Welcome to the Valley of the Sun. Phoenix is the capitol of Arizona, and one of the fastest growing cities in the Southwest. Like the mythical bird from which it takes its name, Phoenix has risen from the ashes of the Hohokam civilization that thrived in the valley over 800 years ago.

Phoenix is now the sixth largest city in the U.S., boasting a thriving economy centered on tourism, banking, transportation, computer technology, defense industries, and retirement communities. Home to 2.8 million people, and the itinerary of some 12 million visitors a year, Phoenix experienced explosive growth after the introduction of the air conditioner made life in 120º summer heat more palatable.

Here you will find more golf courses than any other major city in the U.S., along with world-class cuisine, sophisticated shopping, and plenty of fun outdoor activities ranging from horseback riding to hot air ballooning. Located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Phoenix enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, and is famous for its spectacular sunsets. Craggy mountain ranges surround the city, magnifying colorful dawn and dusk light displays.

The city's many parks offer over 200 miles of hiking trails for visitors to explore. Downtown Phoenix has seen some major revitalization in recent years with the addition of the Arizona Center (shops, gardens, restaurants and theaters), Patriots park (for daytime music and entertainment), a new art museum, science center, a restored Orpheum Theater and the Herberger Theater (drama).