Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden, offering 105 acres of diverse plant collections and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden, offering 105 acres of diverse plant collections and scenic trails.
"One of the most beautiful places we've ever been to, full of magic and stunning flora."
🎯 Arrive Early for Coolness
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right at opening.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Swinging Bridge
Main Trails
A picturesque drawstring bridge offering stunning views and a popular spot for photos.
Fall Colors
Various Garden Areas
Experience vibrant autumn foliage, a surprising treat in the Arizona desert.
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Cactus & Succulent Blooms
Desert Plant Collections
Witness a spectacular display of blooming cacti and succulents, especially in spring.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the Arboretum
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, from hummingbirds to coatis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Admission & What to Bring
Always bring plenty of water, especially for longer walks or hikes. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Coolness
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right at opening.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Don't forget your camera for stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Coolness
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right at opening.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Don't forget your camera for stunning photo opportunities.
🐶 Pets Welcome (on leash)
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure!
🌿 Consider an Annual Pass
Great value if you live nearby and plan to visit often.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Boyce Thompson Arboretum for its stunning botanical collections, well-maintained grounds, and the magical atmosphere. Many highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the abundance of wildlife, and the rewarding hiking opportunities. While admission is charged, most feel it's a reasonable price for the experience. Some note that certain uphill sections can be challenging in the heat, emphasizing the need for water.
"I finished my trek up to picketpost mountain and was in the area. I was incredibly happy I stopped by. The staff was very helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. My admission guide helped me plot a course and it was stimulation overload from there on out. BTA is pure magic. The grounds are superb, immaculate, and full of beautiful flora. I paid the full admission price of $25 which I felt was very reasonable. I completed a full loop, and honestly was one of the best nature walks I've been on. I recommend arriving early to beat the heat and don't forget to bring water and your camera. You can spend hours here but if you're under time constraints, you can also see a vast majority within an hour or so. The paths are intelligently laid out with a map that is detailed and very spot-on. Don't forget to purchase some plants on your way out! They have quite an array for sale. Proceeds go to the Arboretum. I'm looking forward to my return. Thank you for a wonderful experience!"
Michael “Maranara” Maragliano
"One of the most beautiful places that we’ve ever been to. We were lucky to have been there in May as a lot of the cactus and succulents were blooming. So much to see. Aside from the walkways around the gardens there is an awesome hike that runs up on the hills behind the arboretum.
We almost had the entire place to ourselves. We arrived at 2 and stayed until closing time which is 5. You could easily spend a day here though. Bring plenty of water and maybe even some snacks."
J. S.
"Go! If you live within an hour, for sure buy the membership and take your time enjoying this beautiful place. My children had so much fun. We saw butterflies, dragonflies, hummingbirds, lizards, birds, squirrels and were extremely lucky to see some Coati Mundi! The staff were very friendly. The plants are beautiful. The gift shop is so cute."
Rachel Shipley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is about an hour's drive east of Phoenix. Take US-60 East towards Superior, AZ. The arboretum is well-signed from the highway.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Driving is the most convenient method.
The most direct route from Phoenix is via US-60 East. Enjoy the scenic drive as you approach Superior.
Yes, ample parking is available at the arboretum for visitors.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination, offering a refreshing escape into nature just an hour away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $25 per adult, but prices can vary. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, they offer free admission on the first Tuesday of every month from October through May.
Hours vary seasonally. Generally, they are open daily from October through April, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with last admission an hour before closing.
It's recommended to check their website for online ticket purchasing options to save time.
Information on specific discounts for seniors or children should be verified on their official website or by contacting them directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a majority of the arboretum in about an hour, but to fully explore and enjoy the trails, plan for 2-3 hours or even a full day.
Most trails are well-maintained. The main loop is about 2 miles, with some uphill sections. The main trail is also wheelchair accessible.
The arboretum features over 4,025 taxa and 20,000 different plants, including desert flora from around the world, native Arizona plants, and seasonal blooms.
Yes, it's very family-friendly with opportunities to see wildlife and beautiful nature.
While Picketpost Mountain is nearby, the hike is separate from the arboretum's main trails. Visitors have combined the two activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The swinging bridge, blooming desert flowers, and scenic overlooks offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged for personal use.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun.
Drone usage policies can vary; it's best to check with the arboretum directly regarding drone regulations.
The swinging bridge is a particularly popular and scenic spot for proposals and engagement photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the cooler months or arriving early in the day to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone. Bringing snacks and plenty of water is always a good idea for family outings.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Many solo visitors find the staff to be friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the positive experience. The opportunity to observe wildlife and capture stunning photographs makes it a rewarding solo adventure.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Aim for the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best natural light. The arboretum's well-maintained trails and diverse landscapes ensure a visually rich experience for capturing stunning images to share.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Gardens
Many visitors highlight the intelligent layout of the paths, making navigation straightforward with detailed maps. The arboretum is meticulously maintained, ensuring a pleasant walking experience. Whether you're interested in the vibrant blooms of spring, the subtle beauty of desert plants, or the surprising autumn colors, there's always something to discover.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, as some areas can be exposed and warm. The variety of plants, from towering saguaros to delicate wildflowers, provides a rich tapestry for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Wildlife Encounters and Natural Beauty
The arboretum's natural setting provides a peaceful escape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the desert landscape. The diverse flora attracts these animals, creating a vibrant ecosystem. It's a wonderful opportunity for families to teach children about respecting nature and observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Keep your eyes peeled as you wander through the gardens and trails; you never know what fascinating creatures you might spot. These unexpected wildlife sightings often become cherished memories for visitors.
Seasonal Highlights: Fall Colors and Spring Blooms
+2In the spring, particularly April and May, the arboretum transforms with the blooming of countless cacti and succulents. This is a photographer's dream and a must-see for anyone interested in desert flora. The sheer variety and color of the blooms are astonishing.
These seasonal highlights make Boyce Thompson Arboretum a destination worth revisiting throughout the year, offering different experiences with each visit.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit