CHANDLER

In 1891, Dr. Alexander John Chandler, the first veterinary surgeon for the territory of Arizona, bought 80 acres of land from the federal government south of Mesa in the Salt River Valley. Dr. Chandler studied the relatively new science of irrigation engineering and was instrumental in building an early system of canals in what was then an arid desert.

By the turn of the century, Dr. Chandler owned an 18,000 acre ranch. The charter of the Salt River Project provided that each landowner could obtain enough water to irrigate only 160 acres. Dr. Chandler sought the help of planners and architects in subdividing his ranch and drawing up a townsite map. He then advertised nationally the sale of Chandler Ranch sites. 

On May 17, 1912, Dr. Chandler opened the townsite office. Excursion trains on the newly completed Arizona Eastern Railroad brought 300 speculators who spent $50,000 for land that day.

The town then consisted of three wooden shacks -- the townsite office, a dining hall and the Morrison Grocery. There was also a billboard marking the site of the elegant future Hotel San Marcos. Dr. Chandler had an ambitious plan that was well ahead of his time. He envisioned a landscaped central park that would be surrounded by businesses. The walkways in front of the buildings would be covered by a trellis-like roof, supported by colonnades. Deed restrictions required land owners to build on their land within one year.

One year after the first land sale, Chandler was beginning to look like an established town. Businesses had been built along the west and south side of the park, including the Bank of Chandler and the Eastern Railroad depot.

Graded dirt roads encircled the park, and there were wagons, carts and Model T Fords busily moving about the town. The park was covered by grass, with newly planted trees, and was divided into a north and south side by the Commonwealth Canal.

The grand opening of the Hotel San Marcos took place on November 22, 1913. Among the 500 guests present were Governor George P. Hunt and Vice President Thomas Marshall. The hotel was an immediate success with wealthy visitors coming from all over the country every winter.

But agriculture was still the big business in Chandler at the time. Cotton, grains and alfalfa were the primary crops. Farmers also raised cattle, sheep and, yes, ostriches. Ostrich feathers were used to adorn popular women's fashions. Top quality feathers sold for as much as $250 a pound.

As the years passed, cotton became the most common and profitable crop in Chandler. By the time World War I began, long-staple cotton was in demand to be used for the production of rubber tires and aircraft fabrics. During the war, the Goodyear Tire Company leased 8,000 acres south of town from the Chandler Improvement Company and built the town of Goodyear.

By 1920, Chandler had more than 1,000 residents. Automobiles had become the main form of transportation, so the town's roads needed to be paved. The water and sewage systems were also outdated and the utility services were unreliable.

Arthur Price, the local Justice of the Peace, drafted the town's first charter, and in May of 1920, the citizens voted to incorporate and become the Town of Chandler. Dr. Chandler agreed to serve as the first mayor until one could be elected. They soon after elected a mayor and council.

The Great Depression was not a devastating experience for most of Chandler's residents. The cotton crash of 1920 had a far greater impact on the agriculturally based economy. Dr. Chandler, however, did not fare so well during the depression years. The Bank of Chandler collapsed and he lost the San Marcos to his creditors. He was able to retire comfortably, though, and lived in a cottage on the grounds of the hotel.

By the late 1930s, Chandler was experiencing some problems spurred by growth and technology. Drivers of the new faster cars sometimes didn't realize that Arizona Avenue then ended at the town plaza. Cars often jumped the curb and drove right into the park. And the large diesel trucks that made deliveries to businesses around the park had trouble navigating the narrow roads around the plaza.

In 1940, the state proposed to align Route 87 down Arizona Avenue. Residents were not happy to see their beautiful park divided in half for a highway, but the town's original design was no longer safe or practical.

In 1941, the U.S. Army Air Corps announced its plans for the construction of a fighter pilot training base east of Chandler. The base began operations in October and two months later Japanese bombers attacked Pearl Harbor. It soon became common to see uniformed men in town.

On August 14, 1945, Chandler residents celebrated late into the night when they received news of the end of the war.

During World War II, Chandler's population doubled and reached 3,800 by 1950 -- the year Dr. Chandler passed away. On May 24, 1954, the status of Chandler was upgraded from town to City.

In recent years, Chandler's borders have been expanded and the population has boomed -- from 30,000 in 1980 to nearly 220,000 today. The economic base of Chandler has been diversified. While agriculture is still somewhat of a vital element, Chandler now enjoys a strong manufacturing and electronics sector.

The downtown storefronts have been restored to a modern version of their original turn-of-the-century look, and the plaza has been redesigned and named after the City's founder. The Center for the Arts, new parks, restaurants and retail centers mark an exciting future for the City.

Family festivals such as the Ostrich Festival, and a host of other annual events, make Chandler a popular draw for travelers from all across the country.

And the citizens of Chandler enjoy a quality of life unsurpassed in the Valley today. It certainly appears that Dr. Chandler knew what he was doing the day he dreamed of this jewel in the desert.

Chandler Arizona Resorts and Hotels

Envisioned by Dr. Alexander J. Chandler and designed by Arthur Burnett Benton, the San Marcos was the first of the Chandler Arizona resorts and the first resort in Arizona, offering a full complement of amenities. Over the years, dignitaries, socialites and move stars gathered here - "where summer spends the winter" - to escape the cold and bask in the luxury of the resort. Today, visitors have many options for overnight accommodations. Whether you prefer the comfort of full service Chandler Arizona resorts or the convenience of an all-suite property, Chandler has something to suit every traveler.

Chandler Arizona Resorts and Hotels List:

Best Western
950 N. Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85225
480-814-8600
48 rooms, heated pool and Jacuzzi, continental breakfast, in-room coffee pot, hair dryer

Comfort Inn
255 N. Kyrene Road
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-705-8882 or 800-4-CHOICE
www.comfortinn.com
70 rooms, heated pool, free full hot breakfast, local calls, newspaper, dataports, voice mail, in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, off-site fitness center and meeting facilities. Walking distance to Intel, restaurants and shopping. Suites available.

