Services During the 1970s and ‘80s, Phoenix grew in population and sophistication as a home to small-scale enterprises, branch offices, and secondary research facilities. It was in the last decade of the 20th century that Phoenix truly reinvented itself—pulsating almost overnight with gleaming high-rise towers, stunning arenas, and widespread economic expansion. New high-tech enterprises sprung up and flooded into the Valley at a phenomenal rate. Corporations from domestic to international began to consider Phoenix as a prime location for regional or headquarter offices, while entrepreneurs planted roots in the state’s fertile economic soil.
Real estate construction and sales, both commercial and residential, broke records on every front. Throughout the incredible growth cycle that spanned the 1990s, the city managed to maintain an enviable position on the cost of living index—particularly in the area of housing. Phoenix began construction on a massive highway system in 1985 that represents the largest locally funded endeavor in the nation. Strategic freeway connections have greatly reduced travel times within the city itself and to surrounding communities. The metro bus system and ride-share programs offer mass transportation alternatives, while Sky Harbor International Airport continually expands to accommodate the Valley’s exponential growth.
State-of-the-art medical facilities, research institutions, specialized health centers, and hundreds of highly skilled professionals serve the Phoenix community. Phoenix is home to more than 20 hospitals, medical centers, and specialized centers that include the highly respected Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Dedicated facilities like Barrow Neurological Institute and Banner Baywood Heart Hospital complement a selection of wellness centers to meet every need from advanced care to proactive programs like public health screenings.
Committed to providing a quality education, Phoenix schools harmonize leading-edge classroom technology with traditional core values and a progressive attitude. Basic skills are emphasized in the strong basic curriculum. Opportunities for the expansion of self-expression and involvement in other positive learning experiences are provided by art, music, health education, physical development, foreign languages, vocational training, or career studies. The result is a well-rounded and enriched education. On the primary level, reinforcing each child’s self-esteem is at the core of the educational environment, providing lessons that allow discovery, problem solving, and mastery.
The metropolitan region’s public charter schools develop and implement bold and creative approaches to education, stressing themes from “high-tech” to the fine arts. Private schools that are either independent or parochial are plentiful throughout the Valley, providing parents with alternative educational choices. The quality selection of institutions of higher education ranges from community colleges and universities to vocational and technical schools, adult education resources, and leading business academies. Students of all ages can pursue almost any career path close to home.
Lifestyle From sports to the fine arts, newcomers of all ages and interests will discover many rich treasures in Phoenix. The city’s cultural jewels have become more polished and abundant with the increase in population, supporting permanent companies for ballet, opera, theatre, and symphony. Dazzling venues showcase the latest Broadway hits as well as stellar national and international talent. Venues range from the magnificently restored historic Orpheum Theatre to the popular open-air Cricket Pavilion or the reconfigurable Dodge Theatre. Fine galleries join the Phoenix Art Museum in providing a visual feast of sculpture, photography, and painting. The internationally famous Heard Museum highlights primitive and modern Native American artistry.
Lovers of spectator sports can jump to their feet around the four seasons to cheer on their favorite teams. Phoenix is one of the few cities in the nation to attract a major league team in every sport. From the collegiate sports fever that never fails to rise with ASU Sun Devils football to the popular Phoenix Suns NBA basketball team, the Metropolitan Phoenix sports scene is filled with surprises. Crowds from across the Valley flock to spectacular new stadiums and state-of-the-art arenas to watch Phoenix Coyotes hockey, Arizona Diamondbacks baseball, and football with the NFL Cardinals.
Those who prefer to make their own tracks in the great outdoors can enjoy Arizona’s blue skies, vast desert, or pristine lakes. Hot air balloons, four-wheel drive recreational vehicles, hang gliders, jet skis, and dirt bikes are just a few of the common diversions in a state where open space and natural beauty seem unlimited. The city maintains 200 parks for year-round enjoyment, including desert-mountain parks. Picnic areas, trails, playgrounds, ponds, natural attractions, and first-rate sports facilities are all available for public use and enjoyment. The Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens and the Phoenix Zoo are nestled in the Papago Park area of the city, presenting a magnificent display of wildlife, trees, and plants set against the Sonoran desert’s haunting beauty.
