About Desert Botanical Garden

Living museum of 50,000 desert plants. Desert garden with 50,000 plants spread over 140 acres, also offering dining, a gift shop & library.

💬 What Parents Say

• 🕐Visit during early morning (6 a.m.) or evening hours (after 5 p.m.) to avoid intense desert heat while exploring the extensive cacti and desert plant collections. Evening visits offer beautiful sunset views and special 'After Dark' events with live music and performers.
• 💡Plan to spend 3-4 hours minimum to properly explore the garden's diverse landscape. The venue is highly stroller-friendly for families, and multiple water fountains are strategically placed throughout the trails—essential for beating the Arizona heat.
• 💡Invest in an annual membership to maximize value—memberships are tax-deductible and grant access to over 300 gardens throughout the US via reciprocal agreements, making it worthwhile even for a single visit if you plan to visit other botanical gardens.
• 💡Don't miss the special seasonal exhibits including the Chihuly art installation, Majestic Mariposas butterfly celebration, and 'After Dark' evening events featuring live bands and harp performers, which create a unique educational and cultural experience beyond traditional plant displays.
• 💡Bring kids during 'Dog Days at the Garden' family events or regular daytime visits where the stroller-friendly trails and interactive displays (like the New Year's resolution tree during holiday events) make it engaging for young visitors of all ages.

Hours