Courtyard by Marriott
920 N. 54th Street
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-763-9500 or 800-835-6205
www.courtyard.com/phxcl
Your Marriott awaits. 156 rooms, heated pool, Jacuzzi, fitness room, restaurant (room service) lounge, in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, pay-per-view movies, meeting facilities, high speed internet accesses. Marriott Rewards Program.

Fairfield Inn
7425 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-940-0099
66 rooms, heated pool and Jacuzzi, extended continental breakfast, in-room coffee pot, hair dryer and pay-per-view movies. Off site, full service fitness facility - mile. Marriott Rewards Program.

Hampton Inn
7333 West Detroit St.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-753-5200 or 800-HAMPTON
www.hamptoninnchandler.com
101 spacious, comfortable rooms; complimentary deluxe continental breakfast; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; on-site fitness facility; in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, full-size ironing board & iron; pay-per-view movies, and TV with cable, HBO and Internet access; data-port hook-ups and free local phone calls; Hilton HHonors.

Hawthorn Suites
5858 W. Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-705-8881 or 800-527-1133
www.hawthorn.com
100 one & two bedroom suites, heated pool and spa, fitness center, daily hot breakfast buffet and guest laundry on site. Each room has fully equipped kitchen, coffee maker, hairdryer and bedroom separate from living space. Manager's reception every Wednesday, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Pets welcome with fee. Three meeting rooms.

Holiday Inn at Ocotillo (opening January 2004)
1200 W. Ocotillo Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85248
480-203-2121 or 800-887-5096
www.holiday-inn.com
106 rooms including two room Jacuzzi suites. Every room equipped with 27" TV, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron & ironing board, high speed internet, data-ports, and voice mail. Pool and whirlpool with Ramada, restaurant, lounge, on-site laundry facility, fitness center, 24-hour business center, 10-person boardroom, three meeting rooms totaling over 2,000 sq ft, free local phone calls, and free transportation to local businesses and attractions.

Homewood Suites
7373 West Detroit
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-753-6200 or 800-CALL HOME
www.homewoodsuiteschandler.com
83 one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens; complimentary pantry breakfast buffet; complimentary Manager's Reception (with food and drinks) Mon-Thur; 24 hour convenience "Suite" Shop; in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, full-size ironing board & iron; pay-per-view movies, and TV with cable, HBO and Internet access; data-port hook-ups; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; on-site fitness facility; on-site laundry facility; on-site Business Executive Center.

Red Roof Inn
7400 West Boston St.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-857-4969 or 800- RED-ROOF
131 clean, comfortable rooms. Business King rooms with work desk, modem and 25" color TV. Complimentary morning coffee and USA Today (Monday - Friday); full-expanded cable, 3 HBO's, Pay Per View and Nintendo; free local calls, voice mail, fax and copy service. Outdoor heated pool. Minutes to dining and area attractions.

Residence Inn
200 N. Federal Street
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-782-1551 or 800-331-3131
www.marriott.residenceinn.com
102 suites, heated pool and Jacuzzi, full breakfast buffet, full kitchen in each room, hair dryer, pets allowed with fee, guest laundry on site, evening social event, Monday thru Thursdays.

San Marcos Golf Resort and Conference Center
One San Marcos Place
Chandler, AZ 85225
480-812-0900 or 800-528-8071
www.sanmarcosresort.com
The most magnificent of Chandler Arizona resorts featuring 295 rooms, 18 hole golf course, tennis courts, two heated pools, two Jacuzzis, fitness center, two restaurants, a lounge, in-room coffee pots, hair dryer

Southgate Motel
7445 West Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-940-0308 or 800-286-7991
www.southgatemotel.com
49 rooms, heated pool, continental breakfast, microwave & refrigerator in every room, iron, ironing boards and hairdryers available, guest laundry, close to lots or restaurants, shopping and golf courses. Great central location!

SpringHill Suites by Marriott
225 North Metro Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-726-7666 or 888-287-9400
www.springhillsuites.com-phxcs
101 suites, heated pool and Jacuzzi, fitness room, continental breakfast, microwave, mini-refrigerator, coffee pot, hair dryer and oversize desk. Guest laundry facilities.

Super 8 Motel
7171 West Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-961-3888
www.super8.com
73 rooms, heated pool, Super Start breakfast, coffee/tea in lobby 24 hours, kings w/recliners, executive kings with micro-fridge and sofa bed. All double rooms feature queen size beds. Guest laundry. Pride of Super 8 property.

Windmill Inn Suites
3535 West Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-812-9600 or 800-547-4747
www.windmillinns.com/cha.htm
127 "true" suites, heated pool and whirlpool, fitness room, free extended continental breakfast, microwave, refrigerator, hair dryer, iron, and full size ironing board, data-ports and voice mail in each suite. Free 24-hour business center. Free coffee/tea, in the lobby, 24 hours. Pets welcome at no additional fee! On-site guest laundry. Three meeting rooms holding 100 people each can combine to accommodate 300 people.

Wyndham Garden Hotel
7475 West Chandler Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-961-4444 or 800-WYNDHAM
www.wyndham.com/chandler
159 rooms, heated pool and Jacuzzi, fitness room, full service restaurant, lounge, in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, high speed internet access in all guest rooms and meeting rooms. Four conference rooms totaling 1,800 square feet ideal for meetings and/or special events.

83 one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens; complimentary pantry breakfast buffet; complimentary Manager's Reception (with food and drinks) Mon-Thur; 24 hour convenience "Suite" Shop; in-room coffee pot, hair dryer, full-size ironing board & iron; pay-per-view movies, and TV with cable, HBO and Internet access; data-port hook-ups; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; on-site fitness facility; on-site laundry facility; on-site Business Executive Center.

