Amazing park i never knew existed! Very beautiful and peaceful. There is an amazing almost 10mile hike with campgrounds that definitely warrent a camp trip. Also, shorter trails up on top where the views are most excellent! We plan to come back for sure, but we were just driving through. Even if you only have an hour or so to spare, there is a very scenic drive you can take to the top that's well worth the visit. Also, the NP agent inside was super nice and informative. Great park!

After a fiasco at saguaro national Park due to government shutdown I found redemption at chirocahua. Amazing rock formations due to eruption and water and ice whethering. Completely possible to drive/hike instead hike hike 😄. Only some indoor sites like the ranch were affected by the shutdown. Camp ground seem to be open as well. All around a great find.

Very beautiful location such a neat ecosystem after coming from Tucson. Very windy when we were there but lots of hiking trails and vistas to explore. We loved the grottos with our little ones, great rocks to climb.

A very special place. Campsites and facilities well maintained and inviting. Park staff very knowledgeable and helpful. As good as any national park. The less popular trails are 100% worth doing. Hike everywhere you can you won't regret any of them. Bring about $100 for the giftshop, its got some cool stuff and the prickly pear gummy bears are 10/10.

Off the beaten path, but well worth the trip. This was an amazing park! The grottoes were worth the hike! Hardly any people on the trail. This is a hidden gem!!

Pictures do not do justice. Gorgeous. Definitely worth a visit even if it's a bit out of the way from the more famous / popular parks in AZ

Arrived just after the visitors center closed, but grabbed a map (accessible just outside the center) and got to the top of massai point. There’s a small building there that shares history/general information plus great 360 views. The echo canyon loop has incredible views before sunset.

This mine tour was so much fun! They give you a hard hat, vest, and a light. The train ride is really cool too! Our guide definitely knew what he was talking about and answered our groups questions. The cave we toured through is wide open. As someone with claustrophobia, I felt safe and comfortable. I would definitely recommend!

What a unique experience! The Queen Mine Tour was the highlight of our trip to Bisbee. Our guide, Neil shared real-life stories from his time working in the mine, and you could feel his passion for the history and the company (Phelps Dodge Corporation). The tour was well organized, informative, and fun. A must-do if you’re visiting Bisbee!

The queen Mine Tour was really enjoyable! It was pretty accessible to most parties, and the employees were very accommodating if anyone had any difficulties with the space of the mines. The tour itself was very informative if you're interested in the mining process and the history of the town. The visitor center has lots of gift/ souvenir options. It is within walking distance of the town. I drove an electric vehicle and was able to charge it at one of the Chargepoints in town while I enjoyed sightseeing and this tour.

Absolute must do in Bisbee!!! When you arrive you’ll get outfitted with a hard hat, light, and safety vest. Then you’ll board the cart deal that takes you into the mine. You straddle the seat like a motorcycle. Joey, our tour guide was fantastic. He was funny, knowledgeable, and made the tour fun and semi interactive, while making sure everyone felt safe. We had a smaller group so it was like a private tour. We went 1500 feet underground and learned the entire history of the mine. We even got to see the illusive light show (not typically offered). Awesome experience for all ages.

Loved the tour and the gift shop! All staff that we encountered were friendly. The tour was so informative! The mine is in great shape. Will live to take others through in the future.

We had an amazing time on the mine tour. Our tour guide was excellent—funny, friendly, and very knowledgeable. It’s an experience where you not only learn about the history of the mines but also feel truly connected to the past. We enjoyed every moment and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes so you can enjoy the tour even more. A wonderful experience!

This place is awesome. The people are always safety conscious and helpful to guests. We really enjoyed our visit and tour. We really learned alot.

This is such a fascinating place. If you are visiting Bisbee for the first time I highly recommend this museum. As I post this it's only $10 and well worth it. It's a Smithsonian affiliate if that tells you anything about how great it is. They have a room that is still original and a gift shop that is tax free!

Excellent mining and history of Bisbee museum. If you are in town exploring, make sure to stop by and see the history of this place. Pretty crazy the amount of copper that came from their and how it formed the town of Bisbee. The exhibits are very nice and interesting. You can really get a feel of what it was back in the day, minus the hard work and suffering a lot of these early settlers of this area faced. There's even a whole section that I believe the smithsonian helped with (could be wrong) that includes a ton of different minerals / rocks from the area that are absolutely beautiful. Cool town, awesome museum!

The Bisbee Queen Mine Tour was amazing. My partner and I visited during our weekend getaway trip. I'd never been in a mine before and it was something to experience. Parking wasn't difficult as they had their own lot. I would imagine during high visitor times you wouldn't be able to find a space.b Before we went into the doors, we saw many things to do outside and learned a lot of history about the mine. Entering the doors it's a museum and store to purchase items from. We did buy our tickets inside and was lucky enough they had a few seats left. We got hard hats and vests lights and boarded the mine train. It was an experience the entire family would enjoy. To see the entire experience visit my YouTube Channel called Eat and Travel with Toni.

