Phoenix offers just about everything in the way of sports, recreation, arts, culture, dining, lodging and financial opportunities. The city is the hub of the rapidly growing American Southwest and the heart of a metropolis of over 3 million people. Although city tourism promoters brand Phoenix as the "Valley of the Sun," most locals just refer to it as the Valley — as in the Salt River Valley, the region's official name.

Attractions include Downtown area, which has always been a entertainment and shopping center with a focus on art and things trendy, and offer top rate restaurants, theaters, museums, shopping and sports venues.

Attractions include the Arizona Science Center which is one of the Valley’s crown jewels and is located in downtown Phoenix and features a multitude of hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and large-screen theater.

Phoenix is short of must-see attractions, but a day at one of the city's plentiful upscale malls is probably as authentic and enjoyable an experience as Phoenix has to offer. Good lodging options include the Ramada, where your stay is sure to be a comfortable, pleasurable and memorable one.