The Top Attractions in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, the capital of the state of Arizona, is known for its hot, dry climate that attracts huge numbers of sun-lovers during the winter months. The wider Phoenix area is a large city with a mix of modern apartment buildings, Indian and Spanish colonial influences, and a touch of the Wild West. The city offers abundant art and cultural attractions, historic neighborhoods, museums, and a diverse artistic community. Many people also come to the Phoenix area to enjoy the countryside. There are many golf courses and three majestic mountains around Phoenix that provide the opportunity for hiking, cycling, and climbing to all lovers of these activities.
Heard Museum
The famous Heard Museum in Phoenix is dedicated to the art and culture of the Native American peoples, with exhibits of basketwork, pottery, jewelry, fabrics, and an extensive collection of kachina dolls. The museum’s showrooms and outdoor courtyards feature traditional and contemporary American art. This is a great place to learn about native history and see the traditional arts. Outside, guests can stroll through the sculpture’s outdoor garden or take a tour of the museum garden.
Taliesin West
Located in Scottsdale, Taliesin West was home to the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Located at the foot of the McDowell Mountains, the school is now the international headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the home of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture. The building was made of natural materials, such as local desert rocks and wood carvings, and was built entirely by Wright and his apprentices from 1937 to 1959.
Desert Botanical Garden
Located in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden features specimens of desert vegetation from around the world and a garden adorned with cacti. The garden covers about 140 acres, with 55 acres under cultivation, containing tens of thousands of plants. It employs more than 1,000 volunteers and more than 100 staff. In spring, the plants come to life as they bloom in a range of colors. There are many trails, and guests should plan to spend a good time walking along a significant amount of time in the garden. This is a great way to get a closer look at life in the desert and its unique vegetation.
Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Museum of Art has a collection covering the European Renaissance and Baroque art, the Far East, and the American West. The museum also presents contemporary and modern works, fashion design events, live performances, and films. The excellent exhibitions bring masterpieces from all over the world to its space. The museum’s founding in 1959 and its eventual development into the leading art museum in the American Southwest reflects the community’s ongoing commitment and demonstrates the evolution of Phoenix from a small desert town to the current metropolis it is today. The classic progressive look of the 203,000-square-foot building is a work of art in itself. Designed by New York architects Tod Williams / Billie Tsien & Associates in the mid-1990s and expanded by them in 2006, it incorporates art and architecture into the southwest landscape and offers stunning aesthetics.
North Mountain Preserve and Shaw Butte
The North Mountain Preserve is a popular recreation area with all kinds of hiking trails. North Mountain is located at an altitude of 2,104 feet and Shaw Butte, the highest mountain of the refuge, is located at 2,149 feet. Together these mountains are a typical landmark in Phoenix. The most advanced maintenance hiking trails lead to the summit, but the easier hikes offer access to all skill levels. This is a good way to get to know the local flora and fauna, with many species of plants, including the saguaro cactus being there. It is also home to rattlesnakes and various reptile dangers, so pay attention to the paths along the way. To get there, of course, you will need a vehicle to transport you safely and quickly. If you do not travel by car, you can turn to the choice of a rental car through the company Enjoy Travel, which will offer you the vehicle at the most economical price that will facilitate your travels in Phoenix, Arizona.