Phoenix

The "Valley of the Sun" as Phoenicians refer to it, is surrounded by mountain parks—in fact, South Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the U.S.—so it's easy to get out and enjoy the flora, fauna and some incredible views (and sunsets). And, although Phoenix is in the Sonoran Desert, there are six lakes in close proximity where water lovers can kayak, paddleboard, Jetski, waterski, boat, fish or just lounge on the shore.

For those who prefer indoor pursuits, Phoenix has some unique museums: The Heard Museum, celebrates Native American art and culture; Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, features the art and history of the Old West and the Musical Instrument Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the world with a collection of over 15,000 instruments form 200 countries.

Everyone eats, and Phoenicians are no exception. Greater Phoenix has become a hotspot for local cuisine of every conceivable variety as well as for beverages that are brewed, distilled or fermented.

If you're looking for a destination that is anything but ordinary, Phoenix is an ideal setting for family vacations, Spring Training junkets, girlfriend getaways and weekend adventures. It also happens to be the home to two airports, Sky Harbor International Airport and Williams Gateway Airport, so it's a great starting point for any Arizona adventure.