazing. It was magical from start to finish. I would say this is probably not for babies. There seemed to be a lot there, and their conservatory is hot and humid for the best environment for the butterflies. Their reptile, amphibian, and underwater displays are just gorgeous. I do not regret going at all. It was a great afternoon well spent.
Dove W — Google review
For anyone that loves butterflies and other insects, this is the place for you. An awesome video at the beginning that talks about stages of the butterfly, thought was very interesting. Once in the butterfly area, it was awesome, had a few land on me, that was cool. Go here early, when its cooler, but definitely a must see!
Jason B — Google review
Butterfly Wonderland is awesome, let me start with that before getting into the few downsides. The whole concept is brilliant and beautiful. Not only are they helping preserve butterfly species and supporting conservation efforts, but they’re also giving the public a chance to experience these incredible creatures up close. That’s amazing! My only real complaint is the price. For two people, it’s about $75 for an experience that lasts roughly an hour or two at most. It’s a bit steep, but it feels better knowing the money goes toward something meaningful rather than just another theme park. Overall, I’d definitely recommend checking it out if you’re in the area. Be sure to spend enough time in the sanctuary, you’ll want to slow down, take it all in, and hopefully have a few butterflies land on you!
Jaden T — Google review
You cant go wrong walking through a tropical jungle with butterflies flying all around you! It was so soothing and calming! The staff were super helpful answering all our questions and giving us directions! Be warned, it's humid so dress accordingly! You won't regret stopping here in your visit to Phoenix!
Laurie J — Google review
Awesome attraction especially if you have kids, my 2 small toddlers really enjoyed themselves, and it was a fun mixture of entertainment and education. Staff are all very friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to share info on the butterflies. They have some small indoor exhibits with fish and reptiles as well. They also have inclusive options for children with processing difficulties or other challenges. Definitely a worthwhile place to visit when at the boardwalk
Tyler G — Google review
10/10 would recommend this place to anyone in the area! They had a short video on the monarch butterfly migration. They also have a near area where they show the life of a butterfly and the stages there before they release them with the others. There were so many and they were so gorgeous and perfect! Their snack area was clean and tidy. The staff was super friendly. There was so much to look at and I wanted to take pictures of everything. It’s def worth every penny!
JFoxBeauty — Google review
Love bringing my daughter here! We have so much fun. Beautiful butterflies and fun experience. We go first thing when they open because they get pretty busy! Worth the money in my opinion.
Kelli C — Google review
Fascinating world of butterflies. From their birth to their death, and everything in between. Neat facts to learn about migration, and other things about butterflies. 3-D movie explains it, then you can walk in a huge garden with lots of butterflies. They also have some reptiles, sea life, and bees.
#Hashtag S — Google review
4.6
(7175)
•
4.4
(1549)
9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, USA
http://butterflywonderland.com/
(480) 291-8000
22

