by Lindsay Page

Created on: April 23, 2008   Last Updated: July 27, 2009

Every city has something to offer that makes it special, makes it stand out. San Fransisco has the Golden Gate Bridge. New York City has the Empire State Building. Chicago has the Sears Tower. Phoenix, too, has some significant attractions and landmarks that shouldn't be missed when visiting the city-and I'm not talking about the Grand Canyon.

Camelback Mountain

The mountain wasn't named without reason. Look out of the window as your plane approaches Sky Harbor Airport and you can't miss it. The mountain truly looks as if it's a camel laying down for a desert nap. You can even visit the mountain to take a scenic, but challenging two-hour hike. You'll also be able to see Praying Monk, a rock formation that looks just like-you guessed it-a praying monk!

Desert Botanical Gardens

The desert is not all dirt and rocks. There is some incredibly unique vegetation here, as well. The Desert Botanical Gardens will give you a close-up look at the beauty of the desert. Even locals come away with a greater appreciation for the dry heat after wandering the Gardens for a couple of hours.

Slide Rock

Just outside of Phoenix, in Sedona, is a gorgeous canyon of smooth red rocks. The river going through the canyon has created a natural waterpark, of sorts. The rocks are so slick that you can slide right down the river as if you were on a waterslide! The aptly named Slide Rock is a great retreat for kids during the hot summer months.

Goldfield Ghost Town

A real-life ghost town, Goldfield was once a bustling settlement in the 1890s when prospectors rushed to mine for gold in the surrounding Superstition Mountains. Now, visitors can re-live the Old West through the town's staged gunfights, museum, and preserved buildings. Also, take a ride on the state's last narrow gauge railroad. There's something for everyone here.

Pueblo Grand Museum and Cultural Park

The Pueblo Grand will give you a look at the lives of the Native American tribes that used to occupy the area. The museum offers an in-depth history of the Hohokam people through real artifacts, artwork, and guided tours. Visitors can even walk among real Hohokam ruins, right in the middle of the city! This will give you a poignant perspective on the effects of American settlements. The Pueblo Grand is one of the area's greatest museums.

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