Sahuaro Ranch Park

Perfect for families that want to enjoy the outdoors and amateur historians alike, Glendale's Sahuaro Ranch Park offers a little bit of something for everyone. The park is home to multiple picnic and gathering areas, open spaces to explore, historic buildings, a dog park, sports recreation areas and plenty of shade trees for avoiding the desert sun.

Parking and Public Transportation at Sahuaro Ranch Park
There are four parking lots available at Sahuaro Ranch Park. Three are accessible via Mountain View Road, just south of the park. The fourth parking lot is located on the north east corner of 63rd Avenue and Brown Street. The light rail does not stop at or near the park, but Valley Metro bus routes do run near the area.

Best and Worst Times to visit Sahuaro Ranch Park
Visitors that want to avoid crowds should visit during the week. Weekends tend to get crowded, and often host weddings, picnics, sporting events and other family gatherings. Those willing to brave the summer heat should visit any time during June, July or August. Visiting the Valley during the crowded, nice weather months? Visit anyway. The park is spacious.

Admission to Sahuaro Ranch Park
Sahuaro Ranch Park is free of charge to all visitors. The park does occasionally host pay-for-entry events.

Must See/Do at Sahuaro Ranch Park
Sahuaro Ranch Park, also known as "Showplace of the Valley," is home to 13 historic buildings, including a barn yard, stables and the original ranch homestead. Tours are offered throughout the year (except for the month of August) but are only available on certain days of the week. Just want a place for the kids to play? There's a playground, sporting areas and a dog park too.

Other places to visit near Sahuaro Ranch Park
The Glendale Public Library and Xeriscape Botanical Gardens are both within walking distance of Sahuaro Ranch Park.

Insider tip for visitors to Sahuaro Ranch Park
Sahuaro Ranch Park home to free range chickens, peacocks and other birds, perfect for animal lovers and bird watchers alike.

Author's bio: Chad Birt has lived in Phoenix for 9 years. He's a bike rider, bookworm and freelance writer.