South Peoria - Phoenix, AZ

In 1867, Jack Swilling formed a small farming community in the Salt River Valley. He named the community Phoenix after the mythical bird that rises from its own ashes. The western town prospered and by 1880, over 2000 people called Phoenix home. After World War II, new technology industries flocked to the area, and the population exploded.

Phoenix staunchly supports the arts, and the city maintains dozens of museums, including the Heard Museum. This museum presents theatrical performances and traditional dances, as well as hundreds of pieces of Native American artwork. Get an up-close look at intricate ceremonial clothing and jewelry, and learn about this area's earliest inhabitants.

Rocket Burger makes a name for itself with gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries and craft sodas. Don't let the obscure location keep you from trying the New York burger or, for the bravest of taste buds, the fiery Afterburner. Wash down your tasty burger with a selection from the soda case containing nearly 300 different varieties. An assortment of deep-fried sides rounds out your meal.

Shawarma King specializes in light Middle Eastern fare and fast service. When your work schedule affords little time for lunch, stop by for a falafel sandwich on homemade pita. Vegetarians appreciate the menu's numerous meat-free options. Order fresh hummus and baba ganoush to go for your next casual get together.

Bring a horde of friends or family to Bobby Q, where Texas and Kansas City-style barbecue collide. A heated patio allows you to enjoy outdoor dining all year. Share the Whole Hog Heaven, a platter consisting of two kinds of ribs, two other meats and three generous sides. Complementary fresh cinnamon donuts follow every meal. Before you arrive, work up a big appetite and prepare to get your hands dirty.

Cuff draws a crowd with new twists on American classics. This upscale grill features stunning architecture from the late 1800s mixed with modern lighting and decor. Start with the deviled eggs; a topping of pecans and bacon takes this appetizer from potluck to posh. Order the Amalfi chicken with lemon and herb butter for a meal that walks the line between light and rich, or drop in for small plates and specialty cocktails. The local favorite, Cuff's copper cup, transforms the traditional Moscow mule into an explosion of herbaceous flavors.

Phoenix houses a nightlife scene that includes quiet pubs, rowdy country bars, swanky clubs and everything in between. Catch the big game at Stinger's or enjoy live music on "Tuesday Bluesday" at Marc's Sports Grill. The only dance club in the area, The Q Lounge, requires dressing up, but its DJs mix the hottest beats until the early morning hours.

Valley Metro maintains bus lines and trains across the metropolitan area. The Metro Bus stops frequently throughout Phoenix, Glendale, Tempe and Scottsdale, while the train limits itself to a 20-mile route through central Phoenix.

Out of large cities, Phoenix was ranked as the 15th most bicycle-friendly city by Bicycling Magazine. The city oversees miles of designated bike lanes and paved paths, and drivers are accustomed to watching for cyclists.

While the area does maintain several small regional airports, most residents choose to fly out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Though it stands only 17 miles away, be sure to leave early for your flight, as traffic conditions often cause delays.

Residents appreciate the well-stocked ponds and shady trails of Cortez Park where, in contrast to most urban fishing areas, you keep what you catch. The city also maintains ADA-compliant fishing docks in this park.

Next door to Cortez Park, Washington Park provides an outdoor gym, swimming pool and sand volleyball court, as well as a fully fenced dog park. The dog park separates small and large dogs for their safety and comfort. Humans and dogs may use the park and its facilities for free.

Filling your gas tank and riding public transportation are also budget-friendly. Gas prices hover near 9 percent under the national average, while bus and train rides cost $2. At a neighborhood pub, expect your beer to cost around $5.

In this neighborhood, you find grocery stores within a mile or two of home no matter where you live. Safeway and Fry's provide the basics. A nearby Sprouts Market stocks organic products and caters to special dietary needs. Both of Phoenix's farmers markets are nearby, with the Roadrunner Park Farmers Market the closer of the two. Every Saturday, pick up fresh produce, locally sourced meats and baked goods. This farmers market stays open all year and welcomes well-behaved dogs.

Visit Bunky Boutique for clothing and accessories from promising local designers. Treat yourself to a latte at the coffee bar and a piece of handmade jewelry featuring the adjacent desert's famous turquoise. The shop's collection of Arizona-themed items provides ideal gifts for friends living far away.

One part art gallery and one part Grandma's attic, The Bee's Knees provides a venue for artists to sell their masterpieces and a place to find high-quality vintage clothing. Clothing and accessories receive careful inspection before being sold, and only the best pieces earn a spot on the racks. When you discover a painting or sculpture that adds the perfect finishing touch to your home, you help keep the arts alive in Phoenix.