Visiting Phoenix and Central Arizona

Phoenix and the surrounding area is called the Valley of the Sun for good reason. The Phoenix Metropolitan area has the hottest climate of any major metropolitan area in the US. Phoenix is Arizona's state capital, the state's largest city and county seat for Maricopa County. A cosmopolitan city which opened METRO light rail service to downtown in 2009.  The METRO light rail provides service to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa offering stops near Sky Harbor International Airport, Arizona State University and along the downtown Central corridor. Convenient for downtown museums, concerts and arts events, the 20 mile initial line has made a positive impact on the Phoenix transit system.

Phoenix hosts the 2010 Arizona State Fair October 15th through November 7th. With all the traditional exhibitions and fun you expect, plus some new and exciting additions for 2010. Held at the Arizona Exposition Center, bring the family to enjoy the Days of the Dinosaur Adventure on its first US tour. The State Fair 5K Fun Run / Walk returns this year on October 17th. There is a fantastic line-up of concerts including Bret Michaels, Colbie Callat, Selena Gomez and Blake Shelton. There is something for everyone at the Arizona State Fair.

Best Western Hotels of Arizona offer over 15 locations in the Phoenix Metro area for visitors. The Best Western InnSuites Hotel and Suites in north-central Phoenix is located off the 51 Freeway with easy access to any valley location. The Best Western Phoenix 1-17 MetroCenter Inn is off I-17 and also convenient to attractions throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan region.

Scottsdale hosts the 10th Annual Scottsdale International Film Festival the first five days of October. With a specific mission of screening international films that foster understanding of the world's diversity and inspire positive change. This is a unique opportunity to see cultures, lifestyles and their important issues brought to life in the artistic medium of film. Held at the Harkins Camelview theaters in Scottsdale, expect a selection of nearly 30 films from as many as 25 countries.

Visitors to Scottsdale can stay at the Best Western Sundial, a unique boutique style hotel ideally located in Old Town Scottsdale. Within walking distance of Scottsdale Fashion Square and the theater screenings for the Scottsdale International Film Festival. The Best Western Papago Inn and Resort is located south on Scottsdale Road near Papago Park and the Phoenix Zoo. A convenient location to enjoy Scottsdale attractions, and also close to ASU and Sun Devil Stadium.

Arizona Cardinal fans – It's Football Season. Regular 2010 season home play starts September 26th against the Oakland Raiders. Home field is University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, west of Phoenix. With the retirement of quarterback Kurt Warner and a successful 2009 season, there is some exciting play ahead this fall. The Best Western Inn and Suites of Sun City is located in Youngtown, west of the University of Phoenix stadium. Avoid city traffic and enjoy the night after a big game at this comfortable and affordable Best Western Hotel.