This place is amazing. Really well done and I especially like the minerals. The docents are super friendly and informative. We learned all about the mining heritage of Bisbee. They also have a wonderful gift shop.

Beautiful place, learned a good amount of history and interesting facts. I recommend everyone stops by and supports the museum. $10 admission and $9 for seniors and military.

Great little museum with friendly staff, a very nice exhibition of the history of mining in the Bisbee area and some fantastic geological specimens. The nearby Queen mine tour is fun too.

Beautiful museum and really nice made! We enjoyed it with our family

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

We had alot of fun...our tour guide was really knowledgable.

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.

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 😉

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"

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

$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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Such a gorgeous hike, suitable for kids and older adults. We go every year for the fall foliage.

Lovely birding area with nice walking trails (somewhat steep). Lots of rare hummingbirds and other species.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 !😆😆🤣

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

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

Great tour, good location. Cafe not so good. The tour was excellent and very informative. No photos allowed unfortunately. Some outside shots.

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

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!

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!!

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.

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.

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

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…

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

Looks great, like a well worth destination for some downtime. We'll be back!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This was suck a fun afternoon visit. To walk around so much history that's still standing! Amazing.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

saguaro national Park is a great place to visit and has a nice bike loop and plenty of trails

Nice stop (Rest Stop) a lot the road; enjoy the images! The roadrunner is made of recycled materials/scrap, 20 ft tall.

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!

Great park, was not very busy, amazing weather. Loved seeing all the flowers. Beautiful location, very quiet and peaceful.

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!

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.

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!

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.

Great experience. Definitely recommend stopping out. Learned a bit about our history I never knew. Love how they kept it original for every thing.

Very interesting and informative tour. Celeste was great and very knowledgeable answering everyone's qusstions. Highly recommended if you are in the area.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Beautiful place with lots of access to the desert landscape. Nice trails with water features when there is some to be had. These pictures are from above at the thimble peak looking back at Sabino Canyon below, Bear canyon and Blacketts Ridge. Three killer hiking areas of Sabino Canyon recreation area.

A very easy stroll through the beautiful Tucson desert! Saguaro as far as the eye can see, and some great wildlife sightings! The side trails take you to some nice little splash pools during the right time of year. I just ran into a family of 10 Coatimundi playing yesterday. Really cool experience.

My husband and I came out here this morning for an early hike before it got too hot. The weather was absolutely perfect for a hike. The entire hike we did was easy (for us). Some people were on the main trail with strollers and kids. We ventured off on some of the side trails to see the water and if we could see any wild life. We did see two deers right off the side of the trail which was so cute. We had a really enjoyable time and definitely want to bring our kids next time we come here.

Such a beautiful visit through the canyon. So much to see from the sagurao to the beautiful bolders and everything in between. Highly recommend taking the tram tour, very informative ❤️🌵🌄

This is a great place to escape the hectic pace of Tucson. It's peaceful and quiet, and I love the scenery. The people are super friendly, you get to see amazing wildlife, and the sunsets offer great, cooler view. There's a lot of trail to hike and run!

Sabino Canyon has a great paved road that gives you two choices. 1. Do the hike on foot where, if your more energetic there's trail's off road or you can just stay on the run way and enjoy the sites which has seating to take your break and enjoy the powerful environment and rest. 2. For a bit of money you can you can tell the youngsters I'll see you at the top when you make it. This recreation area offers more than just hiking and being in shape, check out there web page for more info. My wife and I love the walk! Met and spoke to New friends is a high.

Continues to be the premiere trail hub for three significant trailheads leading into the Santa Catalina mountains. Great place for both casual day walks to 13-15 mile hikes. Take plenty of water and snacks and don't leave your trash behind.

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 🌿

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.

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.😊

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.

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!

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.

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.

The views were spectacular at the top! The scenic drive up is amazing as well. Truly enjoyed visiting Mt Lemmon.

Absolutely stunning views. The entire drive was so so amazing 👏 I'm so happy I got to be the passenger for this breathtaking trip. Going through the mountain road was intense and wonderful. The experience was something I will never ever forget! The drive was absolutely worth the time and the trip up the mountain. The higher we went, the more exciting it got. The little towns along the way are so spectacular and the vista pull offs are just fabulous!!! Everyone is so nice that I met along the way and I just can't get over how awesome the whole trip was it was a delicious dessert for my eyes and I want more so I will definitely be going back for that trip again very soon.

