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Could we be any more adventurous? 10 Exciting Things to Experience in Chandler
- Hike through the Sonoran Desert Preserve
- Explore the hidden gem of Chandler Park
- Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Vision Gallery
- Know what’s new in arts at the Chandler Center for the Arts
- Unleash your creativity at Crayola Experience
- Visit the Phoenix Zoo
- Go ziplining through the lush greenery at Rush Xtreme
- Explore the world of music at the Musical Instrument Museum
- Go horseback riding at KOLI Equestrian Center
- Explore the serene beauty of Veterans Oasis Park
If Chandler Bing were to visit Chandler, Arizona, he might quip, “Could we be any more adventurous?” Well, I think he’d love Chandler, Arizona, just like I did.
It’s like the city was built for adventurers. The mix of urban vibes and desert charm makes it the perfect playground for those who crave a little thrill.
In this article, I’ll share some of the most thrilling activities I’ve experienced in Chandler. So stick around and discover how to turn your trip into an adventure worthy of its sitcom!
1. Hike through the Sonoran Desert Preserve
Media credit: desertmuseum
Website: https://www.blm.gov/national-conservation-lands/arizona/sonoran-desert
Address: Maricopa, AZ 85239
Contact details: +16028675400
The Sonoran Desert Preserve in Chandler is a hidden gem that offers a diverse ecosystem and stunning landscapes. As you traverse the preserve’s trails, you’ll be captivated by the towering saguaro cacti, vibrant wildflowers, and desert wildlife.
One of my favorite things about the Sonoran Desert Preserve is its ability to transport you to a world far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tranquility and natural beauty of the preserve offer a much-needed escape from the stresses of everyday life.
| Pro tip: Pack plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert can be hot and dry. Take a guided tour to learn more about the desert’s unique plants and animals. |
2. Explore the hidden gem of Chandler Park
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Website: https://www.chandleraz.gov/explore/chandler-parks
Address: 178 E Commonwealth Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
Contact details: +14807822727
Operating hours: 7 AM–6 PM
Chandler Park is a sprawling green space with well-manicured lawns. The beautiful lake was a highlight for me. I saw so many different birds along the shoreline, and the option to rent paddleboats or kayaks to explore the lake was fantastic.
I also loved the picnic areas, where I could relax and enjoy scenic views. The park has something for everyone: a playground for kids, basketball courts, tennis facilities, and wonderful walking and jogging trails.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting Chandler Park, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal by the lake. It’s a great way to savor the park’s natural beauty and create lasting memories. |
3. Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Vision Gallery
Media credit: visiongalleryaz
Website: http://www.visiongallery.org/
Address: 10 E Chicago St, Chandler, AZ 85225
Contact details: +14807822695
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
The Vision Gallery is truly a hidden gem, with its curated collection of contemporary artworks. It frequently hosts artist receptions and workshops, providing a unique opportunity to interact with the creators behind the works.
Beyond the art itself, what struck me was Vision Gallery’s dedication to supporting emerging artists. By providing them with a platform to showcase their work, the gallery contributes to a vibrant and thriving arts scene in Chandler.
| Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and engage with the gallery staff. Additionally, consider joining one of the gallery’s workshops or events to deepen your connection with the art and the artists behind it. |
4. Know what’s new in arts at the Chandler Center for the Arts
Media credit: chandlerarts
Website: https://www.chandlercenter.org/
Address: 250 N Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
Contact details: +14807822680
The Chandler Center for the Arts is a cultural gem offering diverse performances, exhibitions, and events. Inside, you’ll find a state-of-the-art theater, a versatile black box theater, and a gallery space that showcases the works of local and international artists.
