If you're considering a move into the assisted living community at Bethesda Gardens in Phoenix and you want to ensure there are fun things to do nearby, we've got you covered. Here are just nine day trips you can take in the area. We've included approximate distance from Bethesda Gardens and some information about what to expect at each location.
Distance: Around 30 minutes via car
Old Town is a thriving entertainment and shopping district with a unique Western ambiance. You can enjoy creative sights in the art district, view historical buildings and grab something to eat throughout the area. Shopping and entertainment options abound, and while the entire area is walkable, you can rent a golf cart or use other unique modes of transportation to save your energy.
Distance: Around 20 minutes via car
General admission to the Desert Botanical Garden is $24.95 to $29.95, but from June 1 through September 1, all guests pay $16.95. If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can plan to visit the garden on the second Tuesday of any month, when admission is free.
From May through August, the garden is open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and from October through April, hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The garden can be fully accessed via wheelchair or with a rolling walker. If you don't have your own mobility device and feel you might best view the gardens with one, you can rent a scooter for $40.
Distance: Around 1 hour via car
If you can't get enough of botanical gardens, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum is an enormous offering that provides options to view thousands of desert plants from around the world. Hours vary depending on the day and season, so check the arboretum website before you plan a trip. Admission is $24.95 for adults, but members get in free (memberships start at $75 per year).
This attraction involves a lot of walking as there are 4.7 miles of trails. If you travel them all, you'll see gardens with plants from 11 regions of the world. You can also pick a specific garden or two and focus on that flora and fauna, enjoying beautiful plants without as much walking.
Distance: Around 25 minutes via car
The Heard Museum in Phoenix displays American Indian art, and its collection includes stunning beadwork, baskets, jewelry, paintings and other art. You can visit the museum Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but it's closed on some holidays. Adults aged 65 and older pay $18 for admission, but you can get $1 off of that cost if you're an AAA member. American Indians with Tribal ID or CIB enter free. If you have a group of 10 or more, you can get further discounted admission.
The museum has ADA-compliant parking for those in need, and there are elevators and other mobility and wheelchair accommodations throughout. Audio tours, written transcripts and guided American Sign Language tours are also available upon request.
Distance: Around 1.5 hours via car
You can view a scenic natural bridge and explore hiking trails and views at this state park. Pack a picnic to enjoy if the weather is nice. Admission for adults to this park is $7. If you want to explore with grandkids, you'll pay $4 for kids aged 7 to 13; children younger than 7 are free.
Hours vary by season, so check the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park website when planning your day trip. Note that you can enjoy views without hiking from four parking lots, and there are interpretive exhibits in the lodge to view.
Distance: Around 25 minutes via car
This historical square features restored buildings and charming architecture. You can tour the Rosson House Museum for $12 with the senior discount or take a walking tour of the square for $12. Heritage Square members don't pay admission to the tours or museum, and memberships start at $30 per year.
Distance: Around 45 minutes via car
This unique experience transports you to the days of the Old West and Gold Rush. You can meander in and out of historical buildings and shops, check out a museum and get a mine tour. Do a little shopping and grab a cup of coffee or a meal at the steakhouse and saloon. Plan to pay for each attraction you want to participate in. For example, senior tickets for the Superstition Narrow Gauge Railroad are $10, as are tickets for the mine tour.
Other attractions at the ghost town include walking tours, Apache trail tours, a zipline, a mystery shack and a reenacted gunfight.