Chandler Vacation Spots

Looking for Arizona vacation spots? Recently designated a National Register Historic District, downtown Chandler offers a unique collection of eclectic art galleries, trendy shops and award-winning restaurants making Chandler one of the great Arizona vacation spots. What other Arizona vacation spots allows you to "nosh" the afternoon away at a boutique winery, enjoy an old fashioned milk shake at an authentic diner, or explore one-of-a-kind shops, Historic Downtown has something for everyone. Throughout the spring and fall, music concerts are held on the city square, and a farmer's market operates year round on Thursday afternoons. For musical and cultural performances, the Chandler Center for the Arts is conveniently located within walking distance. Come see what makes Chandler one of the number one Arizona vacation spots today!

Chandler Center for the Arts

250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler,
480-782-2680, www.chandlercenter.org

The Chandler Center for the Arts is a world-class facility that showcases many talents from The London City Opera to Jay Leno, as well as The Nutcracker, the Phoenix Boys Choir and comedian Elayne Boosler. Throughout the year you'll also find several changing exhibits featuring the works of local artists.

Groundbreaking ceremonies for the 64,000-square-foot Chandler Center for the Arts were held in 1987 and the grand opening was celebrated in 1989. The unique design of the facility - featuring a "turntable divisible" auditorium system - allows two sections of seating in the rear of the main auditorium to rotate 180 degrees to face two more intimate stages. Walls move with the seating areas to prevent sound interference so that three events can run simultaneously. With a total seating capacity of 1,550, the Main Stage is capable of presenting large-scale theatrical and concert attractions. The Little Theater, seating 365, is well suited for plays and musical revues. Intimate performances are held in the 255-seat Recital Hall, including chamber music and a reader's theater. The hallmark of the complex is its superb acoustics, with the numerous turntable configurations offering a variety of options for sound transfer.

The Center's considerable amenities do not cease with those areas usually seen by the public. Below the facilities are expansive dressing rooms, production offices and tunnel access connecting stage areas. Located in the rear of the building are a dance studio, a rehearsal hall and a scene shop. A television studio offers continuous broadcasts over Chandler's cable service, emphasizing cultural and educational programs for both students and the general public. The Chandler Center for the Arts is ideally situated at the major intersection of Chandler Boulevard and Arizona Avenue, at the north end of downtown Chandler.

ListingsHistoric Downtown Chandler Business

Arizona Mesquite Company
91 W. Boston Street
480-899-6077
www.azmesquite.com
Arizona Mesquite Company is a small custom furniture company specializing in fine handcrafted mesquite furniture and unique art and accessories. Arizona Mesquite Company has experienced furniture designers on staff to provide individualized custom design.

Arrow Pharmacy
11 W. Boston Street
480-963-4594
A drugstore/pharmacy that has been serving Chandler residents since 1948.

BEADerie
238 S. Wall Street
480-899-7555
Beads * Beads * Beads - Crystals, semi-precious, vintage, glass, findings, seeds& delicas. The BEADerie also offers instructional classes.

Better Than Sex Cake Caf
238 S. Wall Street
480-722-1220
www.betterthansexcake.com
Serving lunch including sandwiches, pizza and daily specials. The caf focuses on cakes made from scratch for office parties, birthdays, weddings and much more and they deliver. Open Monday-Saturday.

Bistro @ Kokopelli Winery
35 W. Boston Street
480-792-6927
www.kokopelliwinery.com
Award-winning European style bistro serving lunches, noshes and wine tastings daily, seven days a week. Featuring Arizonas most decorated winery and its 25 still and sparkling wines made from organically grown Arizona grapes.

Brunchies
17 E. Boston Street
480-899-5036
This popular eatery has been a mainstay in Historic Downtown Chandler since 1979. Brunchies serves homemade American & Mexican breakfast and lunch daily from 6am-2pm. Brunchies specializes in Mexican Breakfasts, has daily specials, soup of the day, homemade desserts and always a smile!

Country Clipper Barbershop
52 S. San Marcos Place
An old-fashioned barbershop for mens and boys haircuts and shaves. Were a full service shop that specializes in todays latest cuts. No appointment necessary.

Cupids Diner
58 W. Buffalo Street
480-855-8343
A 50s style diner/ice cream shop serving hot dogs, burgers, wraps and Crunch and Cream ice cream with music from the 1950s.

Cypress Gardens & Wellness Center
242 S. Wall Street
480-899-2114
www.cypressgardenswellness.com
Chandlers premier Ayurvedic day spa and wellness center using ancient health and beauty secrets to delight the sense and refresh the mind and body.

Downtown 109 Salon
109 W. Boston Street
480-755-7977
A full service salon. Luella Wilson Smallwood (Owner/Stylist); Janet Hogan (Nail Technician) - (480) 628-1394; Teri Roller (Stylist) - (480) 614-6829; Melissa Evans (Stylist) - (480) 809-4600; and, Laurie Belsher (Endermologist) - (480) 857-8770.

El Zocalo Mexican Grille
16 S. San Marcos Place
480-722-0303
El Zocalo has an award winning garden oasis patio and great authentic Mexican food. Come relax and let the ambience and flavors transport you to the heart of Mexico City.

Flavors of Nature Caf
52 S. San Marcos Place
480-963-3660
The cafe serves healthy, low-fat fare including soups, salads and sandwiches as well as scrumptious breads and desserts.

Images at San Marcos Salon & Day Spa
10 San Marcos Place
480-917-3553
www.imagesatsanmarcos.com
A full service salon offering hair styling, nails, make-up and skin care, as well as other pampering needs including massage therapy.

InPockets Restaurant
40 S. San Marcos Place
480-726-2253
A Bakery, A Sandwich Evolution3;A unique sandwich recipe passed down from 18th Century German ancestors. The sandwiches, baked to order (15 different fillings), are encased in their own bread dough. Along with their full service bakery, InPockets also offers salads, soups and gourmet coffees.

La Stalla Cucina Rustica Restaurant
68 W. Buffalo Street
480-855-9990
La Stalla is an authentic Italian restaurant owned and operated by the Vetrati family. The restaurant a rustic atmosphere inspired by the warm kitchens of Italy. Benvenuti a la nostra tavola!

