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Have you ever heard of Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights in Phoenix? This historic landmark has captivated the Valley of the Sun for 90 years and is a true gem of the Sonoran Desert. You're not alone if you're curious about why someone would build a castle in the middle of the desert in the 1920s and why it still stands today. The unique location and fascinating history of the property have piqued the interest of many over the years. One of the main attractions of Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights is the Castle itself, a stunning four-story, 5,000-square-foot architectural masterpiece on the property's highest point. Surrounding the Castle are meticulously groomed cactus gardens and undisturbed natural Sonoran Desert flora, which provide breathtaking views and scenic backdrops along the established trail system.

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.

Enjoy an entertainment experience that spans generations at the Phoenix Theatre. As one of the oldest arts organizations in the country, this theater boasts a heavyweight reputation for delivering quality productions that are sure to please audiences of all ages. There's something for everyone at the Phoenix Theatre, with different programs and performance areas available. The Mainstage features professional adult theater productions, while the Cookie Company offers family-friendly shows for youth. Additionally, PT Connections: Education & Outreach takes theater beyond the stage and into outside organizations. The Phoenix Theatre Academy is the perfect place for aspiring performers to improve their skills. For a unique experience, the New Works Festival showcases plays as playwrights and performers are developing them.