If you are looking for a beautiful place to take a walk, then Sahuaro Ranch might be perfect.  This former fruit ranch is now a part of the Glendale park system (for those not local, Glendale is a suburb of Phoenix).  Many of the original buildings remain (for a small fee you can tour one of the houses).  The kids enjoyed the roaming chickens (if you look carefully you might see baby chicks too), pigeons, peacocks, and many other birds.  A fruit grove still grows on the property, as well as a gorgeous rose garden.   Attached to the property is a large park with playgrounds.  There are also picnic facilities and restrooms on-site.

PHOENIX AREA-  HISTORIC SAHUARO RANCH
9802 N. 59th Ave, Glendale  623.930.4200
www.glendaleaz.com/ParksandRecreation/SahuaroRanchPark.cfm
COST:  FREE   HOURS:  Wed - Fri 10 am - 2 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm, Sun Noon - 4 pm