The eyes of the nation have definitely turned toward Phoenix, very rapidly expanding toward the position of the fifth largest city in the nation. The visionary leadership, careful planning, and targeted promotion that marked the 1980s resulted in explosive growth within every possible arena of activity and endeavor. Phoenix, already Arizona's capital city as well as the seat of government for Maricopa County, has assumed a whole new global identity in recent years as "The Place" to live, work, and play in the Southwest. Even the long-standing lucrative tourism industry has moved beyond seasonal ups and downs into a year-round boom.

The rich, colorful history of this flourishing metropolis has its roots in 300 A.D. when the gentle, agricultural Hohokam Indians first settled the region. True to the mythical heritage of its name, modern Phoenix "rose from the ashes" of the Hohokam ruins and their ancient canal system. This pattern of emerging renewed and transformed has continued throughout the city's rich history, beginning with the first significant surge of population at the end of World War II. With the advent of refrigerated air-conditioning, Phoenix grew in appeal as a retirement or winter vacation haven. Summer comfort could now blend with swaying palm trees, endless sunshine, crystalline lakes, and a Sonoran desert beauty to attract increasing numbers of year-round residents.

From sports to fine arts, newcomers of all ages and interests will discover many rich treasures in Phoenix. The city's cultural jewels have become more polished and abundant with the increase in population, supporting permanent companies for ballet, opera, theatre, and symphony. Dazzling venues showcase the latest Broadway hits as well as stellar national and international talent. Venues range from the magnificently restored Orpheum Theatre to the popular open-air Cricket Pavilion or the new configurable Dodge Theatre. Fine galleries join the Phoenix Art Museum in providing a visual feast of sculpture, photography, and painting. The internationally famous Heard Museum highlights primitive and modern Native American artistry.

Lovers of spectator sports can jump to their feet around the four seasons to cheer on their favorite teams. Phoenix is one of the few cities in the nation to attract a major league team in every sport. From the collegiate sports fever that never fails to rise with ASU Sun Devils football to the world champion baseball team, the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Metropolitan Phoenix sports scene is filled with surprises. Crowds from across the Valley flock to spectacular new stadiums and state-of-the-art arenas to watch Phoenix Coyotes hockey, Phoenix Suns basketball, and football with the NFL Cardinals.

Those who prefer to make their own tracks in the great outdoors can enjoy Arizona's blue skies, vast desert, or pristine lakes. Hot air balloons, four-wheel drive recreational vehicles, hang gliders, jet skis, and dirt bikes are just a few of the common diversions in a state where open space and natural beauty seem unlimited. The city maintains 200 parks for year round enjoyment, including desert mountain parks. Picnic areas, trails, playgrounds, ponds, natural attractions, and first-rate sports facilities are all available for public use and enjoyment. The Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens and The Phoenix Zoo are nestled in the Papago Park area of the city, presenting a magnificent display of wildlife, trees, and plants set against the Sonoran desert's haunting beauty.

Neighborhoods throughout Phoenix offer a diversity of homes in varying architectural styles, settings, sizes, and real estate price ranges. Historic neighborhoods in the heart of the city are climbing rapidly in value as charming bungalows and high-rise lofts or apartments are being built or renovated for convenient downtown living. The vintage homes nestled in the Encanto Park region showcase elegant architecture against the backdrop of ancient trees, lush gardens and sweeping lawns. The ever popular Arcadia neighborhood spans both Phoenix and Scottsdale, offering another selection of beautiful homes nestled in deep lots with mature greenery. Few locations in the Valley can rival the prestigious Biltmore area for sheer elegance and a centralized location.

The city limits of Phoenix are amazingly far reaching, encompassing the Ahwatukee Foothills, area. This panoramic urban village has the appearance and feeling of a separate city, stretching between the South Mountain foothills and the city of Tempe in the East Valley. Each one of the four quadrants of the City of Phoenix - East, West, North and South - plays a unique role in the area's vitality. Nationally recognized as the nation's "best managed city," Phoenix organizes its neighborhoods into 14 urban villages - each one with its own planning committee appointed by the city council. Some of these villages have also developed unique and distinctive "neighborhoods" with a close-knit community spirit. Take your time discovering and exploring all that the City of Phoenix has to offer. With its exceptionally high quality of life, vibrant economy, virtually limitless recreational opportunities, affordable housing, and relaxing southwestern lifestyle - Phoenix is an ideal place to call home.