Phoenix Flower Shops
72 S. San Marcos Place
480-732-0070
Since 1960, Phoenix Flower Shops has been committed to providing the highest quality flowers, plants, candles and gifts available and is backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Religion Store
101 W. Boston Street
480-786-5090
As a positive and unifying model, The Religion Store, is a community resource. A gift shop and botanica providing various religious items and services. All religions and ethnicities are welcome.

Sabas Western Wear
67 W. Boston Street
480-437-2044
www.sabaswesternwear.com
Carrying on a family tradition for over 75 years, Sabas offers a great selection of quality western apparel at competitive prices. The friendly and helpful staff is sure to bring out the cowboy and cowgirl in you!

San Marcos Resort & Golf Course
1 San Marcos Place
480-812-0900
www.sanmarcosresort.com
Alexander J. Chandler broke ground for the San Marcos Resort in May 1912, just three months after Arizona was added as the 48th star on "Old Glory." Arizonas first two-story pre-cast concrete structure, designed by California architect Arthur Benton, is noteworthy for its mission revival architecture. From its grand opening in 1913, the San Marcos thrived as a winter haven for the "rich & famous." Aside from Arizonas first grass golf course, other amenities include two restaurants, A.J.s and Mulligans, and the 1912 lounge. Visit the photo gallery in the San Marcos lobby to feel a part of over 90 years of history.

A.J.s restaurant features a Jazz Brunch every Sunday, a Luncheon Buffet Monday through Friday, Happy Hour in the 1912 Lounge and Early Bird Specials. Luncheon tours of the resort are available Tuesday through Thursday. For more information regarding luncheon tours, call (480) 857-4434.

Serendipity
44 S. San Marcos Place
480-963-3526
An eclectic gift shop featuring artwork by local and national artists, Moroccan apparel, paper goods and unusual gifts from around the world.

Serranos Mexican Restaurant
141 S. Arizona Avenue
480-899-3318
www.serranosaz.com
Serranos Mexican Restaurant has been serving the finest Sonoran Mexican food in the East Valley for many years. The Serrano family have been residents of Chandler since 1919, and are considered to be the oldest continuous family-owned business in Chandler. Dishes are made fresh daily, from the homemade flour tortillas to the warm bean dip Serranos is famous for. Located just south of the Historic Downtown Square with six other valley locations.

South Chandler Video
85 W. Boston Street
480-821-5042
South Chandler Video serves the Hispanic and non-Spanish speaking community of Chandler by offering English only and bilingual films for rental. Stocked with new and popular titles, this video store also notarizes and translates documents.

Stamp Works
238 S. Wall Street
480-899-5958
Artistic rubber stamps for creating your own unique greeting cards. Over 8,000 different designs as well as all the other necessities ? inks, paper, glues, stickers, and much, much more.

The Chandler Framing Company
71 W. Boston Street
480-782-1166
A custom picture framing store ? offering stunning presentations at affordable prices and restoration of your precious photographs to last a lifetime, regardless of their condition. Unique home accessories and handmade candles.

Timbuktu Company
58 S. San Marcos Place
480-726-7395
Offering 6,000 square feet of international antiques, architectural accents, handcrafted furniture, unique dcor, gifts, jewelry, beads and much more. Come discover treasures for you and your home.

Vision Gallery
80 S. San Marcos Place
480-917-6859
www.visiongallery.org
A fine arts gallery located in Chandlers Historic Downtown offering artworks, sculpture, jewelry, glass and ceramics on display on a rotational basis representing more than 200 artists.

Local things to do

Chandler is great place to escape the congestion of Phoenix Arizona attractions. Enjoy a peaceful tour of Chandler and experience the fine Metro Phoenix Arizona attractions that chandler has to offer.

Below is a list of Metro Phoenix Arizona attractions that can be found in Chandler.

Arizona Railway Museum
www.azrymuseum.org
399 N. Delaware Street, Chandler
480-821-1108
The Arizona Railway Museum features restored train cars from different time periods in our country's rail history. The main building is a re-creation of the original Chandler depot, and showcases original rail company china and glass, uniforms, and other pieces of railway history. Presidential rail cars, movie set rail cars and many others reside at this museum, and can be explored at your leisure. Rail cars can also accommodate meetings and small groups for events. The museum is open 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays from Labor Day to Memorial Day and is one of Chandlers great metro Phoenix Arizona attractions.

Chandler Museum
178 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler
480-782-2717
The story of Chandler and Arizona comes to life at the Chandler Museum with artifacts, photographs and reconstructed period rooms. A few of the things you will see here include a replica of a tent house used by early settlers, artifacts of prehistoric southwestern Indians, and a scale model of Chandler's downtown plaza as it appeared in 1920. Special exhibits are featured in the changing exhibit gallery. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Admission is free.

Dugan's Dairy Farm
www.dugandairy.com
2471 S. Dobson Road, Chandler
480-899-8795
A tour of Dugan's will show you a piece of Chandler's history, and what life is like on a real, working farm. Visitors can milk a cow by hand, get up-close with many farm animals in the petting zoo, take a hayride around the dairy, learn about dairy vet techniques, check out the hay maze and graze the country store. Tours run October through mid-May only - so the cows may relax during the summer heat. Open Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, last hay ride leaves at 1:30pm.

Fairytale Brownies Factory
www.brownies.com
6280 W. Erie Street, Chandler
480-785-2125
Probably the most delicious of Chandler's Metro Phoenix attractions; Childhood friends, Eileen Spitalny and David Kravetz have been baking their secret family brownie recipe for 10 years now, and invite you to visit their facility in Chandler. Watch a short video of the brownie making process, tour the factory and enjoy yummy brownie samples. Public tours run January through August at 11:00 am on Fridays. Private tours for groups of 10 - 25 people are available Monday through Thursday between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Reservations are required for all tours.

The Vision Gallery
www.visiongallery.org
80 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler
480-917-6859
The Vision Gallery is a non-profit art gallery in Chandler's Historic City Center, and is managed by the Chandler Cultural Foundation. Exhibits are rotated every six weeks and all artwork is for sale. The gallery features works on canvas, watercolors, glass, mixed media and sculpture.

