Valley of the Sun: Phoenix

The fifth-largest city in the United States may be known for its year-round sunshine, desert beauty, world-class resorts, and golf, but it also offers upscale urbanscapes, southwest culture, and plenty of outdoor adventure.

A lush, wet desert surrounds Phoenix. Although dry, arid wastelands are what we typically picture when we think of the word "desert," that isn't its only definition. With one notable exception, Greater Phoenix is in the Sonoran Desert. Unexpectedly, many endemic animals and plants can be found in the Sonoran Desert. The Sonoran Desert receives between 3 and 15 inches of rain annually, which is what gives the area its vibrancy. Phoenix, boasts year-round warmth and sunshine, earning it the nickname of the Valley of the Sun. 

The city is a desert metropolis with equal parts cacti, sandstone, historical sights, and modern architecture. Sports fans, history lovers, partygoers, and those wanting to be at one with nature will all find something to whet their appetites on a visit to Phoenix. You can visit our CARWIZ offices at the International Airport if you're arriving by plane and rent a car there. So, here are a few enjoyable locations you can visit:

Desert Botanical Garden

The Sonoran Desert's Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of different species of cacti, flowers, and trees. You have the option of walking any one, two, or all five of the available trails. They range from desert trails with breathtaking mountain backdrops to others with exquisitely fragrant wildflowers and ones that explain how desert plants have been used for food, medicine, and even building materials, as well as ones that show you how.

Musical instrument museum (MIM)

The amazing Musical Instrument Museum transports you on a musical journey around the world with its collection of more than 6,000 unique instruments. You'll learn everything there is to know about the evolution of music, as well as about the tens of thousands of unusual and obscure instruments. The museum's upper floor is divided into geographical regions, and some videos go with each section that demonstrate the instruments in use. The museum's lower floor, however, may be the area that most visitors find most interesting. You can watch the instruments, concert footage, and even the attire of well-known artists that have been meticulously preserved. Be sure to check out John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ piano.

Rides in hot air balloons

Hot air balloon rides over Phoenix and the surrounding Sonoran Desert will reward you with stunning views. What better way to take in the sights than from the heights of an unforgettable ride? Take in the breathtaking panoramic view as you float calmly among the clouds, spotting nearby landmarks. Many businesses offer enchanted hot air balloon rides from Phoenix, some in the early morning and others right before sunset. Simply choose the option that is best for you. For an extra special touch, many offer return transfers from your hotel, including champagne and passed appetizers after your flight.

Grand Canyon National Park

Much of the enormous Grand Canyon is located in Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, where the red rock's layered bands reveal millions of years of geological history. There are several lookout points, such as Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Mary Colter's Lookout Studio, and Desert View Watchtower. Popular, especially at sunrise and sunset, Lipan Point offers expansive views of the canyon and Colorado River. You can get there from Phoenix in about 3 hours by car. 

Encanto Park

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, is a public park called Encanto Park. The 222 acres of the park's land are divided between picnic areas, a lagoon, a boat house, a swimming pool, a nature trail, an amusement park, fishing, and two golf courses. The lagoon's surface area is roughly 7.5 acres, and its average depth is 6 feet.

Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is one of the best places in the Phoenix area if you're looking for something quirky and entertaining. Some of the finest galleries in the city, showcasing magnificent pieces by renowned artists, are located just up the street from the kitschy shops. Scottsdale's downtown is a great place to visit. Restaurants in Old Town are plentiful, and many have lovely patio areas with great people-watching opportunities. At the intersection of East Main Street and North Scottsdale Road is the neighborhood, which is conveniently accessible by foot.

Gastronomy

Homemade ingredients and cultural influences appear in Grand Canyon State cuisine. Enjoy Sonoran hot dogs, fry bread, and prickly pear margaritas while you're there. The chimichanga, also called a "chimi," is a sizable burrito that has been deep-fried and is served with scoops of sour cream and guacamole. According to legend, Monica Flin, the founder of Tucson's El Charro Café, came up with the chimichanga, also known as a "thingamajig," in the early 1920s after a burro accidentally fell into the deep fryer she was using. Tip: Request that your chimi is served "enchilada style" to have cheese and red enchilada sauce melted all over it.