Summary
- Mansel Carter Oasis Park
- Queen Creek Performing Arts Center
- Queen Creek Olive Mill
- Milan Art Institute
- Superstition Farm
- Splash Pad at Founders Park
- Barney Family Sports Complex
- Queen Creek Skate Park
- Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center
- Discovery District Park
- Cosmo Dog Park
- AZ Grip ‘n Rip Batting Cages
- Silver Rein Horsemanship
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park
- Arizona Harvest Fest and Farmer’s Market
Although Queen Creek is relatively near Phoenix, its uniqueness becomes apparent upon arrival. This town, with its rich Arizona heritage, retains traditional charm and a strong identity, unlike many other places.
While national dining and retail establishments are present, numerous locally-owned family enterprises have flourished in Queen Creek for generations.
This community embodies a nostalgic aspect of the West, where a warm “howdy” may greet you; however, don’t feel the need to don cowboy boots.
1. Mansel Carter Oasis Park
Situated centrally in Queen Creek on East Appleby Road, Mansel Carter Oasis Park recently opened its doors on September 1st.
The park is accessible at no charge every day and offers a plethora of enjoyable activities that encourage repeat visits.
Spanning nearly 50 acres, the park features ample parking, restrooms, a fishing lake, trail access, and shaded picnic areas.
With numerous amenities available, the town has made significant efforts to create one of the most engaging public parks in the greater Phoenix area.
2. Queen Creek Performing Arts Center
Located on East Ocotillo Road, the Queen Creek Performing Arts Center is an intimate venue compared to many other facilities in the valley.
This center provides a platform for exceptional performing arts presentations.
Whether one seeks comedy, magic, or musical performances, it is advisable to consult the facility’s calendar for event details.
This center represents an invaluable asset, promising repeated enjoyment upon discovery.
Offering performances tailored for all age demographics, it serves as an ideal venue for dates, family activities, and group outings.
3. Queen Creek Olive Mill
Since the late 1990s, Queen Creek Olive Mill has been producing extra virgin olive oil in the area.
It may surprise some that olives are a recognized crop in Arizona, thanks to the region’s favorable soil and sunlight conditions.
Initially modest in scale, the mill now features over 7,000 olive trees representing a variety of types.
Visitors can partake in tours of the farm and production facilities, and enjoy meals at the highly praised onsite restaurant.
4. Milan Art Institute
The Milan Art Institute, located on South 220th Street in Queen Creek, is dedicated to enlightening individuals on the visual arts.
Although primarily serving as an educational institution for artists, it also provides numerous activities and classes for children, particularly those looking to enhance their creativity.
The institute additionally features tours, showcases of student artwork, and art supply resources.
This venue serves as a valuable source of inspiration as well.
5. Superstition Farm
Superstition Farm, located in nearby Mesa, provides farm tours, summer camps, and children’s programs, as well as rental facilities for events such as weddings and corporate functions.
This site enables families to learn firsthand how a modern dairy farm operates.
The summer program includes interactive activities, crafts, films, and meals for children, giving them insight into where their food is sourced.
6. Splash Pad at Founders Park
In order to escape the intense Arizona sun, visiting Founders Park, located across from town hall on South Ellsworth Road in Queen Creek, offers delightful recreational options.
The park, featuring a designated splash pad, operates under varying hours depending on the season.
Visitors are encouraged to bring towels, snacks, and sufficient drinking water for their enjoyment.
7. Barney Family Sports Complex
The Barney Family Sports Complex has established itself as a primary destination for indoor sporting events in the east valley for nearly a decade.
Just a short drive north of downtown Queen Creek, the complex provides venues for hockey, volleyball, and soccer.
Offering leagues for various age groups, the facility also supports introductory programs for children to engage them in athletics through enjoyable experiences.
The complex encompasses a vast 77,000 acres and includes a snack bar and ample seating for spectators.
8. Queen Creek Skate Park
Whether or not you are an avid skateboarder, the Queen Creek Skate Park on South Ellsworth Road offers an excellent environment to observe remarkable stunts performed by skilled individuals.
This skate park forms part of Founders Park, which encompasses over 10 acres of entertainment facilities in downtown Queen Creek.
The park remains open until 10 PM nightly, ensuring a well-lit atmosphere for continued enjoyment after dark.
Numerous special events are also hosted throughout the year.
9. Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center
Arizona has long been synonymous with equestrian culture, with a history steeped in cattle ranching and rodeos.
Located on East Riggs Road in Queen Creek, the 40-acre Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center offers more than just standard equestrian facilities.
This venue regularly hosts equestrian events, concerts, car displays, and weddings, with top-tier amenities available.
Instructional services for riding are accessible for all experience levels, making it suitable for aspiring equestrians.
Activities tailored for children are also available; consult their website for an event calendar, operating hours, and pricing information.
10. Discovery District Park
Discovery District Park, located on East Pecos Road in Gilbert, derives its name from the discovery of mammoth fossils during construction.
This park serves as a popular gathering point for local anglers eager to fish in its well-stocked ponds.
With nearly 50 acres available, the park is equipped with essential amenities, including restrooms, barbecue areas, and paved trails, enhancing the overall experience.
11. Cosmo Dog Park
The naming origins of Cosmo Dog Park remain unclear; however, it may be reminiscent of the character Cosmo Kramer from “Seinfeld.”
Located on East Ray Road in Gilbert, just a short drive from Queen Creek, this park provides separate spaces for large and small dogs, ensuring safety.
A water area is also featured, which pets typically enjoy.
In addition, the park offers courses complete with obstacles for both running and walking, allowing dogs to stay active and engaged.
12. AZ Grip ‘n Rip Batting Cages
Batting cages serve as excellent venues for improving hand-eye coordination and honing swinging techniques, regardless of whether one aspires to emulate a major league player or simply enjoy the sport.
Grip ‘n Rip Batting Cages accommodates both baseball and softball enthusiasts and offers lessons and clinics suitable for various age groups and skill levels.
Additionally, the facility provides glove repair services, transforming ordinary gloves into unique personal items, along with a retail outlet for necessary sporting equipment.
13. Silver Rein Horsemanship
For those interested in equine activities, Silver Rein Horsemanship in Florence offers guided trail rides through the picturesque San Tan Mountains, camping experiences, and individualized riding instruction.
Beginners need not worry, as comprehensive introductory lessons are provided; experienced horses are utilized to ensure a gentle learning process.
For a detailed list of available services, pricing, schedules, and customer reviews, it is beneficial to consult their website.
Additionally, the establishment provides horse boarding and training services.
14. San Tan Mountain Regional Park
Encompassing over 10,000 acres of protected land, San Tan Mountain Regional Park operates daily from dawn until dusk.
This park is an excellent venue to explore the ecological diversity inherent to the Sonoran Desert.
The visitor center proffers souvenirs and critical information regarding the extensive trail system winding through the park.
For optimal wildlife viewing, early morning and evening hours are highly recommended.
15. Arizona Harvest Fest and Farmer’s Market
Featuring nearly 200 vendors offering a wide array of goods, from local produce to handcrafted items and gourmet foods, the Arizona Harvest Fest and Farmer’s Market in Chandler is an event not to be missed.
The festival offers free admission and includes live music, a dedicated area for children, and a variety of entertaining activities like pumpkin tossing and pie-eating contests.
The market not only supports local entrepreneurs but also presents an excellent opportunity to enjoy a fun outing while acquiring distinctive gifts.
Arriving early is encouraged to indulge in delicious food and gourmet coffee.