population: 1.7 million

extension: 1341.1 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Phoenix and want to visit museums, one great option is the Heard Museum. It showcases Native American history and art, with exhibits on textiles, jewelry, pottery, and more. Other museums in the area include the Phoenix Art Museum, which features contemporary art and fashion, and the Arizona Science Center, which has interactive exhibits on science and technology. If you're looking for other museum options within a similar distance, you might also consider the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block or the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Phoenix, according to locals, include:

1. Chimichangas: A deep-fried burrito filled with meat, rice, beans, cheese, and other toppings.

2. Sonoran hot dogs: A hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and jalapenos.

3. Carne asada: Grilled beef marinated in citrus juices and spices, often served in tacos or burritos.

4. Tamales: Steamed cornmeal dough stuffed with various fillings, such as pork, chicken, cheese, or vegetables.

5. Navajo tacos: Frybread topped with chili, lettuce, cheese, and other toppings.

6. Green chili stew: A hearty stew made with chunks of pork, green chilies, and potatoes.

7. Sopaipillas: Fried bread dough that is usually served with honey or sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.

8. Frybread: A flatbread that is fried until crispy and fluffy, often served with savory toppings or honey.

These dishes are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can find in Phoenix.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Phoenix:

1. Hiking: Phoenix has plenty of great hiking trails, including Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and South Mountain.

2. Visiting the Desert Botanical Garden: The garden features a wide variety of desert plants and offers beautiful walking paths through the various exhibits.

3. Exploring the Phoenix Zoo: This zoo is home to over 3,000 animals and offers various experiences like giraffe feeding and the stingray bay.

4. Food and Drink Scene: Phoenix has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local breweries, wineries, and restaurants to check out.

5. Outdoor Markets: Local farmers markets and Flea markets like Phoenix Public Market and Thieves Market are popular attractions especially on weekends.