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Mentioned on 
+104 other lists 
Park
Water & Amusement Parks
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, located in Scottsdale and operated by the city's Parks & Recreation Department, is a 40-acre park featuring a railroad museum and various exhibits. The park offers miniature train rides, jungle gyms, and a 10,000-sq.-ft. model railroad display. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Paradise & Pacific Railroad with steam locomotives and diesel engines, as well as the beautifully restored Scottsdale Charros Carousel.
This place was great. Mostly free except for the train ride and the carousel which are 3 dollars per person which I thought was reasonable. Very clean and well maintained. Great places for kids to play, water fountains all around or bottles of water in the market. The model train museum was amazing. The largest display I have ever seen and really well put together. So much to see. It’s also air conditioned inside so it’s nice to get in a get a break from the heat. We had a great time.
Aaron D — Google review
This is a great park. The new splash pad is small and isn't shaded directly, but there is plenty of shade around it with seating. The outdoor playground is huge and recently got sun sails so it mostly shaded. There are a few things that you need to pay for to do, but they are small amounts. The indoor playground, the train ride, and the carousel. The train ride is a ten minute ride around the park field and is so fun for the kids. There is a gift shop, and an ice cream/ snack bar also which are indoor and really nice. Plenty of seating throughout. Love this park.
Wendy M — Google review
Such a neat place! Large retired train cars throughout the park. They have a small train ride that's about an 8-10 min ride, a large carousel that you can ride either for $3 per person. Ages 2 and under are free. Huge outdoor playground with many unique obstacles. Lots of space to run and play. Small restaurant, museum, gift shop and a large miniature train set with interactive buttons. You can pay $12 for a wrist band for unlimited train and carousel rides for the day. Highly recommend and such a great value!
Larry D — Google review
Nice place to visit. They have several different buildings to explore. The one with the miniature train sets is free and quiet expansive. The grounds are well kept and they have several areas for kids to play along with a small locomotive to take a ride on. Overall a wonderful place to go with large trees, benches, and beautiful shade.
Ken — Google review
I completely forgot to post my review last christmas. Me and my family went during christmas time and it was so beautiful. I can say it was a magical time especially with the music and reasonable food prices. We mustve rode the train 100times that night. We will be there again this year!!! Highly recommend
Monique U — Google review
Amazing place. I got to spend the morning there today with my godsons, and it was as I remembered it. They LOVED the train. The conductor handled the teen standing on the track very well, but the office staff we told couldn't do anything about it since they left. If you want a place that has both indoor and outdoor sections, this is the place!
Sofia F — Google review
Great place to take the kids. The highlight for me was the model train building. It was a huge building with model train lay outs from N scale to O scale. Unbelievable, the detail in the layouts. The train ride is more for kids, and is a short ride around the facility. The serve ice cream and good lunch foods. I had their chili with corn bread. It was home made I thought. Lots of train history to explore. It's not very expensive to get in , and is worth the time to experience.
Macroaquire — Google review
I had the best ditch day with my mini me!!! From the indoor playground to the outdoor playground to the train ride to my babygirls favorite the carousel was a blast.. but she also loved cooling at the splash pad. Thanks for an awesome day.
Nicole G — Google review
4.8
(6882)
•
4.7
(1251)
7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA
http://www.therailroadpark.com/
(480) 312-2312
23