Easy Drive from Tucson. The air is fresh the scenery better then a movie. Thank you Jesus moments. Take the drive stop at the turn offs and stretch. Deep Breaths 💫

One of the most beautiful places to hike ! Summerhaven is the so much fun to shop and eat . Highly recommend.

Amazing amazing amazing amazing. Do not rob yourself by not going to Mt. Lemmon if you are anywhere near the area. Do yourself a favor and download the Mount Lemmon app from the University of Arizona that uses great local music and education to guide you step-by-step on the drive up the mountain to make sure you don’t miss any of the amazing highlights!

It was such a nice drive. We went early in the morning so at summerĥaven nothing was open. But it was still worth the drive

Beautiful drive up and back out of Tucson. Stop at the Sawmill Grill in Summerhaven for lunch and then drive to the peak if the gate is open.

Chillin' at Chul was great! There was free admission, good food and drinks and live music. It was much cooler in the gardens than down in the city and we had a great time exploring and just chatting on the porch swings. Bring bug spray or wear long sleeves. The mosquitoes bit us a lot.

This is one of the first places I take someone who comes in from out of town to visit. “Chillin at Chul” is a beautiful way to spend a Friday or Saturday evening. The music, people, and environment are always great. Lots of little trails and a whole back garden for kids to explore and play around in. “Guitars Under the Stars” is another great event that’s held in the garden bistro and definitely worth checking out. Great food and service. Indoor and outdoor seating for big and small groups. We’ve also attended the seasonal movie showings that Tohono Chul hosts around the holidays. Very fun. Worth checking out, especially if you have children.

Beautiful gardens with all sorts of tranquil and lovely nooks and places to sit. I visited in late October, and it is wonderful now, but I would love to come back in spring when the cacti are blooming- although I saw my first ever October-blooming cactus here, and there are quite a few other flowers blooming. There are some beautiful sculptures throughout the gardens, and wonderful artwork in the museum.

This place is a botanical garden, with a few small shops aside. The gardens are beautiful and there are a couple nice trails that you can take for a peaceful walk in the desert. The entrance fee is $20, which is too high if you are just looking for a peaceful walk on a nature trail. I was there for a docent led tour called Plants and Poetry, and it was a good price for a 1 hour activity. The tour combined art and science in a charming way, as we met each desert plant as an individual in a community of specialized desert flora.

Bistro: A visit to the Bistro, before or after the gardens is up to you but you don’t want to pass it up. A fine menu with a variety options, we tried the Vegan Blue Corn Tamales and Prickly Pear Chicken Salad Croissant; both were very fresh and tasty. Gardens: Well played out and accessible.

First time visiting & didn't get to explore the entirety of the property. Entrance grants access to the children's museum as well. Stroller friendly-ish... paths can get a little rough but are wide enough to navigate. Early morning or late afternoon/evening is highly recommended, unless you love the heat. Lots of wildlife: birds, bugs, lizards on the main paths. Plants for sale, art for sale, water & vending machines available as well as on site restaurant. Plenty of seating areas with pretty views and art exhibitions. We were gifted this entrance fee but need to go again and finish exploring everything we didnt get to see!

A beautiful spot for a walk or wedding! Amazing gardens with plenty to explore. I photographed a wedding here in 2025 and it was so nice to have a private area to have the ceremony, cake cutting, and dances.

Nice to finally check this place out. I love plants and learning about them so I figured this place would be awesome for a friend date. We did enjoy seeing the plants. We saw a lot of plants I haven’t seen before. We did notice a lot of things were closed off or we couldn’t really see it. There are guided tour options and self guided tours with WiFi and your cell phone. We chose to have the self guided tour as I didn’t want to pay more than the $30 I paid for each ticket. I paid for two with military discount which still was $27/each. With it being an hour away I got there right after opening time around 9:30am. Perfect time to beat the kids who show up during lunch time for school field trips. So it was nice to enjoy it without it being loud and over crowded since a lot of spaces are tight. It was already a little warm in the biosphere as well. So plan for some toasty humid weather in there.

Loved it. What an amazing setup and how much there is to see and experience. We also did the behind the scenes tour of “ the lung” which I highly recommend. How much technologies went into the creation of this habitat that recreates what we take for granted here in our beautiful planet earth! Everyone should go and see to appreciate what we have !

