Grand Phoenix, AZ

Around 700 A.D., the Hohokam Native Americans occupied the land that would become Phoenix. The tribe created approximately 135 miles of irrigation canals. Paths to the canals marked the beginning of what later developed into the Central Arizona Project Canal, the Arizona Canal and the Hayden-Rhodes Aqueduct.

In 1867, Jack Swilling of Wickenburg, Arizona passed through the area and found great potential for farming. The former Confederate soldier had a series of canals built, and a nearby community formed about 4 miles east of modern-day Phoenix. After much debate between Swilling and other residents, the name Phoenix was chosen for the city.

The capital city boasts over 73 museums. The Musical Instruments Museum holds a proud heritage by celebrating musical arts. Each May, MIM hosts a Mother's Day brunch with prize giveaways.

Locals have a number of restaurant choices to grab a quick meal. West Van Buren Street serves as Governmental Mall's main thoroughfare. Here you find popular fast-food burger joints, fish and chips, and fried chicken.

In this neighborhood known for great Mexican food, don't miss a trip to Lydia's. Located on West Van Buren, Lydia's La Canasta holds a proud reputation for serving "the best Mexican food you'll ever taste." The local favorite draws diners from breakfast until dinner. Start your day with a vegetarian breakfast burrito or stop by for the famed carne asada tacos. Green chiles on the nachos add just the right amount of spice.

For the best bar in town, check out the Grind located on East Camelback Road. Also known to have the best burgers, this neighborhood gathering place fills bar seats with locals looking to unwind. Grab a seat and watch the season's game while you attack the herculean sweet and spicy burger. Enjoy a brew with the laid back Governmental Mall crowd.

Governmental Mall lies conveniently between three major highways and less than ten miles away from the Phoenix International Airport. Interstate 10 runs west to Santa Monica, California and east to Jacksonville, Florida. Interstate 17 and State Route 60 also service the Central City region.

Most locals drive personal vehicles to get around. You find plenty of free parking in the residential neighborhood. Pedestrians take advantage of the city's sidewalks for safe foot travel. With downtown Phoenix just 1 mile away, Governmental Mall residents have taxis and Uber ride-sharing services available. Call ahead for a taxi or reserve a ride on Uber by using the app.

Phoenix caters to public transportation users. The Metro light rail runs along 20 miles, from Central City through downtown Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. Valley Metro buses faithfully service the region.

Cyclists may travel the neighborhood, but should use caution with fewer bike lanes in Government Mall.

Encanto Park on West Encanto Boulevard offers the best in recreation. Jog around the golf course and glimpse the swans swimming in the lagoon. Grab your pole for an afternoon of fishing or jump in a paddle boat. Basketball players, feel free to shoot hoops. If you love tennis, play a game of doubles on Encanto Park's courts. Children will enjoy the play area and leashed dogs are welcome. The park hosts no annual events, but patrons may take advantage of free access year-round.

To let your dog run wild, head to the Margaret T. Hance Park dog park. Found on West Culver Street, locals describe the park as a great place for pups to socialize in a cool urban setting. During hot summers, your dog will appreciate the refreshing water fountains. Hance Park provides separate areas for small and large dogs with a fenced enclosure. Take advantage of plentiful free parking and always remember to clean up after your pet.

The Governmental Mall neighborhood falls into a lower income bracket. Compared to Tempe, housing runs 23 percent less. A one-bedroom apartment averages $628, whereas Tempe residents pay $900 for comparable quarters. Governmental Mall's cost of living hovers around 9 percent below Tempe.

A ride on Metro light rail costs $2 and riders may purchase an all-day pass for $4. Valley Metro charges the same fare for buses. Locals can ride to Phoenix's city center for this affordable price.

Drivers enjoy a cost savings of 15 percent below the national average for gas. Expect to pay about $3 for a beer at a local pub.

Along West Van Buren Street, you have Food City for groceries and Safeway Food & Drug on East McDowell Road. The Capitol Farmers Market is held seasonally, January through April. This terrific market offers organic, seasonal produce, fresh local eggs, and more from area ranchers and farmers. Look for it on Thursdays near the Arizona Capitol Museum.

The best high-end shopping destination lies at Biltmore Fashion Park. Found on East Camelback Road, this elite outdoor plaza invites you to "get your shopping fix." Stop by Saks Fifth Avenue or Cole Haan for fashion-forward trends. Peruse the Ralph Lauren boutique for unmatched styles by the famed designer. Men who favor classic looks and women who exude sophistication love this elegant store.

To spend a day bargain shopping, head to Rare Scarf Glam Vintage. With no thrift stores in Governmental Mall, locals love hunting for low-cost vintage treasures at Rare Scarf. Located on Cave Creek Road, this hot spot draws Phoenician fashionistas to its glamorous skirts and blouses from bygone eras. Give your wardrobe an eclectic makeover on your next visit. Don't forget to look at the stunning home decor for sale.