Take a trip back to the 1880′s – a wild and dangerous time when covered wagons rolled past mountains and cowboys sang below starry skies.
Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse, located at 5700 West North Loop Road in Chandler Arizona, is open seasonally as a themed amusement park. The premises include a steakhouse, a confection’s shop, a photo emporium, and a number of attractions.
Our 2-year-old was particularly keen on the train ride, while our 5-year-old appreciated the challenge of panning for gold. Other attractions include burro rides, a stagecoach ride, a rock climbing wall, a petting zoo, and two live shows. Tickets are $5/per attraction or $15 for an unlimited wristband.
If you’re celebrating something special, we recommend the Steakhouse. Decorated with red-and-white checkered tablecloths and lovely lanterns, the ranch house-style restaurant features steak, ribs, salads, and a children’s menu. Entrees ranges from $15-$28. Kid’s plates are $7 and include fries or fresh fruit, plus soda. Live music accompanies dinner and a dance floor is available for your line-dancing pleasure. “AriZona” was the band on the night we were there and they were outstanding.
If you visit in the winter, be sure to bring sweatshirts for after sundown since the town is mostly outdoors. Fortunately, you’ll be able to stop and warm yourself at a number of open fires on property. You can even buy a S’mores kit for $3 and roast marshmallows.
Also – don’t forget your camera as there are plenty of great photo opps!
Rawhide is an especially excellent place to visit for east-coasters and/or people traveling from abroad, but everyone will appreciate experiencing the history of Arizona in living color.
P.S. Rawhide will be celebrating its’ 41st Birthday on February 25-26 2012 – and you’re invited! Free parking. Free admission. Free attractions. Plus, a free hat & bandana for the kids!
Have you ever been to Rawhide? What did you like/not like about it?
* Special thanks to Rawhide for providing town passes and dinner at the steakhouse.