Neighborhoods throughout Phoenix offer a diversity of homes in varying architectural styles, settings, sizes, and real estate price ranges. Historic neighborhoods in the heart of the city are climbing rapidly in value as charming bungalows and high-rise lofts or apartments are being built or renovated for convenient downtown living. The vintage homes nestled in the Encanto Park region showcase elegant architecture against the backdrop of ancient trees, lush gardens, and meticulous landscaping. The ever-popular Arcadia neighborhood spans both Phoenix and Scottsdale, offering another selection of beautiful homes nestled in deep lots with mature greenery. Few locations in the Valley can rival the prestigious Biltmore area for sheer elegance and a centralized location.
The city limits of Phoenix are amazingly far reaching, encompassing the Ahwatukee Foothills area. This panoramic urban village has the appearance and feeling of a separate city, stretching between the South Mountain foothills and the city of Tempe in the East Valley. Each one of the four major quadrants of the City of Phoenix—East, West, North, and South—plays a unique role in the area’s vitality. Nationally recognized as the nation’s “best managed city,” Phoenix organizes its neighborhoods into 14 urban villages—each one with its own planning committee appointed by the city council. Some of these villages have also developed unique and distinctive “neighborhoods” with a close-knit community spirit. Take your time discovering and exploring all that the City of Phoenix has to offer. With its exceptionally high quality of life, vibrant economy, virtually limitless recreational opportunities, affordable housing, and relaxing southwestern lifestyle—Phoenix is an ideal place to call home.
East Phoenix The natural Phoenix landmarks of Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain create the scenic backdrop for this established area of the city, where mature landscaping graces homes that were primarily constructed from the 1950s through the 1970s. The enduring sophistication of the Camelback Road corridor adds a number of attractions to this area, including the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Biltmore Fashion Park, office towers, wonderful restaurants, and the Esplanade. Another acclaimed resort, The Phoenician, is located just minutes away in neighboring Scottsdale. In addition to upscale enclaves like the Biltmore area and Arcadia, East Phoenix is home to many comfortable neighborhoods where well-maintained homes offer a wide variety of architectural styles, periods, and price ranges. Those East Phoenix developments closest to Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens also provide quick and easy access to the cities of Tempe and Scottsdale, Arizona State University, and Sky Harbor International Airport.
Central Phoenix Dynamic, bustling downtown cultural and professional sports centers coexist beside well-established core neighborhoods in Central Phoenix. Neighborhoods like the Biltmore area, Arcadia, and the Encanto-Palmcroft area are known for their stately homes set into deep lots covered by mature greenery. Architectural styles tend to be diverse, harmonizing sprawling ranches with an occasional Tudor or a handsome brick colonial graced by dramatic pillars. Simple tract homes nestled in tranquil, welcoming neighborhoods offer more affordable housing throughout this convenient area. Some of the most celebrated attractions in the Valley are nestled in Central Phoenix, from Papago Park with the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Gardens to world-class venues, museums, and stadiums. Interstates 10 and 17 and State Route 51 facilitate quick commutes to all corners of the Valley of the Sun.
North Phoenix Growing exponentially, northern Phoenix sprawls from the Saguaro-studded open space that surrounds new master-planned communities in the North Gateway area to established neighborhoods that offer quick access to the downtown district. The area is rapidly changing its former image as a bedroom community, welcoming an influx of new business development and commercial activity. The addition of the sprawling new Arrowhead Towne Center Mall has created a mecca of retail, dining, and entertainment opportunities close to home. It is no surprise that the area’s continually expanding employment base is driving an equally impressive housing boom. Many families are drawn to North Phoenix by the real estate values, taking advantage of beautiful new residential developments that offer “more home for the dollar.” Even those who commute to jobs in other Valley of the Sun locations have the advantage of high-speed travel on Loop 101, Interstate 17, and State Route 51.
