5 Amazing Day Trips to Take From Chandler, AZ

Chandler, AZ is a sunny, vibrant town in the southeast district of Arizona’s capital. With its dramatic Sonoran Desert surroundings, an abundance of nearby natural and historical landmarks, and closeness to the bustling metropolis of Phoenix, there are many day trips to choose from. Let’s take a look at 5 of the best of them.

5 Amazing Day Trips to Take From Chandler, AZ

Montezuma Castle National Monument

The surrounding region is filled with fascinating remnants of ancient Native Indian culture, the very best of which is Montezuma Castle. This beautiful castle is built into the limestone of an immense cliff wall. There’s a visitor center directly below it with picnic tables to eat at while you enjoy the impressive view.

Nearby is Montezuma Well, which is a large natural sinkhole where millions of gallons of water pump up from a natural spring. The paths around the castle and well make for some top-notch hiking.

Jerome

For a true taste of the old west, pay a visit to the incredible abandoned copper mining town of Jerome. Once known as one of the most lawless towns in the west, home to miners, bootleggers, gamblers, and gunslingers, many an infamous story has emerged from this legendary place.

Today, Jerome is largely restored and designated a National Historic District. It’s become a charming tourist destination, with many of the old-style buildings brought back to life in all their glory. You can stroll along the winding main street, enjoying the many artists, musicians, and souvenir gift shops.

Saguaro National Park

A two-hour drive to the south of town brings you to the area’s most stunning national park. Here, you can hike over mountainsides covered in giant cacti, with breathtaking views of valleys below that are packed with curious rock formations. After a day of exploring the park, you can visit the neighboring Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which serves as an open-air museum, zoo, and botanical garden, all rolled into one.

Heard Museum

For an unparalleled experience of American Indian art, spend a day exploring the 40,000-strong collection of artwork at this special gallery in Phoenix. You’ll see ceramics from across the centuries, jewelry of Navajo and Zuni origin, woven handbaskets, Navajo textiles, and many exhibitions of paintings.

Chandler and Phoenix are steeped in Native American history, and this museum is one of the best places in the country to learn about Native Indian culture, and also the storied history of the region. It’s also the oldest private museum in the state, dating back to 1929.

Mt Lemmon Ski Valley

You might be surprised to find an excellent ski resort to the south of town, which is open for skiing all year round. Mt Lemmon Ski Valley offers a wonderful cooling break from the heat of Arizona’s valleys, with 200 skiable acres and 21 runs overlooking awe-inspiring views of the mountain slopes below.

You’ll spot interesting wildlife as you traverse the runs, including Mexican spotted owls, white-tailed deer, and cute coatimundi, a relative of the raccoon. The resort’s amenities, restaurant, and staff are all of top quality, helping to make your visit one to remember.

Once you’ve had a fun day out, visit Earnhardt Chevrolet, a family-oriented dealership that’s been servicing the region’s drivers since 1952 when founder Tex Earnhardt became the youngest Ford franchise owner in the entire country.

Tags: Chandler, outdoor activities, outdoor fun
Posted in Chandler Community, Family Activities, Fun in Chandler | No Comments »