5 Places to See Saguaro Cactuses in Phoenix for the Perfect Selfie

Carol Bastian

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Photo by Dulcey Lima on Unsplash

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Instagram post, head to Phoenix, Arizona, where you’ll find towering saguaro cactuses everywhere you turn. These unique plants can only be found in the Sonoran Desert, and there’s no better place to see them than in Phoenix. So snap a photo of yourself with a saguaro and get ready to wow your followers!


Read on for fascinating information about the iconic Saguaro cactus and where to find them in Phoenix.


Saguaro Cactus Quick Facts

The Saguaro Cactus: A Must-see Arizona Icon <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/AeqlmVWtzFA?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditShareLink/">Photo Source</a>
The Saguaro Cactus: A Must-see Arizona Icon Photo Source
  • The Saguaro is the giant cactus in the country.
  • Saguaro cacti can gain around a foot in height per decade. As a rule of thumb, they won’t get their first “arm” until they’re 50 or older.
  • Saguaro cactuses can live up to 150–250 years. Some of the pieces may be even older. Because Saguaros are sensitive to changes in climate and environment, it is impossible to tell how old they are. How fast a Saguaro grows is affected by how dry it is and how much sun it gets.
  • Late April is when Saguaro cacti bloom. In the dark of night, when long-nosed bats are most active, their flowers open and are pollinated.
  • Saguaro cacti are protected by law in Arizona. You need a permit to remove a Saguaro cactus from your property or a building site!

Phoenix’s Saguaro Cactus: Where to Find Them

The towering cacti are a signature of the desert landscape and make for a perfect photo backdrop. Here are some of our favorite places to snap a pic with a Saguaro cactus:


The Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden <a href="https://dbg.org/">Photo Source</a>
The Desert Botanical Garden Photo Source

1201 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix

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480 941 1225

https://dbg.org/

If you’re visiting Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss attraction – and it’s only a short drive from the airport! The garden is beautifully landscaped and tranquil, and it’s especially magical when the sun starts to set. Be sure to stay until after dark, when the cacti and other plants are lit with twinkling lights. It’s an unforgettable experience!


The Desert Botanical Garden is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm. Admission is $24.95 for adults. Make sure to check out their website to find their latest promotion.


The Phoenician: Scottsdale Luxury Collection Resort

The Phoenician: Scottsdale Luxury Collection Resort <a href="https://www.thephoenician.com/">Photo Source</a>
The Phoenician: Scottsdale Luxury Collection Resort Photo Source

6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale

https://www.thephoenician.com/

If you want to see a large number of Saguaros but don’t feel like traveling too far from the convenience of the city, you can stay at The Phoenician: Scottsdale Luxury Collection Resort.


The Phoenician is a world-renowned luxury resort located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The resort is home to three pools, an excellent golf course, and an award-winning spa. The Phoenician is also known for its stunning cactus garden, which features over 250 varieties of cacti. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the cactus garden every Friday morning or take a stroll on their own to admire the plants.


South Mountain Park & Preserve

South Mountain Park & Preserve <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/pf-eZzTvVzk?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditShareLink">Photo Source</a>
South Mountain Park & Preserve Photo Source

10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix

South Mountain Park & Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States. The park is located south of downtown Phoenix and features over 16,000 acres of a desert landscape. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. There are also several scenic lookout points where you can get a great view of the city. The park can be crowded on weekends, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, try visiting during the week. You’ll also find plenty of Saguaro cactuses throughout the park! Gates open at 5 am and close at 7 pm.

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Lost Dutchman State Park

Lost Dutchman State Park <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/5CT2D4V7orE?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditShareLink/">Photo Source</a>
Lost Dutchman State Park Photo Source

6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction

The drive to Lost Dutchman State Park is worth it, especially if you love hiking! You can explore six different trails, but we recommend the TL Loop for a shorter hike with some incredible views of the mountains. You’ll also spot some Saguaro cactuses along the path. Just remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen – it can get pretty hot in Arizona! The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle, and the park is open from 6 am to 8 pm.


Cave Creek Regional Park

Cave Creek Regional Park <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/kllK3au_Tp4?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditShareLink/">Photo Source</a>
Cave Creek Regional Park Photo Source

37019 N Lava Ln, Cave Creek

This well-maintained park is perfect for a family weekend picnic or a solo hike. I was amazed by the number of blooming cacti and the size of some of the Saguaros – they were the highest I’d ever seen! The park was quiet and peaceful, and I highly recommend taking the Go John trail.


Conclusion

My personal favorite is South Mountain Park & Preserve. The park is huge, and there’s something for everyone – plus, it’s just a short drive from downtown Phoenix!


There you have it – our top picks for places to see Saguaro cactuses in Phoenix! Whether you’re looking for a quick photo op or a day-long adventure, these destinations will not disappoint. So get out there and explore all that the desert has to offer!


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