Considered to be among the most scenic drives in the country, Apache Trail is not for the weak-hearted. The steep route which was once used by the Apache Indians (hence the name), winds through the Superstition Mountains, lakes and the Tonto National Forest. Built as a wagon road during the early 20th Century to build the Roosevelt Dam, this beauteous roadway crosses through landmarks such as Goldfield Ghost Town, Tortilla Flat Station, Fish Creek Station, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake and Theodore Roosevelt Lake. It was declared the state's first highway in 1987 and was initially called the Mesa-Roosevelt Road. The building of this highway was no mean feat. The treacherous route was built by 400 forced laborers who worked non-stop for years. Take the challenge to drive through this demanding road and enjoy the undisputed scenery on the way.
The ASU West is a branch of Arizona State University, and this campus is complete educational hub. Loaded with world-class facilities, the west campus aims at the all-round development of the students including having a well-stocked library, bookstore, and computer center. ASU West hosts different activities like Fine Arts and Cultural Programs.
Penske Racing Museum is a two-story building dedicated to the Penske Racing Team. The team debuted in the late 1960s and has since bagged several titles and trophies. The collection includes maintained race cars as well as memorabilia that would make any fan go weak in the knees. The 1963 Pontiac Catalina replica that had Roger Penske himself behind the wheel is just one of the killer machines on display. Take in a bit of the magic by either picking up custom merchandise from the boutique or treating yourself to something delicious at the museum's cafe.
Located in the sleepy suburb of Gilbert, this park allows dogs to run free and wild around the manicured grounds. The mini lake in the middle of the park is primarily for our four-legged friends to swim and not necessarily for their owners. However, it is not uncommon for both man and beast to jump in. The park is also located right next to the planned agricultural neighborhood of Agritopia, where the park trails lead in-and-out of the farms and houses and offers a nice excursion to walk your pooch.
The elegant Arizona State Capitol rests amid the bustle of downtown Phoenix. A stirring escape into the history of the 48th state of the United States, the picture-perfect capitol building showcases Classic Revival architectural style, topped with a gleaming copper dome. Enlisted on the National Registrar of Historic Sites, the capitol building is replete with opulent interiors. Arizona State Capitol is now synonymous with the Arizona Capitol Museum, which traces Arizona's roots as a territory and its transition to statehood. The museum houses a treasure trove of collections, exhibits, artifacts and events which lend deep insights into Arizona's rich and nuanced history and culture. The marvelous capitol is fronted by a garden housing diverse botanic wonders, guarded by the national flag which flutters in all its American glory.
Scottsdale Museum Of Contemporary Art displays a variety of frequently changing contemporary art exhibits and hosts special events for adults and families. Photographs, paintings and sculpture are just some of the highlighted mediums. Devoted to the art, architecture and design of our time, SMoCA offers free art lectures, symposiums, workshops and readings, providing a forum where visitors can interact with contemporary artists. Thursday is the best day to visit the museum as guest can take advantage of the free entry.