As a long-time resident and expert on the Phoenix metropolitan area, I am often asked about the various cities that make up this bustling region. While many people may be familiar with the capital city of Phoenix, there are actually several other cities that are part of this unique and diverse area. From Scottsdale to Tempe, Mesa to Glendale, Carefree to Cave Creek, each city has its own distinct features and attractions that make it a must-visit destination. One of the most interesting aspects of the Phoenix metropolitan area is its sheer size. Spanning hundreds of miles, it is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States.
In fact, the nearest metropolitan area with a similar population size is over 300 miles away in California. This vast expanse of land is home to over 5 million people and offers a wide range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. One unique feature of the Phoenix metropolitan area is its road system. Most major highways follow a grid pattern, following the section lines established in the System of Public Topography. This can lead to some interesting quirks, such as roads with different names merging into one or abrupt changes in road names.
For example, Dunlap Avenue in Phoenix becomes Olive Avenue in Glendale. For those looking to explore the area without a car, Amtrak offers convenient train and bus services. The Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle trains stop at Maricopa, located about 40 miles south of downtown Phoenix. From there, travelers can take Amtrak's Stagecoach Express to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Tempe Station. Additionally, there is a Thruway bus service from the airport to Flagstaff Station, served by the Southwest Chief. While Amtrak used to offer direct service to Phoenix, it was diverted in 1996 to accommodate the Union Pacific Railroad's plans to abandon part of its western line.
This means that Phoenix is now one of the largest cities in the country without direct passenger service. However, with the convenient Thruway bus options, visitors can still easily access the city by train. As a local, I am proud to welcome visitors to the Valley of the Sun. This region is best known for its year-round sunshine, desert landscapes, luxury resorts, and world-class golf courses. But there is so much more to discover here.
From incredible architecture and urban landscapes to authentic southwestern culture and endless outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The area is comprised of a total of 24 municipalities, each with its own unique set of features and attractions. One of these cities is Scottsdale, which has a rich history dating back to World War II when it housed a German prisoner of war camp. Today, it is home to a thriving business community and is known for its upscale shopping destinations like Scottsdale Fashion Square. Scottsdale Fashion Square is one of the largest shopping centers in the country and offers a mix of luxury and exclusive stores. The city also has several distinct art districts, including the Old Town Scottsdale lifestyle district, the contemporary Marshall Way Art District, and the Western-themed Old Town district which is home to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Other notable shopping destinations in the Phoenix metropolitan area include Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter in north Scottsdale, as well as downtown's Scottsdale Fashion Square.
And for those looking for some entertainment, be sure to check out the annual Scottsdale Jaycees Sun Parade, which has been a beloved tradition since 1954. To make getting around even easier, there are two streetcar systems in Scottsdale. The downtown streetcar runs through the heart of the city, while the neighborhood streetcar connects downtown to various neighborhoods in South Scottsdale. And for those looking to explore beyond Scottsdale, the city of Tempe offers its own free public circulator, the Tempe Orbit, which connects with the neighborhood streetcar on Roosevelt and Scottsdale Road.
