Looking for a desert escape with Western charm and outdoor adventure? Head to Buckeye! Surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and filled with parks, trails, and historic charm, Buckeye is one of Arizona’s fastest-growing cities and a great base for exploring the Sonoran Desert.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Buckeye is from November through April. With sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, this is perfect for hiking, golfing, and attending outdoor festivals without the extreme heat of summer.
How to Get There
- By Car: Located along Interstate 10, Buckeye is about 35 minutes west of downtown Phoenix and easily accessible by highway.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), roughly 40 miles away.
- By Bus: Valley Metro offers limited bus service connecting Buckeye with greater Phoenix. Rideshare services are also widely available.
Where to Stay
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Buckeye – A modern, pet-friendly hotel with suites, free breakfast, and easy highway access.
- My Place Hotel-Buckeye – Comfortable extended-stay option with kitchenettes, great for families or longer visits.
- Wigwam Resort – For a nearby luxury experience, stay at this historic resort just 25 minutes east in Litchfield Park.
Top Attractions
⮕ Skyline Regional Park
Hike rugged trails and admire desert views on an exciting outdoor trip.
Skyline Regional Park is an 8,700-acre mountain preserve which can found in Buckeye’s southern White Tank Mountains. There are miles and miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and much more. Some of their most popular trails include Mountain Wash, Quartz Mine, Tortuga, and their longest, the three-mile-long Turnbuckle Trail. Visitors who want to stay overnight or longer may be interested in renting out one of the seven campsites or five ramadas which are available; each campsite can accommodate one RV or trailer and have fire pits ready for use. There are several programs held at the park such as a fitness hike which integrates yoga and a guided interpretive hike to learn more about the area’s wildlife.
2600 N Watson Rd, Buckeye, AZ 85396, Phone: 623-349-6350
⮕ Buckeye Aquatics Center
Splash in cool pools and enjoy slides on a fun kids summer outing.
The Buckeye Aquatics Center is one of the area’s finest swimming and diving pools in the valley. The outdoor facility is tons of fun and the water attractions include a 160-foot circular pool slide and a ten-foot-high diving board. Those with little ones will enjoy spending time at the beach front area and the zero-depth pool that’s specifically designed for younger patrons. The center also provides swim lessons, lap swimming programs, a lifeguard certification course, and water aerobics for those who want to gain a bit more confidence in the water or to just get some fun-filled exercise.
207 N 9th St, Buckeye, AZ 85326, Phone: 623-349-6390
⮕ Skydive Buckeye
Feel the thrill and see aerial views on an unforgettable unusual adventure.
If you’re in Buckeye and looking for an adrenaline rush, there’s no better place for it than at Skydive Buckeye. The fun and safe environment is the premier skydiving center in the valley and offers the thrilling opportunity to see Arizona in a unique way all year round. First-time skydivers will start their experience by meeting their tandem instructor who will talk you through the dive and answer any questions that you may have. There will be no need to worry as the professional instructor will handle all the equipment when you’re up in the air, letting you fully enjoy your freefall. Skydive Buckeye also offers opportunities for experienced jumpers as well as those who want to learn how to skydive.
3000 S Palo Verde Rd, Buckeye, AZ 85326, Phone: 623-980-4888
For Golfers
⮕ Sundance Golf Club
Play scenic fairways and relax afterward on an easy weekend escape.
The Sundance Golf Club is one of the best kept secrets in Buckeye’s West Valley. They have four sets of tee boxes with varying distances from 5,300 to 7,000 yards, all of which is surrounded by panoramic vistas of the Estrella Mountains and the White Tank Mountains. Players of all abilities will be able to test their skills and have a wonderful time swinging a couple of rounds. Their signature hole, hole # 6, measures 3,175 yards and requires a precision shot over the only water feature in the entire golf course. Other amenities include a driving range, a putting/ chipping area, rental clubs, golf carts, a fully-stocked pro shop, and golf lessons conducted by PGA golf professionals.
