There are a  number of yellow hands attacched to the exterior of the Sun-N-Sand layout. These hands casn be pressed to initiate some action on the layout. These allows visitors to interacct with the layout.

Lumber has played a vital role in shaping Arizona’s growth and development. Timber harvesting reached its peak in the mid-20th century, with annual production reaching millions of board feet, and totaled 77.9 million board feet as recently as 2021. Today, visitors can engage with this history by activating the lumber train. Simply wave your hand near the sensor to bring it to life.

Deep groundwater is found in arid regions, mountainous areas, and basins, often lying hundreds of feet below the surface. Because it is so deep, specialized pumps are required to bring this water up for use. This hidden resource plays a critical role in supporting communities where surface water is scarce. Wave your hand to activate the water pumps and see how this essential system works.

The Lights Over Phoenix, also known as the Phoenix Lights, were a series of mysterious sightings reported by thousands of people across Arizona and Nevada on March 13, 1997. Witnesses described unusual lights moving silently across the night sky, sparking widespread curiosity and debate. The event remains one of the most well-known UFO sightings in the United States. Wave your hand to activate the Phoenix Lights and experience the phenomenon.

Valley Metro Rail is a light rail system connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, providing a fast and reliable way to travel across the metropolitan area. It offers a convenient and scenic alternative to driving, helping riders navigate the region with ease. Serving thousands of passengers each day, it plays an important role in the area’s transportation network. Wave your hand near the sensor to activate the light rail.

Arizona’s railroads have a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, beginning with the Southern Pacific line in 1877. Today, the state maintains about 2,000 miles of rail, supporting both freight and passenger travel. These railways play a key role in moving essential goods like coal, copper, agricultural products, and wood. Wave your hand near the sensor to activate the trains and see Arizona’s rail network in action.

Arizona has a long and rich ranching heritage, with cattle production dating back to the 1800s and even earlier Spanish settlements. Cattle is one of Arizona’s “Five Cs,” key industries that have shaped the state’s economy and identity. Today, ranching spans every county, from desert rangelands to mountain meadows. Wave your hand near the sensor to hear the cows.

Arizona’s monsoon season typically runs from June 15 to September 30, though storms often begin in late June or early July. During this time, shifting winds bring moisture from nearby bodies of water into the desert. Fueled by intense summer heat, this moisture creates powerful thunderstorms. Wave your hand near the sensor to see the lightning and hear the thunder of a monsoon storm.

The Morenci Mine, located in Arizona near the towns of Morenci and Clifton, is one of the largest copper producers in North America. Copper is one of Arizona’s “Five Cs,” key industries that have shaped the state’s economy and identity. This vital resource has supported growth and development across the region for generations. Wave your hand near the sensor to see ore being transported by train.