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Boyce Thompson Arboretum

37615 E. Arboretum Way · Superior, AZ

Why you should go…

Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a botanical garden near Superior, Arizona, recognized as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. Its collections include the newly opened Wallace Desert Garden, spanning 13 acres with 1.5 miles of trails and 5,000 new plantings, alongside themed gardens and educational exhibits. The arboretum offers guided walks and specialty programs on birding, ethnobotany and geology, plus photography activities and seasonal events.

  • #botanical garden
  • #hiking
  • #desert
  • #birdwatching
  • #family

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Boyce Thompson Arboretum, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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    County tourism guide to Pinal County's state parks, historic sites and outdoor recreation between Phoenix and Tucson.

    22 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

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    Yak N Sup

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    Kayak and paddleboard rentals on Canyon Lake near Phoenix, including sunrise and full moon paddles.

    23 mi awayMore like this

  • Tours
    Local Gem

    Dolly Steamboat

    $25–$50

    Narrated steamboat cruises on Canyon Lake through the Sonoran Desert, with wildlife and dinner cruise options.

    24 mi awaySwitch it up: Tours

  • Sport & Outdoor
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    $50+

    Zipline course at Goldfield Ghost Town near Apache Junction with mountain and desert views.

    24 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
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    Koli Equestrian Center

    $50+

    Desert horseback riding on the Gila River Indian Community near Chandler, with group, private, and kids sessions.

    39 mi awayMore like this