This is mind blowing experience! And I mean it. If you are interested in science, space exploration, self sustaining ecosystems this is the place for you! If only you have a tiny engineering knowledge and a little sense of biology and ecosystems and interactions within them and between them this place will send your imagination to the moon! One of the most important places to visit in the USA in general. One of a kind research facility hosting enclosed ecosystems, cloned from the ones known from the Mother Earth. My family was absolutely stunned (wife and 12yo son). Fantastic personnel willing to answer every question, great idea with the app guide - yet it freezes pretty often requiring restart. I hesitated for the moment to visit that place, but I’m so glad I decided to go. And I have that great feeling that money spent there will serve a good cause keeping this unique place running. If you ever wondered how the human bases would look like on Mars, the Moon or other less friendly environments - this is the place to see and learn. Whoever were the people who designed it - I admire you. Thank you! What is my wish to make it even better? Take us to the LUNG, show us actually the hydroponic garden, take us to the power generation area. I will come back if this dream comes true!

This is my second visit to the Biosphere 2. My last visit was in the late nineties. There has been an amazing upgrade since then. It's so cool to hear about the interesting experiments happening in this unique space. The history lesson about the need for transparency in science is much appreciated. I loved being able to see the different biological zones and the human habitat from the first experiments in creating a sustainable ecosystem. (harder than it looks) From the innovative "lungs" to the LEO experimental slopes to the beautiful and clever architecture, I was impressed by the creative use of the facility. I did miss hearing the interviews with the original biospherians. I guess those videos are still somewhere on the internet. They talk about how they felt about the original experiment before, during and after. The app was very helpful. You need to download and install the app, and then download an additional 1gb of media before you get to the site. The WiFi is not reliable. But watching the videos on the app was a very good way to get a tour at your own pace.

A lot of good information pertaining to the ECO-System. Videos at each station were very informative. The Tower Tour, $12, will give you a 360⁰ view of the whole facility. Just be ready to climb 77 stairs... 😬 Canes and walkers not advised. A great way to spend the afternoon.

Finally, I got to see a place on my list for many years. I was thrilled to finally walk the grounds. Walking through the doors of the Biosphere2 one enters into a world with different environments developed to explore and create experiments to explore ways to help preserve our world. Learn how scientists lived there for two years while sealed into the building. An app on your phone helps you learn while you walk through the space. Really a unique experience, worth devouring to north of Tucson.

My previous visit, before the COVID-19 pandemic, left a lasting impression. Every corner offered a new discovery. I learned so much about the original Biosphere 2 project, the supporting research from the 1980s, the ongoing scientific work, the mechanics of the lungs and their role in maintaining closed environments, and the ocean zone. I even enjoyed a lovely lunch at the café. Before stepping inside, I knew very little about Biosphere 2. By the time I left, I was hooked—buying books, diving into its history, and bringing it up in every conversation for weeks. It was one of the most memorable and inspiring science experiences I’ve ever had. This time, however, I left feeling disappointed. While I understand the need to scale back live tours during the pandemic, the current visitor experience—especially at $27 per adult and $15 per child—felt underdeveloped. I am considering this based on similarly priced tourist experiences I've had such as the Omaha Zoo, the Brookfield Zoo, or large museums like the Field Museum in Chicago. The lack of signage and storytelling throughout the site made it difficult to understand what we were seeing. The app-based audio/video tour was not practical with young children in tow, and the directional arrows were confusing, which made us feel like we were missing key areas. In particular, I was surprised to find that the Technosphere and Lung areas now require an additional $12 on top of the $27. These spaces are original and essential to understanding how the Biosphere functioned as a closed system and why it was so revolutionary. Seeing the basement and the cement disk floating in the air was very important to my understanding of Biosphere 2. They are core to the story. Meanwhile, areas like the underwater ocean viewing section were closed entirely - I had been very excited to share that area with my children. This made the experience feel fragmented and less immersive than when I toured seven years earlier. Where I would be happy to pay more is for deeper, docent-led tours of the biomes—especially an extended rainforest experience. That area is so rich with life, and having an expert guide walk us through would unlock so much more value. On my previous visit, the live tours were a highlight. The people working there revealed small details I never would have noticed on my own—like the intricate systems in the intensive agriculture zone and the experiments underway in the labs. Overall, I believe the visitor experience would benefit tremendously from renewed focus on storytelling and accessibility—imagining the space from the perspective of a diverse range of learners and guests. Whether someone is a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner, a young child, a science enthusiast, or simply curious, they should be able to engage deeply without relying solely on an app. This place has the potential to stir wonder, spark big questions, and display scientific innovation at scale—but it needs the tools to tell that story well. Thank you for preserving and sharing this remarkable place. We hope it continues to inspire the next generation of thinkers, dreamers, and doers.

10/10 experience every time we go here! The people working and volunteering are sooo kind and knowledgeable and just all around wonderful. The entire experience is the best and easily one of our favorite places! Plenty of areas indoor to look around and cool off. Lots of engaging and fun things for kids! So much to learn and see!