One of my favorite aspects is its ability to transform into a different space for each performance or exhibition. The theater’s flexible seating arrangement and advanced lighting and sound systems create an immersive experience.
| Pro tip: I highly recommend attending a performance in the main theater. The acoustics are impeccable, and the atmosphere is electric. Be sure to arrive early to explore the pre-show exhibits and enjoy a drink at the bar. |
5. Unleash your creativity at Crayola Experience
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Website: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/chandler
Address: 3111 W Chandler Blvd Suite 2154, Chandler, AZ 85226
Contact details: +16025815370
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
Crayola Experience is a hands-on museum where imagination takes flight, and creativity knows no bounds. As you step inside, you’re immersed in a colorful atmosphere filled with interactive exhibits, art stations, and playful attractions.
One of the highlights of the Crayola Experience is the opportunity to become a Crayola Master. You can design custom Crayola crayon markers and even color your Silly Putty.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure to try out the Crayola Master experience. It’s a unique opportunity to create personalized Crayola products and take home a piece of the magic. |
6. Visit the Phoenix Zoo
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Website: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: +16022863800
Operating hours: 8 AM–4 PM
The Phoenix Zoo is a sprawling oasis of lush greenery, serene ponds, and exotic animal exhibits. As you wander the zoo’s landscaped paths, you’ll encounter various creatures, from lions and tigers to meerkats and giraffes.
One of the zoo’s most unique features is its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo actively participates in wildlife conservation programs and offers engaging educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
| Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the zoo’s award-winning African Savanna exhibit. You can even witness the elephants bathing in a mud wallow or interacting with their keepers. |
7. Go ziplining through the lush greenery at Rush Xtreme
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Website: https://www.rushfunpark.com/chandler
Address: 190 S Kyrene Rd #5, Chandler, AZ 85226
Contact details: +14807575411
Operating hours: 9 AM–8 PM
Rush Extreme is more than just an adventure park; it’s a thrilling escape from the ordinary. This outdoor haven offers activities that cater to adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, from ziplines to conquering challenging obstacle courses.
Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, Rush Extreme also boasts stunning natural surroundings. The park is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.
| Pro tip: One must-do activity is the zipline canopy tour, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the incredible memories you’ll make. |
8. Explore the world of music at the Musical Instrument Museum
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Website: https://mim.org/
Address: 4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Contact details: +14804786000
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) boasts a collection of over 8,000 instruments from around the globe. As you wander through the galleries, you’ll be captivated by the craftsmanship and diverse sounds of instruments from every continent.
You can admire the instruments and experience their sounds firsthand. Through touchscreens and multimedia displays, you can explore their history and cultural significance, learn about musical traditions, and even try to play a few.
| Pro tip: Explore the exhibits and try out some of the interactive instruments. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the power and magic of music. |
9. Go horseback riding at KOLI Equestrian Center
Media credit: koliequestriancenter
Website: http://www.koliequestrian.com/
Address: 6940 W BROKEN EAR RD, Chandler, AZ 85226
Contact details: +16027963495
Operating hours: 6:30 AM–5 PM
KOLI Equestrian Center is a well-maintained riding arena that provides a safe and comfortable space to practice my skills. The picturesque trails through the desert offer breathtaking views and a sense of adventure.
One of the things that I loved about KOLI Equestrian Center was the exceptional quality of their horses. The experienced staff made my experience even more enjoyable by providing instructions and ensuring I had a safe and memorable time.
| Pro tip: Take a trail ride through the Sonoran Desert. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Arizona landscape while enjoying the company of a majestic horse. |
10. Explore the serene beauty of Veterans Oasis Park
Media credit: siriaellie
Website: https://www.chandleraz.gov/explore/chandler-parks/guide/veterans-oasis-park
Address: 4050 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85249
Contact details: +14807822890
Operating hours: 6 AM–10:30 PM
Veterans Oasis Park is a sprawling haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The park’s centerpiece is a beautiful lake, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relax by the water’s edge.
It’s dedicated to honoring veterans’ service. The park is home to various memorials and tributes to those who have served their country. Through informative exhibits and displays, you can learn about the history of the United States military.
| Pro tip: I highly recommend renting a paddleboat and exploring the lake. The park’s spacious grounds offer hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities. There are also playgrounds and sports fields for children and families. |
