Chandler is a vibrant city located in the southeast valley region of the Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona, United States. With its rapid growth over the past few decades, Chandler has emerged as one of the most popular destinations in Arizona filled with many exciting attractions for tourists and locals alike.
From scenic parks that allow you to have a relaxing time amidst nature to cultural sites that give you a glimpse into the history and heritage of the place – Chandler has something for everyone. The city also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that you can be a part of.
This article talks about the top 12 attractions in Chandler that you must visit on your next trip. Read further to know more about these must-visit places that make the city a delightful place to be.
Ostrich Festival
The Ostrich Festival is one of the most popular annual events hosted in Chandler that attracts thousands of visitors from Arizona and beyond. The festival started in 1989 and sees ostriches racing down the streets of Chandler as one of its main highlights. You also have ostrich themed activities, live music performances, a carnival, ostrich exhibits, food & drinks and local vendors.
Rawhide Western Town & Event Center
Experience the wild west at the Rawhide Western Town and Event Center spanning over 80 acres of land. It is an 1880s style western themed town that will make you feel like you have traveled back in time.
You can watch live stunt shows, ride a train, enjoy BBQ with live music, visit the reptile center, shop at specialty stores and do so much more here with your family. It is open all year round and hosts several seasonal events and festivals too.
Desert Breeze Park
Desert Breeze Park is a huge regional park by the Chandler Municipal government spread over 222 acres of land. The park contains a lake, pool, skatepark, fields for soccer/football, volleyball and baseball, several playground structures and walking trails.
You can relax by the lake, have a nice picnic with family, enjoy recreational facilities or simply explore the walking trails to breathe in some fresh air at Desert Breeze Park. Kids are surely going to love this place.
Chandler Museum
To get insights into the history and cultural heritage of Chandler, visit the Chandler Museum. Through interactive exhibits and displays, the museum showcases different periods of development of the city over the years since its establishment in 1912.
Some major attractions at the Chandler Museum include the Converter, Suhwaro, McCroskey and Folley displays, the 480 feet Historic Timeline, the Chandler aviation exhibit and much more. Make sure you stop by this highly informative museum on your sightseeing tour around Chandler.
Downtown Chandler & Dr. A.J. Chandler Park
The downtown area of Chandler and the Dr. A.J. Chandler Park together form one of the top attractions here. Take a relaxed stroll around downtown to see some notable landmarks around the City Hall campus, grab a bite or coffee at trendy downtown eateries and watch performances at the Center for the Arts amphitheater.
The adjacent scenic park contains the historic water tower of 1912, rose garden, public arts, patio area and a man-made lake. You can simply sit and relax at this serene park after exploring the vibrant downtown area.
Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center
The Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center is the perfect spot to beat the Arizona heat during the summer months. This 8-lane 50 meters long competition swimming pool has diving boards, lap lanes, zero-depth beach style entry, wet playground, splash pad, concession area and lounge chairs around the deck.
You can take swimming classes, enjoy recreational swimming or simply relax by the pool. It is open from May to September and you need an ID for admission.
Tumbleweed Ranch
Take your kids to Tumbleweed Ranch to let them have a fun time and create some memorable experiences. This child-friendly ranch set up offers pony rides, feeding animals like goats/chickens, pig races, an antique carousel, hay pyramids and much more.
It also has picnic spots for families to enjoy snacks/meals after kids are done having their share of adventures in the ranch area. Don’t miss visiting Tumbleweed Ranch on your trip to Chandler if traveling with kids.
Schnepf Farms
Schnepf Farms is a well-known local organic farm in Chandler spread over 270 acres that grows fresh fruits/vegetables and contains a country store selling its fresh produce. One of the key highlights here is the Peach Festival held annually in spring.
You can go on a Hayride Tour, visit the Critter Barn, enjoy train rides and carousel, play mini golf, hike, watch live music, eat at the farm-to-table restaurant and so much more with family at Schnepf Farms.
Chandler Fashion Center
For some retail therapy, make your way to the Chandler Fashion Center located right beside the loop 101 freeway in Chandler. This regional shopping mall contains over 180 shopping stores and restaurants/cafes you can explore.
From mainstream brands like Macy’s, Dillard’s Nordstorm, H&M to luxury stores like Tiffany & Co. and Tory Burch – it has shops/dining options catering to varied budgets and tastes. You are going to love shopping and eating out at this vibrant mall.
Environmental Education Center
The Chandler Environmental Education Center is built with the aim of educating people about global environmental challenges and sustainable solutions. Spread over five acres near Veterans Oasis Park, this education center contains innovative water conservation exhibits, desert botanical garden, renewable energy models and an ecology learning center for kids.
You can take a guided tour or explore on your own to learn about wide-ranging environmental topics through interactive displays at the center. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful botanical garden during your tour.
Paseo Vista Recreation Area
The Paseo Vista Recreation Area is a large park spanning 95 acres located in the northernmost part of Chandler. It contains a large lake, swimming beach, volleyball courts, soccer fields, large ramadas for events/parties, pathways and three big playgrounds for kids.
You can enjoy lakeside picnics, take a walk/jog on the paths, swim at the beach area, play various sports or simply relax amidst nature at this recreation area when in Chandler. It remains open from 5 AM to 11 PM daily.
Downtown Chandler Art Walk
The Downtown Chandler Art Walk held every third Friday of the month from 6 PM to 10 PM is a popular local event attracting both locals and tourists. The event sees many artists display their paintings/artwork on San Marcos Place while local shops/restaurants remain open.
You also have live music on four stages set up around downtown to amp up the festive vibes during the art walk. Don’t forget to check out original art pieces from over 100 artists at this special event when traveling to Chandler around the third Friday of any month.
Conclusion
With amazing festivals like the Ostrich Festival to western themed attractions like Rawhide and relaxing nature spots like the Paseo Vista Recreation Area – Chandler offers very diverse experiences to visitors of all interests. The city seamlessly blends urban development with culture, entertainment and nature – making it one of the best places to visit in Arizona.
So if you are looking to have a memorable and fun time amidst great attractions, exciting events, rich heritage sites and natural spaces – then Chandler is where your search ends. Plan a trip soon to discover the vibrant city of Chandler!