Fantastic place! There are enough animals, fish, amphibians, etc. on display to qualify as a desert zoo, but there is also plenty of plants, cacti, walking, and general desert information that it makes for a good museum too. Even with the shaded spots and indoor exhibits, my mom got overheated, so she and my dad went back to the coffee shop. They told my wife and I to continue on, so we went through some more exhibits and enjoyed them before heading back. The desert has so much beauty and diversity, and yet most people (including myself in the past) only think of it as sand, dirt, shrubs and cacti. This is a great place to visit!

Our family loves to come here. This is a wonderful place to learn new things and get some exercise. We think it’s best to come here in the cooler parts of the year (November- April). We have come during the warm seasons though and have enjoyed the Pack Rat Playhouse to escape the sun! Highly recommend with family. They have shows daily where the staff teach about a few different critters. The audience can ask questions about each animal. Bring water and snacks!

absolutely incredible!! this place never fails to amaze me as an arizona native! i adore all of the information on the desert around us and all the fun little creatures that i learned more about. if you live near Tucson, you need to check this place out. it’s situated right next to part of the Saguaro National Park, so you get a stunning view of all of the cacti plus the mountains. 10/10 experience

Went to the desert museum and spent over 4 hours there. Amazing, immersive experience! Make sure to bring along a water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat. I recommend getting there as early as possible to beat that heat. From the cactus to the pollinators to the animals, such a cool place. We stopped for lunch at the grill and there was plenty of options to eat and rehydrate. Everyone should check this place out. A must-do in Tucson!

Lovely time 🌞 definitely wear a hat and comfy shoes 👍 they have water fountains throughout so if you bring a water bottle you can fill it :) they have both indoor and outdoor exhibits. The gem and mineral is my favorite for indoor, and Strawberry the bear is my favorite for the outdoor 🐻♥️♥️ but the cave is super cool and all the animals are really cool too, it's honestly like a mini zoo. 🦌🐿🦦🦨🐾🦉🦎🐍🦕🐡🦋🪲🦂🌵

I revisited recently after finding it to be a very striking space 9 years ago. I had mixed feelings about the experience this time around, and appreciate certain variables listed here may not always be present. Pros: It's great to have access to convenience facilities on the edge of this absolutely amazing landscape. The butterfly garden was amazing. We got to see a kestrel at the entrance. The reptile room is very cool. The fossil area is good for a sensory experience and conversation about the history of the area. Not so great: A lot of the enclosures are kind of grimy and clearly showing their age, making it difficult to make out a creature inside, if there are any. The hummingbird aviary was quite the disappointment, as that was my favorite experience last time, with numerous birds in the space. We only saw two birds this visit, whether others were hiding or there's really only two birds in there similar to the other aviary where there was a duck and a handful of mourning doves. There were some loud conversations happening so perhaps they were in hiding. We did visit the new-to-us Packrat Playhouse, as we have two young kids. There's guidelines for participants clearly displayed, the first being no running. The space is not safe for running because it's darker and there's enough things within the space that it's difficult to move freely without contacting another person if you're not watching out. I appreciate that it's a good cool space for kids to chill out, but there were multiple school groups and what was apparently one museum staff member/volunteer present and they seemed fully indifferent to proceedings, which included high speed games of chase/tag, and kids who towered over mine almost running over them. Having a timeframe where the space is open only to kids younger than 7 or cordoning off areas for younger kids (as the toddler zone was visited by everyone), and/or staff actually asking supervising adults to uphold the safety rules, would go far in making this a much more pleasant experience. Otherwise, it's a gorgeous space, but consider visiting a local botanical garden instead, as that's what this generally feels like at this point. You'll get the terrain/environment and maybe some wildlife in a more ideal free roaming capacity, but at a much more affordable price - certainly less than $25/kid (unless you're at the one in Phoenix 😆). The cost is steep for what it is at this time, and what we expected based on past experience.

We visited this place and due to Gov shutdown the visitor Centre was closed and no one was there to guide. There was a machine to buy tickets. Surrounded the visitor center there were some trails and you can go and enjoy the cactuses beauty

Beautiful area with amazing vistas, cactus, and a great scenic drive. It was almost 100 so we did not take advantage of the many hikes available.

We had an amazing time. The employees were very knowledgeable and excited to share, The visitor Center itself has a lot of interesting details and history about the national park. The shopping was unique and have some local Artistry as well as products.

This is a great Visitors Center. There is a wonderful video about the Sonoran Desert that is a must see. The rangers have maps for hiking trails and other events. They have a well stocked gift shop, bathrooms and water fountains. There is a nice walking trail out front that takes you around some lovely old saguaros and other cacti. We took a moderate trail to see the old petroglyphs which was fun and interesting.

Nice place for rest, picnic, info and gifts. No ticket check point on the west side.

