Boyce Thompson Arboretum

The mission of Boyce Thompson Arboretum is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of desert plants, wildlife, and ecosystems through education, research and conservation.

Located just outside of Superior, AZ, Boyce Thompson Arboretum (BTA) is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden, encompassing 372 total acres of upland Sonoran Desert along the Queen Creek Canyon. Within BTA are 4,025 plant taxa, approximately 30% of which are species of conservation concern. Because of the current drought conditions in Arizona, many plants within the Arboretum require supplemental hand-watering to survive. BTA also provides an oasis for wildlife and is considered the "most enchanting" Audubon Important Bird Area in Arizona, with 275 species sighted to date.

BTA serves communities in Pinal, Gila, and Maricopa Counties (where Phoenix is located), and more than 55% of our visitors are from the Phoenix Metro area. We also see visitors from around the globe - a total of over 145,000 visitors annually - who come to explore the Arboretum's 105 acres of gardens, five miles of trails, and participate in guided tours. In addition, we have more than 11,000 members who purchase a variety of annual subscriptions that enable them to visit BTA multiple times during the year; our members hail from the upper Midwest, Canada, and throughout the Southwest U.S.

Testimonials

"This is one of my absolute favorite places on the planet. Incredible bird watching, incredible staff, incredible membership perks (at an incredible price), and breathtaking scenery; I'm not sure there's anything left to ask for. Become a member and visit this place as much as you possibly can." - Google Review

"What a beautiful place! Every species of desert plant imaginable with a majestic mountain as a backdrop. Walking the trails was really peaceful and serene. If you are a bird watcher, this also seems to be great place. " - Trip Advisor Review