Regional things to do.

Arizona Science Center
www.azscience.org
600 E. Washington, Phoenix
602-716-2000
The Arizona Science Center offers hands-on, eye opening fun with more than 300 interactive exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations and traveling exhibitions.

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre
www.broadwaypalmwest.com
5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa
888-504-7256 or 480-325-6700
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre is a new 500-seat, year round theatre that presents professional, full-length Broadway musicals accompanied by a delicious buffet meal. Upcoming productions for the 2002 - 2003 season include Ragtime, White Christmas Revue and Fiddler on the Roof.

Commemorative Air Force Museum
www.arizonawingcaf.org
2017 North Greenfield, Mesa
480-924-1940 or 480-981-1945
The Commemorative Air Force is a worldwide, all volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the great warplanes that dominated the skies during World War II. Tour the hanger and museum facility and see the authentically restored World War II Bomber, Sentimental Journey. Also on display are a very rare German Heinkel HE-111, SNJ, C-45, B-25 and various other historic aircraft.

Desert Botanical Gardens
www.dbg.org
1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
480-941-1225
The Desert Botanical Gardens exhibit, conserve and showcase arid-land plants of the world. Situated on 145 acres, nestled amid the buttes of Papago Park, it's home to the world's largest and most diverse collection of succulent plants.

Fighter Combat International
www.fightercombat.com
Williams Gateway Airport, Mesa
866-FLY HARD
Fighter Combat International offers exciting aerial combat adventures for individuals, groups, events and businesses throughout North America. Introductory flights, no experience necessary. Bring a friend up in another plane and dogfight!

Firebird International Raceway
www.firebirdraceway.com
20000 Maricopa Road, Phoenix
602-268-0200
Firebird sits on 440 acres and is devoted entirely to the world of motor sports. This facility boasts an NHRA Winston Drag Racing national event, IHBA Drag Boat Racing, and four test courses including a CART-certified East Course, home of the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving and ProFormance Driving Events.

Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation/Taliesin West
www.franklloydwright.org
12621 Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale
480-860-2700
In late 1937, Wright purchased land in northeast Scottsdale, where he and his apprentices took on the task of building Taliesin West as a winter "camp." The complex of buildings included residential spaces, theaters, a shop and an architectural studio and drafting room. Visitors to Taliesin West will not see a museum, but rather a remarkably vital and active community of students and architects working together to maintain Wright's vision.

Gila River Casino
www.wingilariver.com
Located one mile south of Chandler Blvd., just off I-10, Phoenix
800-946-4452
Try your luck at one of the 500 slot machines or the 1500-seat bingo room. Test your skill in the spacious poker room, relax in the sports bar, play live keno, or get a bite to eat at the full service restaurant.

Hale Centre Theatre
www.haletheatrearizona.com
50 West Page Ave.
Gilbert, AZ
480-497-1181
The Hale Centre Theatre with four venues located throughout the western U.S. has just opened their fifth venue in Gilbert, Arizona this summer. Known for presenting quality, value-oriented comedy and musical productions, the new Hale Centre Theatre will seat 380 guests in the round and will open with select live evening and weekend performances.

Heard Museum
www.heard.org
2301 N. Central Ave, Phoenix
602-252-8848 or 602-252-8840
The internationally acclaimed Heard Museum is one of the best places to experience the myriad cultures and art of Native Americans of the Southwest. The museum's ten spacious exhibit galleries and beautiful outdoor courtyards feature outstanding traditional and contemporary Native American art.

Mesa Southwest Museum
www.mesasouthwestmuseum.com
53 N. McDonald Street, Mesa
480-644-2230
One of the premier museums in the state has recently doubled in size and established itself as "Arizona's Natural History Museum." The new "Dinosaur Mountain" is the largest dinosaur exhibit west of the Mississippi River. Also included is Arizona Highways photography gallery, Hohokam Indian dwellings and a recreation of the Lost Dutchman's gold mine.

Phoenix Art Museum
www.phxart.org
1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix
602-257-1222
In 1996, the Phoenix Art Museum celebrated the conclusion of an extensive $25 million expansion and renovation which made it one of the largest general visual arts institutions in the Southwest. Their Collection of over 17,000 works spans the centuries and emphasizes American Art, Asian Art, and European Art of the 14th - 19th Centuries, Western American Art, Modern and Contemporary Art, Spanish Colonial and Latin American Art, 18th - 20th Century Fashion Design and the Thorne Miniature Rooms.

Phoenix Zoo
www.phoenixzoo.org
455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
602-273-1341
Opened in 1962, The Phoenix Zoo is one of the nation's largest nonprofit zoological parks. Home to more than 1,300 animals, including 200 endangered or threatened birds, mammals and reptiles from around the world. Explore four unique and exciting trails: the Tropics Trail, Africa Trail, Discovery Trail and Arizona Trail.

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park
www.pueblogrande.com
4619 E. Washington St.
602-495-0900 or 602-495-0901
Pueblo Grande Museum is located at a 1,500 year-old Hohokam village ruins in modern day Phoenix. On the 102-acre park grounds, visitors can explore the ruin of an 800 year old platform mound possibly used by the Hohokam for ceremonies or as an administrative center. An excavated ballcourt, and two full-scale reproductions of prehistoric Hohokam homes can be viewed along the ruin trail.

The Riparian Institute & Preserves
www.riparianinstitute.org
1025 S. Gilbert Rd, Gilbert
602-696-1195 or 4/80-503-6744
The Riparian Institute is a non-profit organization set up to educate visitors on Arizona's original riparian (wetlands) areas. More than 140 different species of birds have been recorded here, as well as numerous species of butterflies and other wildlife. The Water Ranch habitats, located at Guadalupe and Greenfield Roads, are open to the public, and offer free-use trails, playground, ethno-botanical garden and a recreational lake.

Tempe Town Lake
www.tempe.gov/rio
Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe
480-350-8625
Tempe Town Lake, located adjacent to Downtown Tempe, provides a two-mile recreational haven for kayaking, sailing, rowing, jogging, skating or picnicking.