South Phoenix Characterized as an area of contrasts and diversity, South Phoenix encompasses the world’s largest municipal park, unique attractions, historic neighborhoods, the rural South Mountain Village, and upscale master-planned communities in Ahwatukee Foothills Village. Interstate 10 provides a major thoroughfare with quick connections to other Valley freeways including Loop 202 and State Route 51 (the Piestewa Peak Parkway). Residents also enjoy a convenient location in relationship to the world-class attractions in downtown Phoenix—from cultural venues to professional sports areas. Ahwatukee Foothills Village is especially convenient to East Valley employment centers. Superb city and mountain views are complemented by first-rate recreational amenities like Pointe South Mountain and the five-star Raven at South Mountain Golf Club. As a result, this area is popular with developers of high-end residential enclaves.
West Phoenix Surrounded by the communities of Glendale, Peoria, and Tolleson, the vast area known as West Phoenix continues to sprawl outward. Mature inner neighborhoods developed primarily from the 1950s through the ‘70s now provide affordable older homes with landscaped lawns and wide residential streets. Many long-established residential developments in West Phoenix were built in response to the housing demands for employees in the burgeoning aerospace, semiconductor, and petroleum industries. Offering diversity in its population and environments, West Phoenix is rapidly transforming its vast open space and fields into lovely new homes, shopping plazas, and restaurants. Housing affordability, easy access to downtown, and improvements in high-speed connections for commuters are driving interest in this area. Desert Sky Mall, Peoria Sports Complex, Arrowhead Towne Center Mall, Cricket Pavilion, and the antique capital of Glendale are among the popular attractions.
Phoenix Urban Villages
Ahwatukee Foothills The natural beauty of South Mountain, the nation’s largest municipal park, separates Ahwatukee from Phoenix, aligning it geographically with the East Valley cities. Many mistakenly think of Ahwatukee as a separate city, particularly since the village has developed such a distinctive identity and claims a rapidly growing population nearing 90,000. Bounded by Interstate 10 to the east, South Mountain to the north, and the Gila Indian Reservation to the south and west, the village offers an enviable lifestyle and superb amenities in a convenient location. Everything from symphony performances to professional sports events are available in downtown Phoenix venues. Sky Harbor International Airport, the Arizona Mills retail complex, Arizona State University, and East Valley employment centers are “right next door.” The village showcases attractive residential opportunities for every taste and lifestyle, from custom estates to family homes in beautiful subdivisions. Fine residential developments in this area include The Foothills, Club West, Lakewood, Pointe South Mountain, Mountain Park Ranch, Mountain Ranch Estates, and Pecos West. Parks, golf courses, community centers, landscaped open space, and multi-purpose paths combine with respected schools, abundant youth sports, and activities for every age and interest. Drawn by natural beauty, newcomers are captured by the area’s convenience, quality of life, and the warm spirit of community.
Alhambra The centrally located urban village of Alhambra offers a convenient residential environment where residents can easily access downtown employment centers as well as the Valley’s finest entertainment and cultural resources. This area is dominated by mature, stable, single-family homes in well-established neighborhoods. Architectural styles vary widely, crowned by estates and luxurious executive homes near Central Avenue in the northern section of the village. Some neighborhoods like Rancho Solano showcase exquisite ranch-style homes on sweeping lots that are shaded by towering trees and mature greenery. The village is primarily bounded by Northern Avenue, 7th Street, Grand Canal, the Black Canyon Freeway or Interstate 17, Grand Avenue, and 43rd Avenue.
Piestewa Peak
Camelback East The diverse village of Camelback East encompasses the bustling Camelback Road and 24th Street corridor. Upscale shopping, business, and entertainment centers like the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, the Biltmore Fashion Park, the Ritz-Carlton Phoenix Hotel, and the Esplanade have played a major role in preserving this long established area as one of the most desirable locations in the Valley of the Sun. Many neighborhoods in this urban village were built between 1950 and 1970, providing a wealth of well-kept older homes in a wide range of settings and prices.
Some of the most prominent landmarks in the Valley are located in Camelback East, including the Wrigley Mansion, Piestewa Peak Mountain Park, the sprawling Papago Park with its popular 18-hole golf course and baseball facility, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Desert Botanical Gardens. The presence of internationally famous five-star resorts like the Arizona Biltmore has driven the development of magnificent residential enclaves in planned community settings with luxurious recreational amenities. The village borders the Town of Paradise Valley, the City of Scottsdale, 7th Street, Northern Avenue, the North Mountains, and Piestewa Peak Park.
