Carmen On 5th

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.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a self-guided quarter-mile nature trail that features over 1,500 recorded petroglyphs on nearly 600 boulders, native desert plants, and animals in their natural habitat at the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve. The preserve also has historical research data and displays of ongoing Southwest archaeology research by ASU faculty and students. The museum, gallery, trail, and free audio tour are available for the petroglyph trail. The university has been operating, protecting, and preserving the site since 1994, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore and learn more about the area and indigenous cultures through guided tours, publications, and ongoing lecture series.