Visit the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona is home to many desert treasures. One such gem is the Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park. This wonderful garden is 1 of 44 botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums. The Desert Botanical Garden is placed on 145 acres with 65 acres under cultivation. There are 50,000+ plant displays showcased in beautiful outdoor exhibits. The garden displays include plants from the cactus, succulent and agave families along with 139 endangered species. The Desert Botanical Garden hosts 6 permanent hiking trails with exhibits to enjoy during your springtime visit.

The garden is a special place for people of all ages to come and learn more about desert plants and wildlife. 2010 Spring activities scheduled at the Desert Botanical Garden include; Garden Tours, Morning Bird Walks, Kid's Corner, Spring Plant Sale, Spring Concert Series, "Ask a Gardener" station, Spring Paint Out and much more. Check out the Desert Botanical Garden's website for more detailed information on all the activities offered.

The Marshall Butterfly Exhibit is the highlight of the garden this spring. Take a leisurely walk through the Marshall Butterfly Pavilion and encircle yourself with hundreds of colorful butterflies. Make sure to bring your camera so you won't miss that special photo opportunity of a glossy winged butterfly perched on a native flowering plant, or if you are really lucky one might even land on your head!

The Desert Botanical Garden is also hosting an art exhibition this spring by Master Sculptor and Native American artist Allan Houser. There are 18 bronze pieces located throughout the Desert Botanical Garden and an exhibit of paintings, sketches and small scale sculptures inside the Heard Museum.

Tips for enjoying your visit to the Desert Botanical Garden:

• Always wear sunscreen, even in cooler weather. A wide brimmed hat and lightweight clothing that covers your skin comfortably will protect you from sunburn on your walks.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Bring a camera for great photo opportunities.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Leave your pets at home.

• There is a Outdoor Café with vending machines for snacks and drinks

• The garden shop is open 7 days a week from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Plants, gifts, books and disposable cameras are available for purchase.

Location:

Desert Botanical Garden

1201 No. Galvin Parkway

Phoenix, Arizona 85008

480-941-1225

Hours:

Garden Seasonal Hours:
October - May / 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
June - September / 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
During evening hours certain trails are closed.

Early Closures:

March 22 / 5 p.m.
March 26 / 3 p.m.
April 24 / 12 p.m.
September 24 / 3 p.m.
November 12 / 3 p.m.

Admission:

Members are admitted free

Adults: $15.00
Seniors: $13.50 (60 years and older)
Students (13-18 and college with ID): $7.50
Children (3-12): $5.00
Children under 3 are admitted free

Exhibit Admissions:

$3.50 Butterfly Exhibit

$12.00 Heard Museum ~ $4.00 discount if purchased with Garden Admission

Free Admission:
Garden admission is free the second Tuesday of every month, from 1-8 p.m. Entry into the seasonal Spring Butterfly Exhibit (March 9 and April 13) is also free from 1 - 5 p.m. Parking is limited.

There are admission coupons available in the local Entertainment Book. The coupon offers 1 free admission with purchase of an equal value admission.

Source:http://www.dbg.org/index.php