I’m a New Yorker who visited Phoenix for the first time, and 8 things surprised me

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figcaption>I was fascinated by the diversity of plant life in Phoenix.

From palm trees to succulents, I noticed that Phoenix was full of plant variety in neighborhoods, on busy streets, and in natural areas.

There are many more kinds of plants native to Arizona than in other US states because of the region’s varied climates and altitudes, according to the Arizona Native Plant Society, which estimates about 4,000 native plant species in the state.

For that reason, I’m especially interested in visiting the Desert Botanical Garden during my next trip.

In downtown Phoenix, I wasn’t expecting to find an eclectic mix of historical and modern architectural styles.

Art Deco, Spanish Colonial, Victorian, Pueblo Revival, Art Moderne, French Provincial — these are just a handful of architectural styles I saw while strolling the streets of Phoenix. The eclectic mix comes from Phoenix’s rich history of various influences, according to Historic Phoenix Districts.

I love photographing various architectural styles, so walking around downtown Phoenix was really inspiring. Next time, I want to explore the architecture outside the downtown area to see more Victorian and Pueblo Revival architecture in residential areas.

I never knew Phoenix was covered in street art, and I was pleasantly surprised by all the colorful murals painted over building facades.

Walking through downtown Phoenix, I felt like I was in an immersive art museum. There seemed to be a mural around every corner with varying styles and color palettes.

I wasn’t expecting to find so many good restaurants in Phoenix, but the city has some delectable eats.

I had some of the best guacamole I’ve ever had, with heaps of pomegranate seeds mixed in, from Barrio Cafe in Phoenix. 

Another great spot, Snooze, is a breakfast eatery with locations across the US, except the northeast. I’ve been to other Snooze locations in Austin, and the Phoenix location was just as delicious.

After watching the sun go down in Phoenix, I understand why people say sunsets are better in Arizona.

Many of my friends who have lived in the state have told me that sunsets are better in Arizona. After spending a week in Phoenix, I agree.

There’s something epic about watching the sunset over a mountain range, and in Arizona, the view felt especially inspiring with so many saturated colors. 

I watched the sunset nearly every day in Phoenix, and I’m sure I will next time, too.