Statewide things to do

TO THE SUPERSTITIONS AND THE EAST:

Apache Trail Tours

www.apachetrailtours.com
Located in Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction
480-982-7661 Apache Trail Tours offers desert jeep tours, lake excursions and hikes in exclusive areas of the majestic Superstition Mountains. Hear the story of the Lost Dutchman's Mine that travelers still search for today, and learn about the living desert's plants and wildlife.

Besh-Ba-Gowah
Broad Street and Highway 60, Globe
928-425-0320
Besh-Ba-Gowah has one of the largest single site archaeological collections in the southwest, and is one of the most significant finds of Southwest archaeology. Visitors can walk through a 700-year-old Salado Culture pueblo, climb ladders to second story rooms, and view the typical furnishings of the era. Numerous artifacts are also displayed.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum
ag.arizona.edu/BTA/
37615 US Highway 60, Superior
520-689-2723
Mining magnate Colonel William Boyce Thompson founded his arboretum near Superior in the 1920s, to instill in people an appreciation of plants. The arboretum brings together plants from the Earth's many and varied deserts, and displays them alongside unspoiled examples of the native Sonoran Desert vegetation.

Dolly Steamboat
www.dollysteamboat.com
Located at Canyon Lake
480-827-9144
The Dolly Steamboat is a replica of the classic sternwheeler from America's riverboat era. The captain will share history of the Apache Trail and Canyon Lake, the flora and fauna of the lower Sonoran Desert and the legend and lore of the Superstition Mountains.

Goldfield Ghost Town
www.goldfieldghosttown.com
US Highway 88, Apache Junction
480-983-0333
Goldfield Ghost Town is an authentic 1890's ghost town (and the only authentic ghost town in the Phoenix Valley). Come explore the underground mine, take a helicopter or jeep tour in the Superstition Mountains, visit Goldfield's history museum or ride the only narrow gauge railroad in operation in Arizona.

TO TUCSON AND THE SOUTH:

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
www.desertmuseum.org
2021 N. Kinney Road, Tucson
520-883-2702
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a world-renowned zoo, natural history museum and botanical garden, all in one place! Within the 21-acre grounds, you will see more than 300 animal species and 1,200 kinds of plants.

Casa Grande Ruins
www.nps.gov/cagr/
Arizona Route 87, between Chandler and Coolidge
520-723-3172
For over a thousand years, prehistoric farmers inhabited much of the present-day state of Arizona. When the first Europeans arrived, all that remained of this ancient culture were the ruins of villages, irrigation canals and various artifacts. Among these ruins is the Casa Grande, or "Big House", one of the largest and most mysterious prehistoric structures ever built in North America.

Columbia University's Biosphere 2 Center
www.bio2.edu
Highway 77 & Mile Marker 96.5, Oracle
520-896-6400
Biosphere 2 opened to the public in 1990 as a research, teaching and public learning center. Walk through the various habitats, explore the exhibits and tour "Under the Glass."

Historic Florence
www.florenceaz.org
Chamber of Commerce
291 Bailey Street, Florence
Located south of Chandler, Florence is also an original Arizona territorial town. Founded in 1866, its history reflects the state's mining, agricultural and native cultures. Main Street serves as a baseline for its nationally registered historic district of 139 structures, a virtual museum of architectural style, taste and function of the past.

Kartchner Caverns State Park
www.pr.state.az.us/Parks/parkhtml/kartchner.html
Benson, 520-586-4100
In 1974, two young cavers were exploring the limestone hills at the base of the Whetstone Mountains. In the bottom of a sinkhole they found a narrow crack that seemed to indicate a cave. After several hours of crawling, they entered a pristine cavern. The cave's existence didn't become public knowledge until 1988, and only recently have visitors been allowed inside. Extraordinary precautions have been taken to conserve the cave's exceptional features.

Kitt Peak National Observatory
www.noao.edu/kpno
56 miles southwest of Tucson
520-318-8200
The world's largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert under some of the finest night skies in the world. Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O'odham Reservation, is home to 22 optical and two radio telescopes representing eight astronomical research institutes. Guided tours, including nightly observing programs, are offered regularly.

TO GRAND CANYON AND NORTHERN ARIZONA:

Arizona Snowbowl
www.arizonasnowbowl.com
PO Box 40
Flagstaff, AZ 86002-0040
928-779-1951
Snowbowl features 2,300 feet of vertical drop, average snowfall of 260 inches, 32 trails, four chairlifts, full-service rental shop, repair shop and ski school. Skiing mid-December through mid-April. From mid-June through mid-October, ride the scenic skyrde toward the top of the mountain for a breathtaking view.

Grand Canyon National Park
www.nps.gov/grca/
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
928-638-7888
Recently voted the "#1 Must See Spot" by the Society of American Travel Writers, the Grand Canyon is located entirely in northern Arizona, just 230 miles from metro Phoenix.

Grand Canyon Railway
www.thetrain.com
233 Grand Canyon Blvd.
Williams, AZ 86046
800-843-8724
Travel a century-old rail line aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway and arrive just steps from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Be entertained by cowboy characters, enjoy the tunes of strolling musicians, and be part of a mock train robbery as train travel from the early 1900s is recreated during the scenic 65-mile journey to the canyon.

IMAX Theater Grand Canyon
Located on Hwy 64/US 180
Tusayan, AZ
928-638-2468
www.grandcanyonimaxtheater.com
Experience the 7-story giant screen presentation of Grand Canyon-The Hidden Secrets, shown at the Grand Canyon IMAX Theatre. From the mysterious Anasazi who inhabited the Canyon 4,000 years ago, viewers will travel through time to join Major John Wesley Powell as he challenges the unexplored Canyon and raging Colorado River in 1869. The journey continues to today's relentless quest to conquer this majestic canyon.

