Phoenix , Arizona
Time Zone: Mountain Time ( but Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings)

Population: 1,4 million, with 3.4 million in the metropolitan area

Major Airport: Sky Harbor Airport

Climate: Located in the Salt River Valley in the south central part of the state, Phoenix is situated on flat desert terrain, bordered by lakes and the Superstition Mountains to the east and surrounded by the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The climate is warm, with low humidity. The most remarkable weather feature is sunshine approximately 325 days per year, making Phoenix one of the sunniest cities in the country.

Overview: America's fifth-largest city still has real cowboys and rugged mountains and the kind of cactus most people see only in cartoons. Phoenix is the gateway to the Grand Canyon, and its history is a testament to the spirit of puebloans, ranchers, miners and visionaries. Projected against this rich backdrop is a panorama of urban sophistication: Resorts and spas that drop jaws and soothe souls. Stadiums and arenas worthy of the world's biggest sports spectacles. Restaurants with inspired cuisine and inspiring patio views. Golf courses that beckon players the year round. Shopping centers as stylish and eclectic as the fashions they house.

Phoenix's gay scene is large and diverse with over 30 gay bars, and many high quality gay owned restaurants. The city is moderately progressive and it is welcoming of the gay community. Gay Pride is celebrated in April every year which usually guarantees clear skys and temperatures in the 80s & 90s.

Transportation: Lightrail and Bus Information There is one lightrail line which runs from Mesa through central Phoenix. The metro area has a good bus system and reasonable fares. However, neither the lightrail nor buses run late hours (after bars close)..

Bar hours: Bars can serve alcohol until 2:00 am. Some bars stay open afterwards, but cannot sell alcohol.