Central City Serving as the financial and government center for much of the city’s history, the Phoenix downtown district has reinvented itself over the past two decades. Today, the area features dazzling cultural venues, sports arenas, celebrated restaurants, coffeehouses, nightspots, eateries and boutiques. Enthusiastic crowds of residents and visitors mingle throughout the downtown area as they visit world-class museums or attend sports and concert events. Burton Barr Central Library, Patriot’s Square Park, Arizona Science Center, the Phoenix Museum of History, the Heard Museum, historic Heritage Square, the State Capitol complex, Symphony Hall, US Airways Arena, Chase Field, and Dodge Theatre all contribute to downtown’s status as a destination address. The addition of light rail, a beautiful downtown campus for Arizona State University, and stunning new lofts and apartments are all contributing to this area as a prestigious address.
Some of the oldest neighborhoods in the city surround downtown. Those designated as historic districts serve as a showcase of yesterday’s fine architecture, set against a backdrop of mature greenery. Widespread renovation of the vintage homes in the historic district has created enchanting neighborhoods like the Willo District near the central corridor. Built in the ’20s and ’30s, these homes feature unique styling, charming details, and one-of-a-kind architectural appeal. Boundaries of Central City include McDowell Road to Rio Salado, the Black Canyon Freeway (Interstate 17) to Grand Canal, and the Hohokam Expressway.
Deer Valley The northern urban village of Deer Valley was named to honor the Native American petroglyphs of deer that were once hunted in this area. Today, a surge of new-home construction joins forces with business and retail development to create a dynamic and progressive environment. Boasting one of the state’s largest and most progressive school districts, Deer Valley is also home to one of the prestigious Phoenix “Points of Pride.” Deer Valley Rock Art Center protects a 47-acre nature preserve that showcases more than 1,500 petroglyphs.
The housing selection in the Deer Valley area ranges from well-kept older homes to beautiful modern construction that takes full advantage of panoramic desert settings and mountain vistas. The city of Phoenix operates the Deer Valley Airport, which provides a satellite to Sky Harbor International Airport. Many thriving businesses including high-tech companies are located in this area, as well as Turf Paradise racetrack. The Deer Valley Urban Village stretches from 16th Street east to the Phoenix city limits on the west. Greenway Road borders on the south, and the Central Arizona Project canal creates the northern border.
Desert View Like many of the residential developments that are springing up throughout Northeast Scottsdale, Desert View Village in northern Phoenix reflects a strong commitment to environmental sensitivity. This expansive area features lush Sonoran desert landscape punctuated by the major geological features of Cave Creek Wash, Union Hills, and scenic mountains. The village is already home to more than 25,000 residents who have been attracted by the value of lovely new homes in a pristine setting. Newcomers will discover an extensive system of trails through the washes and along the roadways, creating a recreational network and enhancing the intimacy of a small-town atmosphere. Also convenient to this neighborhood, Reach 11 and Cave Buttes provide vast recreational areas. Approximate boundaries are Carefree Highway to the north, the Central Arizona Project canal to the south, the east Phoenix city limits near Scottsdale Road, and Union Hills to the west.
Encanto Park
Encanto Part of the Central Avenue corridor within downtown Phoenix actually falls into the Encanto Village, which adds a number of high-rise residential and office buildings to the cityscape. An ArtWalk now connects the Heard Museum, Phoenix Arts Museum, Phoenix Theater, Central Library, and the Cancer Survivors Park. The tree-canopied enclave known as the Encanto-Palmcroft Historic District features grand, vintage homes that wrap around the lush, 200-acre Encanto Park. Providing recreational areas and facilities, the landmark park serves as a community center for the annual ice-cream social and other events.
Wide curved streets, picturesque yards, abundant greenery, and a proud legacy of community spirit are the hallmarks of this picturesque area. Most of the Encanto-Palmcroft neighborhood was constructed in the 1920s and ‘30s as part of the “City Beautiful” or “Garden City” movement. Elegant manors shaded by ancient trees and graced by brilliant garden blooms create a serene atmosphere in the heart of the city. Just minutes away from the Arizona State Capitol complex and downtown attractions, the area has attracted many professionals who appreciate its unparalleled charm and daily convenience. Although the status of this beautiful neighborhood has remained undimmed over the decades, the surging popularity of historic Phoenix properties has intensified the interest in this area as a residential choice. Encanto Village extends from the Grand Canal to the Black Canyon Highway to McDowell Road.
