Tumbleweed Park
When you need a break from the hustle of the city, escape to Tumbleweed Park. This 200-acre desert preserve offers over 4 miles of hiking and biking trails winding through pristine Sonoran desert landscapes. Spot coyotes, jackrabbits, and hawks while wandering past saguaro cactuses and palo verde trees. The crown jewel of the park is its 2.5-acre wetland area featuring five intertwined bodies of water. Fed by recharged groundwater, this desert riparian area attracts over 150 species of birds and serves as a crucial habitat for local wildlife. Bring your camera and find a quiet spot along the stream trail to capture photos of great blue herons wading in the shallows. After exploring the trails, let the kids blow off steam at the park’s playground, basketball court, and skate park while you lounge at the picnic ramadas. Just be sure to carry plenty of water and use caution when hiking in Arizona’s summer heat!
Address: 2250 S McQueen Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286
Phone: (480) 782-2890
Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery
For a taste of Arizona’s rich cultural heritage, don’t miss the Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery located in the Chandler Center for the Arts. This renowned art space houses an impressive permanent collection celebrating the art, lives, and traditions of the American West and its indigenous peoples. Wander through rotating exhibits featuring paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and weavings that capture the spirit of the Southwest. Marvel at vibrant landscape scenes, striking portraits, and intricate pieces that merge contemporary and traditional Native American styles. The museum frequently hosts special events like artisan marketplaces and lectures, providing opportunities to meet local Native artists. Don’t leave without visiting the sculpture garden courtyard showcasing monumental outdoor installations alongside fountains and pathways. It’s the perfect place to take a moment of quiet reflection surrounded by these powerful cultural works.
Address: 250 N Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
Phone: (480) 782-2695
Downtown Chandler Art Walk
On the third Friday evening of each month, Chandler’s historic downtown district transforms into a vibrant outdoor art walk and celebration. Stroll along Commonwealth Ave and Boston St to discover local artists showcasing their wares, from handmade jewelry and ceramics to original paintings and photography. Pop into the area’s eclectic boutiques, cafes, and wine tasting rooms that remain open late, offering special discounts and refreshments for art walkers. Live music and street performers add to the lively atmosphere. You’ll often catch exciting events like outdoor movie screenings, classic car shows, or dynamic fire dancing routines. Lasting from 6pm until around 9:30pm, the Art Walk is an amazing way to experience Chandler’s local arts scene and mingle with the vibrant community. It’s also an awesome excuse to treat yourself to delicious bites from downtown’s diverse array of restaurants after working up an appetite wandering through all the exhibits.
Address: St Chandler, AZ 85225
Tumbleweed Tree Ranch
This quirky 200-acre ranch is home to a jaw-dropping collection of over 1,000 metal tumbleweed sculptures showcased across sprawling desert gardens. Local artist Chihyu Sui spent over 20 years crafting these mind-bending statues ranging from 3 to 30 feet tall shaped like giant spiders, cranes, dragons, and many other intricate designs. Spend an afternoon wandering the peaceful trails as sunlight filters through the twisted metal tendrils, casting mesmerizing shadows that dance across the paths. You’ll easily lose track of time stumbling upon each wonderfully bizarre new sculpture around every turn. The ranch also hosts a variety of fun community events throughout the year like stargazing nights and hands-on art workshops where you can create your own tumbleweed masterpiece. Stop by the gift shop to pick up unique metal garden sculptures before you leave.
Address: 340 W Campus Dr, Chandler, AZ 85226
Phone: (480) 917-6969
Veterans Oasis Park
Named one of the nation’s “Great Public Spaces” by the American Planning Association, Veterans Oasis Park is a true community oasis with unexpected delights around every corner. This sprawling 113-acre desert park offers 4.5 miles of meandering trails to explore serene lakes, lush wetlands, and pic views of the Santan Mountains. Bring your furry pal to the spacious dog park featuring separate enclosed areas, drinking stations, and shaded ramadas perfect for pup playdates. Let the little ones burn energy at the park’s playgrounds, splash pad, and treehouse village with its own elevated walkways. Pack a picnic lunch and find a cozy spot for birdwatching along the shores of Veteran’s Lake, stocked with fish and dotted with scenic piers. On balmy evenings, gather your group at the park’s grassy amphitheater which hosts outdoor concerts, movies, and seasonal entertainment throughout the year.
Address: 4119 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85249
Phone: (480) 782-2890
Huhugam Heritage Center
For a powerful introduction into the ancestral cultures and communities that once inhabited the Southwest, make your way to the Huhugam Heritage Center. Located within the boundaries of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, this acclaimed museum and archaeological site is dedicated to preserving and honoring the legacies of the O’odham and Piipaash peoples (also known as Pima and Maricopa). Tour an authentic ancient village site featuring remnants of adobe dwelling compounds, irrigation systems, and ball courts used for ceremonial games. Inside the main gallery, absorb comprehensive exhibits with pottery artifacts, weaving displays, and murals depicting daily life centuries ago. Don’t miss the chance to observe the center’s expert archaeologists in action as they carefully excavate newly discovered sites amid the center’s gardens. Follow it up by watching live cultural demonstrations of agave roasting, willow basketweaving, and culinary traditions in the outdoor Sivthe Ki area.
Address: 10005 E Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Phone: (480) 362-6320
Plan Your Trip With Party Bus Chandler
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