Chandler, AZ is a sunny, vibrant town in the southeast district of Arizona's capital. With its dramatic Sonoran Desert surroundings, an abundance of nearby natural and historical landmarks, and closeness to the bustling metropolis of Phoenix, there are many day trips to choose from. Let's take a look at 5 of the best of them. 5 Amazing Day Trips to Take From Chandler, AZ Montezuma Castle National Monument The surrounding region is filled with fascinating remnants of ancient Native Indian culture, the very best of which is Montezuma Castle. This beautiful castle is built into the limestone of an immense cliff wall. There's a visitor center directly below it with picnic tables to eat at while you enjoy the impressive view. Nearby is Montezuma Well, which is a large natural sinkhole where millions of gallons of water pump up from a natural spring. The paths around the castle and well make for some top-notch hiking. Jerome For a true taste of the old west, pay a visit to the incredible abandoned copper mining town of Jerome. Once known as one of the most lawless towns in the west, home to miners, bootleggers, gamblers, and gunslingers, many an infamous story has emerged from this legendary place. Today, Jerome is largely restored and designated a National Historic District. It's become a charming tourist destination, with many of the old-style buildings brought back to life in all their glory. You can stroll along the winding main street, enjoying the many artists, musicians, and souvenir gift shops. Saguaro National Park A two-hour drive to the south of town brings you to the area's most stunning national park. Here, you can hike over mountainsides covered in giant cacti, with breathtaking views of valleys below that are packed with curious rock formations. After a day of exploring the park, you can visit the neighboring Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which serves as an open-air museum, zoo, and botanical garden, all rolled into one. Heard Museum For an unparalleled experience of American Indian art, spend a day exploring the 40,000-strong collection of artwork at this special gallery in Phoenix. You'll see ceramics from across the centuries, jewelry of Navajo and Zuni origin, woven handbaskets, Navajo textiles, and many exhibitions of paintings. Chandler and Phoenix are steeped in Native American history, and this museum is one of the best places in the country to learn about Native Indian culture, and also the storied history of the region. It's also the oldest private museum in the state, dating back to 1929. Mt Lemmon Ski Valley You might be surprised to find an excellent ski resort to the south of town, which is open for skiing all year round. Mt Lemmon Ski Valley offers a wonderful cooling break from the heat of Arizona's valleys, with 200 skiable acres and 21 runs overlooking awe-inspiring views of the mountain slopes below. You'll spot interesting wildlife as you traverse the runs, including Mexican spotted owls, white-tailed deer, and cute coatimundi, a relative of the raccoon. The resort's amenities, restaurant, and staff are all of top quality, helping to make your visit one to remember. Once you've had a fun day out, visit Earnhardt Chevrolet, a family-oriented dealership that's been servicing the region's drivers since 1952 when founder Tex Earnhardt became the youngest Ford franchise owner in the entire country.
