Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden is a beautiful oasis comprised of 323 acres approximately an hour to the east of Phoenix. A splendor in any season, Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a must-do day trip in Arizona. Here’s why:
While some elaborate gardens found in Arizona are polished and manicured, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is more of a natural habitat.
Walkways and featured guided talks wind all throughout this state park and feature a variety of desert landscapes, not only from Arizona, but also from around the world.
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The 2.3 miles of various trails that lead through the state park showcase stunning natural landscapes.
Each of the trails is easily accomplished with little elevation gain, and there are many to explore. You could easily spend the better part of the day discovering new things to see and enjoy along the many walkways and trails here. A series of bridges are located along the trails, including this one crossing Queen Creek in the riparian area.
Many of the plant varieties found here are not indigenous to Arizona. Instead, they're from other deserts around the globe. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the number of unknown plants you'll discover on a visit to this unique botanical garden.
Greenhouse visits dole out even more varieties of cacti than you ever imagined seeing in a lifetime.
Rich history abounds in this park that was founded by Boyce Thompson in the 1920s, including a peek at his original residence still located within the park.
A stream-side forest doles out the splendors of a quiet oasis along Queen Creek. You'll enjoy a wide array of wildlife as you meander around the park and the many themed gardens such as the heritage rose garden, the hummingbird and butterfly garden, the cactus and succulent garden, and the Australian desert.
A Children's Garden delivers a colorful array of flowers, a chance to dig for buried treasure, and a giant maze to conquer.
Generations of Arizonans have been visiting the state's most established botanical garden that was founded nearly a century ago. Have you made it a point to pay a visit yet? We'd love to know - and see your photos!
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located at 37615 E US Highway #60, Superior, AZ 85173. Hours vary by season: from May to September 6:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m., and from October to April 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Last park admission is one hour prior to closing.) Park entrance fees are: Adult (13+): $15.00, Child (5-12): $5.00, Age 4 and under: free. Learn more on the official website for the Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park.
When is the last time you made the rounds to Arizona’s State Parks? Check out seven of the lesser-known parks in the system by reading this previously published article.
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