Musical Instrument Museum

Mentioned on 
+123 other lists 
Museum
Live music venue
Specialty Museums
The Musical Instrument Museum, or MIM, is a paradise for music enthusiasts. It houses an extensive collection of instruments and artifacts from approximately 200 countries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of music through live performances and interactive experiences. The museum features five geographic galleries showcasing instruments from different global regions, an experience gallery where guests can play instruments, and a mechanical music gallery displaying unique self-playing instruments.
It was one of the best museums I've ever been to. I could easily spend a whole day there. There is music from almost every country and there is a wonderful guided tour that allows you to hear the music of the world. The museum is so well curated, so that you see, listen and learn about music from around the world. The music play room is great for kids. A wonderful time for the entire family.
Steven B — Google review
Excellent museum! It is a huge place. You wear a headset which plays music as you approach the various exhibits. Exhibits are well labeled and so many interesting details. I loved hearing and seeing people playing the instruments on display via the headset and videos. There is a room where kids and adults can play a variety of instruments. Highly recommend!
Lynda — Google review
Very amazing and educational museum. Would definitely recommend to anyone to go! 2 stories of history and cultures! Plan for it to take a good portion of your day. They have a cafeteria on site that has amazing food as well! Also an interactive instrument room where you can try out some of the different instruments you saw in the exhibits!
Brandee D — Google review
This museum is now firmly within my top 5 favorite museums in the world. I was pleasantly surprised at how large the museum is after deciding to visit last-minute. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and include not only visuals but optional audio for everything you are viewing. With interesting facts about instruments, artists, and music styles from around the world. I only had the chance to see about 1/4 of all they have in my quick 2 hour visit so I’d recommend planing a few hours to come here and experience it all. There is a gallery where you can play a variety of instruments which as a musician was a dream. I’ve always wanted to play a harp and got the chance to do so here! The gift shop had such a fun variety of unique items, I came away with jewelry made from piano strings that I love! And on top of it all, this museum was truly inclusive for folks who need special accessibility accommodations. I recently injured my foot putting me on crutches. The staff kindly offered my choice of a wheelchair or electric scooter at no charge to use while in the museum. I can’t wait for the day I can come back to experience more!!
Erica O — Google review
It is the best museum I ever seen! I am not a fan of music, but I am deeply touched by all kinds of music and instruments from all over the world, hundreds of countries and hundreds cultures. Staff in this museum are super nice, they are ready to answer your questions and provide useful information you need. This museum is not only good for adults, but also great place for kids! If you want your kid to learn instruments, bring kids to this museum and kids will start to fall in love with music. I will definitely come back to this museum again with my kid. Overall, I strongly recommend this museum. It is the No.1 best museum among the hundreds of museums I have seen.
Rui D — Google review
An incredible collection of instruments spanning the globe. Our visit was particularly auspicious as it coincided with the "Stradivarius and the Golden Age of Violins and Guitars" exhibit. The violins and bows were exquisite. Plan to spend the day wandering through the various rooms to learn about cultural context and history.
Lawrence C — Google review
MIM is worth the drive, no matter where you're staying in Phoenix. It's not just for music lovers, but also about history and engineering. We drove up from Tempe with our ASU student - we already plan to go back! The mechanical music room was fascinating and the artists room had so much variety - do not say no to the headphones. The experience of floating in and out of the sounds of the instruments on display really was magic. We finished with watching the short introduction film they offered. After experiencing the museum, it really brought home the universality of music through out all of human history... and it seems all to be represented right there in MIM. Really well organized and displayed: unique instruments, how instruments are made, antidotes from artists, instruments and musical styles from every corner of the world. Love!
Colleen S — Google review
A very fun place to visit! I thought a museum about musical instruments may not be very large or interesting, yet MIM changed my mind completely. It not only shows music from different countries, but also demonstrates the deeper cultures behind the music. As the picture shows, “Music is the language of the soul.” I think everyone who love music should visit this place, and you will see a much bigger world!
Andrew C — Google review
4.9
(9609)
•
4.9
(6621)
4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
https://mim.org/
(480) 478-6000
24

