Papago Park: Phoenix's Desert Oasis
Explore Phoenix's iconic desert park with hiking, history, and stunning red sandstone buttes.
Papago Park, a sprawling municipal park shared by Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, is a desert landscape known for its distinctive red sandstone buttes and diverse recreational activities. With historical roots stretching back to the Hohokam people, the park offers hiking, biking, fishing, and access to cultural attractions like the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.
A brief summary to Papago Park
- 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008, US
- +1602-495-5458
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
- Thursday 5 am-11 pm
- Friday 5 am-11 pm
- Saturday 5 am-11 pm
- Sunday 5 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the desert heat, especially during summer months.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, as trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Explore the Hole-in-the-Rock formation for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Consider visiting the nearby Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden for a full day of activities.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Phoenix, take the Valley Metro Bus Line 3 directly to the Phoenix Zoo stop, which is a short walk from Papago Park. The journey takes approximately 37 minutes and costs $2. Alternatively, take the light rail to the Priest Dr/Washington station, which is a 22-minute walk to the park. A light rail ticket costs $2.
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Walking
From the Phoenix Zoo, Papago Park is easily accessible by foot. Follow the signs from the zoo's parking lot to the park's entrance. The walk is short and offers scenic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from downtown Phoenix to Papago Park takes approximately 12 minutes and costs between $22 and $27. From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), a taxi to Papago Park takes about 6 minutes and costs $17-$22. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available.
Discover more about Papago Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Governor Hunt Tomb
0.4 km
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Papago POW Escape Monument
2.5 km
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Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az
2.6 km
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Tempe Tourism Office
2.8 km
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Tempe Butte
3.1 km
Hike Tempe's iconic 'A Mountain' for panoramic views, rich history, and a touch of ASU spirit in the heart of the city.
Hackett House
3.1 km
Discover Tempe's history at Hackett House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting community events and showcasing local heritage.
Harkins Theatres Valley Art
3.3 km
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Tempe City Hall
3.3 km
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Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra Temple
3.4 km
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S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum)
3.5 km
Explore the rich history of the Hohokam civilization at S'edav Va'aki Museum, a captivating local history museum in Phoenix, Arizona.
ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center
3.5 km
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Eldorado Park
3.5 km
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Birchett House
3.5 km
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Arizona Distilling Co.
3.6 km
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Desert Financial Arena
3.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Phoenix Zoo
0.4 km
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Hole in the Rock
0.4 km
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Hall of Flame Fire Museum
0.8 km
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Desert Botanical Garden
1.0 km
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Eisendrath House
1.6 km
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Arizona Heritage Center
1.8 km
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Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights
2.2 km
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Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge
2.2 km
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Papago Park in Tempe
2.2 km
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Tempe Town Lake
2.3 km
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North Linear Park
2.4 km
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LoPiano Bosque Habitat
2.4 km
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Tempe Center For The Arts
2.4 km
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Tempe Beach Park
2.5 km
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Rio Salado Park
2.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Princess Pita Mediterranean Restaurant - Tempe
1.4 km
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The Lodge Sasquatch Kitchen
2.7 km
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Culinary Dropout
2.8 km
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The Yard At Farmer Arts District
2.8 km
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Loco Patron
3.0 km
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Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant
3.0 km
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Caffe Boa
3.1 km
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Desert Roots Kitchen
3.2 km
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Harry's Place
3.2 km
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Bang Bang - Tempe
3.2 km
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Cornish Pasty Co
3.2 km
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Atlas Bistro
3.2 km
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Snakes & Lattes Tempe
3.3 km
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CASA Tempe
3.4 km
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Foch Café & Bistro
3.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Phoenix Zoo Gift Shop
0.3 km
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Antique Trove
2.7 km
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Yucatecan Imports
3.2 km
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Daily Rotation
3.2 km
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Mill Avenue Shops
3.2 km
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Courtyard Shops
3.2 km
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Rave Circus (Powered by The Flow Shop)
3.2 km
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Lotions & Potions
3.2 km
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Rosebuds Candle Co.
3.3 km
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Pitaya
3.3 km
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TECHNOIRCANDY
3.3 km
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Urban Outfitters
3.3 km
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Happy Healthy High Horny Herbs
3.4 km
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Centerpoint on Mill
3.5 km
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ACG Go Anime Store
3.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Devil's Hideaway
3.1 km
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Vintage Bar & Grill
3.2 km
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UpBar Tempe
3.2 km
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Sunbar Tempe
3.2 km
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On the Rocks
3.2 km
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Low Key Piano Bar
3.3 km
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Varsity Tavern
3.3 km
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The Well Bar
3.4 km
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Fat Tuesday
3.4 km
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Frolic
3.4 km
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The Handlebar Tempe
3.4 km
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Pedal Haus Brewery
3.4 km
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Skysill Rooftop Lounge
3.5 km
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University Sports Grill
3.5 km
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The Dark Side
3.6 km
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