Best Landmarks in Phoenix

Located close to the city of Scottsdale, the Camelback Mountain watches over Phoenix, Arizona's sweeping semi-arid plains from a spectacular elevation of nearly 1,400 feet (426.72 meters). The mountain gets its name from the resemblance it bears to the unmistakable shape of a camel's hump. The north trailhead offers views of red cliffs rising 200 feet (61 meters) in some areas, beckoning rock climbers with its challenges. Antelope squirrels, lizards, and snakes are the landscape's most widely-spread inhabitants. The Praying Monk red sandstone formation is arguably the site's most noticeable sight.

If you are in Phoenix and enjoy going on easy treks, then Papago Park is the place for you. With its sandstone buttes, marked paths and slight elevation, it is perfect for family hiking trips and there are plenty of easy mountain bike paths. The most notable attraction of the park is the hole in the rock formation, which formed over thousands of years most likely from water erosion. For the more adventurous, visitors can climb the face of the rock for an unparalleled view of Phoenix. Additionally, the park is close to famous attractions such as the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo.

The Desert Botanical Garden was opened in 1939 to preserve the area's pristine desert environment. Today, the garden helps save endangered plants, with the focus still on native flora and special emphasis on succulents. The cactus collection is world-renowned and between the months of March through May, the seasonal blooms are spectacular. The garden hosts several events throughout the year, some of which include the popular 'Butterfly Habitat' during the spring and the 'Luminarias' during the holiday season. If you come during the summer months, don't forget your hat and sunscreen!

The Rosson House is a beautiful structure built in keeping with the Queen Anne style of the Victorian Era. Constructed in 1895, it has been restored to all its former glory and today serves as a museum. Visitors get a glimpse into the lives of late 19th-century Phoenix denizens through the preserved articles and housewares on display. The house is located in the quaint Heritage Square and is one of eight restored residences here. Guided tours around the house are available and it is open almost 365 days a year. Check website for more details and information.

Centrally located, Piestewa Peak is a part of the Phoenix Mountains. There are over a dozen trails which one can hike and enjoy a panoramic view of the Sonora Desert. For those who wish to simply observe nature, the park affords that opportunity as well. Covered areas in a well-maintained picnic area allow visitors to observe the local wildlife and plants. Remember your sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water when visiting the park.

Drive through one of the largest parks in the United States that covers over 16,000 acres (6474 hectares). With many lookout points, South Mountain Park, offers fantastic views of Phoenix and the surrounding valley. Summit Lookout is at 2,330 feet (710.18 meters) and highlights the enormity of this sprawling desert area. For visitors, the Interpretive Center takes you through the heritage of the area including mining and botanical history. If you prefer an experience out of the car, hike by the marked trails and study the preserved petroglyphs. Carry lunch and enjoy the park's picnic areas with kids in tow. Remember your sunscreen, hat and drinking water when visiting Arizona's best park.

Downtown Phoenix's hottest sports fixture is this immense masterpiece of engineering. Home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, the facility seats more than 48,000 and features a retractable roof that exposes the natural turf to sunlight. During the intense heat of summers here, this air-conditioned ballpark cools down the heated competition. Other highlights of the building include a pool and spa that can be reserved for private parties. Tours are available year-round and last a little more than an hour.

Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza pays tribute to the lost veterans of several wars including both World Wars, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam and the more recent Desert Storm. Encompassing two square blocks, adjacent to the State Capitol Museum, this park features a number of memorial monuments including the anchor of the USS Arizona that sunk at Pearl Harbor. Frequently hosting local festivals such as the Fabulous Phoenix 4th, this entry-free park is also a hot-spot for political gatherings.

William Wrigley Junior's dream mansion, the Wrigley Mansion is elegance personified. This magnificent 1932 mansion has hand-carved doors and a hand-painted rotunda ceiling which are a treat to the eyes. Apart from being a architectural marvel, the mansion also serves as a perfect location for anything from a dream wedding to an elegant event. Geordie's Restaurant within the mansion serves classic American fare and is the best place to host a classy sit-down dinner.

The Phoenix Zoo offers a plethora of activities for family recreation. Sprawling over 125 acres (50 hectares), this privately-owned leisure facility is a must-visit when in the Valley. It is home to over 1,300 exotic species including lions, giraffes, baboons and meerkats, making it one of the country's largest zoos. Explore the verdant labyrinth of the Forest of Uco, take a hike along the African Trail and enjoy a tractor ride at the Harmony Farm. Also, the interactive programs on offer are both educational and entertaining.

In Japanese, Ro Ho En roughly translates into 'Good News Garden', and when you arrive at the tranquil park hidden behind the Irish Cultural Center, you will see, hear and feel the good news. Along the peaceful strolling trail, the garden has more than 50 different plant varieties surrounded by streams and Koi ponds. Throughout the year, the garden hosts local events like the Tea Ceremony held every third Saturday of the month or Matsuri Festival in late February. The garden also welcomes volunteers looking to contribute towards the welfare of the environment and learn more about developing their green thumb.

For a look into the history of Arizona as it was in the late 19th Century, visit Historic Heritage Square and its environs. One of the highlights in downtown Phoenix, it is filled with other sites including the opulent Rosson House which dates back to 1895. This Queen Anne structure has been fully restored and today functions as a museum recreating the magic of a time long forgotten. For a bite to eat, the noted Pizzeria Bianco is just around the corner. Other sites in the square include the Arizona Doll & Toy Museum, and if you wish to escape even the 21st Century, right next door you'll find the Arizona Science Center.