Attractions in Phoenix

Flying into Phoenix, one senses the pride and culture surrounding the area. The beauty of Sky Harbor stands out against the desert, but captures the essence of what makes Phoenix so attractive. The city itself blends commerce with the natural mountain and mesa areas. A skyscraper may not be a far distance from a spire of rock that's survived for centuries, each seeming to be at home with the other.

There are many places of interest outside the city proper in neighboring suburbs. Scottsdale is a beautiful community that has some of the best shopping, whatever one's price range. From unique handmade Indian jewelry and artwork to souvenirs for the kids, stores dot the streets and friendly faces are there to help with purchases. Ethnic restaurants of all kinds prepare foods that span global tastes as well as preserve the Spanish and American Indian influences of the area.

Sports are a big part of Phoenix due to the great weather. Pro football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and dog races are popular stadium type sports. Off roading, biking, and hiking can be done on one's own or with tour guides. Horseback riding is also very popular. Lake Pleasant and Bartlett Lake may be the perfect places to launch a boat for a day trip to fish.

The Chinese Cultural Center or Pueblo Grande Ruins, allow visitors to see what made the city of Phoenix grow into what it is today. Western family fun can be had at Rawhide. Everything a person could want in a wild west atmosphere is here.

Venturing away from Phoenix, Tucson is southward in the state. A trip up to the Grand Canyon or Sunset Crater, north of Phoenix near Flagstaff, may make your trip memorable. One may rent a 4 wheel drive vehicle and wander on some of the old mining roads through the desert, admiring the wildlife and vegetation. Phoenix will make one want to return.