I took another visit to one of my favorite places, Phoenix, Arizona. I have family there so I am able to visit pretty regularly and brought some friends along with me this time. Even though it was very hot, we were able to enjoy the beautiful things that the area has to offer. Everything highlighted below we enjoyed and I recommend for your visit.
BOYCE THOMPSON ARBORETUM | This beautiful arboretum has no shortage of beautiful views and plants to astonish at. I do recommend going early in the morning to miss the heat because that part made it a little less enjoyable but the park is organized and kept up so beautifully that I would still go back. It’s $15 for general admission and $5 for children. They also are kind enough to let frontline workers in for free which I think is amazing.
SCOTTSDALE | I definitely prefer the Tempe area over Scottsdale but Scottsdale still has a lot of charm and site-seeing options. If you’re looking for a souvenir for a special someone in your life, explore any of the gift shops in the cute downtown area. The Old Adobe Mission Church located in the nearby area and the garden located down the road allow for a cute picture opportunity.
SILLY MOUNTAIN | In Gold Canyon, near my grandma’s house is a fun hike I like to do. It’s very rocky so you definitely need good shoes but once you hike up a bit, you will have amazing views of Superstition Mountain (the pictures don’t do it justice). Bring lots of water, go early in the morning or at sunset, and work your booty with the steep incline.
DOLLY STEAMBOAT | What better way to enjoy the beautiful Arizona sunsets then from a boat in Canyon Lake? The Dolly Steamboat is located in Canyon Lake and for $63 you can enjoy a catered dinner while admiring the astonishment that is Canyon Lake and the mountains around it. You may even get lucky and get to see some of the animals and wildlife but we unfortunately did not. If you don’t want to be on the boat for too long or don’t want to pay $63, they offer cheaper and shorter options without the dinner part.
PAPAGO PARK/HOLE IN THE ROCK | Located a little bit outside of Phoenix in Tempe you can find Papago Park and the Hole in the Rock. Papago Park is filled with beautiful palm trees and a little pond. Across the way you can take a short hike up to find the Hole in the Rock. It is a steep walk up and down so make sure you wear the right shoes.
Tayler Renee May 