#Discovering the Best of Arizona: A Road Trip from Cave Creek to Phoenix
Arizona is a state full of outdoor adventures, picturesque landscapes, and fascinating cultural landmarks that attract visitors from all over the world. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of this southwestern gem is by taking a road trip that includes a stop in Cave Creek, AZ, an old western style town nestled in the Sonoran desert. From there, head to the bustling city of Phoenix, where you'll find a vibrant cultural scene and a host of attractions that are sure to impress.
Did you know that Arizona was the last of the contiguous states to join the United States in 1912? Now that you know this exciting fact, let's take a closer look at the top five places to visit on a road trip from Cave Creek to Phoenix.
##Halfway Point: Cave Creek, AZ
Cave Creek is a small town located in Maricopa County, approximately 25 miles north of Phoenix. It's a charming and rustic destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the Wild West, complete with old saloons, western boutiques, and even a rodeo arena. Cave Creek is also home to some of the best hiking trails in Arizona, including the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and Cave Creek Regional Park.
##Exploring the Route
The route from Cave Creek to Phoenix is about 30 miles, which takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to drive, depending on traffic. The road trip from Cave Creek to Phoenix is a scenic one, filled with stunning desert landscapes, rolling mountains in the background, and towering cacti. It's the perfect road trip for those who want to experience the beauty of Arizona while enjoying a mix of city and small-town attractions.
##Top Five Places to Visit
- Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix): The Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre botanical garden that's home to more than 50,000 desert plants from all over the world. Visitors can take a stroll through the garden and learn about the different types of cacti and succulents, as well as admire unique desert blooms. Don't miss the seasonal exhibits, which showcase the local flora and fauna.
Point of Interest: Flashlight Tours occur during the summer months, where visitors can explore the garden under the stars with a flashlight.
- Heard Museum (Phoenix): The Heard Museum is a must-visit destination for those interested in Native American history and art. The museum has an extensive collection of indigenous art and artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and paintings. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes of Arizona through exhibits and events.
Point of Interest: The museum hosts the annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market, which brings together Native American artists from all over the country to sell their handmade works.
- Papago Park (Phoenix): Papago Park is a 1,500-acre park located in the heart of Phoenix that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike to the top of Hole-in-the-Rock and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, walk through the Desert Botanical Garden, or take a stroll around the park's two lakes.
Point of Interest: The park is also home to the famous "Hole-in-the-Rock Formation," a natural hole in the rock that visitors can climb through for a unique view of the city.
- South Mountain Park (Phoenix): South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, covering over 16,000 acres of land. The park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic drives that provide visitors with breathtaking views of the Sonoran desert. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Point of Interest: At the summit of South Mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Phoenix and the surrounding mountains.
- Musical Instrument Museum (Phoenix): The Musical Instrument Museum is a unique and fascinating destination for music lovers of all ages. The museum has a collection of over 15,000 musical instruments from around the world, including rare and exotic instruments not found anywhere else. Visitors can listen to recordings of music from different cultures and even try playing some of the instruments themselves.
Point of Interest: The Experience Gallery allows visitors to play instruments from around the world, from a Peruvian pan flute to a West African kora.
##Conclusion
The road trip from Cave Creek to Phoenix is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Arizona and experience a mix of city and small-town attractions. With stunning desert landscapes, picturesque parks, and fascinating cultural landmarks, this road trip has something for everyone. Depending on how long you stay at each destination, the trip can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. So, pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready to discover the best of Arizona.