The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is an absolute must if you’re not from the area. It is the most well-designed garden I’ve ever been to, incorporating natural shade elements & water sources seamlessly into its many paths.I’m from the PNW and at the time...
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The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is an absolute must if you’re not from the area. It is the most well-designed garden I’ve ever been to, incorporating natural shade elements & water sources seamlessly into its many paths.I’m from the PNW and at the time of my visit had a herniated disc. I was worried about the sun & terrain, but it is very walkable & there are places to sit down at regular intervals. I was not in a wheelchair at the time, but I do use one sometimes, and I can confidently say that it would’ve been doable even if I was bound to one.I didn’t have much time nor the health for a proper hike, but I desperately wanted to see the local flora & fauna on our trip down to AZ. The Desert Botanical Garden more than scratched that itch—if you haven’t been to the Southwest before I must sincerely urge that you visit. It is beautiful & moving to know that even in an environment that seems so inhospitable, nature and all of its beauty can still thrive. There are also many metallic sculptures scattered throughout which complement the landscape beautifully, seemingly as if they organically grew there. It’s truly rare to see art & nature blend so homogeneously in a way that is unfair to neither.We spent 2-3hr in the garden, but unfortunately did not have time to see the whole thing, so we will surely return. If you’re going as adults, I would say to budget 3-4hr for your visit. Kids may not last as long, but I’m sure they’d enjoy seeing so many fascinating plants, many of which are much, much bigger than them!The woman who rang us up in the gift shop was a transplant from New York, which I found quite surprising, but after spending an afternoon in the garden & reflecting on the experience, I completely understand the magical pull of the desert. I can’t wait to go back!