Buckeye

Buckeye’s a little wild, and a lot of fun. Explore a city that’s a haven for wildlife and outdoors enthusiasts of all ages.

On the edge of Phoenix and on the cusp of adventure, Buckeye refers to itself as Arizona’s biggest opportunity.

An early settler from Ohio, The Buckeye State, is responsible for the city’s name – in case you were wondering. It’s easy to step into the past and explore more of the city’s history at the Buckeye Museum, which covers its founding through today.

Buckeye is 30 miles west of Phoenix, at the metro area’s edge, and south of White Tank Mountain Regional Park – environmental opportunities abound here, perhaps nowhere better than the 8,675-acre Skyline Regional Park.

A 133-foot-long, 14-foot-wide bridge connects hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and campers to dozens of miles of trails at Skyline Regional Park, within the southern White Tank Mountains. Family programs include fitness hikes and stargazing events. Those who would like to view wildlife are in luck here, as javelina, desert fox, raptors, and the Sonoran Desert tortoise love the park’s seclusion.

Less wild, but still outdoors: Swing away at Raven Golf Club at Verrado, Sundance Golf Club, and Copper Canyon Golf Club year-round. On warm summer days, cool off at the Buckeye Aquatics Center – an outdoors facility with splash pads, slides, and pools. And every winter, check out the annual Hometown Holiday Boutique, an event with local crafts that are perfect for leaving under the tree.