Downtown Phoenix
The downtown area of Phoenix has been undergoing a major facelift since the building of the US Airways Center (fromerly America West Arena) and Chase Field. Coffeehouses, restaurants, nightclubs and shopping in the Arizona Center continue to draw people downtown for the hopping nightlife.  Incorporating the themes of Phoenix's early history with culture and local events, Copper Square is a full square-mile hotspot for activities and action. Downtown attractions include a walk in the park at Patriots Square or delve into the new Arizona Science Center, Phoenix Museum of History or the Phoenix Art Museum.

West Phoenix
The inner neighborhoods of Phoenix include moderately priced homes largely developed in the 1970s. Shopping in the west area is popular at the Desert Sky Mall, and Cricket Pavilion offers an open-air entertainment amphitheatre for concerts and attractions.

The growing west side continues to spread outward. Visit charming Historic Downtown Glendale and Catlin Court for first-rate antique opportunities. The newer Arrowhead Towne Center Mall affrods shopping and diverse dining choices. Cardinals Stadium is currently under construction in Glendale. The Fiesta Bowl is moving to the stadium in 2007 and the 2008 Superbowl (XLII) will be held at Cardinal Stadium.

South Phoenix
Largely comprised of low-cost housing and industry, the walled and gated community of Ahwatukee is a notable exception. Ahwatukee residents are mostly older adults and urban professionals, and upscale apartments coexist with middle class housing. Be sure to take the South Mountain Park Scenic Drive while you are visiting this area. Fabulous sunsets are the pride of Arizona and best enjoyed from a desert wilderness vantage point. Nearby shopping can be accomplished at the new Arizona Mills Mall just across the freeway.

Northwest
Past Peoria and Glendale are the communities of Sun City, Sun City West, Youngtown, and Surprise. Hikers will enjoy the White Tank Mountain Regional Park. The Sun Cities and Youngtown are largely retirement communities.

East Side of Phoenix
Bordering Phoenix is the town of Paradise Valley. Northeast of Phoenix, this area draws middle to upperclass residents. South of Paradise Valley is the neighborhood of Arcadia. Unlike most of Phoenix, Arcadia is filled with more mature landscape and citrus trees. East of Paradise Valley is Scottsdale, fondly referred to by residents as "The West's Most Western Town." Scottsdale is more upscale housing, catering to more upperclass residents.

Located south of Scottsdale, Tempe is primarily a college town and the home of Arizona State University and the Sun Devils. Local festivals such as Fall Festival of the Arts are extremely popular down on South Mill. Arizona State University is located in its center, ringed by family and student housing.