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Botanical garden · Phoenix, Arizona
Desert Botanical Garden
Botanical garden in Papago Park with thousands of desert plant species, including saguaro cacti, on outdoor trails among red rocks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden opened in 1939 in Papago Park, between Phoenix and Tempe, beside red sandstone hills. It is dedicated to desert plants, with about 50,000 plants of thousands of species, many of which are rare or threatened.
The trails, mostly compacted dirt and flat, pass through themed areas. One focuses on saguaros, the large, multi-armed cacti that grow only in the Sonoran Desert and can exceed 12 meters and live more than 150 years. Another explains how the region’s Indigenous peoples used plants for food, construction and medicine. There are also areas of wildflowers, cacti and succulents from around the world, and a butterfly garden during part of the year.
In spring, from March to May, many cacti bloom; the saguaro’s white flower is Arizona’s floral emblem. At the end of the year, the garden often hosts an evening program with lanterns among the plants.
Papago Park around it has short trails, such as Hole-in-the-Rock, a rock with a hole that offers views of the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
Early morning, especially from May to September. Spring is the cacti flowering season.
How to get there
It is in Papago Park, about 10 km from downtown Phoenix, with parking. City buses stop nearby; by car is simpler.
Tip
Buy a timed-entry ticket in advance during the busiest months. In summer, the garden usually opens earlier to take advantage of the cooler hours.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Desert Botanical Garden
Where can you see saguaro cacti in Phoenix?
At the Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park and on the city’s mountain trails, such as South Mountain. Saguaros grow only in the Sonoran Desert.
When do the cacti bloom at the Desert Botanical Garden?
Many bloom between March and May. The saguaro flower typically opens from May to June. Blooming varies with winter rains.
How much time to allow for the Desert Botanical Garden?
Two to three hours for the main trails without rushing. In heat, spend less time outdoors and take more shade breaks.