Name: Dinosaurs in the Desert
Start: 2026-09-26
End: 2027-04-30

Since 1962, the Phoenix Zoo has inspired and motivated guests from all over to care for the natural world. Nestled on 125 acres within beautiful Papago Park, the Zoo is a one-of-a-kind place for adventure, discovery and lots of fun. Featuring over 3,000 animals, including Bornean orangutans, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, Komodo dragons, Masai giraffes and many more — it is like no other attraction in the Valley! With outdoor cafés, shops, lush gardens, water landscapes and exciting up-close animal encounters like Stingray Bay and Camel Rides, your visit will be memorable for the entire family. Other not to be missed activities include the Safari Cruiser and the Endangered Species Carousel. As a non-profit, the Zoo relies solely on admissions, memberships, donations and sponsorships to continue conservation initiatives, educational programs and the care of our animals. So join us today and help support this unforgettable Valley gem! For more information, visit phoenixzoo.org.

Phoenix Zoo/Arizona Center for Nature Conservation

The world's largest museum of firefighting history offers more than a hundred fire trucks, steamers, hand pumpers and other fully restored pieces of fire apparatus, dating from 1725 to the early 2000s, as well as other artifacts and memorabilia from all corners of the globe. Most of the pieces are American, but we also have pieces from England, France, Austria, Germany, Peru and Japan. The Hall of Flame sponsors the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes, which honors firefighters who have died in the line of duty or who have been decorated for heroism. The Hall also includes a gallery dedicated to the history of wildland firefighting in the United States, and a children's play area and a real fire truck that kids can climb on, so it is an ideal destination for kids, but just as educational and inspiring for adults. The Hall of Flame is sponsored by the National Historical Fire Foundation, which was established in 1961 by George F. Getz, Jr.

Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting

Glenrosa is a place where clean, authentic Sonoran food is shared with friends and family, and great memories are created and reflected on. Our menus are carefully curated by Chef Victor Davila III who thoughtfully selects and perfects each offering. The space we occupy embodies Arizona’s rich agricultural history, with a fusion of influences representative of a deep appreciation for the Southwest.

Glenrosa

Step into history! World-famous 1889 Saloon and landmark Restaurant, still serving hand-cut aged Prime Rib and Steaks, BBQ, Fresh Seafood and Wild Game specials for over 68 years. This valley favorite has been lovingly restored and features large, comfortable black leather booths, a massive hand carved bar, crystal chandeliers, hand painted murals, historical photos and artifacts, and an extensive western art collection that includes oil paintings, watercolors, and prints. The atmosphere is one of Casual Western Elegance. John Wayne and Barry Goldwater used to be regulars in Booth 26. The food is still terrific and the service, as always, is friendly and efficient. The Stockyards is a "must visit" restaurant when in Phoenix. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner seven nights.

Stockyards Restaurant

Arizona Theatre Company puts its artists and audiences at the heart of all it does. ATC’s performances bring people together to experience essential stories, from reimagined classics to contemporary plays, original works, and innovative musicals fostering continued conversation beyond the theatre walls. Founded in 1966 and celebrating over 55 seasons, ATC operates in two major cities, unlike any other LORT theatre in the country and is recognized as The Official State Theatre. Each season, ATC collaborates with world-class artists to create and deliver exceptional theatrical experiences. With a commitment to outreach, education, and community engagement, ATC reaches over 130,000 patrons annually through mainstage productions, student matinees, and community initiatives – including the National Latine Playwrights Award and Festival. Join ATC as in sharing the magic of theatre, transcending boundaries and connecting with schools, communities, and curious minds. Arizona Theatre Company is not just a place for entertainment; it’s a cultural cornerstone, a catalyst for creativity, and a testament to the enduring power of the arts. Be a part of the experience!

Arizona Theatre Company

Travel in style at SpringHill Suites by Marriott the all-suite hotel that seamlessly blends design and functionality offering the modern amenities you need to stay refreshed and focused all at an affordable price. Spacious suites and vibrant lobbies offer flexible spaces perfect for working, meeting or relaxing. Take the stress out of travel with free WiFi, relaxing pools and fitness centers. Our Market is open 24 hr for snacks and necessities. Enjoy our complimentary hot new breakfast buffet with fresh choices for a customized start to your day with eggs, bacon, waffles, muffins or Greek yogurt and oatmeal with a toppings bar for a variety of options. Quite simply from business trips to leisurely journeys SpringHill Suites is a breath of fresh air.

