Phoenix is one of those cities that offer the best of both worlds: a mixture of cosmopolitan urbanism with rugged nature. After all, it is a city in the middle of the desert. You can’t get much more of a paradox than that. Beyond its unique location, however, Phoenix in the summer months has much to offer the health and fitness conscious visitor, from package deals at recreational resorts to tasty and nutritious meals.
Summer Recreation Resorts
Numerous resorts in Phoenix offer special deals for the summer season. Hilton Pointe Squaw Peak Resort is home to several swimming pools, including a water slide, so the kids can play while you swim laps. Sheraton Wild Horse has all that, plus a private golf course, spa, equestrian center and lake. The Hilton Pointe Tapitiao, just 10 miles away from the downtown area, is surrounded by excellent hiking trails.
Hiking
In Phoenix Mountains Park, located right in the middle of Phoenix, you can hike up to the top of Piestewa Peak, which offers astounding 360-degree views of Phoenix and the environs.
Golf
Phoenix is home to a number of challenging courses, the most famous of which is the Arizona Grand Golf Course, an 18-holer that was given the Four Star Award by "Golf Digest Magazine."
Spectator Sports
Phoenix is home to two outdoor stadiums with retractable roofs, guaranteeing that the game will go on, no matter what the weather. For baseball, head to the air-conditioned Chase Field, where the Arizona Diamondbacks play each summer. The NFL season begins in August; catch the Arizona Cardinals in action at the University of Phoenix Stadium.
Local Food
A cosmopolitan city, Phoenix offers an array of healthy bites from all around the globe. For hearty Thai, head to the Wild Thaiger in midtown, which also offers several vegetarian options. Cool off with a smoothie or fresh fruit juice blend at Jamba Juice in the Deer Valley neighborhood. Typical southwestern cuisine can be had at Chelsea’s Kitchen. If you want something quick and cheap, look out for the numerous burrito stands and discount Mexican restaurants scattered throughout the city.
Warning
Phoenix can get extremely hot in the summer months, with the temperature sometimes creeping up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors or hiking, be sure to wear a hat, sunscreen and bring lots of water with you.
References
- Official Site of the City of Phoenix
- “Arizona and the Grand Canyon”; Lonely Planet; 2008
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