Picacho Peak State Park
Alternatively, if you're heading to Tucson by way of I-10, and it isn't too hot outside, consider a stop at this state park, 35 miles northwest of Tucson at Exit 219. Picacho Peak, a wizard's cap of rock rising 1,500 feet above the desert, is a visual landmark for miles around. Hiking trails lead around the lower slopes of the peak and up to the summit; these trails are especially popular in spring, when the wildflowers bloom (the park is known as one of the best places in Arizona to see wildflowers). In addition to its natural beauty, Picacho Peak was the site of the only Civil War battle to take place in the state. Each March, Civil War reenactments are staged here. Campsites in the park cost $12 to $22.

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeologicial Park
Located near Sky Harbor Airport and downtown Phoenix, the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park houses the ruins of an ancient Hohokam village that was one of several villages along the Salt River between A.D. 300 and 1400. Sometime around 1450, this and other villages were mysteriously abandoned. Some speculate that drought and a buildup of salts from irrigation water reduced the fertility of the soil and forced the people to seek more fertile lands. The small museum displays many of the artifacts that have been dug up on the site. Although these exhibits are actually more interesting than the ruins themselves, there are also some reconstructed and furnished Hohokam-style houses that give a good idea of how the Hohokam lived. The museum sponsors interesting workshops (some just for kids), demonstrations, and tours (including petroglyph hikes). The Pueblo Grande Museum Indian Market, held in mid-December at Steele Indian School Park, which is on the northeast corner of Indian School Road and Central Avenue, is the largest of its kind in the state and features more than 500 Native American artisans.

Historic Sahuaro Ranch
Phoenix and neighboring valley communities started out as farming communities, but today there's little sign of this early agricultural heritage. This historic ranch in Glendale is one noteworthy exception. With its tall date palms, resident peacocks, and restored farmhouse, Sahuaro Ranch is a great introduction to what life was like here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The old fruit-packing shed now serves as a gallery hosting temporary exhibits; tours of the main house are offered.

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Doubletree Guest Suites' Phoenix-Gateway Center
Located 1.5 miles North of Sky Harbor Airport. Centrally located to all business corridors and attractions in Phoenix. Easy access to Highways I10, 202, 101, 143, 51. 10 minutes to downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale shopping and Tempe. Airport 1 MI S, Hotel shuttle. Convention Center 6 MI W, Taxi - car. Downtown Phoenix 6 MI W, Taxi - car. Arizona State Univ 4 MI SE, Hotel shuttle, taxi, car. Scottsdale 7 MI ...

Best Western Central Phoenix Inn and Suites
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