Nicknamed the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix earns its reputation with year-round sunshine and beautiful weather. The fifth largest city in the United States, Phoenix offers unparalleled golf, shopping and restaurants with southwest flavor. The capital of Arizona is nestled between several mountain ranges offering breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak and A Mountain at Arizona State University.

Arizona sports are also based in the heart of downtown Phoenix. The U.S. Airways Center hosts one of the top teams in the NBA, the Phoenix Suns.  The team’s current roster includes crowd favorites Steve Nash and Grant Hill, but other big name celebrities such as Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley and Dan Majerle have worn the Suns jersey. The neighboring Chase Field is home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, Major League Baseball’s 2001 World Series champions.  Discounted tickets are typically available to both teams through sites such as Ticketmaster.

Phoenix golf courses rival some of the best championship courses in the country. A variety of 5-Star resorts offer challenging courses including the Arizona Biltmore, The Phoenician and the J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge. Travelers seeking more budget-friendly golf packages can choose from a variety of resorts without sacrificing quality such as The Legacy Golf Resort.  Visitors willing to brave the desert heat will find the best golf discounts available June through August, during peak summer months.

Why Go?

Phoenix, Arizona is a prime destination for fun in the sun. The constant sunshine allows for outdoor activities and memorable desert sunset strolls. The city is also home to notable politicians including Senator John McCain and current Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano.

When to Go?
Phoenix weather rarely fluctuates, but the prime time to visit is between November and April.  January and February tend to be the busiest time as average temperatures reach a perfect 75 degrees. The annual PGA Tour also passes through Arizona in February, drawing larger than normal crowds to the area. The off-peak season is June through September as summer temperatures reach 100 degrees. This is a great time to find the best hotel discounts, pool activities and water park packages.

Things to Do in Phoenix

Phoenix is home to many must-see venues which leave a lasting impression of rich Arizona history. Popular attractions include the Phoenix Zoo, the Heard Museum with Native American art and history, the Desert Botanical Gardens and the Phoenix Art Museum.

How to Get There
Sky Harbor International Airport is a major hub for international and domestic travel. It is also the base hub for major carrier, U.S. Airways.  The airport is only fifteen minutes from downtown Phoenix. The city recently opened the innovative Light Rail system for convenient transportation between neighboring cities including Tempe and Scottsdale.