Sometimes we can become overwhelmed by everyday tasks and consumed by check lists that we have to disconnect and leave it all behind to stay fresh and motivated. And what better way than to indulge in some childhood fun and take a day trip to check out the great animal attractions we have right in the Valley.
The Phoenix Zoo: Phoenix
Not only is this a great place for adults looking for a place to take a day trip, but it has plenty of attractions and learning programs that make it a wonderful place to take the whole family. With more than 1,300 animals and 200 endangered species, Phoenix Zoo is bound to have your favorite animal or two.
Each day there are daily activities that you can take part in--anything from giraffe encounters, camel rides, safari train or a ride on a my personal favorite pedal bike that makes seeing the large zoo of 125 acres a lot easier. Along with so many things to see, the fact that most of these attractions are paired with opportunities to discover, touch, and learn about these animals by the means of interaction is incredible.
For additional information, visit: http://www.phoenixzoo.org
Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium: Litchfield Park
Warning: Before you plan on going to the Wildlife Zoo and Aquarium, clear out your entire day. Because this is both a zoo and aquarium, the amount of cool things to see and experience here is off the charts. Similar to the Phoenix Zoo, there are free shows and others with paid admission that range from feeding and petting stations that are fairly inexpensive and great for photo opportunities for the young and old.
For example, The Lory Parrot Feeding station was the first of its kind in the nation and offers guests the experience to meet various birds from the South Pacific, while allowing the birds to eat from the palm your their hands.
The aquarium is a spectacular sight. Broken into three different buildings, with deep sea creatures in each, aquarium that is certain to capture your attention with their bright and bold colors.
The visitor favorite, appropriately titled, 'The Wild & The Wonderful,' has penguins, clownfish, and electric eels, and others.
In addition to the several things to see, there are unique ways of seeing the park. From both the high of the Skyride, and the low of the African Safari Train each perspective allows you to take in the sights of the park and the beautiful animals that fill its space]. Moving on from the extensive aquarium, the zoo is just an impressive and offers as much to see.
Dragon World represents another part of the zoo that's dominated by species and retiles reptiles from different parts of the world. Dragon World consists of an area that's full of reptiles that use their environment for cooling, such as iguanas, anacondas, and the feature, called "Jaws,' that happens to be the only saltwater crocodile in Arizona. Tropics of the World Reptiles [have the reptiles from all around the world, covered in slithering scaly skin. Don't let these creatures stir you away from checking them out, along with the all-white albino crocodile.
For additional information, visit: http://www.wildlifeworld.com
Out of Africa Wildlife Park: Camp Verde
Out of Africa Wildlife park is tTruly one of the most paramount attractions in Arizona. The Out of Africa Wildlife Parks brings a different world and one of the most popular tourist attractions to our own backyard. Each activity includes a glimpse into a wildlife experience that is based around some of the most exotic, rare, and larger-than-life animals that is sure to make your stay a memorable one.
Because the attractions are so intricate and extensive, Out of Africa Wildlife recommends that you plan on spending at least five hours at the park to be able to enjoy all of the tours, shows and exhibits.
One of the most known and sought- after attractions of the park is the African Bush Safari. Inspired by the African safari's, this 45-minute ride allows visitors to take part in an authentic tour including narration by park guide and an up- close- and- personal view of the animals. Everything at the park is geared towards bringing visitors closer to the animals in a safe and fun way that a lot of other places are unable to do.
If you like living life on the edge and have a curiosity about what and how much some of the large animals such as a tiger, lion, or bear the Wildlife Park also has a 'Feed a Tiger' section where you can personally feed the average-sized tigers of 488 pounds or watch one being fed at the 'Predator Feed.'
The park presents these animals in the purest form, giving the animals large habitats as if they are own natural environment, in the wild. If you want to see animals unlike any other place, Out of Africa Wildlife Park is the place for you.
For additional information, visit: http://www.outofafricapark.com
Sea Life Aquarium: Tempe
The mysteries under the sea have captured the interests and imaginations of people all around the world. What happens down there? What type of creatures call it their home? Sea life answers all these questions and more.
Not only are there 30 displays and more than 5,000 sea creatures, there is also a great mission to make a difference and help the oceans remain a safe and clean place for these species. The aquarium, designed with kids in mind, is full of interactive activities and learning stations that are as much enjoyable as they are educational.
From the shoreline to the temple of seahorse or the 360-degree ocean tunnel, there is something for everyone here. Aside from the fantastic sights, there are also feedings and touch pools that encourage touching and holding of these sea creatures.
Sea life has great events, such as Mommy and Me Under the Sea and others, that can be found through their calendar, and also offers a deal that includes 20 percent savings on the tickets if purchased online.
For additional information, visit: http://www.visitsealife.com/Arizona/
Schenpf Farms: Queen Creek
In the fall, there is no better place to visit than the Schnepf Farm based out of Queen Creek. The farm has an outstanding mission to provide quality family entertainment in a safe farm setting and to educate and inform the public on Arizona agriculture. The farm not only represents family tradition, but also has made fresh food less of a commodity and more of a way of life available for anyone to enjoy.
The aesthetics and reminder of simpler times is one of the reasons by Schenpf farms is so special. The other has to do with the connection with the food we eat and being able to see the process from beginning to end.
There's a country store and bakery, perfect for lunch or quick delicious snacks such as cookies, pies, and fresh baked cinnamon rolls. There is a seven7-acre organic U-Pick garden and orchard, filled with vegetables or fruits of the season where you pay just $1.50 per lb. During the farm tours, visitors are reunited with nature and are able to be entrained by agricultural festivals, pick and eat their fruits and vegetables, create their own memories , and visit farm animals.
For additional information, visit: http://www.schnepffarms.com/
Bearizona: Williams
When I first heard about Bearizona I thought, "What could be cooler?'
Bearizona is one of the few North American wildlife parks that provide animal viewing from the comfort of your every own car. In a sense, it's similar to going through a drive-thru, but for exploring animals in large natural landscapes.
In the span of a few miles, or 150 -acres, visitors are able to gaze at animals ranging from mountain gorse, brown bison, or great black bears. For the second part of the park, there is a walk- through area that holds some of the smaller animals as well as an interactive petting zoo.
It is recommended that visitors allow at least two hours to complete Bearizona. The primary goal of the park is establish a connection between viewer and animal that is memorable and lasting. The excitement of peering at your window and experiencing the excitement of what could be seen is extraordinary.
For additional information, visit: http://www.bearizona.com
