5 Local Bookstores You’ll Want to Wander Through Around the Valley
There’s something about a bookstore that you just can’t get from scrolling through a website or grabbing a paperback at a big box store. It’s the smell of the pages, the quiet buzz of people flipping through books, and those handwritten staff picks with little hearts or fun notes. You can spend way too long just touching the spine of a book you might not even buy but really want to.
Luckily, the Valley has some amazing indie bookstores that make getting lost in a good book easy and fun. Whether you want a signed first edition, a fresh kids’ pick, or a cozy spot to escape the Arizona heat with a cold drink and a paperback, these places are worth checking out.
Meet 4 Local Arizona Artists You Can Support Right Now
There’s something special about finding an artist whose work just clicks with you. Whether it's a painting that feels like home or a handmade mug that makes your morning coffee better, supporting local artists lets you surround yourself with things that have meaning. It’s also one of the best ways to connect with your community and invest in the creativity happening right here in Arizona.
Real Grass vs. Artificial Turf in Arizona: What’s Actually Worth It?
Your yard sets the tone for your entire home. Whether you’re in Mesa, Scottsdale, or way out in Queen Creek with room to spare, the grass (or turf) you choose makes a difference. So let’s break it all down. The pros, the cons, and the things nobody tells you until you’ve already spent the money.
5 Kid-Friendly Libraries in Arizona That Your Kids Will Adore
We wanted to highlight the creme de la creme of Valley libraries. And these aren’t just good libraries, they’re destinations. Worth the drive, worth packing snacks, worth staying for an afternoon.
How to Host a Backyard BBQ in the Arizona Heat (Without Losing Your Cool)
Summer in Arizona is tough. Always has been. Thankfully, there are ways to do a BBQ right, and it doesn’t always involve moving it inside to the safety of the AC!
5 Valley Waterparks You Still Have Time to Take Your Family to This Summer
The Valley is packed with spots that promise to cool you down, wear out your crew, and create those sunscreen-streaked memories you’ll be laughing about for years. Toddlers or teens, or a mix of both, these five waterparks are worth loading up the car and heading out.
Back To School Shopping On A Budget
Back-to-school season brings fresh excitement, new routines, and (let’s be honest) a long list of supplies that can add up quickly. And for Arizona families, school often starts earlier than in other states, which means the shopping scramble hits fast. The good news is that it’s completely possible to get everything students need without breaking the bank.
5 Out-of-the-box Places to Host Your Child's Birthday Party
We’ve rounded up five awesome, out-of-the-box places for your child’s next celebration. These spots promise unforgettable experiences, where the fun is already built into the location.
Arizona’s Best 4th of July Fireworks Displays
The 4th of July is one of the Valley’s most exciting times of the year, with celebrations lighting up the desert sky from Scottsdale to Gilbert and everywhere in between. From jaw-dropping fireworks shows and family-friendly festivals to live music and food trucks, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate across Arizona.
Three Pieces of Arizona Real Estate that Made History
Arizona — and more specifically, Phoenix — is home to a wealth of historical properties that capture the essence of the city’s past. Many of these have made big contributions to the region’s history, each telling unique stories about Phoenix’s evolution from a frontier town to a vibrant metropolis.
4 Celebs that have called Arizona Home
Arizona’s warm climate, stunning desert landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle have made it a favorite destination for vacationers and celebrities alike. From Phoenix to Scottsdale, the state offers a mix of luxury and privacy, making it an ideal place to own a home. Take a look at these celebs that (at some point) decided to make Phoenix a part of their history.
How to Maintain a Pool in the Arizona Desert
For many in Arizona, having a pool in the backyard is the only way to go. After all, with temperatures that can hit 120 degrees, having a nice, cool respite from the blazing sun isn’t a bad option. But keeping your pool in tip-top shape in the desert, especially during the summer, can be a bit of a challenge. There’s intense heat, dry air, dust, and monsoon storms that can happen in the blink of an eye.
The Best Places in Arizona to Go Glamping
Glamping (AKA glamorous camping) is the perfect middle ground for those who want the experience of being out in nature without sacrificing comfort.