Phoenix is a city that offers so much more than a typical desert experience. As the fifth-largest city in the United States, those lucky enough to own a home in Phoenix enjoy year-round sun and the ability to easily explore its natural landscape at the drop of a hat.
Whether you’re hitting the links on a world-class golf course, cheering on the Phoenix Suns, or enjoying a stroll through Papago Park, Phoenix is known for a whole lot, and with good reason.
Below is a brief breakdown of ten of the top things Phoenix is known for. So, put on some sunscreen, dawn your finest tanktop, and join us on a journey through this stunning desert city.
1. World-renowned golf courses
Phoenix is a paradise for golfers with tons of world-class courses. These courses are celebrated for their challenging layouts and stunning desert backdrops. Facilities like TPC Scottsdale and the Phoenix Country Club offer top-tier golfing and host professional tournaments, attracting golfers from all over. Needless to say, many dedicated golfers dream about finding an apartment in Phoenix at some point in their lives.
2. The Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns are an integral part of the city’s identity. They bring unparalleled energy and excitement to every Phoenix neighborhood. One of the city’s two major league sports teams, they play home games at the Footprint Center, where fans gather in droves to support their team.
3. Year-round sun
One of Phoenix’s most appealing features is its year-round sun. This sunny standard allows for an active lifestyle, whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply kicking back by the pool under a well-placed umbrella.
4. Papago Park
Papago Park is a staple for outdoorsy types in Phoenix. Known for its distinctive red sandstone formations and comprehensive network of trails, the park is perfect for hiking, cycling, and even fishing in its stocked ponds. The park also houses the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden, making it a solid destination for nature lovers and large families alike.
5. Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks are Phoenix’s MLB team. This team holds a special place in the hearts of sports fans across the state and the entire southwest. Playing their home games at Chase Field, attending a DBacks game is always a great way to spend a day in Phoenix. Their 2001 World Series win remains one of the proudest moments in the city’s history.
6. Saguaro cacti
As a desert city, Phoenix is known for its cacti. The iconic Saguaro cactus is forever linked with the Phoenix landscape. These towering cacti can live over 150 years and are a vital part of the desert ecosystem. They provide homes for desert wildlife and add to the iconic natural beauty that Phoenix is known for.
7. Musical Instrument Museum
Phoenix is home to one of the more unique museums in the country, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM). The MIM showcases over 6,800 instruments from around the world. The MIM provides a deep dive into the fascinating world of music with galleries featuring instruments from every country. Interactive, engaging, and educational, the museum is a one-of-a-kind place that resonates with music lovers of all ages.
8. Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is another gem in Phoenix, dedicated to conserving desert plants. With more than 50,000 plant displays showcased in outdoor exhibits, the garden emphasizes the beauty and diversity of desert flora. It also serves as a center for research, conservation, and education on desert environments.
9. South Mountain Park and Preserve
As one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, South Mountain Park and Preserve has more than 16,000 acres of desert landscape. This sprawling park is a haven for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders with its plentiful trails and panoramic city views from Dobbins Lookout.
10. Heard Museum
The Heard Museum showcases Native American art and attracts visitors with its insightful exhibitions and collections. The museum presents historical artifacts and contemporary art, illustrating the history and living cultures of Native peoples of the Southwest.