We loved it at the visitor center. Loved the park. The saguaro’s. All of it. Nice clean place.

Very interesting. The volunteer attendant was very knowledgeable and gave us some great tips

I’ve been visiting Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch since the early 2000s, and it’s always such a fun experience! It’s a little hokey — but in the best way possible. The animals are unique and not ones you’d normally get to see up close, and there’s great signage that makes feeding them easy and safe. I also appreciate how many handwashing stations they have throughout. The staff are friendly, the atmosphere is lighthearted, and it’s just a fun stop every time. We always enjoy our visits and will probably keep coming back for years to come!

We’ve been to the ostrich farm a few times now (I have a teenager and a toddler) and both of them always have such a great time. I recently took my parents while they were visiting and they enjoyed it just as much. The best part for us is always feeding the animals, especially the birds and the stingrays! It’s one of those places that’s fun every time you go, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy no matter the age. The staff is friendly, the animals seem well cared for, and it’s just an easy, feel-good outing. Definitely recommend for families or anyone looking for something a little different to do near Tucson!

My husband and I came here for the first time today and had such a fun experience feeding all the animals! It was $12 each for the cups of food and to get inside the farm area. We got to feed donkeys, deer, ostriches, goats, bunnies, chickens, birds, a tortoise, and ducks. Overall we probably spent an hour here and got to take our time feeding each animal. All the animals were so cute and very gentle taking the food from our hands. We’re definitely coming back with our kids next time.

Had an absolute blast today with my son. We had a lot of laughs at the Goats. So many interesting animals to feed. The tour is a must do. Shanda was the best tour guide. She was funny, charismatic, and very knowledgeable. Cant wait to go back.

On our way to Tucson we saw the ranch from the highway so my friends and I decided to check it out when we were free. It was an enjoyable experience especially getting to see the ostriches and learning more about them. The monster truck ride was very fun, our guide was very knowledgeable and funny. It was nice to feed the different animals and have those pretty birds sit on your head/shoulder while feeding them. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone.

There is no way you can rate this lower than a 5 star experience. The animals are all so sweet. So happy we went. Worth the drive. Also you have to try the Ostrich sliders. They also sell ostrich eggs (which sell out fast). Very cool experience. We went when they opened and had the place to ourselves.

It was amazing! I took my 88 year old mother who had lived in Tuscon for 20 years and never been there. It started with the cashier seeing my mom’s walker and offering her an electric scooter free of charge because ‘it’s a lot of walking.’ She knew it would be so much more enjoyable for her if she was comfortable and able to get around to all the exhibits. From the donkeys to the lorikeets, she had an absolute ball. Her smile says it all. The highlight for her was the stingray touch and feed tank. She had always wanted to see stingrays up close and this facility guarantees a great experience for the guests and the rays. The entire place is spotless and the staff is so friendly and helpful. I can’t wait to go back with the rest of my family.

This monastery is so beautiful and spiritual we felt like we were in Greece. We did not know what to expect but were amazed with the entire self tour. Absolutely breathtaking chapels and grounds. My husband and I met with the priest that married us 36 years ago so it made our visit even more special. We also ate lunch with the monks and residents, so awesome. Come dressed according to the website requirements. Everyone should visit once in their lifetime.

For this place, everyone goes for the road for some reason, but I will share what I did like is a fact that it is so peaceful and quiet there and you certainly do feel some energy if you’ve ever been I would suggest to read up on the elder that formed that place pretty interesting story I strongly recommend you to go religious or not. You never know I am certainly glad I visited and I will be back. Also, please note they have a limited supplies there for the monks so as a nice gesture, I would make two suggestions one is easier to call and ask what they need and bring as you can or visit and ask and come back

A peaceful and deeply spiritual place surrounded by stunning desert gardens and traditional Byzantine architecture. The monastery offers a unique glimpse into Orthodox monastic life, with serene walking paths, chapels, and friendly monks who welcome visitors with warmth. Modest dress is required, and it’s best to visit with a quiet, respectful spirit. A hidden gem in the Arizona desert.

Visiting St. Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Monastery in Florence, Arizona was an absolutely unforgettable pilgrimage. From the moment I arrived, I felt as though I had been transported to Mount Athos itself — the peaceful atmosphere, the reverent silence, and the deep sense of holiness that fills every corner of the monastery grounds. The monks’ hospitality was heartwarming. Every visitor is welcomed with genuine love and care, and you can truly feel the presence of God in the way they serve and interact with everyone. The services were beautiful and profoundly moving — filled with Byzantine chant, incense, and prayer that touch the soul. The food was simple yet delicious, prepared with care and love. Each meal reflected the monastic way of life — humble, healthy, and nourishing, both physically and spiritually. Walking through the monastery gardens, chapels, and courtyards, surrounded by palm trees, fountains, and the stunning desert landscape, I felt completely at peace. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to reconnect with God and yourself. I left renewed, inspired, and grateful, carrying with me a deep sense of spiritual refreshment. Whether you are Orthodox or simply seeking a place of stillness and beauty, a pilgrimage to St. Anthony’s Monastery is truly a life-changing experience.

