5 reasons to visit this urban oasis
Just 2 miles beyond the skyline of Downtown Tempe — and in the foreground of the Valley of the Sun’s famous Camelback Mountain — a collection of sandstone rock formations rise from the desert floor. These unmistakable buttes are known as Papago Park, an urban oasis located in the center of the nation’s fifth-largest metro area.
The park is home to generations of rich history, a wide variety of modern-day attractions, breathtaking views and more recreation opportunities than one itinerary could possibly hold, including several worthy hikes to choose from, some of the region’s most visited attractions, distinct dining options, two 18-hole golf courses and so much more.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Comprising 1,500 acres, Papago Park is a convenient location exploring Sonoran Desert landscapes. Whether you prefer easy hike, breathtaking overlooks or mountain biking adventures, this park has it all.
Double Butte Loop: At 2.3-miles, Double Butte Loop is a perfect, leisurely selection for both mountain bikers and casual hikers, thanks to the generally wide, flat dirt path that circumnavigates the massive sandstone buttes.
Hole-in-the-Rock Trail: The most popular path is Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, a 0.2 mile-hike that offers 200 feet of elevation gain, which leads to a very appropriately named formation: A hole in the rock’s ceiling that is believed to have been used by the ancient Hohokam civilization to track the position of the sun. This spot is bustling during sunset, but you’ll understand why once you see the views overlooking the lagoon and on to the distance skyline.
Galvin Bikeway Trail: This trail, which runs about 1.4 miles, connects the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo with the rest of Papago Park. Running parallel to Galvin Parkway, this trail is paved and relatively flat (approx. 50 feet of elevation Change).
For additional details on all the trails within Papago Park, including trailheads and maps, visit the City of Phoenix’s Papago Park website.
Landmarks & Features
Hunt’s Tomb: Park either near Hole-in-the-Rock Trail or on the north side of the Phoenix Zoo parking lot. Follow the paved road around the lagoon and you’ll find the trail to Hunt’s Tomb. It’s one of the metro area’s most unique landmarks. The white pyramid-shaped tomb is the final resting place for George W.P. Hunt, Arizona’s first governor, his wife, their daughter and his wife’s family. Why a pyramid, you ask? The rumor is that Governor Hunt had a fascination with Egypt. This is a short and sweet hike, so it’s perfect to combine with another hike in Papago Park.
Papago Disc Golf Course at Moeur Park: Since 2003, disc golf enthusiasts have been playing Papago Park’s scenic, 20-hole course, which the Professional Disc Golf Association refers to as, “Fun, hot, dusty and challenging.” It’s a conveniently located and ultra scenic spot, too. The
Tranquil Lagoons: Commonly referred to as lagoons, the three bodies of water within the park are known by urban anglers as Papago Ponds. Cover 6 acres (combined) these ponds are stocked by the Arizona Game and Fish Department with channel catfish, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, red dear sunfish, crappie, tilapia and carp. Water for the ponds comes from the Valley’s extensive canal system. If you do plan to fish, check out license and limit information provided my Arizona Game & Fish in advance.
However, fishing isn’t necessary to appreciate the aesthetically pleasing reflections on the water or the silhouette of the surrounding palm trees — especially at sunset. Naturally, these areas also serve as a gathering place for birds, ducks and other waterfowl. Birder’s may spot Black-throated Sparrows, Cactus Wrens, Curve-billed Thrashers, Gambel’s Quails, Gila Woodpeckers or White-winged Doves, depending on the season.
Attractions
Desert Botanical Garden: Step out of the city and into the Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Desert Botanical Garden. Nestled in Papago Park, the garden is home to more than 50,000 arid plants from deserts around the world — from towering cacti to colorful wildflowers — this magical oasis invites you to immerse yourself in 140 acres of natural beauty. Wander five thematic trails, view exhibits and rotating installations, explore endless immersive experiences, sip and savor at Gertrude’s restaurant, attend festive events and cultural celebrations, enjoy live musical performances and more.
The garden welcomes daily visitors year-round (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas). Plan your visit to the Desert Botanical Garden with our detailed Desert Botanical Garden overview.
1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 480-941-1225
Phoenix Zoo: Take a walk on the wild side at the Phoenix Zoo. Consistently ranking among the best zoos in the U.S., and is one of the largest nonprofit zoos in the U.S. as well. Staff cares for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species, such as the African Lion, Golden Eagle, Orangutan and the Jaguar.