Cave Creek Regional Park

Mentioned on 
14 lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
State Parks
Cave Creek Regional Park is a vast 2,922-acre desert park offering a variety of activities. It features winding multi-use trails, campgrounds, and picnic spots. The park's diverse landscape ranges from 2,000 to 3,063 feet in elevation and showcases stunning sunrises and sunsets. Visitors can explore historical sites dating back to the 1870s when gold seekers ventured into the rugged mountains.
Close to Phoenix, a great campground. Large sites, although there's little privacy, plenty of scrub brush and cacti. Park seemed very well maintained, clean and brushed. Staff friendly and helpful. The only potential downside is that the Cave Creek Rodeo is nearby and the lights and sound were noticeable. Not annoying, but distracting. Seemed to be plenty of trails around. Recommended!
Tom C — Google review
Neat little park in the middle of the desert. The gal at the front gate/check point was incredibly friendly and helpful. The ranger/host driving around in the golf cart, was NOT! He was contraindicting the gal that gave us specific directions. Then the day we left, he was circling our camper 20 minutes before check out. Which we were out on time. But we observed him doing this all week to the residents on the day of move out. We did make it up to the visitors center, a fun and interesting little walk through. The playground is pretty awesome!
Janya C — Google review
Great campground. The sites are big and spread out. They have hot showers and flush toilets. Beautiful Views of the mountains and cactus all around. Very quiet and peaceful. We had wood fires every night. Very close to Cave Creek and Carefree, beautiful town. We will come back for sure.
Wayne — Google review
I've stayed here in my RV (travel trailer) anywhere from 1 night to 2 weeks. The sites are large and easy to back into, well-maintained and level. The bathrooms are clean and shower water is hot, although annoying to have to hit the button every 30 seconds. Dog-friendly, which is great, please keep your dogs leashed. The hiking trails are nice, the area is lovely, and convenient to shopping and dining nearby as well. Good central location for all of the Northern Phoenix area. I only have two significant complaints/warnings: 1) there is a horse ranch / small stadium adjacent to the Park, which has a loud audio system. If you are in the family campground especially, this is literally adjacent to your campsite, and can be rather loud at times. 2) The dump station does not have a hose attachment to backflush your black tanks. There is water, but it is a small spray nozzle that does not come off, no hose attachments. I feel this is a major oversight to be able to adequately dump and clean black tanks.
Tonya L — Google review
I didn’t mind this park at all, it was easy to find & navigate. We camped at the campground which has large sites for our trailer and truck to park side by side. Sites were clean, spacious and spread out enough on our end so we weren’t constantly exposed to our neighbours. There wasn’t much shade coverage but the temperature this time of the year didn’t require it in the same way it would hotter months. There are plenty of hiking trails though we only completed the slate trail with the Michelin man saguaro. See my review of said trail if you’re interested. You pay a fee to enter or to use the campground. The washrooms and showers were clean, im just not a fan of the push button showers as they require constant button mashing to ensure the water doesn’t stop on you mid wash. The park rangers were kind and welcoming. It’s a very quiet park and we had no concerns. I only give less than five stars because I felt it was expensive compared to other state parks for what you get. We did have full water and electric. Sites are paved and pretty level. I would have stayed longer but it booked up so fast I didn’t have a chance to secure another site. Also love that it’s close to cave creek- a nice place to visit. Oh and though there’s a gate- you are given an access code so you can return after hours to your site without concern.
Vikki P — Google review
This is a Beautiful Park. The RV sites are spaced out far from each other. The bathrooms are clean. The landscape is very Beautiful! Great price for camping!
Momma L — Google review
If you are from the valley or up north just wanting a quiet get away with amazing sunsets, clean bathrooms and just detachment, this is for you. Close to everything near Cave Creek 10 day stay and just kept asking myself "what do I have to do today? Nothing!"
MARK P — Google review
We enjoyed our Clay Mine hike, but we were disappointed that the mine was blocked off/closed and we could not access it. but the trail itself was very nice. you cannot use the trailhead because it starts in the campground and there is no parking. first, go to the nature center and access it from there. Tonight was at the gate entrance and was very helpful and knowledgeable about the park.
Cindy L — Google review
4.7
(472)
•
4.5
(298)
37019 N Lava Ln, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA
http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/cave-creek-regional-park/
(602) 506-2930
25

Sigler Western Museum

Mentioned on 
15 lists 
Museum
Art museum
History museum
The Desert Caballeros Western Museum in Wickenburg, Arizona is a must-visit for those interested in the town's Western heritage. With over 400 works of Western art, including pieces by renowned artists like Frederick Remington and Charles Russell, this museum has been described as a jewel filled with unexpected treasures.
We had a great time at the museum today! The paintings by Tim Cox were absolutely amazing! 💯 👍👏 The way he paints horses is remarkable! It was fun to learn how life it Wickenburg was in the 1800s! All the staff at the museum were kind, welcoming and helpful.
Tothetrailsandbeyond — Google review
We got free ticket to the museum through our local library. The museum isn’t that big, but it was fun! They have a downstairs area that is a replica of a western town in the 1800s.
Jayna M — Google review
I discovered this when looking over the culture passes at my local library and I am so happy we chose this. We are fortunate to be less than an hour from here and that makes a great day trip. The museum staff was so friendly and knowledgeable. They take such pride in their museum and such joy in sharing it with others. I'm excited to see them expand and look forward to visiting in the future.
Mazanec M — Google review
The gift shop is nearby and a great place to pick up gift items. Staff is very friendly. Highly recommend a stop here. (Sigler is their new name)
Selena J — Google review
This museum is awesome. They have beautiful photos and awesome videos. But th best part is down stair their set up is amazing! We enjoyed it very much. 😊
P M — Google review
The top portion is just an art gallery...but just wait until you go downstairs into an interactive section of the museum with recreation of buildings, a holograms in a recreation of a general store, a recreation of one of the smallest bars in America, and a saddle you can sit on. Be warned, you are able to fall out of the saddle if you don't balance yourself correctly. Overall a great Western museum that excels most in historical recreations. Staff was also nice and helpful!
Greater N — Google review
An absolutely pleasant experience. I've been to Wickenburg, Arizona many times. This was the first time I went to the museum. Most of all the volunteers were kind and helpful. They had a wonderful Cowgirl exhibit and art show, but don't forget to check out their downstairs blast from the past.
Zulma T — Google review
BEST place to see western art pieces! I definitely did not expect any of what I saw in the museum. The museum is pretty large with different exhibits. The sculptures are genius and so are the paintings! The downstairs was also incredibly interesting. The different displays they had give you some insight on the town of Wickenburg and its beginnings and was so insightful.
A.N. — Google review
4.8
(709)
•
4.7
(432)
21 N Frontier St, Wickenburg, AZ 85390, USA
http://www.westernmuseum.org/
(928) 684-2272
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26