We saw this passing by one day and i put it on my “Must visit” list! Today we took family to go check it out and No regrets! They do have a dress code, women long sleeve shirts and long skirts with head dress thing (not sure exactly what they are called. BUT they do offer shirts, skirts and head dresses there to borrow to wear during your visit which was very awesome! So beautiful the churches and the history and facts! I do wish the map was a little more updated and easier to read. There was also allot of construction and loud noises going on which took some of the peacefulness away from visit its self. I do understand they are building but maybe laying off construction during saturday Sunday with most visitors would be nice if we came again! Very sweet people and worth the visit! It is free parking and free entry! :)

The first stop for our journey in AZ and to ask for a blessing. A few of us inquires, catechism and also baptized came as day visitors and not pilgrims. Enjoyed learning how the water was found and the monestary was built. The grounds feel astonishing and at peace. Would have loved to stay as pilgrims for a time.

Blessed place, blessed to be able to get to this Monastery. Full of Greece everywhere and all there are ready to provide you with information and love! Εξαιρετικό μέρος!!!

I’ve lived in Arizona for almost 20 years and this was my first visit. It’s a beautiful park and I can’t believe I waited so long. Many areas to see, so many that you probably won’t be able to see them all in a single visit. I definitely recommend walking the large loop trail through the canyon as that’s the most scenic area. The trails are all very well maintained and pretty easy to walk. If the weather is cool enough, just about anyone can handle them. I would plan on spending about three hours to see all of the best areas. If it were closer I would certainly consider getting an annual pass.

This is one of those must see places. It’s more like a nature hike than a straight botanical garden so bring good walking or hiking shoes and some water. Well behaved dogs are welcome too. Great views and some AZ history along the way. If you are lucky you might see some Coati’s who live on property.

My favorite botanical garden in the state! Its always such a pleasant experience and the grounds are immaculate. Become a member to save $$. There's a lot to see. Ive been many times and always find something new. Easy trails to hike and follow, nice facilities and gift shop. The park employees are always gracious and very helpful. Definitely worth the drive.

This was my first time here and I was so impressed I will be purchasing a yearly membership the next time I go, which hopefully will be soon. It's great for a half day hike, we only did a part of it and found so many interesting things. I posted pictures on Google earlier. Had an amazing day with my friends and I highly recommend visiting this place. They also have plants for sale and a reasonably priced gift shop!

We went to Boyce Thompson Arboretum over the weekend. It is located in Superior, Arizona which is about an hour away from us. We live in the East Valley. You can bring your dogs to explore with you. Reminder to bring your own poop bags, water and a secure leash. We enjoyed the hiking trails along with the gardens with different region themes such as South America, and a garden with plants that attract butterflies and humming birds. They offer shaded areas and seating through out which helped us take breaks and enjoy the views. It is truly an experience that provides many opportunities to stop and take in beautiful landscape and photos. We plan on coming back since there is more left to explore. The admission to enter is $24.95 for adults and youth (13-17) $10 for children (5-12), and free for members and children under 5 yrs old.

Highly recommend a visit. The drive is lovely and parking is easy. We intend to visit often so the dual membership made sense. Check in with or purchase tickets @ front desk/ cashier. If you have membership then use telephone number. Collect/photo a map. We arrived at 4:30pm and went to Ayers Lake to catch the golden hour and take photos. Gorgeous gardens and reflections from the small lake. This trail closes for the night exhibit. We loved to chase the almost full moon photo shoots in this visit. The night flight exhibit was delightful with sculptures lit from beneath. The trail is lit and easy to follow. Assorted healthy plants are available to purchase as you walk in and its well priced. Nice gift store and friendly staff. Bring bug spray for sure, hat if its a day hike. Hot chocolate in a flask and something to snack on at night if desired. Comfy shoes. It started to get cold as the evening progressed. Enjoy!

I am amazed that this arboretum has every facility and exhibit to connect with nature and fully enjoy the environment. It has beautiful views from the Ayer lake and the suspension bridge is beautifully designed. This was my second time and my children ages 5 and 8 were able to do the entire arboretum loop (given many rest stops and snack breaks) Make sure to pack snacks and a big water bottle. There are refilling stations along the way. We saw some adorable coatimundi hanging around Scavenger House this trip and were amazed how long they hung around! Highly recommend this place as a day trip from Phoenix. About 80 min drive from Scottsdale to the arboretum. There is also a great children’s garden activity area best for toddlers age.

