About the area:
Heritage, History, Art & Culture, Cowboys, farmers, ranchers and Native Americans wove the fabric that is the Glendale of today and visitors are afforded a number of ways to catch a glimpse of these pioneers at the many cultural and heritage attractions within the city. Preserving one of the Valley's oldest and most magnificent ranches, Sahuaro Ranch Park Historical Area consists of 13 original buildings and a huge rose garden. Palm trees wave above the red brick facade of the Main House, and peacocks now roam the grounds where chickens and livestock used to graze. Known as the "Showplace of the Valley," Sahuaro Ranch Park Historical Area offers exhibits and guided tours, keeping alive the history of early settlement in the Valley.
Historic Manistee Ranch also beckons visitors to explore the well-preserved ranch house beneath the canopy of swaying palm trees. Tours are also available.
Several one-of-a-kind museums call Glendale home.
Housing a collection of more than 100,000 beads and beaded artifacts, The Bead Museum weaves a fascinating story of the global history of beads, including beads used as talismans or currency and their importance as religious and social symbols.
Max's Sports Bar Museum, named one of the top five sports bars in the country by USA Today, has on display the largest collection of football helmets in the nation.
Another popular attraction is Cerreta Candy Company. The owners delight in giving 30-minute tours Monday through Thursday, during which visitors receive samples. Self-guided tours are available every day but Sunday. Just before Valentine's Day, Cerreta sponsors the annual three-day Chocolate Affaire, where the delectable, sweet stuff is on display in many forms, including Arizona's largest chocolate heart, ranging upward of 300 pounds.
Trace the history of the Glendale Police from 1892 to present day in Glendale's newest museum. Opened in November 2002, Historian and Glendale Police Officer Dan Kallberg will take you back to the days of the Town Marshall and the 50-cent speeding ticket. View historical uniforms and radio equipment along with photos of the first Glendale Police Department motorcycle - a Harley Davidson.