Overview

The southwestern cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, separated by only 23 miles, create a prime vacation spot and sounding ground for exploring city and the surrounding Sonoran Desert.

Both cities feature outstanding museums, including the Heard for its Native American collection and the Musical Instrument Museum, a new and engaging facility presenting songs, rhythms and instruments from around the world, as well as invite visitors and residents alike to enjoy the great outdoors -- even if temperatures can climb into the triple digits during a summer day, and can get below freezing during a desert night.

The landscape of bold red mountains, towering saguaro cacti, mesquite trees and scrub brush is alluring. Ride through the desert on jeeps, float over it in a hot air balloon or hike in search of ancient pertoglyphs. On guided trips, learn about Native American, Hispanic and cowboy culture.

A host of world-class resorts liter the environment, featuring top-rated children's programs, therapeutic and relaxing spas and world-class golf courses.

Written by Candyce H. Stapen