When it comes to February 14th, millions of people have been preoccupied with their lovers (or a date with Netflix and food) to realize that Arizona is celebrating a birthday! While Arizona is a baby compared to a majority of states within the U.S., the state itself has managed to make an impression in the country as a desert paradise. However, every Arizonian knows that the Grand Canyon State is not just a land full of deserts and cacti -- Arizona is a state that has different regions ranging from a metropolitan city to a small town within the woods. I used to be one of those locals that questions why people move to Arizona. As someone born in Phoenix, I didn't see what people from the PNW to the Upper East found so enticing about the desert. So I decided to explore Arizona and reminiscent of the times that I've witnessed the natural, or man-made, beauties that the Copper State had to offer for locals and snowbirds.
The first thing that living in Arizona has is outdoor recreation. It seems that in almost every corner there are mountains and trails to hike. These hikes can vary from a challenging hike, such as Camelback mountain, or a simple scenic trail that anyone can do in the Superstition Mountains. And what's the best part of these outdoor recreations? Whether your view on the top is a beautiful skyline of downtown Phoenix, a natural waterfall or even both, every hike you do can result in a sense of achievement and a beautiful view.
Lake Havasupai is known for its natural waterfall and is a hidden gem within Arizona.
Though there are amazing hikes all over Arizona, that doesn't mean the state is cluttered with nothing but small towns. Most of the state's beauty lies within its major cities. The most populated city, Phoenix, has recently been going through plenty of changes, especially in the downtown area. Downtown Phoenix, specifically Roosevelt Row, is considered to be the art district, cluttered in artwork and sculptures. In that art district comes plenty of small businesses that have become hot spots for millennials! Downtown Phoenix isn't the only haven for artistic expression; with a quick drive to Oldtown Scottsdale comes another centerpiece for art. The famous "LOVE" sign has a home in Oldtown, and is a popular destination for group photos or selfies.
Roosevelt Row is also known as the art district within Downtown Phoenix.
Then, there are the things within Arizona that maintain the state's image as one that embraces the cultures surrounding the different regions. That would actually be the small businesses that would thrive to huge expansions like Cold Stone Creamery, or become hidden hot spots all over the state. Whenever I get my coffee fix, I would prefer going to a small coffee shop than a major brand not just to support the local business, but to also enjoy higher quality coffee that is made from the heart by the owners and their employees.
Lux Central in Central Phoenix is a popular cafe with a low-key location, I recommend the Mac and Cheese!
As I looked into what people love about Arizona, I couldn't even cover a mere fraction of the things to do within the Copper State. I realize why so many out-of-state college students enjoy either going hiking for the weekend or spending the day browsing around small towns. As a local myself, I still discover hidden treasures that been in Arizona longer than I've been born; there is still so much to seek in my own home state.
