9 Things To Do Near Fireside At Norterra, Arizona

Come to Fireside at Norterra, nestled against a mountain preserve, this spectacular community offers an intimate and peaceful hillside setting while being conveniently located between Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix in Arizona.  Below is a list of 9 fun things to in the local area:

1)  Heard Museum

Every major city, and most minor ones, have museums.  The Heard Museum is unique, however, not only in the exhibits that are displayed, but the style and grace with which they are displayed.  Heard museum has more than 32,000 pieces of cultural and fine art.  There are permanent exhibits, like the famous Barry Goldwater collection of Kachina Dolls, as well as special exhibits year-round.  Some of the special annual events include the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest which is held each February, and the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market each March.  The museum is located at 2301 N. Central Ave. in Phoenix.  For further information contact:  602.252.8848.

2)  Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden has one of the world’s finest collections of desert plants.  It is one of only 44 botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums.  At the Desert Botanical Garden you will find 50 acres of beautiful outdoor exhibits.  Home to 139 rare, threatened and endangered plant species from around the world, there is no finer place to enjoy desert beauty than the Desert Botanical Garden.  The Garden is located in Papago Park in Central Phoenix.  For further information contact:  480 941.1225.

3)  Boyce Thompson Arboretum

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum brings together plants from the Earth’s many and varied deserts and dry lands.  Approximately 3,200 different desert plants can be found within the arboretum, and most of them can be seen along the 1.5 mile main trail. During wildflower season, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum is especially beautiful, displaying all the wonderful colors of the desert. Are you a bird lover?  More than 250 species of birds have been recorded at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum.  For more information contact:  520.689.2811.

4)  The Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo has more than 1,000 animals on exhibit.  Because the Zoo makes a special effort to provide the animals with appropriate habitats, some of them may be a challenge to see.  Keep looking!  The zoo also offers many attractions such as the Safari Train, the Endangered Species Carousel, and pedal boat rentals.  The zoo is located at 455 North Galvin Parkway in Phoenix.  For further information contact:  602.273.1341.

5)  The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art focuses on modern and contemporary art, architecture and design.  There are five galleries that showcase changing exhibitions and works from the Museum’s growing permanent collection.  The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art features an outdoor sculpture garden.  The Museum presents a variety of educational programs and special events for adults and families, including lectures, docent-led tours, workshops and classes.  For further information contact:  480-499-8587. 

6)  South Mountain Park

At over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve often is considered the largest municipal park in the country.  There are more than 50 miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking.  Dobbins Lookout, at 2,330 feet, is the highest point in the park accessible by trail.  If you aren’t into hiking, biking or riding, you can simply drive to Dobbins Point to get a fantastic view of the Valley of the Sun.  It’s just over 5 miles from Central Avenue to Dobbins Lookout.  The park is located at 10919 S. Central Avenue in Phoenix.

7)  Phoenix International Raceway

In 1964, when Phoenix International Raceway was carved out of the foothills of the Estrella Mountains, it was intended to be a new jewel in the crown of American open-wheel racing.  Today, PIR has a tradition that is unmatched in the world of racing.  If you love the excitement of racing cars then be sure and include the Raceway in your vacation plans.  For further information contact:  866-408-7223.

8)  Arizona Science Center

Spend the day in the fantastic Planetarium, or enjoy the spectacular, informative IMAX films on a five-story screen, view enriching exhibits, or test out one of the over 300 hands on activities.  There are also special events to enjoy all year.  Whatever you choose, there is something for every member of your family.  For further information contact:  602-716-2000.

9)  Out Of Africa Wildlife Park

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is an opportunity to see animals from all over the world, especially Africa.  Visitors enjoy an authentic replica of a real African Bush Safari.  Out of Africa is home to hundreds of wild-by-nature, animals.  Sit back and ride the tram while you enjoy a Safari experience.  Watch the giraffes, zebras, antelope and more in their natural setting.  The Park is open Monday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 5 pm year-round.  For further information contact:   928.567.2840.