Situated southeast of Phoenix, Arizona, Chandler is probably most famous for its annual Ostrich Festival, which takes place in March this year at Tumbleweed Park. This regional event came about due to the city’s namesake, Dr. A. J Chandler, who was said to have owned a farm of ostriches, and it provides local residents and tourists alike with a selection of music, food, rides and of course, the famous ostrich races.
This is a perfect example of the strong community spirit in this city, along with the residents’ welcoming and hospitable approach to travelers. This is just one of the aspects of Chandler that you will love if you do decide to vacation here.
Keen to know more about this exciting and vibrant city? Keep reading to discover the top twelve fun and interesting facts about Chandler, from its history to its local parks, to the best places to stay for your next vacation; there is so much to learn in such little time!
1. Chandler has won the most “Playful City USA” award 11 times
This award was set up in 2007 and recognizes the cities and towns that ensure that the kids in their community (especially those from a poorer background) are getting the balanced and active playtime that they need.
The city of Chandler has won for the last 11 years, showing its dedication to the children who live in the community.
2. Chandler has been named as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities
This accolade was presented by the League of American Bicyclists, and it rewards Chandler’s efforts at providing its residents and visitors with over 4,000 bike trails, including the Paseo Trail in East Chandler and the Chandler Bike Park at Espee Park.
3. Chandler has a whopping 67 parks
If you are a fan of open spaces and fresh air, then look no further than Chandler for your next vacation. This city has 67 parks as well as one neighborhood park in every residential square mile of the city.
Some of the best parks in Chandler include:
- Espee Park
- Veterans Oasis Park
- Desert Breeze Park
- Chuparosa Park
- Chandler Park
- Tumbleweed Park
4. Chandler is home to some great campgrounds & RV parks
One of the best aspects of Chandler is its proximity to so many other great cities in Arizona, including nearby Mesa and downtown Phoenix. Therefore, if you are traveling to this neck of the woods, it can be a good idea to have a base where you can stay as well as means of transport so that you can explore the surrounding areas and attractions.
Renting an RV in Chandler can be a great solution for both your transportation and accommodation needs and will allow you to discover some amazing local attractions that are only a short distance away, such as the Superstition Mountains and Coconino National Forest. Renting an RV also provides you with a base in the Chandler area where you can relax and unwind.
Thankfully there are some brilliant campgrounds in and around Chandler including:
- The Motor Coach Resort
- Green Acres RV Park
- Mesa Spirit RV Resort
- Apache Palms RV Park
5. Chandler has six aquatic centers
If you like your vacation to be chock a block full with activities and days out, then Chandler is the ideal destination for you. With 6 aquatic parks, a huge bike park, a skate park, several well-maintained dog parks, and a mini-golf course, you definitely won’t be bored when you visit this city.
6. Many celebrities grew up in Chandler
There are several high-profile celebrities that were born in Chandler, Arizona, including the rapper and actor Ice-T, Donovan McNabb, Brian Urlacher, and WWE wrestling superstar Shawn Michaels. Although they no longer live in Chandler, you never know, they might just pop back for a visit, so keep your eyes peeled!
7. Chandler has several historical landmarks
For those who like to learn a bit about the local history and culture of their vacation destination, you won’t be disappointed when you visit Chandler.
Some of the top landmarks on offer include:
- The First National Bank Building (opened in 1920)
- Espinoza’s Food Center (opened in 1957)
- The F-86 Sabre Jet – one of the Air Force’s first fighter jets
- The McCullough-Price House (built in 1938)
8. Chandler is a hotspot for local cuisine
If you are a bit of a foodie and can’t wait to try the local cuisine when you visit a new place, then you are in for a treat. Literally. Chandler is home to many outstanding restaurants and eateries including:
- Espo’s Mexican Food
- American Way Market
- Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
- SanTan Brewing Co.
9. Chandler Center for the Arts has been visited by over 2 million people
Since it opened in 1989, an incredible 2 million people have visited Chandler Center for the Arts, which serves as a multi-theatre performing and visual arts facility. The theatre itself has 1500 seats and often hosts performances by students from the Chandler Unified School District.
10. Chandler’s regional Tumbleweed Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year
As well as the legendary Ostrich Festival, Tumbleweed Park also hosts the Fourth of July Fireworks Festival and held the sixth annual Day of Play in 2012, which was attended by over 5,000 people.
11. Chandler is close to the San Tan Mountain Regional Park
If you are a fan of wildlife and local nature, then you should head to Chandler for this park alone. This 10,000-acre park consists of mostly desert and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, including cacti, the crested saguaro, and the Chuckwalla lizard.
12. Chandler Classic Car Show takes place in February
For those who love a classic car or two, you should try and make sure that your visit to Chandler coincides with its annual Classic Car Show. This show allows residents and visitors alike to show off their classic cars.
Other amazing events that take place throughout the course of the year in Chandler include:
- The Great American BBQ & Craft Beer Festival – March
- The Rockin’ Taco Street Festival – September
- Oktoberfest
If this sounds like somewhere you would like to go on vacation, why not start booking your Chandler trip today? There are so many more aspects of this welcoming and vibrant city for you to discover yourself, that you may even need to book two vacations!
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