Sightseeing in Phoenix - what to see. Complete travel guide

Phoenix is the capital of the US state of Arizona located in its southern part. It was founded in 1881 on the site of a settlement abandoned by the Indians. Long before that, tribes of Hohokam people who inhabited the territory of a modern city for more than a thousand years, had turned once deserted and lifeless territory into a fabulously beautiful oasis. They built irrigation channels unique for those times, which allowed irrigation of large-scale fields. Over time, climatic conditions have changed significantly, and the well-developed irrigation system could not save these places from drought. The native Americans had to leave their home. The settlement had been abandoned for several hundred years.

The founder of the present city is the famous military leader Jack Swilling, who arrived in these places in 1867 and founded a farm on the site of the old Indian settlement. It is noteworthy that he continued to use the irrigation system designed by the natives, some channels of which are still functioning even today. Over time, more and more settlements began to appear around the farm, and in 1868 a post office was opened here - an inalienable attribute of all American cities of the 19th century.

Phoenix received its official status of the city much later, in 1881, when its area was inhabited by more than 2.5 thousand people. The city becomes the capital of the state in 1912, and in ten years grows into its largest settlement. The city inherited its name from the first settlers: in translation from the Hohokam language, "Phoenix" means "Hot Summer". Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The climate typical for the city and the state as a whole is considered quite unusual. There is no actual winter, just like spring (it is very short-term), and frosts are a real climate anomaly for the city. Hot weather sets here by May. Until the end of September, the temperature does not drop below + 35 °C. This feature of the local climate should definitely be taken into account by fans of excursions and hiking. In the summer, the trip can be overshadowed by exhausting heat.

Modern Phoenix is a stylish metropolis with a developed industry and entertainment industry. The city accommodates several large factories of Intel company, as well as prestigious universities, which become the goal of talented young people from all over the world. Close proximity to Mexico had a significant impact on the culture and lifestyle of the city, and this influence is clearly visible in urban architecture.

In contrast to many modern US megacities, Phoenix is not distinguished by an abundance of skyscrapers and is dominated by low-rise buildings. For this reason, experienced travelers often compare Phoenix with Mexican cities, since some visual similarities do exist. The city is characterized by a leisurely and harmonious rhythm of life, which makes it even more attractive for international guests.

Travelers will be pleased with a decent choice of hotels and hostels of different levels, a developed transport system and, of course, a variety of attractions. Fans of ancient history will have a chance to stroll along the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park (Park Grand Pueblo), while the legendary Heard Museum invites tourists to get acquainted with the local history. In the vicinity of Phoenix, there are lots of interesting natural attractions. Tours of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River are especially popular among tourists.

Phoenix is an ideal destination for a family vacation. Several years ago, a gorgeous entertainment complex named Castles and Coasters appeared in the city. The total area of the complex is 40,000 square meters. At the territory of the park, visitors will find dozens of amusements, rollercoasters, and sports grounds. There are even a large motordrome and excellent golf fields. Young visitors of the park will surely enjoy special amusements for small children, such as a ride in a music steam train or numerous merry-go-rounds. Visitors keen on more relaxed pastime will genuinely enjoy indoor pavilions with table games.

Orpheus remains one of the main cultural centers of the city. It is open in a glorious building with a century-old history. The center was thoroughly reconstructed in 1997, so now visitors can see the famous theater in its full splendor. Besides theatre plays, Orpheus regularly hosts various music performances, classical music concerts, and other events. Perhaps, Tovrea Castle is the most beautiful landmark in Rococo style in the city. This is a true architectural masterpiece that stands proudly in a picturesque park. The castle exhibits a collection of exotic plants from all over the world.