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This corridor along Interstate 10, about five miles
west of downtown Phoenix, is part of the increasingly popular West
Valley, considered by many to be "authentic" Arizona living.
Visitors will enjoy modern conveniences in a desert landscape. For
shoppers, there are more than 100 stores in the diverse, affordable
Desert Sky Mall. Sports fans can catch the NBA's Suns and the NHL's
Coyotes at nearby America West Arena; in springtime, check out
baseball's Milwaukee Brewers in training at Maryvale Park. South of
here, join NASCAR race fans in the shadow of the Estrella Mountains
at Phoenix International Raceway. Looking for other types of
entertainment? Take in live concert (everything from hard rock to
country) under the stars at the 20,000-seat Cricket Pavilion -- or
take a straight shot down 51st St. to reach the Gila River Vee Quiva
Casino, where there's a 500-seat bingo hall, 400 slot machines, and
plenty of gaming tables.
Metropolitan Phoenix has a number of notable attractions. Visit the
State Capitol in nearby Tempe, and view the fascinating historical
exhibits next door at the State Capitol Museum. Learn about the
state's natural resources at the Arizona Mining & Mineral Museum.
Explore Native American culture and art at the Heard Museum. Take
the kids to the Arizona Science Center for more than 300
fascinating, hands-on exhibits. Architecture buffs won't want to
miss the unusual Mystery Castle, part of the sprawling South
Mountain Park. Outdoors types should head for the Phoenix Mountain
Preserve's 24,000 acres of recreation and the Desert Botanical
Garden's beautiful collection of regional flora. Golfers can take
advantage of the area's many excellent courses and discover why this
is one of the world's top five golfing destinations. Shop in Copper
Square (downtown) on the first Saturday of every month when "buy
one, get something for a penny" sales are in effect. In the evening,
a variety of performing arts events are held at the Orpheum Theatre
and the Herberger Theater Center. If you're here in October, stop by
the Arizona Fairgrounds for the annual State Fair.
• Distance to Sky Harbor Airport: 12 miles
• Transportation: driving is highly recommended
Maryvale
Tolleson |