Put a little spark in your tour at the Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting, where you can experience the impressive collection of firefighting equipment, including some incredible fire engines from the mid-1800s. Additionally, you'll get to see historic helmets and other equipment that will give you a better appreciation of the history of firefighting. One of the most touching exhibits is the National Hall of Heroes, which pays tribute to the brave men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This exhibit will leave you feeling humbled and grateful for the sacrifices made by firefighters throughout history. Established in 1961, the museum now boasts five exhibit galleries showcasing one of the world's most extensive collections of firefighting apparatus. This collection includes items dating back to 1725 from America, England, France, Austria, Germany, and Japan, providing a comprehensive global perspective on firefighting.
If you're looking for a fun and exciting family adventure, the Renaissance Festival is an event you won't want to miss. Held annually in February and March, this festival transports you back in time to a 16th-century village filled with mermaids, maidens, and magical moments. With so much to see and do, you'll feel like you're a part of a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament, and a feast all at once. Over 200 shops sell handmade items like blown glass, leather goods, and jewelry, where you can watch artisans create masterpieces right before your eyes. And with 16 stages of nonstop entertainment featuring music, dance, comedy, falconry, and acrobatics, there's something for everyone. Make sure to catch the three daily jousting tournaments or the Exclusive Pleasure Feast fit for royalty.
Visit the last remaining basilica in Arizona, St. Mary's Basilica. As the oldest Catholic parish in the city, this beautiful church has a rich history and is worth a visit. St. Mary's Basilica is also one of the most-photographed religious icons in the area. The structure has an otherworldly, unique atmosphere, and visitors often live in a peaceful state of mind. Interestingly, in 1985, Pope John Paul II declared St. Mary's a Minor Basilica, a massive deal in the Catholic Church. So, if you're in Phoenix, check out this fantastic piece of history.