Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix offers a stunning feast for the eyes and escape from the ordinary. Charming cacti line the streets in a city set against a backdrop of brilliant red mountains. The popular southwestern destination is home to numerous spas, shopping centers, and golf courses, offering the ultimate in leisure and relaxation. Phoenix condo rentals provide the comforts of home for a rejuvenating escape that will truly let you rest, relax, and get away from it all.

You can't truly appreciate Phoenix without heading outdoors. If you picture desert landscapes as barren, begin your visit at the Desert Botanical Garden for a drastically different view of this type of ecosystem. You'll see thousands of species of colorful flowers, trees, and cacti splashed against the bold red buttes. Camelback Mountain is another picturesque pick, ideal for those who like hiking. If you need to entertain the younger set, head to the Phoenix Zoo to meet Komodo dragons, Sumatran tigers, and Asian elephants. If you need a break from the sun, the Phoenix Art Museum offers a diverse collection of over 17,000 works of art. The Heard Museum combines art and historical exhibits for a well-rounded look into Native American culture. Visitors looking for golf will find hundreds of options from the swanky Arizona Biltmore Golf Club to the 18-hole Encanto Golf Course, tucked away in a city park. When you're ready for a bit of pampering, look no further than Phoenix's famous spas, like the Aji Spa or Roose Parlour and Salon.

Phoenix doesn't experience seasons in a traditional manner. The landscape remains relatively unchanged, though the temperatures see noticeable fluctuations. The weather is mildest between November and April when you'll see highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s. Temperatures climb into the 80s and 90s in September, October, April, and May. Over the summer, you can expect regular highs in the triple digits, though the dry heat makes it a bit more bearable.

Phoenix hosts several annual events that are worth noting on your calendar. The Cactus Bowl takes place in late December, promptly followed by the Fiesta Bowl. In October and November, the Arizona State Fair brings added excitement with art, agriculture, railroad exhibits, a petting zoo, family friendly attractions, live entertainment, and ample fair food. In November and February, race fans can attend the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at the Phoenix International Raceway.

Dining in Phoenix is a diverse affair, with something tasty to draw you out of your Phoenix condo rental every night of your stay. Experience authentic southwest cooking with a taste of the pork osso bucco at Sierra Bonita Grill or the fresh, tangy guacamole at Barrio Café. For southern soul food, hit Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles for the restaurant's hearty namesake, shrimp mac and cheese, or crispy fried catfish. There's no shortage of satisfying fare in this city.