Bluewater Resort and Casino

Casino
Casinos & Gambling
Relaxed resort featuring a beach & a marina, plus a movie theater, bars & restaurants.
Giving this place 5 stars just because of not ripping people off. We stopped in here for breakfast on the way up to Laughlin and we both ate huge breakfast's for 8 bucks TOTAL! I was shocked. The casino was very nice and clean as well. Only problem is it's in Parker so unless you have a boat there's not much to do down here, but I guess if you are staying in Havasu it's worth a drive if you have the gambling itch.
Curtis — Google review
To start off this review, I would like to say my family and I were very excited to experience the blue water resort. We normally air BNB, but we wanted to check out this spot due to the boat slips and the water slide inside. (Water slide is totally closed down and broken, but they are still advertising it online as it's still open). Once we got to our rooms (3 marina rooms) Rms 1038,1039,1040 we discovered the disgusting conditions below. Our shower hadn't been cleaned in at least a month or more. The shower had mold and orange soap scum all throughout the grout. My whole family had to shower with our water shoes on like we were in the river. The bathroom door was rusting completely thru the backside. (Photo below) There was hair leftover in the shower from a previous stay before we got there. ( Proof the rooms weren't cleaned ) (Photos below) There was also dead gnats all over the bathroom ceiling (photos below) The door knob also fell off my bathroom door on the first day as well. The ironing board had dust about 1/2" thick. (Photo below) Besides the room conditions, the service was even worse. The hostess"Olivia" at the blue water grill was extremely rude to our entire group on multiple occasions. We ate pizza at the deli and everyone that ate it puked later that night. After speaking with management, I was told they would be in touch with me to discuss my concerns about our stay. They took my name and number and never reached out to me. If you want to stay somewhere and feel like a burden to the staff. This is the place! If I didn't have family coming from out of state to stay here with me ( reason for 3 rooms ) and two boat slips, I would've asked for my money back and stayed elsewhere. But there is a no refund policy. This place was absolute trash. And the staff was even worse. Please stay away from this dump.
Jesse B — Google review
I planned a trip with about 15 people for my 40th birthday here and one of our main reasons for coming here was the river access and the pool/slide in which i communicated when booking. When we arrived the slides were “deteriorating” and out of service plus the lazy river. The river access was blocked due the races but they only had them for one day. We ended up spending most our time at roadrunner and pirates den or in this casino. Roadrunner and pirates den know how make sure their customers are happy unlike this place. My parents got the Junior suite and their air conditioner kept going out. Had to move rooms a couple times and their security literally has nothing else better to do but to watch you in their little security room, run down and harass you all the time you do something that they don’t like. I ran into a lot of people at Pirates Den that were staying there and they all had many many complaints not only are they harassing but they’re also very rude. No one in that place showed any sign of respect or good customer service skills. The rooms are decent and clean, but there’s a lot of things broken inside of this casino. The owner needs to spend more money on hiring respectable people and on the amenities that they state they offer. I will never return to this hotel again! oh and one more thing watch how much of the ice that you have in your drinks at this place we all had major stomach aches on the first night and it had to have been because of the ice because that’s the only thing that we all have that day and the rest of the weekend that we’re the same..I told Bethany I would give her a shout out as she was the only nice and courteous person here! Bethany is an amazing bar tender!
Jen S — Google review
