Phoenix’s history dates all the way back to 2000 BC. The Hohokam tribe was the first to settle here. The desert land was hot, dry, and inhospitable. However, the Hohokam were able to construct a sophisticated irrigation system that allowed them to thrive in the desert for almost 2,000 years. Other tribes continued to live in the desert after the Hohokam, such as the Pima, Tohono O’odham, and Maricopa. Native American culture and tradition continue to be celebrated in Phoenix and the city is currently home to 22 Native American communities. Its history as a city officially began in 1868 with the arrival of Jack Swilling, who headed a group of 15 men to rebuild the canals and waterways of the Salt River Valley. A farming community soon followed, laying the foundations of what would soon become modern Phoenix. A member of Swilling’s group, Darrell Duppa, suggested they call the city “Phoenix” and the name stuck. Phoenix was the city that rose from the ruins of an ancient civilization.

The desert metropolis has a mix of cultures and as a result, the culinary scene is buzzing in Phoenix. Try Sonoran desert dishes like cactus pies and bison steaks at Kai Restaurant in the Gila River Indian Community. Feast on enchiladas and chimichangas at Carolina's Mexican Food, a beloved local eatery south of downtown Phoenix. Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe is a great spot for good old American-style fried chicken, pork chops, and coleslaw. Satisfy your Asian food cravings at restaurants like Da Vang Restaurant, Hana Japanese Eatery, and Drunken Tiger.

Fortunately, it’s easy to stay in shape despite all that great food in Phoenix. Take your pick from the many sports clubs and courts in town. You can play racket sports, ball games, go indoor climbing, or rowing. Love golf? Phoenix has 160 golf clubs and around 185 different golf courses.

Nature-lovers should check out South Mountain Preserve, the fourth largest municipal park in the country, with its hiking and biking trails that wind through rugged desert sceneries. Look for the iconic saguaro cactus in Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area or in the Desert Botanical Garden, a 140-acre garden filled with desert plants on the red rocks of the Papago Park. Test your limits at Camelback Mountain, one of Phoenix’s most challenging peaks. Catch the desert sunset over the panorama of downtown Phoenix at Dobbins Lookout, South Mountain. Too hot to hike? Cool down and go on water adventures at Lake Pleasant Regional Park or the Lower Salt River, both of which are about 40 minutes away. Other fun destinations include Phoenix Zoo or Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium.

Self-care is important in this laid-back city, with spas and wellness centers that cater to all tastes and budgets. You’ll find lux spas like Royal Palms Resort & Spa and Alvadora Spa and mid-range options like Essential Wellness Center and Evolve Massage.