Backstage Adventures offer tours behind the scenes with rhinos, flamingoes, elephants, stingrays and many other zoo residents, and don’t miss out on the Camel rides, a favorite of both the kiddos and adults. For a full list of activities, visit the zoo’s event website.
455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 602-286-3800
Arizona Heritage Center: This museum offers a closer look at all things Arizona. Filled with artifacts that highlight the contemporary history of the 48th state, this hidden gem invites visitors to learn about copper mining, agriculture, explore World War II’s impact on the state and even find out how the invention of air conditioning led to the development of metro Phoenix. Additionally, rotating exhibits and programming showcase the culture and diversity that makes the Southwest distinct.
1300 N. College Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-929-0292
Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting: Explore the history of firefighting through exhibits that include restored fire trucks, fire gear and more. The collection, which dates back as far as 1725, includes items from around the world. The museum is also home to the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes, a gallery dedicated to honoring firefighters who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The children’s play area and a real fire truck for hands-on learning are big hits with the little ones.
6101 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 602-275-3473
S’edav Va’aki Museum: For a prehistoric look at the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People, known to archaeologists as the Hohokam, visit S’edav Va’aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park), the only publicly accessible ancestral village site in the city. Begin your visit with an award-winning introductory video on the civilization that inhabited this village and browse galleries that explore the Hohokam culture. Then head outside to the trail that winds around the archeological site, including a platform mound, a ballcourt, and centuries-old irrigation canals as well as recreated dwellings.
4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85034 | 602-495-0901
Dining
Gertrude’s at Desert Botanical Garden: Named after Desert Botanical Garden founder Gertrude Divine Webster, this indoor/outdoor restaurant is located within the garden. Grab a seat on the patio and soak up the desert ambiance or perch at the indoor bar where local brewers and wine makers shine brightest. Either way, perusing the menu reveals American favorites with classic cooking techniques and flavors from around the globe. Seasonal offerings celebrate Arizona’s growers, producers and artisans — with fresh ingredients coming directly from the farm and pasture to the plate. The menu showcases local ingredients from artisans and farmers around Arizona and the Southwest.
1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 480-941-1225
Lou’s Bar & Grill at Papago Golf Club: Famous for perfect views of the Papago Park’s spectacular sandstone buttes, Lou’s is an open-air restaurant and patio that’s perfectly situated in the Sonoran Desert. Bask in the amazing hues of golden hour while playing a round of cornhole or relaxing around a fi replace on the expansive patio. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch invite golfers and non-golfers alike to savor sharables, pizzas, burgers, pasta, Lou’s custom cocktails and more — all of which are as delightful as the view.
5595 E. Karsten Way, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 602-358-7004
Glenrosa Bar at Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills: Located in picturesque Papago Park, this newly reimagined golf course is in the midst of some major expansion. The evolution a newly added event lawn and Glenrosa patio bar, which serves up a wide variety of signature cocktails, wines, beers, and seltzers set against the scenic Papago Park buttes. Also located onsite, the Lalocura food truck serves up best-in-class Mexican food to bargoers and golfers alike. Coming soon: A live music venue and a new Mexican restaurant are scheduled to open later this year.
1415 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-530-9880
Picnic Inspiration: A day at Papago Park is best enjoyed with snacks! Pack a picnic lunch, or a charcuterie (the choice is yours). Just set up on one of the many picnic tables or spread a blanket under the shade of a palm tree and enjoy the views.
For additional picnic inspiration, check out our roster of local luxury picnic purveyors.
Golf
Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills: Newly rebranded and transformed, Grass Clippings is Arizona’s only fully lit, 18-hole golf course and practice facility that’s available day and night. A trendy, player friendly executive course consists of 10 par 3s and eight par 4s across a hilly course lives up to its name with quite a few elevation changes. Take in views of the surrounding mountain ranges and skylines from the 8th hole (the course’s highest point) and keep an eye out for Sonoran Desert animals after dusk.
1415 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-530-9880
Papago Golf Club: Located in the heart of Papago Park, this , 18-hole golf course offers golfers sweeping views of the Valley of the Sun. The challenging championship course layout features undulating greens framed with strategically placed bunkers and subtle but tricky mounding. Water hazards appear on a few holes as well. It’s a tough but straightforward layout that is still playable for a range of skill levels.
5595 E. Karsten Way, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | 602-275-8428