900 S Sundance Pkwy, Buckeye, AZ 85326, Phone: 623-328-0400
⮕ Copper Canyon Golf Club
Tee off in the desert and enjoy mountain views on a peaceful retirement trip.
The Copper Canyon Golf Club is an 18-hole championship golf course which was designed by Brian Curley and Lee Schmidt and is the centerpiece of the Pulte/ Del Webb adult communities. With over 100 yards in tee length, the practice facilities are one of the greatest in the valley. The Sage Center, a state-of-the-art recreational center, compliments the golf course and is a wonderful place to spend time when you’re not out on the greens. Once all is said and done have a delicious meal at the Indigo Grille which overlooks the 1st and 10th tees or a snack at their Festival Snack Bar.
26577 W Desert Vista Blvd, Buckeye, AZ 85396, Phone: 928-252-6783
Where to Eat
⮕ Cafe 25:35, Buckeye, Arizona
Savor fresh flavors and relax downtown on a quick affordable bite.
Cafe 25:35 can be found in a charming 80-year-old building in downtown Buckeye, which was once home to a historic bar, The Palms. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch while also housing a full-service coffee bar featuring brews made from beans roasted locally. Popular items from their menu are the Arkansas breakfast burrito, Tony’s garlic burger, their buffalo chicken sandwich, the ultimate grilled cheese with cheddar, gouda, and Monterey jack, and their creamy smoked tomato bisque soup. All of the baked goods offered are made in house, from scratch, and by hand so be sure to try some while you’re there.
409 Monroe Ave, Buckeye, AZ 85326, Phone: 623-386-2535
If you are a first time visitor:
- Buckeye Valley Museum – Explore the city’s agricultural and Western roots in a charming historical building.
- Robbins Butte Wildlife Area – Birdwatch and spot wildlife in this natural desert haven near the Gila River.
- Historic Downtown Buckeye – Discover antique shops, eateries, murals, and local history along Monroe Avenue.
- Hidden Lake – Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or live music events at this private lake and outdoor venue.
More Places to Eat
- Tempo Urban Bistro – Inventive American eats and craft brews just east of Buckeye in Verrado.
- Argento's Pizza & Wings – Laid-back joint for NY-style pizza, wings, and hearty Italian favorites.
If you are interested in local events:
- Verrado Founder’s Day (Spring) – Live music, food trucks, fireworks, and family fun in nearby Verrado.
- Buckeye Air Fair (February) – See vintage aircraft, air shows, and STEM exhibits at Buckeye Municipal Airport.
- Glow on Monroe (December) – Holiday street fair with lights, vendors, and festive entertainment in downtown Buckeye.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Buckeye, Arizona:
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park (30 min) – Hike desert trails, visit petroglyphs, or camp under the stars.
- Goodyear Ballpark (25–30 min) – Catch spring training baseball with great views and lively crowds.
- Litchfield Park (25 min) – Stroll quaint streets, shop local, or enjoy golf and spa resorts.
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park (25 min) – Hike scenic trails or go horseback riding along desert paths.
- Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park (20–25 min) – Get up close with exotic animals and marine life near Litchfield Park.
- Verrado Main Street (15–20 min) – Shop, dine, or explore the charming planned community with desert backdrops.
- Desert Sky Mall (25–30 min) – Shop popular brands and grab a bite in this Phoenix-area mall.
- Avondale Sports Complex (25–30 min) – Sports fields, playgrounds, and open green spaces for active families.
- Gila River (15–20 min) – Go fishing, explore riverbanks, or watch desert wildlife in a peaceful natural setting.
FAQ
- What makes Buckeye, Arizona a great family destination?
- Buckeye is filled with small-town attractions, beautifully-manicured golf courses, and Old West charm, making it a favorite with visitors of all ages.
- What is the weather like in Buckeye, Arizona?
- Buckeye enjoys beautiful weather, making it a pleasant destination for outdoor activities.
- What outdoor activities can you do in Buckeye?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and camping, surrounded by deserts, valleys, and mountains.
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