Springhill Suites Phoenix Scottsdale

The Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Tempe hotel is located three blocks from the lively yet rural uptown, home to lots of restaurants and shops. Just a few blocks from Arizona State University's campus, our welcoming Tempe hotel is also near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Old Town Scottsdale, and attractions like the recently opened home of the Chicago Cubs spring training stadium, Phoenix Zoo, Tempe Center of the Arts and Tempe Town Lake. Each morning of your stay you can savor a Hampton’s free hot breakfast. Choose from a selection of hot and cold breakfast items or sample our famous, fresh-baked waffles. If you’re in a rush, we offer a quick, healthy breakfast and a bottle of water - all packed in a free Hampton's On the Run Breakfast Bag™ (Monday to Fridays). Business guests at this Tempe hotel near ASU will appreciate our meeting rooms and business center. Exercise with the latest cardio equipment and weights in the fitness center, or refresh in the outdoor swimming pool or whirlpool. Retire to your spacious guest room and curl up in the clean and fresh Hampton bed®. Free Wi-Fi, 42-inch flat-screen TV; work comfortably with the handy lap desk. All guest rooms also have a mini-refrigerator for your convenience.

Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Tempe

All New Rooms! Minutes from the airport, Tempe Beach Park and Arizona State University, the SpringHill Suites Phoenix Tempe/Airport is an all-suites hotel designed for extended stays or quick jaunts. Our studio suites come with luxurious bedding, work area, sofa bed, and separate areas for sleeping, working and relaxing. At our hotel near Phoenix airport, you'll find special amenities that make you feel at home, including complimentary breakfast buffet, mini-fridge, microwave and coffee maker.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Phoenix/Tempe Airport

Leave your report cards and school books at home. From the chefs on the line with silver-studded ears and mohawk hairdo, to the inked-up, decked-out bar staff mixologists shaking and stirring some of the most creative cocktails, we’re all dropouts here. Culinary Dropout serves the very best in unique gastro-pub fare that quietly seeks out future musical venue superstars who don't mind being paid at the bar in whiskey and pretzel bites. We’re not easily definable and even harder to forget. And we did that on purpose so you can come and hang out. Spend time in our pub enjoying live music over brunch or happy hour. So seriously, come and hang out.

Culinary Dropout Tempe

S’edav Va’aki Museum (SVM) is situated on an extraordinary archaeological site, where visitors can learn about the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People, known to archaeologists as the Hohokam, who lived in the Phoenix area and its surrounding regions. They have been intimately connected to the landscape, including irrigation canals and agricultural fields still visible behind the museum. The Akimel O'Odham, descendants of the people who lived at S'edav Va'aki, still live and thrive in the Phoenix area. Visitors can walk along a 2/3-mile outdoor trail exploring a prehistoric Va’aki (platform mound), a ballcourt, replica houses, and more. Our indoor exhibit galleries explore local archaeology and contemporary indigenous themes. SVM offers programming throughout the year, including, arts & crafts, lectures, and more. Our annual events, such as the Indian Market, Ancient Technology Day, and more, provide engaging experiences for all ages! Admission: Adults (18-64): $13.00, Seniors (65+): $10:00, Students with ID: $6.00, Children (6-17): $6.00, Children (under 6): Free Museum. Members: Free \*Discounted Admission on Thursday evenings (4pm-8pm) Museum Hours: Monday, Friday, Saturday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM Thursday: 9:00AM - 8:00PM Sunday: 12:00PM - 4:00PM Tuesday, Wednesday: CLOSED

S'edav Va'aki Museum (Formerly Pueblo Grande Museum)

Welcome to Element Scottsdale at SkySong. Element believes in providing today and tomorrow’s travelers with not just a great place to stay, but a place to thrive while on the road. A place where travelers are able to maintain their rituals and lifestyles. That’s why we offer seamless and intuitive wellness, built in from the start. Whether stopping by for a few days or settling in for a few weeks, time away from home shouldn’t mean time away from life. Outdoor inspired vibrant living and smart, fresh thinking. We lay the foundation for our guests to stay in their element while traveling away from home.

Element Scottsdale at SkySong

It's time to go beyond. Follow trails that reveal mighty mountaintops. Wander among iconic landscapes beneath picture-perfect skies. Let the Sonoran Desert be your guide to limitless adventure.

Visit Phoenix Sports & Events 

BREAKING NEWS: Dinosaurs are invading the Phoenix Zoo!  
  
Extinction is overrated. Dinosaurs are back! The ancient ancestors of every bird and reptile living in the Zoo today are rejoining their descendants across every trail.  
  
Last seen in 2023, the dinosaurs are returning this fall in a bigger herd than ever. From September 2026 through April 2027, you can hear and see these prehistoric creatures up close during every Zoo visit.  
  
Unleash your inner dinosaur expert and try your hand at digging for fossils, or snap a family photo in front of your favorite dino. Everywhere you turn, be ready to marvel at life-size dinosaurs, bones and more.  
  
Join us on opening day, September 26, for a day full of fun and activities!

Dinosaurs in the Desert

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