Tag: Attractions

Now through April 28, something is buzzing at the Phoenix Zoo. And it’s big – big bugs, that is.

The animatronic exhibit features 21 gigantic bugs that need to be seen to be believed. The larger-than-life exhibition showcases the superhero qualities of insects and why they are so important to life on Earth.

Beautifully detailed, the bugs are constructed with a combination of steel, fiberglass and skin material made from a special urethane compound that protects them from sun and rain. Each bug features realistic movements powered by a pneumatic system that enables smoother and finer bug-like maneuvers.

– Linda Hardwick, Phoenix Zoo

Following the completion of a $178 million modernization project, ISM Raceway is now among the most fan friendly in the race circuit.

The facility has been modernized with the fan experience top of mind. The unique INfield experience allows fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite teams in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series garages, and the new Gatorade Victory Lane configuration allows fans to celebrate alongside race winners.

In coming weeks, it will be on display for the world to see March 8-10 when NASCAR returns to the Valley for the TicketGuardian 500.

– The Arizona 100 Staff

Winter sports in Arizona? Yes, there are. And the season is almost here. That is hard to believe when it was above 100 degrees just a few short weeks ago.

The Arizona Snowbowl, located on the San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff, is expected to open Nov. 16. Sunrise Park Resort, located in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, and Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley in the Santa Catalina Mountains northeast of Tucson both have opening dates dependent upon their individual amounts of snowfall.

Mt. Lemon is the southernmost ski resort in the United States.

– Staff Reports, The Arizona 100

With more than 300 miles of thrilling single-track trails and breathtaking scenery, Sedona is one of the most sought-after destinations for mountain bikers of every skill level.

Establishing Sedona as a premier locale on the west coast for mountain biking, Enchantment Resort is launching “Ride the Red Rocks,” a four-night mountain biking adventure Oct. 29 to Nov. 2. It combines small-group guided rides (based on skill level), personalized instruction, luxurious accommodations at the award-winning resort and gourmet meals. Pivot Cycles will fit each guest with necessary gear.

To learn more or to book, click here.

– Alison Bailin, HMA Public Relations

Lowell Observatory has begun the first phase of its expansion with construction of the Giovale Open Deck Observatory (GODO). This new 4,300-square-foot observation plaza, located near the Pluto discovery telescope at Lowell, will help accommodate the observatory’s increasing crowd sizes.

Lowell allows everyone to explore the history of the universe, as well as modern science research.

The $3 million, donor-funded project will have an elevated observation deck and a roll-off building that will retract nightly and house six sophisticated telescopes. Future plans also include a 24,000-square-foot Astronomy Discovery Center on Mars Hill.

– Lisa Actor, Lowell Observatory

Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, Arizona, is gearing up for its biggest event of the year: the Pumpkin & Chili Party, voted the Best Fall Festival. This year’s theme is “Who is your Hero?”

Held every Thursday through Sunday in October, admission starts at $20 per person, and children under age two are no charge. Currently, there are discount tickets available at Fry’s Food stores.

Activities include pumpkin picking, amusement rides, bonfires, marshmallow roasting, corn mazes, pig races, mini golf and an incredible dog show. There are also fireworks each weekend. To learn more about hours, attractions and pricing, click here.

– Carrie Schnepf, Schnepf Farms