The Phoenix area is known the world over for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged sierra scenery. Mountain climbers, spelunkers and river rafters come from across the globe to challenge the many outdoor sports available here.

Arizona’s Well Known for More Than Hiking.

There are endless choices of exciting places to go, fun sports to enjoy, and magnificent things to see and do. The excitement ranges from native botanic gardens and nature preserves to popular theme parks and other points of interest like the Arizona Aquarium. Most can be enjoyed any time of year but you’ll likely find outside temperatures most comfortable early in the day or in wintertime. One thing for sure is that there’s always something to see, do and enjoy when you live near Phoenix.

Yes, Botanic Gardens Are Right at Home Here.

           While some people think Arizona means only dry desert and zero plants, wrong-o! Arizona features a bounty of botanic wonders of particular interest to scientists but also to anyone who appreciates nature. Here’s a quick rundown of nearby botanic gardens established and preserved for all to enjoy.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

This is the oldest and largest botanical garden in Arizona and one of the state’s top tourism sites. It’s mission is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of desert plants, wildlife, and ecosystems through education, research, and conservation. As a result, the Arboretum now holds a collection of more than 19,000 living plants within 135 acres of gardens, all situated on 343 acres of scenic upland Sonoran Desert. There are nearly five miles of planned trails meandering in and among both native and imported desert plants. It’s located about an hour’s drive from downtown Phoenix.

Desert Botanical Garden

Right in the heart of the city of Phoenix you’ll discover the Desert Botanical Garden. This truly stunning destination is comprised of 140 acres with more than 50,000 plant displays showcased in beautiful outdoor exhibits. In all, nearly 96,000 herbarium specimens are maintained here with almost 5,000 species in its living collection and 519 rare, endangered species in care at the garden. Be sure to check their website for special events which take place throughout the year. Also, due to its popularity and more than 800,000 annual visitors, advance ticket reservations are required.

Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix is a traditional Japanese stroll garden created and curated to celebrate the friendship between the sister cities of Himeji, Japan and Phoenix, Arizona. Visit and you’ll experience a calm feeling of serenity as you walk along the winding paths through 3.5 acres of Asian landscaping. There are numerous events throughout the year centered on a particular cultural tradition of the Japanese people. Join in a public tea ceremony which takes place once a month, participate in a workshop to learn Japanese crafting, or attend an exhibit that highlights the refined beauty of the Japanese arts. This serene garden is non-profit organization that will transport you to the true atmosphere of Japan. You can purchase tickets at the gift shop where you’re welcome to try Japanese snacks and find the perfect memento to take home.

Nature Preserves

Arizonians appreciate the rare and unique nature of their beloved state. As a result, tens of thousands of acres of natural land have been preserved here. The preserves of Arizona share much of the colorful history of the state itself, including Native Americans, cowboys, cavalry, prospectors, Westward expansion, and even a Civil War skirmish or two. Among the state’s most well-known preserved lands are these:

·      Phoenix Mountains Preserve is surrounded by civilization, but feels as remote as the Sonoran Desert outside the city. Located in the heart of central Phoenix, the preserve offers hiking, biking, and views from prominent summits such as Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain. This area encompasses some of the largest city parks in the world. 

·      The Verde River – A federally designated Wild and Scenic River, the Verde River runs 195 miles from Prescott to metro Phoenix.

·      McDowell Sonoran Preserve is home to the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy which seeks to teach visitors about the flora, fauna, geology and history of this significant living treasure.

·      The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a truly beautiful natural area. It seeks to be a premier resource that preserves the area’s natural assets, conserves scarce riparian areas, and protects habitat for wildlife.

Beyond Natural Preserves, There Are Numerous Other Points of Interest.

           In addition to all the natural and ecological attractions the Phoenix area has to offer, there are numerous more civilized attractions to draw you here as well. These include:

·      Phoenix Zoo – One of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., it cares for more than 3,000 animals of nearly 400 species including many endangered animals. Tons of fun to be had here for the whole day!

·      Sea Life Arizona Aquarium features exhibits including the Sea Turtle Rescue Reef, Ocean View Exhibit, Bay of Rays, Touchpool, Shipwreck Exhibit, Temple of the Seahorse and much more.

·      Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers an abundance of outdoor recreation just northwest of Phoenix. In fact, this park is a major hub for outside fun for the entire northwest Phoenix metro area. Fishing is a big draw as anglers seek out local catfish and bass in Lake Pleasant and other nearby lakes.

·      Metro Phoenix: Apache Trail Tour with Canyon Lake Cruise – A full-day adventure to the heart of the Sonoran Desert with a combined cruise and drive. Glide across Canyon Lake, visit a ghost town and rest at an old wagon stop.

This Is the Right Place. And Here’s the Right Builder.

           Once you’ve settled on the delightful Phoenix area for your new construction home, make sure you pick the right new homebuilder: William Ryan Homes Phoenix. Since 1992, William Ryan Homes has built more than 15,000 high quality, well-constructed homes across the U.S.A. Many things make our new construction homes better but one thing in particular is that we build in the best master-planned communities throughout the Phoenix area. Currently, we are building in seven communities: The Foothills at Arroyo Norte, Wavelength at Eastmark, Eminence at Alamar, Harmony at Montecito in Estrella, The Ridge at Sienna Hills, Broadleaf at Verrado, and Fairways in Victory at Verrado.