Authentic Journey

To experience the true essence of Japanese culture, visit the Arizona Matsuri Festival of Japan in downtown Phoenix every February. This popular event is one of the biggest Japanese festivals in the US, featuring over 60 vendors offering food and merchandise and exhibits by local schools, universities, and organizations. This event has four stages to witness thrilling performances, including Taiko drumming, martial arts displays, and traditional Japanese dance shows. The best part? It's completely free, and there are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This is an incredible opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culture and make unforgettable memories.

Visit the Boyce Thompson Arboretum at the University of Arizona and enjoy the stunning outdoor surroundings. This beautiful Arboretum showcases the vibrant seasonal foliage of the unique desert landscape. With more than two miles of trails available, it is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy exploring. Discover a diverse selection of desert plants from around the globe at this remarkable nursery. This nursery is a must-see featuring over 4,025 species and 20,000 plants spanning 135 acres of gardens from countries like Mexico, Australia, Madagascar, India, China, Japan, Israel, and Africa. In addition to its impressive plant collections, the Arboretum also offers tours, classes, and events that are perfect for learning more about the plants and connecting with other plant enthusiasts.

Let the fun begin! Bring the family to Castles N' Coasters, where knights and princesses can ride roller coasters, splash around on the water rides, and play miniature golf. The rides and attractions here are only tame. On one wild ride, you'll also find the Desert Storm coaster, with vertical drops, flips, and spins. Castles N Coasters has thrill-seeking attractions to fit everyone's interest, including getting a little wet on Splashdown, flying to great heights, and instantly falling on Sky Diver. Family fun since 1977, Castles N Coasters is your destination for FUN.