Learn about the geology of Catalina State Park with experienced geologist, Karen. How were the Santa Catalina Mountains formed? What are some of the different rocks in the park? The walk takes several hours. Meet at Picnic Area. Free with Park Fee
What do the Arctic tundra and the Sonoran Desert have in common? More than you might think! Whether growing through fire-scorched earth or icy snow sheets, surprising plants and animals...
Join one of our park volunteers to explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today. Take a “behind the scenes” look at today’s operations and get a “sneak peek” of exciting new upgrades coming to the park. Meet at the Bobcat Amphitheater. There is no cost to attend this...
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert while you hone your skills on the varied terrain of one of Pima County’s beautiful desert trails. Trail running offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect with the natural world, while providing a fun and engaging way to get a great work out. Participants should be comfortable...
Both novice and seasoned birders enjoy the variety of birds that visit and live in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Our experienced bird guide, Mary Ellen, will help you spot and identify various birds as you walk through the park. Please bring binoculars (and a bird guide if you have one!) This walk lasts several hours....
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in December, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 8:00 AM. Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 2.5 hrs, Elevation gain: none, but with chance of slight inclines/declines; Ground condition: groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available...
The San Pedro River is considered one of the largest and most critical avian migratory corridors remaining in the western United States. The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds, and provides water, food, and shelter for another 250 species of migratory and wintering birds. Birders,...
ODYSEA AQUARIUM IS THE PLACE TO VISIT FOR FESTIVE FUN ALL MONTH LONG! Voyager Transforms into a Festive Holiday “Ride-Thru” Experience Festive lighting, music, and décor change with each rotation as you ride through custom-themed exhibits featuring graceful stingrays and sea turtles, playful sea lions, and majestic sharks. Included with admission. SeaTREK Santa Returns!...
oin us for a bird walk starting at the Cholla ramada. We will start by going over the basics of bird watching and the rest of the program will be a guided walk on the trails searching for our feathered friends. Please bring your own binoculars if you have a pair. Event is free, day-use...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Stop by one of our many Discovery Stations, and participate in hands-on activities with volunteers to learn about the animals and plants of the Sonoran Desert. Free with Admission
November 24 - January 7 This holiday season, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an all-new illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Thousands of lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting....
For those who can’t get enough of our African penguins, we invite you to join us for an exclusive up close and personal Penguin Encounter. Go behind the scenes with our Animal Care & Education team to learn specifics about penguin behavior, diet, and reproduction, as well as how we can do our part to...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
What do desert plants and animals have to do with the holidays? Join us on this hike and discover the hidden, festive desert connections. Location: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – 30301 Alma School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Easy Distance: ~3 miles Time: ~2.5 hours Pets are not permitted at our activities due to safety...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! October through April we are open to the public from 10am until 1pm. Our admission is $10 per adult (18+) and $5 per student (under 18). Children 4 and under are free. We will have daily programs...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. See the Garden’s living collection with plants from around the world and the Sonoran Desert and their fascinating survival strategies in this arid climate. Walk away with a new appreciation for the...
Take a relaxing look at the night sky as we give you a guided tour of the stars, planets, constellations and current events happening in Tucson's night sky. This live...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Teens, make your own custom snowflake and learn how snowflakes are formed! For ages 13-17. First come first serve, while supplies last.
Teens & tweens are invited to join us to learn about local youth mental health resources! Identify mental health warning signs How to get help for yourself or a friend Therapy, skill...
Go behind the scenes with our Animal Care & Education team an OdySea Aquarium Team Member to learn specifics about sloth behavior, diet, and reproduction, as well as how we can do our part to help this incredible species and our rainforests. Tour Fee: $69.95 | General Admission Is Required. | Minimum Age 8 ...
Narrated by George Takei, Incoming! explores asteroids, comets, and meteors. Viewers will embark on a dynamic journey and get an up close look at the advanced technologies that allow scientists to detect asteroids. Audience: General, all ages Style: Fulldome show followed by an OSIRIS-REx talk Planetarium Tickets Adults: $12 Children (ages 3-15): $8 Children ages 2 and under: Free...
Join Ranger Steve at the Estrella Mountain Nature Center for an interactive display of venomous animals and a discussion of their vital role in our ecosystem, “busting” myths about their behaviors, and have all your questions answered! Get hands on and hold items like snake skins, rattles, and even skeletons! MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No...
Teens & Tweens: Explore our 101 Teen Makerspace, grab a snack and have fun with friends. Get crafty & creative, make something amazing or just hang out and relax! We’ve got board games, art supplies, paper crafts, and jewelry making goodies galore. Our Teen Makerspace is open on a drop-in basis every Monday-Friday afternoon, and...
ooking for something to do on early-out Wednesdays? Come join us for a different activity each week; craft projects, science projects, games and more.
Are you looking for something to do? Tweens and teens, drop in for some fun and excitement. Each week we focus on different art, crafts, games, or science. We listen to music and experiment. Come relax and play in a safe space. No matter who you are, you are welcome here!
Explore the night skies from the summit of Mt. Lemmon using Arizona's LARGEST publicly available telescopes! Under the guidance of a professional, visitors will enjoy a brief astronomy lecture, a light dinner, and an exclusive opportunity to observe astronomical objects and phenomena. This five-hour program starts 2 hours prior to sunset and accommodates up to...
Expedition Reef show reveals in exquisite detail the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of coral reefs—and the scientists taking action to restore them. Recommended for general audiences. Themes: Sea, Climate, Biology Style: Fulldome documentary followed by live presentation Planetarium Tickets Adults: $12 Children (ages 3-15): $8 Children ages 2 and under: Free Discounted Rates Seniors (55+) and...
Come and join us for a wonderful hour of free build. Let your imaginations soar! LEGOs are fun for the whole family! You’ll build with LEGOs of all sizes. LEGO Club helps improve math skills, science skills, literary skills, social skills, and problem-solving skills.
Jazz up your DIY projects with the use of battery-powered LED lights. LEDs come in various forms for project use, including discrete lights, strips, and programmable displays. This introductory course will cover available resources, type of setup, and appropriate uses. Due to limited materials, class size is limited to 15 participants. Please arrive early to ensure...
Join us for MACH1’s Open Hours to explore the world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math)! Explore our extensive collection of STEM games, robotics toys, circuitry kits, craft supplies and more. Engage in coding, digital art, 3D modeling, and more using our available computers, or showcase your crafting kills with access to sewing...
Learn to use the laser cutter in THINKspot while making a acrylic snowflake. This program is for teens between the ages of 12-18. Registration is required and spots are limited.
Interested in 3D printers? Want to try a drum set or the keyboard? Come hang out in the teen center to get creative, hang out, and have fun!
The Riparian Preserve comes alive with a holiday glow during Gilbert's annual Riparian After Dark event, presented by the partnership of Sundt and PCL Construction. Stroll around the 1.5 miles of trails and walkways that weave through the park and enjoy thousands of holiday lights and displays. December 8-19, 2023 | 5:30-9:00 PM This is a rare opportunity for those who appreciate nature to experience the...
There’s ‘snow place like Reid Park Zoo for the holidays! December 2– 23, Encore Nights: December 26 – 30 and January 2 – 7 Ready, Set, Glow! ZooLights: Holiday Magic, presented by Tucson Electric Power, returns with thousands of enchanting lights, mesmerizing light shows, and displays and holly jolly fun for all ages. Stop in...