Caliber Collision

Find your green-thumb inspiration in the garden's Berlin Agave Yucca Forest or the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail at the Desert Botanical Garden, a naturalist's dream where they showcase more than 145 acres of stunning desert blooms, flora, and fauna year-round. The site opened in 1939 and now boasts over 21,000 plants, including outdoor exhibits and displays, specialty greenhouses, and endangered and fragile species preservation. One-third of the plants are native to the area, while the remaining plants come from all over the world, including special collections from Australia and Baja California. Ecosystems represented include mesquite bosque, semidesert grassland, and upland chaparral scrub.

If you're looking for an exciting and educational excursion, look at the Sea Life Aquarium at the Arizona Mills Mall. With over 5,000 species on display, the aquarium is the perfect place to gaze at a fantastic array of marine life. One of the highlights is the touch tank, where visitors can get up close and personal with some creatures. What's more, SEA LIFE is the world's most prominent family of aquariums, with locations all around the globe. They aim to share their passion for ocean creatures with visitors and inspire a love for these fantastic animals.

The Rhythm Room is a must-visit venue for any music lover. This place is a favorite among musicians due to the acoustics and ambiance that make for a magical evening. It's a low-key spot that feels more like a jam session than a canned performance. The focus is on the music, and everything else is secondary. This insider's secret is one of Phoenix's best-loved and lowest-profile clubs. The club layout ensures no one is more than 30 or 40 feet from the stage so you can be up close and personal with the performers. The Rhythm Room has hosted some of the best blues singers to travel the southwest, including Rosie Ledet & the Zydeco Playboys, Jimmie Vaughan, Sophie B. Hawkins, and Nils Lofgren. Regulars rave about clean bathrooms and strong drinks. No wonder this granddaddy of the live music scene in Phoenix has stood the test of time.