Things to do in Deer Valley AZ
Located in North Phoenix, Deer Valley is home to a number of fun things to do for all ages. Whether you are looking to hike the miles of preserved trails, cool off from the summer heat, explore a little history or soar with the birds above the desert, Deer Valley has everything you are looking for!
Adobe Mountain Desert Railroad Park
Also known as the “The Railroad Park”, the Adobe Mountain Desert Railroad Park is home to the Sahuaro Central Railroad Heritage Preservation Society and its museum, the Arizona Model Railroading Society, and the Maricopa Live Steamers.
The park features an eclectic collection of railroad artifacts from across North America, live steam engines, scale model railroad layouts for the model train enthusiast, and free train rides on Sundays on 14 miles of 7.5-inch gauge track.
You can find the Adobe Mountain Desert Railroad Park in the Adobe Dam Recreation Park located just west of I-17 on the south side of the intersection of Pinnacle Peak Rd and 43rd Avenue in Phoenix. Please be sure to check their website before visiting as they are open to the public only during the winter months from Mid September to early May.
Location:
23280 N 43rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85310
Website:
Adobemtndesertrrpark.com
Deem Hills Recreation Area
Located on the Northern border of Deer Valley, Deem Hills Recreation Area contains 1000 acres of Sonoran Desert, a large park with soccer fields and numerous hiking trails that take you past basalt volcanic rock formations and provide sweeping views of the Phoenix valley and the surrounding mountains.
The hiking trails are rated moderate to difficult with the lengths ranging from .4 miles to 5.7 miles.
Trailhead Locations:
Deem Hills Park
(West Trailhead)
26606 N. Deem Hills Pkwy, Glendale, AZ 85308
East Trailhead
27428 N. 39th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308
Website:
https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/deem-hills
Hot Air Balloon Rides
There is no better way to take in the Sonoran Desert than to soar 2000 feet above the ground in a hot air balloon. These breathtaking 1-hour hot air balloon rides start in Deer Valley and provide 360° views of the Phoenix valley and end with a champagne toast upon landing.
Create a once in a lifetime experience that is perfect for families or an unforgettable romantic outing with that special someone. Both morning and sunset rides are available.
Website:
http://www.partner.viator.com/en/10300/travel-tips/Phoenix-Hot-Air-Balloon-Rides/ttd
Turf Paradise Race Course
Feel the heart-pounding exhilaration of live Thoroughbred racing at the Turf Paradise Race Course located in Deer Valley. Place a bet on the ponies or enjoy fine dining while watching the races in The Turf Club.
Turf Paradise also hosts regular events such as weiner dog racing and viewing parties for the Breeder’s Cup, Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes with buffet and drink specials included. Be sure to check their event calendar for event dates and times.
Location:
1501 W. Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85023
Website:
http://www.turfparadise.com/
Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
When looking for things to do in Deer Valley, you must find time to explore the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve! This 47-acre nature preserve located in the Adobe Dam Recreation Park takes you back in time when over 1500 petroglyphs and artifacts were left thousands of years ago by the indigenous residents of this area.
In addition, the preserves also hosts 205 native Sonoran Desert plant species and over 114 animal specials that call this home. Regular events with guest speakers and exhibits are hosted here so be sure to check their website for additional information.
Location:
3711 W. Deer Valley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85308
Website:
https://shesc.asu.edu/dvpp
Wet n’ Wild Phoenix
Looking for some relief from those hot Phoenix summer days? Wet n’ Wild Hurricane Harbor Phoenix contains thrill rides, splash pads for kids and family rides and wave pools all designed to keep you and your family cool in the summer heat. Dining, shopping and cabanas are also available. Family fun guaranteed!
The park is open from March through October and hours may vary. The park also holds Friday Fun Nights, Dive ‘n’ Movies and Firework nights so be sure to check the calendar on their website for operating hours and event dates.
Location:
4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310
Website:
https://www.wetnwildphoenix.com
Martin Auto Museum
Auto enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Martin Auto Museum with a stunning collection of vintage race cars and one of a kind vehicles. With over 60 vehicles in the collection, all still run and are open for the public to view.
The museum which has been open since 2005 contains classic vehicles that are almost a century old, an original 1965 Shelby Cobra, as well as special custom roadsters.
The museum is free of charge to visit but a $10 donation is recommended.
Location:
17641 North Black Canyon Hwy, Phoenix, Arizona 85023
Website:
https://www.martinautomuseum.com
So we hope this list of things to do in Deer Valley keeps you busy and entertained! We also hope you are able to try many from this list and create memories that will last a lifetime. I know we have missed some other fun adventures so please let us know in the comments below.
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