4 Best Camping Areas Near Chandler, AZ
Chandler, AZ is lucky enough to have some great places to camp nearby. The dry, arid landscape of the mesa is full of incredible views and fascinating flora and fauna to discover, and there's no better way to do it than by camping out in a tent or RV at one of these fantastic campsites. photo by: SteadyContent 4 Best Camping Areas Near Chandler, AZ 1. Oak Flat Campground Located in the rolling hills adjacent to the Devil's Canyon, Oak Flat Campground makes for a great place to stop for the night from those driving the Gila-Pinal Scenic Route that leads from Florence Junction to Globe. The surrounding area is especially popular with climbers and boulderers, but it is also very popular with families for its striking views of the desert. The campsite is something of a desert oasis, with large, mature oaks surrounding most of the site and providing shelter from the burning sun. 16 sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis, with no reservations available. The sites are suited to RVs and tents alike, but there is no running water or other amenities here, and fires are only allowed in the designated areas. 2. Peralta Canyon Campground This beautiful, primitive campground situated in the Superstition Mountains to the east of Chandler, offers some spectacular scenery, with classic Arizona desert views of cacti and rock formations stretching towards the cobalt-blue sky. It's a popular spot for hiking, with access to the 5.1-mile out-and-back Peralta Trail that runs from near the campground to the nearby Fremont Saddle, which offers incredible vistas of Weaver's Needle and the surrounding valley. No fires are allowed here, and there is no running water available, so be sure to bring all you need. 3. South Maricopa Mountains Wilderness Campgrounds This vast wilderness area, approximately 30 miles southwest of Chandler, offers lots of opportunities to camp. However, all the sites here are primitive campsites, without modern amenities such as showers, toilets, or electricity. Most pressing though is water, which is often lacking. Make sure to stock up in any towns you come to before heading into the wilderness. That being said, the Maricopa Mountains are an incredible place to experience the solitude of the desert, and there are lots of recreational activities available, hiking, horseback riding wildlife observation, and photography, especially of the huge cacti that scatter the area. 4. Picacho Peak Anyone traveling the I-10 highway south from Chandler won't be able to miss the imposing Picacho Peak as it rears above the desert floor. Those hiking up the peak can enjoy incredible views from the top that stretch over the lands beyond. Campsites can be reserved in advance, with a total of 85 electric sites that are suitable for both tents and RVs. No water is available, and the park is experiencing a major shortage at the time of writing, so check before you go and be sure to bring enough for you and your family. There's sure to be a new favorite amongst these great places to camp. If you're looking for a new vehicle for your next outdoor expedition, then visit Earnhardt Chevrolet today, where you'll find an amazing range of cars to choose from,
5 Favorite Hotels for Visiting Chandler, AZ
Situated in the southeast section of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Chandler, AZ is a super city to visit, with a whole lot to offer. It's a great place for business travelers who need access to Phoenix but don't want to base themselves in the busy downtown districts. It's also a super spot for couples and families, boasting many restaurants, shops, museums, and family attractions too. If you're planning a trip to the area, here are some of the best hotels to stay at. Photo by: Steady Content 5 Favorite Hotels for Visiting Chandler, AZ 1. Sonesta Select Phoenix Chandler If you want a hotel with a great location, Sonesta Select Phoenix Chandler is the place to be. It's perfectly situated mere minutes from some of Chandler's best museums, shops, and eateries, so it's a great place to base yourself while exploring the local area. It's also a very attractive, modern hotel with a long list of amenities, including an on-site restaurant, business center, fitness center, laundry facilities, and outdoor pool. 2. Hilton Phoenix Chandler In the hotel world, Hilton is a name that needs no introduction. Guests can enjoy all the high standards of comfort and luxury that this famous chain is known for when staying at the Hilton Phoenix Chandler. It's a very classy and elegant hotel with beautiful, spacious rooms and a prime location, right beside the Chandler Fashion Center. 3. Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Chandler Fashion Center Like the Hilton, the Drury Inn & Suites is situated right beside the Fashion Center, so it's absolutely ideal for those who love to shop. You can simply stroll out of your room and explore the stores in a matter of minutes. As for the hotel itself, it's a 3-star establishment with spacious rooms, speedy Wi-Fi, daily breakfasts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, too. 4. Cambria Hotel Phoenix Chandler Also located by the Fashion Center, the Cambria Hotel is a 4-star accommodation location with some of the best rooms and finest levels of service in the whole city. If you want a truly comfortable, memorable stay, this is the place to choose, with many of the rooms enjoying stunning views across the surrounding area, perfect for relaxing in the evenings as the sun goes down. 5. Best Western Inn of Chandler Equipped with an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi access throughout the rooms, and a sundeck space too, the Best Western Inn of Chandler is a great place to stay. It's also one of the more budget-friendly options in the Chandler area, ideal for those who want to save a little money to spend elsewhere during their trip. Rooms here have all you need, from coffee makers to cable TV, and many of Chandler's top downtown destinations are within walking distance too. Whether you're looking for comfortable rooms, luxurious amenities, or simply a great location, these places to stay in Chandler should provide all that you need. While in the area, you may also need to get your car serviced or checked out. Visit Earnhardt Chevrolet to get professional auto service from top mechanics.
3 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Chandler, AZ
Sitting not far from the southern Arizona desert and just a few miles from downtown Phoenix, the city of Chandler, AZ, is not the first place that comes to mind when thinking of fishing spots or water activities. However, Chandler residents and visitors can find excellent and nearby destinations where they can test their skills and catch a wide variety of local fish species. Fill up your tank, pack your gear, and hit the road! photo by: Olympus Property 3 Favorite Fishing Spots Near Chandler, AZ 1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Covering a surface area of about 7,500 acres, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located along the shores of one of the most important reservoirs for the water supply system of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Created with the construction of the Carl Pleasant Dam across the Agua Fria River, this body of water covers encompasses over 10,000 acres and is used as a popular water sports recreation center for locals and residents of the region. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located about 65 miles northwest of downtown Chandler, a distance that can be covered in a little over an hour by car along route I-17. This public recreation area offers visitors plenty of opportunities for boating, scuba diving, jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. Some of the fish species anglers can find in the waters of the reservoir include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, tilapia, redear sunfish, bluegill, channel catfish, and common carp. 2. Theodore Roosevelt Lake Located a little over 100 miles northeast of downtown Chandler, Theodore Roosevelt Lake is the oldest of six reservoirs constructed as part of the Salt River Project. Some of the species that can be found here include crappie, flathead catfish, channel catfish, carp, sunfish, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. This body of water encompasses an area of about 21,500 acres and serves flood protection, water supply, and hydroelectric energy production purposes. Driving from Chandler to Theodore Roosevelt Lake takes about an hour and 50 minutes, heading northeast along routes US-60 and AZ-188. Formed in 1911 with the construction of a masonry dam across the Salt River, this body of water is considered the oldest artificial reservoir in the state of Arizona. This lake is a major center for different recreational activities including fishing, boating, and camping, with most public access areas located along the southern shores. 3. Saguaro Lake Managed by the authorities of the Tonto National Forest, Saguaro Lake is another artificial reservoir formed by the construction of a dam across the Salt River. This body of water covers a surface area of about 1,200 acres and is a popular spot for champion bass and carp fishing. Some other species that can be found here include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, and sunfish. From Chandler, this lake can be reached in about 45 minutes by car. Are you ready to hit the road and check out these fantastic fishing destinations? Before you set off, visit us at Earnhardt Chevrolet. Whether you are looking for a Chevy car or truck, we have an extensive lineup and a team of friendly sales agents who will help you find the best deal for you.
7 Favorite Hiking Trails and Paths Near Chandler, AZ
Chandler, AZ features the most famous and beautiful aspects of Arizona scenery; dry desert landscapes, sedimentary rock canyons, cacti, and more! There are many hiking trails where you can enjoy this striking nature in and around town. Photo by: VisitChandler.com 7 Favorite Hiking Trails and Paths Near Chandler, AZ 1. Pima Park Loop This is a flat, short, and easy loop around a park in town. The paved path is wheelchair and child-friendly. You can also enjoy all the other facilities in the park, such as the baseball and soccer fields. 2. Young Man Trail Located in the South Mountain Preserve, this is a reasonably challenging 4-mile circuit. The first two miles of the hike are flat, and then the steady incline to the summit begins. You will need to keep your wits about you, as it's easy to wander off the trail and there are sure to be snakes and other critters lurking under the big rocks and in the small caves. After scrambling to the top, you will be greeted by breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, towns, and cities. 3. Desert Breeze Park Loop Desert Breeze Park is a popular outdoor spot in town featuring a fishing lake. This short loop allows you to experience the scenic beauty of the area. The 1-mile walk is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise before or after work, or even during your lunch break! 4. Midlife Crisis and National Trail Loop Another tricky trail in the South Mountain Preserve, this hike is not recommended for young children or pets. As there is no shade, it is advisable to start early in order to avoid being out under the full force of the desert sun and to bring plenty of water. If you go clockwise, you will start with the more difficult "Midlife Crisis" segment of the trail. This part of the route goes up and down frequently and has many rocky parts that you must scramble over. The stunning views are worth the hard work that is required to complete this trek. 5. Marcos de Niza Trail Marcos de Niza is a busy 2-mile out and back trail. This walk is a good way to get your heart pumping and the inclines will surely exercise those leg muscles. Anywhere along this epic journey is a great spot to catch a stunning sunrise or sunset! 6. Water Ranch Trail A 20-minute drive away from Chandler is the Gilbert Riparian Preserve. This fun trail is a nice spot to see some wildlife. Cute bunnies, fish, and beautiful birds love it in this urban park, and so will you. The trails are easy to traverse and surround several picturesque man-made lakes. 7. Veteran's Oasis Park Loop This paved route in a cool city park is mainly flat but has a small hill leading up to a cool man-made waterfall. The trail offers nice views of the lake and the chance to spot a variety of animals, like frogs, ducks, and coyotes. Check out the new and used vehicles at Earnhardt Chevrolet, Arizona's largest Chevy dealership.
