Overview
Arizona Falls is a unique 20-foot waterfall and public art park tucked into the Arizona Canal corridor in northeastern Phoenix. This historic site doubles as a small-scale hydroelectric plant, producing clean energy while offering a scenic retreat for joggers, cyclists, families, and travelers. Lush shade, cascading water features, educational signage, and poetic concrete inscriptions create a dynamic atmosphere—perfect for urban explorers and nature lovers alike. With free parking and 24-hour access, it’s an accessible destination for locals and visitors wanting a tranquil, culturally rich experience in the city. Click here.
History
Arizona Falls traces its roots to the 1880s, when canal builders encountered a natural 20-foot drop and preserved it, forming a waterfall that became a popular cooling and social spot. In 1902, Phoenix Light and Fuel Company built the first hydroelectric plant there—the city’s earliest electricity source. Rebuilt in 1911 by Salt River Project, it powered local farms and homes until 1950, when maintenance costs led to its closure. Neglected for decades, it underwent a cultural and functional revival, re-opening as WaterWorks in 2003. SRP, the City of Phoenix, and the Arts Commission transformed it into a public art park that integrates turbines, poetry by Alberto Ríos, boulders from major dams, and educational signage—a living tribute to the area’s hydropower heritage. Click here to read about Desoto Central Market, Phoenix, Arizona.
Points of Interest
WaterWorks Sculpture and Poetry Deck
This artistic centerpiece combines industrial history with creative design: a concrete deck etched with water-inspired imagery and poetry by Arizona’s first poet laureate, Alberto Ríos. Visitors stroll across a footbridge above the canal, feel misty waterfall walls, and encounter large boulders representing each of SRP’s five major dam sites. It’s both an interactive art experience and a tactile history lesson, blending sensory engagement with environmental storytelling in a compelling way.
Hydroelectric Turbine House
Originally constructed in 1902 and rebuilt by SRP in 1911, this powerhouse contained turbines and generators that powered early Phoenix neighborhoods. Today it functions again, generating up to 750 kW—enough to power approximately 150 homes—while still housing historic gears on display. The blend of operational technology and heritage equipment makes it an educational marvel, ideal for those interested in renewable energy, engineering, or local infrastructure history.
Canal Trail & Footbridge
Arizona Falls opens onto an ADA-accessible recreational trail stretching along the Arizona Canal, connecting the park with broader corridor paths for walking, running, and cycling. A charming footbridge spans the waterfall, offering elevated views of cascading water and the turbine house below. The well-shaded multi-use trail brings both passive recreation and purposeful transit, inviting visitors to combine a nature visit with active outdoor exploration in the heart of the city.
Places to Eat Near Arizona Falls
The Bread & Honey House Arcadia
This cozy café, just minutes from the canal, is beloved for house-baked breads, pastries, and comforting brunch favorites. With artisanal ingredients and a warm, local vibe, it attracts families, couples, and foodies seeking a wholesome, homestyle meal. Enjoy seasonal produce in their salads or freshly baked quiches, making it a perfect post-visit spot after exploring the falls.
56th St Deli & Market
A community-focused deli serving classic sandwiches, soups, and fresh market goods. The laid-back interior, stocked shelves, and friendly service make it popular among locals and cyclists. Ideal for a grab-and-go lunch before or after a canal ride, and especially enjoyed by families and single diners looking for simple, fresh fare .
Olive & Ivy
Located a short drive away, this Mediterranean-inspired eatery offers shareable plates, wines, and a relaxed patio overlooking the canal. It draws in groups, couples, and expatriates looking for a scenic yet casual dining experience. Fans appreciate the hummus platters, mezze boards, and coastal ambiance—perfect for unwinding after a day at the falls .
Places to Visit near Arizona Falls
G.R. Herberger Park
Located adjacent to Arizona Falls, this lush, family-oriented green space includes shaded lawns, picnic areas, and a dog-friendly environment. Visitors can combine a cultural walk with relaxation—kids can play while adults enjoy the waterfall backdrop. The connected canal trails make it easy to extend the visit outdoors and enhance its value as a community hub in northeastern Phoenix.
Camelback Mountain
Just a few miles away, Camelback Mountain presents challenging but rewarding hiking trails with stunning valley views. Outdoor enthusiasts and fitness-focused locals trek the summit via the Echo or Cholla trails. While more demanding, many visitors combine a morning hike with a cooling stop at the falls afterward, making for a balanced urban wilderness experience that showcases Phoenix’s natural beauty.
Practical Information
- Open 24 hours; parking (5 am–10 pm) located off Indian School Road.
- Address: 5802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018.
- Roof capacity: solar panels complement 750 kW hydroelectric output.
- Accessibility: ADA-compliant paths, footbridge, shaded seating.
- Best seasons: October through April enjoy milder temperatures; summer visits may be limited to early morning or evening due to heat.
Elevate your outdoor space with professional Landscape Designer
Searching for a top-tier Landscape Designer to complement your visit to Arizona Falls? Rising Tide Landscapes specializes in crafting desert-adapted outdoor spaces that echo Phoenix’s natural beauty. From xeriscape gardens to elegant hardscapes, fire pits, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens, their attention to sustainability and artistry mirrors the vibrant public art and design at Arizona Falls. Whether you want a serene backyard oasis or a social gathering space, Rising Tide Landscapes has the expertise to bring it to life. Schedule a consultation today with Rising Tide Landscapes.
Driving Directions
From Arizona Falls to Rising Tide Landscapes (6580 E McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ):
- Head east on Indian School Road from the Arizona Falls parking lot.
- At 56th Street, turn left (north) onto 56th Street.
- Turn right onto Camelback Road and follow it for approximately 2 miles.
- Turn left onto N Scottsdale Road and continue 3 miles.
- Turn left onto E McDowell Road.
- Follow for 0.5 miles; Rising Tide Landscapes will appear on your right.
