A gateway to the Sonoran Desert National Monument, Chandler is a vibrant city-suburb south-east of Phoenix. It features attractive green spaces and a rich railway history and is home to one of the most impressive Native American and Western art collections in the United States.
Things to do in Chandler
Train enthusiasts should visit the Arizona Railway Museum to admire its extensive collection of antique locomotives and rolling stock. Wander through vintage carriages and street trolleys, then peruse the train-related artefacts, including control systems, wheels and engines.
Spend an afternoon relaxing in the Desert Breeze Park, which boasts a children’s playground, splash pad and lakeside walking trails. It’s also home to the Desert Breeze Railroad, which offers scenic rides through the park aboard its beautifully restored open-air coaches.
Discover the local artistic culture at the Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Western American and Native American art. Admire the paintings, stone sculptures, pottery and textiles of the Eddie Basha Collection, including works by some of America’s most renowned cowboy artists.
Travelling with kids? Head to the Playtopia playground within the central green space of Tumbleweed Park. It’s designed around numerous zones drawing on Chandler’s heritage, including the Farm Land play area, the bug-inspired equipment of Critter Land and the urban-themed City Land.
Getting around Chandler
Chandler is located around 25 minutes’ drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and slightly further from Downtown Phoenix. Buses service most corners of Chandler and connect to neighbouring cities.