Pink Jeep Tours
www.pinkjeeptours.com
PO Box 1447
Sedona, AZ 86339
928-282-5000 or 800-873-3662
Since 1958, Pink Jeep Tours has provided unrivaled excitement and adventure with guided jeep tours over and around the beautiful red rocks of Sedona. Whether you're seeking rugged adventure, Native American history and culture, nature, geology, or panoramic vistas, Pink Jeep has the right tour for you.

Sedona Arts Center
www.sedonartscenter.org
PO Box 569
Sedona, AZ 86339
928-282-3809 or 888-954-4442
Sedona Arts Center has world-class exhibits, special events, and more than 200 art courses, and workshops with nationally known instructors. Gallery features the largest selection of local artists' work.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
www.nps.gov/sucr/
Located near Flagstaff, Arizona
928-679-2365
Ancient Indians undoubtedly witnessed the eruption of Sunset Crater Volcano in A.D. 1064-1065 which blanketed the region with black cinder. Today the volcano's rim of red cinders and the lava flows near the cone have cooled and hardened to a jagged surface. Squeeze-ups and hornitos are just two of the fascinating volcanic features you'll encounter while exploring the park.

Verde Canyon Railroad
www.verdecanyonrr.com
300 North Broadway
Clarkdale, AZ 86324-2302
928-639-0010 or 800-293-7245
A ride on Verde Canyon Railroad's historic route from Clarkdale to Perkinsville and back - into Arizona's other "grand canyon" - is an unforgettable experience. Passengers on this popular excursion train are enthralled as the eagle-decorated, vintage rolls past towering, crimson cliffs; near ancient Indian ruins; over old-fashioned trestles; and though a dark, 680 foot, manmade tunnel on a four hour round trip.

Wupatki National Monument
www.nps.gov/wupa/
Located near Flagstaff, Arizona
928-679-2365
Less than 800 years ago, a large agricultural community spread across this volcanic plateau. The warm, arid climate and sparse vegetation today make the successes of these pueblo farmers remarkable. Here you'll see stunning artistry in masonry pueblos that emerge from bedrock to stand several stories high.

SHOPPING IN CHANDLER

Chandler Fashion Center

One of the most recent additions to the Westcor family, The Chandler Mall Fashion Center is a premier regional mall offering a new concept in shopping experiences. The Chandler mall is anchored by Nordstrom, Dillard's, Robinsons-May and Sears, and highlights the Village, an outdoor pavilion with a variety of restaurants, Harkins 20-plex Theater and SRP Centennial Waters, an interactive display of music, light and sound. Some of the other 180+ shops and eateries included in The Chandler Mall are Eddie Bauer Home, Pottery Barn Kids, Coach, Arden B, Harry & David, The Apple Store and Cheesecake Factory. The Chandler Mall Fashion Center is located on Chandler Boulevard at Highway 101/Price Freeway, just three miles west of Historic Downtown Chandler, or four miles east of Interstate 10.

Historic Downtown Chandler

Book an Arizona vacation package in Downtown Chandler. Historic Downtown Chandler is located at Arizona Avenue just south of Chandler Boulevard. Surrounding Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, the City's original town square, you'll find eclectic art galleries, trendy boutiques, and a variety of restaurants and. Make sure your Chandler Arizona vacation package includes a stay at the historic San Marcos Golf Resort. One of the newest arrivals in Historic Downtown is the Kokopelli Winery, an Arizona micro-winery and caf that opened in April 2001 and makes the perfect addition to your Chandler Arizona vacation package. Other shops include Timbuktu, offering exotic imports from around the world, Vision Gallery, showcasing the contemporary works of Arizona artists, and many more. This is a great place to spend an afternoon, wandering through the shops, breaking for a delicious lunch. Start planning your Chandler Arizona vacation package today!   

Click here for a list of Chandler Arizona resorts and hotels to find out which one has the Arizona vacation package for you.

Chandler Pavilions/Casa Paloma Shopping Center

Chandler Pavilions and Casa Paloma have a decidedly upscale feel, and offer unique shopping, dining and recreation. Here you can find year-round ice skating at the Polar Ice Arena, state-of-the art technology at Showcase Entertainment, and spectacular kitchen furnishings at Sur la Table. Trend setters will find the latest fashions at Talbots, White House/Black Market, Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. And don't forget to save time to enjoy a meal at any one of their many restaurants including Tomaso's, Bucca di Beppo, Z' Tejas Southwestern Grill and Barcelona - just to mention a few. Chandler Pavilions is conveniently located just east of Interstate 10 on Ray Road.

GOLF

Chandler, Arizona3;one well-linked city.

Looking to book Arizona vacations in the heart of a golf haven? Chandler features many remarkable golf courses for golf enthusiasts looking for great Arizona vacations.

People have been booking Arizona vacations in Chandler because of the championship level golf courses for almost as long as Arizona has been a state - some 90 years! It all started in 1913 at the San Marcos Resort on their 100- acre course. A year later, the course was seeded with Bermuda grass, making it the first grass links in Arizona. Today, golfers planning Arizona vacations to Chandler have many options

Some of Chandler's championship level golf courses include:

Bear Creek Golf Course
Lone Tree Golf Club
Ocotillo Golf Resort
San Marcos Golf Resort
Springfield Golf Resort

Book your Chandler Arizona vacations today and experience true championship level golf.

SPORTS & RECREATION

PARKS

Chandler Parks and Recreation Department
www.chandleraz.gov

Snedigar Sportsplex
4500 S. Basha Road, Chandler
480-782-2727 or 480-782-2640
Chandler offers one of the top rated skate parks in the country as part of its City Parks system. The 35,000 square foot park has been designed for all skaters, regardless of skill level. Snedigar Skate Park is a free, non-supervised facility and amenities include concrete bowls, decks, blocks, and metal rails. The Sportsplex also offers baseball, softball and soccer fields; playground equipment; a bark park for dogs and picnic pavilions. Open daily, hours vary seasonally.

Tumbleweed Tennis Complex
2200 S. McQueen Road, Chandler
480-963-5265
This 12-acre facility has 15 lighted courts and offers adult and youth tennis lessons, leagues, and tournaments. The 3,000-square-foot pro shop offers racquet string services, a meeting room, restrooms, locker rooms with showers, a sitting area, and merchandise for sale. Open daily, hours vary seasonally.