Archaeology is an interest of mine, and I make sure to set aside time to visit any place that preserves ancient history, whenever one is nearby. A visit to Phoenix, Arizona meant an opportunity to visit Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. This monument preserves the structural dwellings of the Hohokam people who lived and thrived in this desert area. The centerpiece of this attraction is the big house, which is only partially intact, as some of it has eroded over time. There is a roof that was built in more recent times, presumably to help protect the structure. It looks a little odd, and certainly not natural, but I get why the National Park officials did this. There are other, smaller structures surrounding the big house, plus educational information available as you walk around. No one is completely sure what this structure was used for but, given the presence of holes in the sides of the structure that align with the solstices, there is a good chance that astronomy was part of its purpose. The parking lot at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is large, and there is a visitor’s center and bookstore. One thing to keep in mind is that the visitor’s center may not be open when you visit, for example on Sunday’s during part of the year. But the monument itself will still be open for exploring the structures, even if the visitor’s center is locked. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument isn’t very big, and you can be in and out in about an hour or so. It’s certainly a site worth seeing, and a good side trip option for archaeological lovers who happen to be in the Phoenix area.

Drove to Ruins on Monday Oct 6th. Got there 10 AM. Although the park website and NPS app state that the Visitor Center is open, the park is in fact closed. I can understand that the park is closed due to the government shutdown, but please update the information to state that it is. Hopefully this post will be helpful to others who are looking to visit during this time.

I have been visiting this site since I was in school in the 1990s Good location for a day trip from Phoenix and Tucson There is a lot to learn here Visit at different times of year to get an idea of life year round back in those days Check out the gift shop too, many cool items there you won't fi nd other places

Interesting and informative national monument with intriguing artifacts. Excellent film that runs regularly. Nicely appointed gift shop. Well worth the trip!

Beautiful ruins. Easy access to walk up to. Informative signs. Clean public restrooms and no fee. Picnic benches and some shade available if you'd like to sit or eat.

The visitor center isn't open on Sunday which doesn't make sense. Why close on most people's free day? The signs are also confusibg. I walked to the ruins, and realized the way I walked had keep out signs.

What a find! Randomly turned down the access road to this monument to see what it was all about. It was beautiful, historic and well worth the stop. Free to park in the ample lot and walk through the exhibit. The adjacent museum has great artifacts and information along with AC, flush toilets, and a few snacks. Accessible for wheelchairs to the monument, as well.

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!

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!

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)

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!!

Tourist trap. The staff was friendly. The building didn't feel authentic. I bought the combo tickets - mine tour, mystery shack and train ride. Mine tour was informative, interesting but short. The mystery shack does not allow you to carry babies in and when I bought combo tickets at mining tour booth they failed to tell me that even though I made sure to ask questions about having a baby. Train was was neat ride and the conductor had great stories! I'm a sucker for gift shops but didn't buy anything because it felt too over priced. Bathrooms were clean. Overall worth checking out at least once.

It was a very cute town. They have fun people on the train ride and mine tours with lots of interesting facts. We ate at the Saloon and they had live music. Lots of gift shops! Free to get into Ghost town and wander but $10.00 and up for everything else. We had a great time. Beautiful view of the Superstition Mtn.

After watching this mining town on ghost adventures and tfil overnight Elton it was awesome to check it out in person. The tour guides were awesome in listening to people and their experiences. Actually using an EMF detector and letting us have moments in silence to interact with any entity. *Only issue is there should maybe be a age limit for the night tour because there were a few children that would keep interrupting silence moments or just talking and didn't want to be in the dark which was a little disruptive. The town looks like it would be fun to check out in the day time

This place was so cool. Had a blast with my family. Handmade crafts. Stories and fun shoot outs in the street. Lots to do.

This place is pretty special to me, a place we visit to just relax and enjoy our desert beauty and embrace the Wild West feel. Don’t let the touristy vibes deter you. The shops are fun and the food is simple but tasty at both the quick service and the Mammoth Saloon. I usually go to the snack bar and save room for scooped ice cream and FRESH (you can smell them as you walk up) waffle cones. Make sure to bring some sun screen and ability to take some time to take the train or mine tour. Also, parking lot is dirt and unmarked, just to give a heads up. To my experience, people are usually really cool with lining up and leaving room. Have a great time!

We had a fun day at Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine. We toured the mine to see how gold was mined by hand. We saw a wild west shootout. We rode the train around town. And we walked through a mystery house. We really enjoyed it.

The town is well worth stopping at even tho its a tourist trap. It has some great food, russlers, cowboys and "Ladies". Just alot of fun. $$