Usually this place is awesome, however this mid week trip was the worst. The water slide was drained and closed down for repairs I assumed. We made reservations online and paid the same price on a Tuesday as we have paid on Friday and Saturday! We booked through the property website. There was no Internet in the rooms but only on the casino floor, and very limited in the restaurant. The front desk has to be notified by the push of a button and then still waiting without pushing it twice. Mind you it's Tuesday night with a max of maybe 15 people in the whole casino. No bartenders or servers anywhere. The floor supervisor eventually came to tend bar with zero experience but a helpful attempt. In the recent past this place was hoppin, lively and enjoyable. Hopefully it gets back to fun again because it's a great location for lodging with easy boat & watercraft access.
ReAnna M — Google review
Thank you to the wonderful Manager and all of the excellent Support Staff!!! You helped a homeless disabled PTSD combat vet by providing a much needed hot meal for free when I had no money!!! There are literally NO SUPPORT SERVICES FOR VETERANS IN THIS ENTIRE TOWN!!! But the kind folks at Bluewater showed me favor, kindness, and compassion. Thank you so very much!!! 🙏🏾❤️
DUKE T — Google review
Would never stay there or recommend to anyone!!!! I wish I could give 0 stars!!! Place was dirty as hell!!! Had to wear our flip flops in the shower it was so filthy!! Hair on the walls!! Bugs everywhere!! Bathroom door handle kept falling off!! Rms #1038-1040, had 3 rms for all our family 9/20/25-9/225/25....Pizza at deli made us all throw up that night!! We planned my birthday trip there and it was the worst experience ever!!! The manager of this place never got back in touch with my husband after he made formal complaints to her. She said she was going to be in touch with us and never made contact back about our experience... DON'T STAY THERE!!!!
Heidi B — Google review
What an absolute horrible experience. First off, the grill. One day it's cash only, one day it's a 20-minute wait because they don't want to fill up all the tables because they are short staffed, the next day it's a 40-minute wait because the grill itself is broken. Then you move on to the casino, no complaints about the payback whatsoever. I'm a big player, and apparently that flagged the system to lock up all of my comps and all of my rewards points so I couldn't use them. Upon check out, I asked as a courtesy since I couldn't use any of my comps or My Rewards that they comp my room instead and they told me they couldn't comp my room because I didn't have any room specials. Well that wasn't the point. The point should have been they had issues and they should have made an effort which would have gone a long way in my head for the possibility of me returning to play again or even staying in a room. But now since they have no clue what they're doing I am never returning again. What a horrible experience and very poor customer service.
Shannon M — Google review
Blue Water Resort and Casino Fire alarm went off all through the last nights stay. I would give my room stay a zero but only had one star as lowest rating! Stayed three nights on Labor Day Weekend 2025. Paid over $200 a night for king premium room which fire alarm went off all through the last nights stay. Called front deck at 2am after getting zero sleep from fire alarm going off and lightning up entire room randomly. Front desk could only send security to our room to solve the problem? Security arrived, stated that the problem is a low battery and left as fire alarm continued to randomly go off? After light shined through the side end of blackout curtains, spouse and I got out of the badly stained sheets and lumpy, hard pillows bed to put our vessel from rented slip onto our trailer to drive four hours home ending our vacation. While checking out of Blue Water Resort and Casino front deck, attendant insured us when manager is available later that day, we would receive a phone call regarding our complaint about fire alarm going off in our room and Blue Water Resort and Casino couldn’t solve the problem. No phone call or email or any communication on the matter and it’s been a week ago as I’m writing this review? Blue Water Resort and Casino has the correct email address and cell number because they sent and called confirmation the day of our check-in to notify about Water Slide being closed due to renovation.
Michelle J — Google review
4.1
(5283)
•
3.5
(131)
11300 Resort Dr, Parker, AZ 85344, USA
https://bluewater-casino-resort.com/
(888) 243-3360
27

