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Papago Park: Tempe's Desert Oasis

Explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert in Tempe's Papago Park, offering hiking, attractions, and historical landmarks in a unique urban oasis.

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Papago Park, straddling Phoenix and Tempe, is a 1,500-acre urban park known for its distinctive sandstone formations, diverse desert flora, and a range of recreational activities. Home to attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo, it offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

A brief summary to Papago Park in Tempe

Local tips

  • Visit Hole-in-the-Rock at sunset for stunning views of the Phoenix skyline.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the hotter months.
  • Explore the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Check out Hunt's Tomb, the unique pyramid-shaped tomb of Arizona's first governor.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available throughout the park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Tempe, several bus routes (1, 3, 72, EART) will get you close to Papago Park. Alternatively, take the light rail to the Tempe Beach Park/Rio Salado station, which is a short walk to the park. A single ride on Valley Metro costs $2.

  • Walking

    If you're near downtown Tempe or Arizona State University, you can walk to Papago Park. From ASU, it's approximately a 4.7-mile walk, taking around 1.5 hours. Follow College Avenue north, then turn east onto Curry Road to reach the park's entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tempe. A short trip from downtown Tempe to Papago Park will cost approximately $14-$18 and take about 10 minutes.

  • Driving

    From downtown Tempe, take Mill Avenue north and turn east onto Curry Road. The park's main entrance is at 1000 N College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85288. Parking is free within Papago Park. However, parking may be limited during peak hours, especially on weekends. Additional parking is available in nearby lots, such as those near the Phoenix Zoo, with easy walking access to the park.

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Discover more about Papago Park in Tempe

Papago Park, a sprawling 1,500-acre municipal park shared by Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, stands as a testament to the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Characterized by its striking red sandstone buttes and diverse desert vegetation, the park offers a wide array of recreational and educational opportunities. Historically, the area was once a reservation for the Maricopa and Pima tribes. Later, it served as a fish hatchery during the Great Depression and even a POW camp during World War II, holding up to 3,100 prisoners. Today, remnants of this history can be explored, including Hunt's Tomb, the pyramid-shaped resting place of Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt. Papago Park is home to several key attractions. The Desert Botanical Garden showcases over 50,000 arid plants from around the world, while the Phoenix Zoo houses over 3,000 animals. Visitors can also explore the Arizona Heritage Center for a glimpse into the state's past or visit the Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park boasts numerous hiking and biking trails. The Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, a short climb to a unique rock formation, offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The Double Butte Loop provides a more extended trek around the park's iconic buttes. Scenic lagoons offer fishing and birdwatching opportunities, and golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at Papago Golf Club. Whether you're seeking natural beauty, historical insights, or outdoor adventure, Papago Park provides a multifaceted experience in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

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