Estrella Integrating well-established neighborhoods with vast parcels of undeveloped land and exciting new residential developments, the Estrella Village area continues to experience a sweeping transformation. Older sections of the village offer modest homes constructed in the 1950s and ‘60s between 19th and 43rd Avenues. However, this sprawling village is seeing phenomenal residential expansion in areas that were once farm fields or dairies. Beautiful new subdivisions that provide first-rate recreational amenities are springing up, attracting families and retirees to a pristine desert setting that is graced by mountain vistas. Although some of this high-growth area lies outside the Phoenix city limits, the Maricopa County “islands” are still within the planning jurisdiction of the City of Phoenix. The village covers approximately 41 square miles bounded by Interstate 10 on the north, the Black Canyon Freeway and 19th Avenue on the east, Salt River on the south, and 107th Avenue on the west.
Laveen Situated in the southwest Valley, Laveen is bounded by the Salt River to the north, 27th Avenue on the east, the Gila River community on the west, and scenic South Mountain Park on the south. The village represents a unique area within the city limits because of its rural beauty and proud agricultural heritage as well as untapped potential. Strategically located between the Salt River and imposing South Mountain, this area has long been valued by farmers and equestrians or those who appreciate seclusion and easy mountain access. While Laveen Village has remained relatively unchanged for many decades, the focus on close-in property for expansion near central Phoenix will inevitably transform the face of the village. Laveen offers more than 25 square miles of prime undeveloped and agricultural property within a few minutes drive from the major artery of Interstate 10 and downtown Phoenix.
Maryvale Many of the planned neighborhoods in Maryvale Village were constructed during the decades that followed the post-war housing boom. While the village preserves a wide variety of housing from this period, it has also welcomed recent growth of single-family homes in new subdivisions. One of the Valley attractions to this area is Maryvale Baseball Park, serving as a major league baseball spring training stadium. Residents of the village enjoy many well- developed commercial areas that are filled with shops and services as well as the regional attraction of Desert Sky Mall. Cricket Pavilion is also located in this area, providing the Valley’s only entertainment venue dedicated to musical concerts. The outdoor amphitheater draws Valley and regional crowds to stellar performances. Maryvale Village boundaries extend from Grand Avenue and I-17 or the Black Canyon Freeway to 83rd Avenue, to McDowell Road, to Indian School Road to El Mirage Road, to Bethany Home Road, to 99th Avenue, and to Camelback Road.
North Gateway Well-known for wonderful new residential developments such as Dynamite Ranch and Taramanto, North Gateway Village was no more than vast acreage of open desert just a few years ago. Approximate boundaries of this emerging, high-growth region are 67th Avenue on the west, Union Hills on the east, the Central Arizona Project canal on the south, and the Phoenix city limits on the north. Expansion of business and commerce in the far northern corners of the Valley of the Sun have only added to the convenience of North Gateway living. The transportation efficiencies and commuting ease that was created by the construction of Loop 101 have also enhanced the desirability of residential property in this area. Developers are offering a wide range of new construction in North Gateway that are designed to attract a cross-section of buyers. Many families are drawn to the high value of the real estate dollar in upscale neighborhoods, where recreational amenities are balanced with environmental sensitivity that reflects a commitment to the preservation of the desert’s natural beauty.
North Mountain
North Mountain Several attractive, diverse neighborhoods share a location that surrounds the scenic Phoenix Mountains Preserve and the Cave Creek Recreation Area. While residential developments encompass many traditional central corridor areas, they also include beautiful homes that are nestled against the foothills of Phoenix Mountains and well-established suburban neighborhoods that enjoy close proximity to the vast Metrocenter retail and entertainment complex. Another important asset to this area is Arizona State University’s West Campus. Paradise Village Mall and the wealth of services, plazas, and shopping centers that surround it are equally convenient to North Mountain residents.