5 of the Best Ice Cream Places Near Chandler
Chandler, AZ is the fourth largest city in Arizona and is a growing center for innovation and technology. Chandler is also home to some exciting attractions that you and your travel companions are sure to enjoy. Some of these attractions include the Chandler Center for the Arts, the Chandler Museum, and the Chandler Community Center. Make sure to also check out the delicious ice cream places near the city when you need a treat to cool down from the Arizona heat! 5 of the Best Ice Cream Places Near Chandler, AZ 1. Rewind Rewind is located in Chandler and sells cereal-infused scoops as well as premium quality matcha from Japan and tea with boba add-ons. Available scoop flavors include Thai tea, Vietnamese coffee, honey lavender, cinnamon apple pie, vegan pistachio cherry, and vegan vanilla coconut. Available toppings include brownie bites, cheesecake bites, cookie dough, marshmallows, chocolate chips, a caramel drizzle, fresh strawberries, and boba. 2. Icicles Icicles is located in Chandler and offers handcrafted and rolled scoops made daily using only the freshest fruit and ingredients. The shop makes each bowl directly in front of the customer and is a great place for friends and family to come together. Available scoop flavors include Butterface, Bravocado, Nutella and Chill, Cereal Killer, Rock and Roll, Pumpkin Ain't Easy, and All Fudged Up. Icicles also has 8 non-dairy flavors for those who cannot consume dairy. 3. Creme and Chocolats Creme and Chocolats is located in Chandler and only uses premium produce so that you taste the difference in each bite of the shop's desserts. The shop sells scoops, sweet crepes, sorbet bars, fondue, drinks, and savory crepes. Available scoop flavors include butter pecan, black cherry, vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, orange, raspberry, cookies and cream, and milk hazelnut. If you're looking to practise your French, the staff will even talk with you in French! 4. Frozen Creamery Frozen Creamery is located in the nearby town of Gilbert and prides itself on putting quality first and offering great coffee and scoops. The shop sells naked scoops, covered scoops, cakes, pints, specialty parfaits, and floats. Available scoop flavors include chunky peanut butter, chocolate brownie, raspberry pomegranate, vegan pistachio, cotton candy, and espresso chip. Available toppings include gummy bears, chocolate sprinkles, and waffle cone pieces. 5. The Screamery The Screamery is located in Chandler and offers scoops that are made from scratch in Arizona. All of the shop's scoops are made using whole and natural ingredients that are mixed with premium cream and milk. Available scoop flavors include sweet cream honeycomb, peppermint chip, blueberry cheesecake, caramel pretzel, coffee toffee, ooey-gooey buttercake, and lemonilla. Once you've found the perfect sweet treat that brings a smile to your face, it's a wonderful time to find a car that can take you on your future treat adventures. Stop by Earnhardt Chevrolet today and browse our inventory of new and used Chevrolets! We've been providing over 70 years of reputable service and we always strive to rise above the competition through offering amazing prices and treating customers like they are part of our family.