Are you going to the AOPA Fly-In at the Buckeye Air Fair? Are you looking for something to do each evening or staying a couple of extra days? Read on for a few unique destinations you’d enjoy, each under 45 miles from Buckeye Municipal Airport (KBXK)!
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden opened in 1939 by passionate locals who joined forces to save the desert. This garden has been able to preserve the desert for over eight decades! Think of it as a living museum. You’ll be able to see plants you’ve never heard of before- this garden has 519 rare and endangered species! It also features sculptures in the garden created by local artists.
There are plenty of events happening during the weekend. If you’re bringing your kids, they’d love the Cactus Clubhouse, where they can engage with the outdoors. Music in the Garden is happening Friday night. You could listen to Carmela Y Más in the middle of the desert! You can schedule a garden tour, but you must order tickets ahead of time.
Corral West Horse Adventures
Have you ever dreamed of being a cowboy? Located in the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, Corral West Horse Adventures allows you to fulfill this dream. Don’t worry- boots, hats, and chaps are provided so you can look the part. They offer a variety of experiences such as horseback riding, wagon adventures, sunset rides, a cowboy cookout, and campfires.
Exploring Nature
Here are some popular areas where you can explore the Sonoran Desert:
Robbins Butte Wildlife Area
This area is only 12 miles from Buckeye Municipal Airport and is popular for birdwatching. This area is home to diverse wildlife including reptiles, birds, mammals, fish, and vegetation. Some animals unique to the Southwest are the ringtail cat, part of the raccoon family, and the javelina, a pig-like hoofed animal. It’s important to note that rattlesnakes are also common, so be careful! You can hike on its 25.5-mile trail, fishing in the Gila River, and camping.
Sonoran Desert National Monument
This site is known as the most biologically diverse desert in North America! The landscape is untouched and contains the saguaro cactus forest and three mountain ranges. Another thing that makes it unique is its historical sites and trails. Explore the history of Spanish explorers, early Native Americans, homesteaders, and miners. You can go hiking and biking on four designated trails, horseback riding, and camping at this location.
Attending a fly-in in a new location brings a great opportunity to explore the surrounding area. If you have extra time to kill, check out these places to experience Buckeye’s culture, history, and beauty!