One of the highlights in this neighborhood is the upscale Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, perched atop the dramatic peaks of the Phoenix North Mountains. The resort offers a European village setting of richly landscaped gardens, cascading fountains, fine dining, an 18-hole golf course, superb recreational amenities, and a selection of residential opportunities. The boundaries of North Mountain Village extend from 51st Avenue to Acoma Drive, 39th Avenue to Greenway, and 16th Street to Cactus Road. They also extend through the mountains to Northern Avenue.
Camelback Mountain
Paradise Valley The sprawling and diverse northeastern quadrant of Phoenix is often called “Paradise Valley,” which can be confusing for new residents to the valley. The incorporated Town of Paradise Valley is a small, exclusive residential municipality that is completely surrounded by the City of Scottsdale. The northeastern area of the City of Phoenix that is commonly called Paradise Valley offers a wide spectrum of housing and lifestyle options, from beautiful new subdivisions to well-established neighborhoods of modest bungalows. Paradise Valley Mall anchors an amazing number of retail plazas and strip malls that also offer a myriad of specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, office centers, and service establishments.
The surrounding Phoenix Mountains offer trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding as well as picnic areas. Recreational opportunities also are available along the Indian Bend Wash greenbelt. Loop 101 provides a quick east/west route across northern Paradise Valley, while the Piestewa Peak Parkway or SR51 ensures easy access to downtown Phoenix and the core Phoenix neighborhoods to the south. Loop 101 also links these northeast neighborhoods with Scottsdale and the East Valley as it shifts direction to provide a north/south corridor through Scottsdale into Tempe. The village extends from Scottsdale Road to 16th Street, and the Central Arizona Project canal to Piestewa Peak.
South Mountain
South Mountain Rural land, family neighborhoods, historic landmarks, the major attraction of Mystery Castle, and the world’s largest municipal park are all encompassed within South Mountain Village. Convenient to downtown employment centers as well as cultural and professional sports attractions, this area also enjoys quick and easy access to Sky Harbor International Airport. Nestled in the region that lies between the Maricopa Freeway and towering South Mountain, the village was once home to a score of Japanese flower gardens, citrus orchards, small farms, and sprawling ranch properties. This area still retains much of its rural charm, harmonizing a mix of moderate to upscale housing and some industrial development. A convenient location within easy access to downtown cultural and professional sports venues as well as city and mountain views and first-rate recreational amenities makes South Mountain Village a desirable area for new residential development. Boundaries include 48th Street on the east, 27th Avenue on the west, the Salt River on the north, and the vast expanse of the South Mountain Park Preserve on the south.
Phoenix Neighborhoods
Arcadia
Arcadia Aptly called by a name that means “a pastoral, peaceful place,” Arcadia is one of the most desirable of the core Phoenix neighborhoods. First developed as long ago as the 1920s by wealthy residents who desired an idyllic rural life, the area features oversized lots where sprawling ranch-style homes are shaded by hundreds of mature citrus trees. Stretching south from imposing Camelback Mountain to the Arizona Canal about two miles away, Arcadia still attracts new residents who appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the selection of handsome homes. Many are attracted to Arcadia for the warm sense of community as well as the reputation of the public schools. Arcadia also provides one of the most convenient locations in the valley. Residents live in close proximity to upscale shopping, fine dining, professional sports venues, and important cultural attractions in both Scottsdale and Phoenix. The neighborhood actually spans Phoenix and Scottsdale, bringing together residents of both cities in a closely knit community that many describe as almost “Midwestern” in its friendly spirit.
Biltmore Fashio Park
Biltmore The upscale core neighborhood associated with the legendary Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa spans out from the Camelback Road corridor between 24th and 44th streets. The desirable Biltmore area is second only to downtown as the premier entertainment, shopping, and business district of Phoenix. Biltmore Fashion Park offers an oasis of fountains, lushly landscaped courtyards, brick walkways, cafes, restaurants, and high fashion. Striking a perfect blend between historic significance, new-world elegance, and international glamour, the Arizona Biltmore Resort is known throughout the world as the “Jewel of the Desert.” Nearly 40 acres of gardens, fairways, fine recreational facilities, and architecture influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright have enabled the resort to preserve an international reputation for superb hospitality. Residential development harmonizes beautifully with the resort’s luxurious atmosphere, from charming patio homes to stunning estates. Wrigley Mansion stands as the pinnacle of opulence, perched on a hill north of Biltmore Fashion Park. The chewing-gum magnate’s former estate now houses a restaurant and other fine amenities that are available to the public. Because the mansion is forced to maintain a private club status, an annual membership fee of $10 is donated in full to charity.
