Phoenix is blue sky, red rocks, and golden sunshine. It is city lights and mountain trails. It is mural-adorned streetscapes and palm-canopied resorts. This is the cosmopolitan heart of the state of Arizona and soul of the American Southwest.
Perhaps you are looking for the best things to see and do in Phoenix. In this article, we have compiled a list of five fabulous hidden treasures for adventurers at heart. After booking your accommodations on Hotel Planner, roll with us to discover unique travel experiences that will make your Phoenix visit a memorable one.
1. Scottsdale’s Cattle Track Arts Compound
Stitched Panorama
Image via Flickr by crmarks
You can go ahead and experience a rustic oasis right in the heart of Scottsdale by visiting the Cattle Track Arts Compound. The 13-acre artists’ colony has a rich history, as it was built by native engineer George Ellis in 1937. It’s named for the cowboys who once drove cattle through the area. This enclave is where several artists, musicians, blacksmiths, and printmakers have worked. You can work with them or just stop by to learn some new tricks.
2. Arizona State Capitol in Phoenix
You should also tour the Arizona State Capitol, where you’ll going to discover which two of Arizona’s five “C”s — cotton, climate, citrus, cattle, and copper — were omitted from the state seal on the main floor. Built for $136,000 and finished in 1900, this building is constructed from local malapai and granite and has an impressive copper dome. One of its rooms is dedicated to the USS Arizona, which was destroyed during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
3. Wrigley Mansion in Phoenix
Why not visit the Wrigley Mansion? William Wrigley, Jr., famous for his Chicago Cubs and his chewing gum, purchased the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in the 1920s. He had the adjacent mansion built for his wife’s 50th-anniversary gift. Built in 1932, this grand home rests atop a knoll in Phoenix, and it’s a historic treasure, with a salute to Spanish, California Mission, and Mediterranean architecture.
4. Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake
Book a twilight dinner cruise on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. As you cruise the 20 miles of shoreline underneath red rock cliffs, your captain will share truths and legends concerning the Superstition Mountains. Located around 14 miles from Apache Junction, this lake is more on the outskirts of the valley.
5. Camelback Mountain in Phoenix
Do a sunrise hike up Phoenix’s version of Mount Everest. Like climbing Mount Everest, hiking Camelback Mountain is quite strenuous and energy-sapping. At 2,704 feet, it is one of Arizona’s premier views. However, it is also rocky and steep. Consider trying Cholla Trail for an easier approach. This may be longer, but the advantage is that it is not quite as steep in some areas.
In conclusion, Phoenix, Arizona, won’t disappoint you when you want exciting fun. There are many hidden treasures that your eyes can feast on, and there are many places you can go and visit to experience their historical splendor. A visit to Phoenix, therefore, should be on your bucket list.