Cholla Cactus Garden

Mentioned on 
+97 other lists 
Vegetation
Nature & Parks
Gardens
The Cholla Cactus Garden is a must-see attraction within Joshua Tree National Park. This otherworldly area offers vibrant colors and a flat loop walking trail that allows visitors to marvel at the prickly wonders of the cacti. It's recommended to visit during sunrise to witness a truly special sight and beat the crowds to hiking trails and points of interest.
This is another beautiful trail that loops around and I personally would rate it an "easy" hike. It's literally a Cactus garden. I highly recommend and advise to NOT touch any of the cacti. They literally will stick to you. Let's just say I know from personal experience. As always I recommend staying hydrated and having water no matter the situation in hot/warm weather.
Nelson M — Google review
Joshua tree and all it has to offer is amazing. In this week's visit, we were planning for the new moon and astro photography. We parked in the lot and walked in to set up the tripod for some long exposure shots. Clear skies, perfect weather in July, summer breeze, and only one other photographer so no light noise! I couldn't have asked for a better set up!
Salvador R — Google review
This was our group's FAVORITE stop in all of Joshua Tree! We had an entire sunset photoshoot, met some Europeans flying a drone, built a rock tower, and loved walking around the cacti. Watch your feet so that you don't step on any of them! Come here during golden hour, you won't regret it! There is a nice 1/4 mile walking trail around the garden, with many chances to walk off the trail and approach cacti. Nice parking lot with no water for the public.
Dennis G — Google review
It was cool to visit there. There were bees that super bothered us, but other than that, it was cool to see the cacti and panoramic view. Even in 7 AM, the sun was unforgivingly hot.
H. P — Google review
Absolutely stunning spot! The Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree offers incredible nature and breathtaking views. The layout is perfect, you can easily capture beautiful photos without other tourists constantly in the frame. It wasn’t crowded at all during my visit (a Sunday afternoon in mid-May), which made it even more enjoyable. Definitely a must-see if you’re anywhere near Joshua Tree!
Eric G — Google review
Beautiful garden especially at sunset. Be careful with the small cacti on the ground.
Paula G — Google review
One of the most magical places on this planet. You see nature's magnificent work at its best. Hundreds and thousands of cholla cactus standing proudly in the windy air of Joshua Tree National Park. The best time to visit is during sunset or sunrise when the entire place is cast with the golden light of the desert sun. Now, be careful to keep a safe distance from these 'teddy bear' cacti and don't try to wander off the trail.
Stephan P — Google review
My favorite place in Joshua Tree NP. A beautiful garden where you can really spend some time. It's a bit tricky to find the walking paths in between the cacti, as the paths are not very clear/visible. After some time you just get that it's up to you to decide where you want to walk and how far inside of the garden do you want to get. No toilet around.
Jana K — Google review
4.8
(467)
•
4.5
(599)
California, USA
28

Barker Dam Nature Trail

Mentioned on 
+30 other lists 
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Barker Dam Nature Trail is a popular 1.8-mile loop in Joshua Tree National Park, offering a diverse range of attractions. The trail features ancient rock carvings, desert scrub, and a historic reservoir dam dating back to 1900. Visitors can enjoy encounters with wildlife, unique plant life including cacti and Joshua Trees, as well as opportunities for rock climbing amidst cool rock formations.
Easy loop trail with views of the Barker Dam, petroglyphs, and nature. No wildlife sightings during our hike at sunset on January 14. Plenty of parking and two vault toilets at the trailhead.
Jesse W — Google review
Nice easy trail. Around 1.3 miles loop with only 100 feet elevation gain. You get to the dam around half a mile in, going clockwise. The dam would make for a good sunset spot, but I didn't stay that long. Easy to find parking when I got there around 4:40pm on a Saturday in February. Lots of people at the dam, so didn't wait around to get a good solo shot.
Vipul S — Google review
Beautiful hike at sunset! Ending up clocking just over a mile so it’s a short one but still highly recommended. It’s nearby some other good trails in Joshua Tree as well.
Jess R — Google review
Great place to visit, lots of rocks, trees and nature. I always love coming to this place gives me peace and tranquility. I would highly recommend you visit this place.
David M — Google review
Very impressive rock formations and a fun trail. It’s short tho only like 1 mile but worth it. It’s one of the prettiest spots unfortunately no water when I went but still impressive and beautiful with the exposed areas. A bit crowded since it’s one of the most popular hikes.
Carlos A — Google review
This is easy hike that goes in a loop. There isn't always water behind this damn but when we visited in May there was some water. It made the visit a little more picturesque.
Ken — Google review
Love the hiking trail around this beauty. Small but nice views. Must take Pictures here if u have kids take them very fun hike.
Erum B — Google review
Sadly, there will be very little water at the dam, but the hike is wonderful. Lots of Joshua trees, boulders to climb and rock cliffs to admire. Be sure to go to the end to see the Native American pictographs. For a few minutes you'll be transported in time. After the initial light climb, the trail is gentle and good for all ages.
Mini R — Google review
4.7
(626)
•
4.4
(334)
California 92277, USA
29

Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead

Mentioned on 
+35 other lists 
Hiking area
Nature & Parks
Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead offers a picturesque 1-mile hiking loop with stunning rock formations and panoramic views of Joshua trees and the desert landscape. This easy and flat trail provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the iconic Joshua Tree scenery. The trail is rumored to have been used by cattle ranchers in the 19th century as a hiding spot for their herds, adding an enchanting element to the experience.
Arrived at 9am on Memorial Day, and there were at least a 100 people on the trail already. This is a very easy and very popular hike. Took us around half an hour to walk the mile. Don't really need hiking boots or even shoes for this hike. The signs around the vegetation are all pretty descriptive and we spent time at each. Saw some squirrels and lizards too. There was a volunteer ranger going around with advice and giving more information. Good sized parking lot, and it's a short trail, so should always be people going out in the next few minutes. We were able to find a spot right away at 9am on Memorial Day.
Vipul S — Google review
It’s an interesting area of the park - the most fertile in terms of vegetation and someone used to support grazing at one point! The trail here is very poorly marked - only a mile loop that takes maybe 20-30 minutes. It’s pretty easy to walk through and there’s minimal elevation changes but there’s so many curves and turns that are not noted or lack signs.
Kevin W — Google review
Hidden Valley Trail is a 1-mile loop with about 100 feet of elevation gain. The path is clear and easy to follow. Super good way to knock out amazing views of the park in a shorter amount of time. You pass massive boulders, Joshua trees, and desert plants. Short side trails lead to rock formations. Signs share the history of cattle rustlers hiding herds here.
Jess R — Google review
It is beautiful and easy to walk. We saw some people hiking up the hills. There are restrooms and also a camping ground. We had a great time and I would recommend stopping by, although it is not outstanding compared to the rest. Hope you will enjoy it! Lots of parking space available:)
P H — Google review
This review is about stargazing at night at Hidden Valley. My go-to first stop for stargazing. Could have driven to Arch Rock but the rock and surrounding Joshua trees formed great backdrop when taking Milky Way photos! Can be a little crowded at night, so be prepared to have your photos tinted red from folks exiting the parking lot or from distant traffic along the main route.
Henry T — Google review
Such a nice enjoyable hike! Easy loop with beautiful views of the rock.
Bethany — Google review
Really loved this loop! First time experiencing JTNP and this was a fantastic hike. It’s easy and you really get to experience what JTNP is all about. We went in the evening and it wasn’t too hot and wasn’t crowded.
Vickie P — Google review
This trail is Majestic. If your schedule only permits a short hike, this is the one to take. It is wonderful that Joshua Tree National Park allows all type of rock climbing from repelling to free form. Be safe and have fun.
Dot M — Google review
4.8
(1962)
•
4.7
(681)
74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA
https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
(760) 367-5500
30

Coachella Valley Preserve

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Deserts
Nature & Wildlife Areas
4.5
(772)
California, USA
http://coachellavalleypreserve.org/
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