Moon Valley
Moon Valley Stretching between three scenic preserves—Moon Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and North Mountain—the north-central Phoenix neighborhood that is popular known as Moon Valley is anchored by Moon Valley Country Club. Moon Valley Park stands in the center of the neighborhood, offering opportunities for family picnics, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and relaxation. The local country club offers competitive swim team training, and many youth programs are active in this family-oriented setting, from league sports to dance and gymnastics. The strong community spirit is most evident in the level of support for local school activities and annual celebrations. Housing tends to be diverse, ranging from modest townhomes or well-kept bungalows to million-dollar hillside estates with spectacular views.
MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
Throughout the Valley of the Sun, welcoming neighborhoods nestled in fine master-planned communities reflect the warm hospitality and casual elegance of the Southwest. The variety of architectural styles and community settings can accommodate every imaginable taste, lifestyle, and budget. Newcomers are able to select from a wide array of patio homes, charming villas, luxury townhouses, posh condominiums, elaborate estates, or ranch-style single-family homes. Many homes feature archways that lead into charming courtyards or privacy walls that ensure seclusion for artfully landscaped yards, covered patios and ramadas, sports courts, and pristine pools.
Some of the metropolitan region’s larger master-planned communities such as Sun City and Sun City West, Estrella Mountain Ranch, Arrowhead Ranch, Anthem, DC Ranch, and McDowell Mountain Ranch can provide all the amenities and conveniences of a small town. Schools, libraries, churches, shopping and services, recreational facilities, lush local parks, and connecting pathways create a true “community” atmosphere.
The following is just a small sample of the increasing number of residential villages, subdivisions, and planned communities that are available in the Phoenix / Northeast Valley.
Anthem, North Anthem Heights Drive, Phoenix. http://www.onlineatanthem.com/ Just beyond the lights of Phoenix in the pristine high desert are three communities nestled in an award-winning development: Anthem Country Club, the Anthem active adult community, and comfortable family living at Anthem Parkside.
Bellasera, East Visao Drive, Scottsdale. http://www.azbellasera.org/ The prestigious community of Bellasera covers 290 acres of scenic high desert at the foot of imposing Lone Mountain.
The Boulders, N. Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree. www.theboulders.com On the edge of Carefree, the award-winning Boulders Resort and golf-course community allows residents to enjoy access to resort amenities. Nearby, El Pedregal Marketplace offers upscale shopping, fine dining, and live entertainment in the open-air courtyard.
Copperwynd, Eagle Ridge Drive, Fountain Hill. http://www.copperwynd.com/ Lavish residences are surrounded by world-class resort amenities that include tennis courts, swimming pools, a health/fitness center, and fine dining. The nearby town of Fountain Hills provides commercial conveniences, community theater, a library, and some of the Valley’s most anticipated special events.
DC Ranch, Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale. http://www.dcranch.com/ Sprawling near the foot of the McDowell Mountains, this community of beautiful, family-oriented neighborhoods provides every amenity within walking distance. Designed to offer the intimacy and sense of connection of a small town, DC Ranch has developed a spectacular nine-acre indoor/outdoor recreational complex.
Desert Highlands, East Happy Valley Road, Scottsdale. http://www.deserthighlandsscottsdale.com/ Magnificent custom homes are nestled on pristine, generous high Sonoran desert lots that command breathtaking fairway, city light, and mountain views in this private golf-club community near Carefree.
Desert Mountain, Cave Creek Road, Scottsdale. http://www.desertmountain.com/ Known for its opulent homes and world-renowned Jack Nicklaus golf courses, Desert Mountain is home to a variety of exclusive residential communities.
Desert Ridge, Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix. http://www.desertridgelifestyles.com/ Planned to cover a complete 5,700 acres, this sprawling community creates a balance of residential villages with resort, shopping, and entertainment development.
