This holiday, 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 amazing illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling...
We encourage our guests to visit the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning to water the garden, enjoy the flowers, insects, veggies, herbs, and more!
Join us as we explore the stunning Jewel of the Creek Preserve, learning about our native plants and wildlife. This is a moderate 2-mile hike. The trail is rocky in places on uneven surfaces, with an approximately 100-foot elevation change. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes, sun protection, and bring drinking water. Bring binoculars if...
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you'll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start...
Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert!
Join us for our free docent-led tour in the lobby of the Bryant Bannister Tree-Ring Building (1215 E. Lowell St.). Visitors will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology and have a chance to examine specimens. During your 1.5 hour tour, you will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology, have a chance to...
Join a ranger for a hike in the heart of the cactus forest that travels 2 - 4 miles to learn about the wonders of the Sonoran Desert. Water and hiking shoes recommended!
Free with general admission. 10am and 11am tours Discover how plants have adapted to the desert environment with a volunteer docent-led tour. 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 beauty...
Join a ranger for a 15 minute talk at the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center and learn about a variety of park topics including the Coronado Expedition, wildlife, and more! Ask a ranger at the visitor center desk for the topic of the day. Talks will take place on the patio in front of the...
Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geo Glimpse" ranger program - presented daily at 11 am. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep,...
The saguaro celebrates events and faces challenges throughout its life. A biologist explains how it provides shelter and substance for wildlife; when it flowers; its growth patterns; and how it fights for survival against drought, lightning, frost, and other dangers. Wheelchair accessible. Free with Park Fee
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...
Discover a deeper connection to the Grand Canyon. Join a ranger to dive into the canyon's diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, or ever-changing landscape. Topics change daily. Come curious, leave inspired! Program may include a short walk to Mather Point or along the Canyon Rim Trail.
Join a ranger for a 20-30 minute stroll through the cactus garden to learn about the Saguaro cactus and other plants of the Sonoran Desert. Accessible program.
Students of any age (parents please supervise if under 5yrs) come after school to build something out of LEGOs with other kids or teens your age. Free, LEGOs provided (please leave your own LEGOs at home). Follow a design idea or invent your own! You may stay for a bit or the whole time. Ok...
Join a park ranger at the Red Hills Visitor Center for a theater presentation about Saguaro National Park’s unique cultural, historical and natural resources. Presentations vary daily depending on the Ranger...
The Expedition Reef show reveals, in exquisite detail, the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of coral reefs around the world—and the scientists taking action to restore them. Learn the secrets of...
Join Liberty Wildlife at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot and meet their eagle/raptor ambassadors!
In this Seed Chat our two visionary dreamers Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson embark on a wintry journey where they explore the enchanting intersection of creativity and gardening. Marvel at their tales of cultivating dreams amidst winter’s call for us to hunker down knowing you can cultivate dreams too. Bill and Greg will illustrate how...
Half the park is after dark! Join a ranger in the evening hours as night-prowling creatures begin to emerge. This is a 1-1.5 mile hike, and location varies. Regardless of program location, always meet at the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center.
Enjoy a family friendly night hike with Ranger Olivia to see what wildlife we can spot. We’ll be on the lookout for all kinds of evening-active critters, from skunks to, spiders, snakes, fox, coyote, deer, owls and, of course scorpions (if it is warm enough)! This trail also has a famous crested saguaro, let's see...
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at The Valley’s favorite holiday tradition, ZooLights! Get in the holiday spirit as millions of twinkling lights transform the Zoo into a dazzling spectacle, guiding you through the illuminated pathways alongside animal habitats and Zoo trails. Don’t miss our brand-new light show, featuring vibrant visuals and mesmerizing music that...
This segment of the Arizona Trails series includes discussion on safety, gear, navigation apps, local trails, heat mitigation strategies, and regional Arizona destinations outside of Phoenix metro.
Thousands of LED lights illuminate the trees and custom-built, oversized structures delight the senses. The light tunnel, dancing cypress trees, traditional punched-tin trees, a brand-new crescent moon, and a dazzling display of luminarias will wow you! Experience a holiday light show unlike any other in southern Arizona! Designed by nationally known public garden landscape architect Tres...