Perhaps I’m a bit biased but I think that as a state overall, Arizona is the cream of the crop. We have an unlimited number of places to find natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, plenty of places to find delicious food, and plenty of pretty cool cities and towns.
We’ve listed some of our favorite small towns and cities before but today we’re going to focus on one that we think could be considered the absolute best in the country. That’s a pretty hefty title, however, if we think about the combination of things like great schools, housing, employment, recreation, and a relatively low crime rate, then we can definitely narrow that list down to just a handful of contenders. Which would you choose?
Well, we decided on Scottsdale! The Phoenix suburb routinely tops national lists for education, safety, entertainment, and so much more that it’s difficult to ignore Scottsdale and its influence on Arizona’s national perception.
Experience Scottsdale/Flickr
Although Scottsdale is a pretty big city—it has a population estimated to be over 236,000 and is ranked the 92nd most populated city in the country—it is a fairly safe place to visit and live!
Mesa0789/Flickr Although crime statistics vary each year, Scottsdale usually makes the top ten for big cities every year. That’s pretty impressive!
Scottsdale also routinely tops lists for education! In 2011, it received a nod from On Numbers as the 14th brainiest city in the country and charter school BASIS Scottsdale was designated the best high school in the country.
Thomas Hawk/Flickr Chapparal and Desert Mountain High Schools also made the top 20 list for best high schools in Arizona.
Want to bask in luxury? Where else in Arizona are you going to do that than Scottsdale?
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa/Facebook It’s a pretty obvious choice since Scottsdale has a large number of resorts, spas, and other luxurious retreats to help you relax and enjoy the simple act of living.
As for restaurants? You’ll find some of the best in the state sitting in this city.
Citizen Public House/Facebook You’ll find old time favorites like Los Olivos in Old Town and new restaurants like Citizen Public House that are making their mark.
Scottsdale is also well-known for its art scene—both visual and performing. You’ll find a good number of museums and galleries dedicated to showcasing the best of the Southwest. You can also find concerts happening in town on a regular basis and some are even free!
sea turtle/Flickr
Let’s not forget that Scottsdale is surrounded by gorgeous scenery! The McDowell Mountains sit right at the edge of Tonto National Forest, perfect for a morning hike before heading off to brunch.
CEBImagery/Flickr
Want to make small town Arizona your home instead? You’ll want to read about some spectacular little towns in 14 Small Towns In Arizona Where Everyone Knows Your Name.
Experience Scottsdale/Flickr
Mesa0789/Flickr
Although crime statistics vary each year, Scottsdale usually makes the top ten for big cities every year. That’s pretty impressive!
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Chapparal and Desert Mountain High Schools also made the top 20 list for best high schools in Arizona.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa/Facebook
It’s a pretty obvious choice since Scottsdale has a large number of resorts, spas, and other luxurious retreats to help you relax and enjoy the simple act of living.
Citizen Public House/Facebook
You’ll find old time favorites like Los Olivos in Old Town and new restaurants like Citizen Public House that are making their mark.
sea turtle/Flickr
CEBImagery/Flickr
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