Dove Valley Ranch, North Black Mountain Parkway, Cave Creek. http://www.dovevalleyranch.com/ Beautiful homes enjoy an unspoiled high-desert landscape, recreational amenities, and close proximity to the golf course of the same name designed by Robert Trent Jones II.
The Estancia Club, North 99th Place, Scottsdale. http://www.estanciaclub.com/ Nestled on the northern slope of Pinnacle Peak, this prestigious North Scottsdale community is known for its stunning homes, environmental sensitivity, and Tom Fazio-designed golf course.
Gainey Ranch, East Gainey Ranch Road, Scottsdale. http://www.gaineyranchcc.com/ Nestled in a peerless centralized Scottsdale location, Gainey Ranch provides an award-winning 27-hole golf course, lake vistas, fine shopping, and distinctive properties.
Grayhawk, E. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale. http://www.grayhawk.com/ Nestled between two award-winning golf courses along with a wealth of amenities are upscale homes, villas, townhomes, and condominiums from renowned builders.
Kierland, Greenway & Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. http://www.kierland.com/ This elegant, mixed-use development is in a convenient location in the central corridor of North Scottsdale, which combines exclusive shopping, entertainment, and dining with residential development.
Legend Trail, East Legendary Lane, Scottsdale. http://www.legendtrailgc.com/ Spectacular recreational and residential opportunities include 640 unspoiled acres of high desert preserved as open space and the recreational jewel of the Rees Jones-designed golf course.
McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. http://www.mccormickranchpoa.com/ Scottsdale’s ground-breaking development transformed 4,300 acres of arid land into one of the Valley’s first and finest resort and residential communities. The collection of fine homes are complemented by bike paths, fine dining, golf courses, tennis courts, and 130 acres of sparkling lakes.
McDowell Mountain Ranch, Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale. http://www.mmrtrailtalk.com/modules/wfchannel/ This family-oriented community features a wealth of amenities including trails, parks, community center, swimming pool/spa, sports courts, and splash fountain.
Scottsdale Mountain, East 136th Street, Scottsdale. http://www.scottsdalemountain.net/ Set against the foothills of the McDowell Mountain Preserve, the community offers handsome homes that command spectacular landscape views.
Scottsdale Ranch, North 100th Street, Scottsdale. http://www.scottsdaleranch.org/ Waterfront estates, beautiful tennis villas, patio homes, and townhomes surround Lake Serena and recreational amenities.
Stonegate, East Mountain View Road, Scottsdale. http://www.stonegate-scottsdale.com/ This premier community provides all the seclusion of a gated resort lifestyle with tennis courts, pool/spa, community center, and hiking trails.
Tatum Highlands, Jomax Road & Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix. http://www.tatumhighlandsca.org/link/linkshow.asp?link_id=17274 This handsome residential development in a variety of architectural styles harmonizes with a 20-acre recreational park in a pristine desert environment just two miles from Tatum Ranch public golf course.
Tatum Ranch, Cave Creek Road & Dixileta, Phoenix. www.tatumranchgc.com Covering 1,500 acres in the Sonoran desert between northeastern Phoenix and Cave Creek, 30 attractive neighborhoods are filled with beautiful homes.
Terravita, North 69th Way, Scottsdale. www.terravitascottsdale.org Nearly 825 pristine acres of high Sonoran desert beauty create the scenic backdrop for lovely homes and recreational amenities that include a golf course, fine dining, and a community center with fitness area.
Tramonto, Carefree Highway at I-17, Phoenix. http://www.tramontocma.org/Community-Information~189322~15948.htm Single-family residences and prime sites for custom homes join a retail town center, fine hotel, and abundant recreational amenities for a convenient yet serene lifestyle.
Troon North, Troon Village, Jomax & Alma School Roads, Scottsdale. http://www.trooncc.com/ Nestled among the boulders just north of Pinnacle Peak, these upscale communities boast highly acclaimed Troon golf courses that are surrounded by neighborhoods filled with luxury homes that command superb views of fairways and landscapes.
The Verdes, Rio Verde, Tonto Verde, Four Peaks Boulevard, Rio Verde. http://www.rioverdeaz.com/ These two “sister” active-adult communities surround beautiful homes with golf courses and award-winning clubhouses. The town of Fountain Hills provides nearby amenities.