Chandler Community Center
125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler
480-782-2727
With 17 meeting rooms, the Chandler Community Center is the perfect place for seminars, exhibits, workshops, parties and family reunions. The 6,000 square foot multi-purpose room seats up to 400 people theatre style, and can be used for plays, concerts, large corporate meetings or wedding receptions. This room also has a large theatrical stage with curtains, lighting and a full dressing room. The full service kitchen can be used for small to large events.

Desert Breeze Park
660 N. Desert Breeze Blvd. East, Chandler
The Hummingbird Habitat at Desert Breeze Park is part of a demonstration garden that familiarizes visitors with Southwestern plants that are beautiful, low water usage, and part of the natural environment that supports area wildlife. Interpretive trail markers help identify plants. The park also offers ballfields, lake, walking trail, picnic pavilions, playground, restrooms and tennis.

POOLS

Arrowhead Pool
1475 W. Erie Street, Chandler
480-732-1064
L-shaped 50 meter pool with depths ranging from 3 to 12 feet, wading pool, 110 ft. water slide, concession stand, turf areas, shade armadas, pool furniture, 1-meter diving board and 3-meter diving board.

Desert Oasis Aquatic Center
1400 W, Summit Place, Chandler
480-732-1061 or 480-732-1062
Zero depth area with kiddie slide, rain drop and spray whale, 25 yard eight lane competition area, 1-meter diving board, 112 ft. figure eight water slide, turf areas, shade armadas, concession stand, sand volleyball course, play sand area with playground equipment, pool furniture and more.

Folley Pool
600 E. Fairview, Chandler
480-732-1063
A 25 yard L-shaped pool with one 1-meter and one 3-meter diving board, wading pool, beach boat kiddie slide, gushers, geysers, spray ballards, water playground and small ramada. Depth is 3 to 4 ft. except in diving well, which is 12 ft.

Hamilton Aquatic Center
3838 S. Arizona Avenue, Chandler
480-782-2630 or 480-782-2631
The Hamilton Aquatic Center features zero-depth entry, SCS interactive water feature, water vortex, current river, two water slides, eight-lane competition pool, two one-meter diving boards, training classroom, family dressing room and ramadas.

West Chandler Aquatic Pool
250 S. Kyrene Road, Chandler
480-783-8261 or 480-783-8262
Zero depth entry, 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, 25 yard eight lane, 112 ft. figure eight water slide, separate diving tank, and shade ramadas.

Desert Schools Coyote Center 7225 W. Harrison Street, Chandler
480-598-9400
www.desertschoolscoyotescenter.com
This state-of-the-art ice skating facility has two regulation sized ice surfaces, available for public skating, hockey and skating lessons. The 80,000-square-foot facility also houses a pro shop, Sbarro's Pizza, Gameworks video arcade and party rooms. Open daily, hours vary.

MAJOR LEAGUE SPORTS

Only eight cities in the country have professional teams in all four major sports, and Phoenix is one of them. For game schedules and ticket information please contact the following:

Arizona Cardinals Football
800-999-1402 or 602-379-0101
www.azcardinals.com
ASU Sun Devil Stadium, August thru January

Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball 877-280-6062 or 602-514-8400
www.arizonadiamondbacks.com
Bank One Ballpark, April thru September

Phoenix Suns Basketball
602-379-7867
www.suns.com
America West Arena, November thru April

Phoenix Coyotes Hockey
888-255-7825 or 480-562-7825
www.phoenixcoyotes.com
America West Arena, October thru April

Arizona Rattlers Arena Football
602-379-7800
www.azrattlers.com
America West Arena, April thru July

Phoenix Mercury Basketball (WNBA)
602-252-9622
www.phoenixmercury.com
America West Arena, May thru August

SPRING TRAINING

The southern Arizona Cactus League hosts twelve major league baseball teams in the relaxed atmosphere of spring training. And Chandler, with easy access to all of the stadiums, provides a great home-base for catching all of the major league action. Conveniently located to I-10, Loop 101 and Loop 202, Chandler is just 12 miles from Diablo Stadium, home of the 2002 World Champion Anaheim Angels, 14 miles from HoHoKam Park and the Chicago Cubs, and 15 miles from the home of the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium. Games take place every day from the end of February through the end of March.

Anaheim Angels
www.angelsbaseball.com
Tempe Diablo Stadium
2200 W. Alameda Dr.
Tempe, AZ 85282
602-438-9300 or 1-888-994-2567

Arizona Diamondbacks
www.azdiamondbacks.com
Tucson Electric Park
2500 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
520-434-1111 or 866-672-1343

Chicago Cubs
www.cubspringtraining.com
HoHoKam Park
1235 N. Center
Mesa, AZ 85201
480-964-4467 or 800-905-3315

Chicago White Sox
www.whitesox.com
Tucson Electric Park
2500 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
520-434-1111 or 866-672-1343

Colorado Rockies
www.coloradorockies.com
Hi Corbett Field
3400 E. Camino Campestre
Tucson, AZ 85716
520-327-9467 or 800-388-ROCK

Kansas City Royals
www.kcroyals.com
Surprise Stadium
15960 N. Bullard Ave.
Surprise, AZ 85374
623-594-5600 or 480-784-4444

Milwaukee Brewers
milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com
Maryvale Baseball Park
3600 N. 51st Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85031
623-245-5500

Oakland A's
www.oaklandathletics.com
Phoenix Municipal Stadium
5999 E. Van Buren
Phoenix, AZ 85008
602-392-0217

Seattle Mariners
www.mariners.org
Peoria Sports Complex
16101 N. 83rd Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85382
623-878-4337 or 800-409-1511

San Diego Padres
www.padres.com
Peoria Sports Complex
16101 N. 83rd Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85382
623-878-4337 or 800-409-1511

San Francisco Giants
www.sfgiants.com
Scottsdale Stadium
7408 E. Osborn
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-990-7972 or 800-225-2277