Phoenix magazine Best of the Valley 2022

Q: Why is Phoenix known as the Valley of the Sun?

The metropolitan area is known as the Valley of the Sun due to its location in the Salt River Valley. It lies at a mean elevation of 1,086 feet (331 m), in the northern reaches of the Sonoran Desert.

For more than 50 years, PHOENIX magazine's experienced writers, editors, and designers have captured all sides of the Valley with award-winning and insightful writing, and groundbreaking report and design. Our expository features, narratives, profiles, and investigative features keep our 385,000 readers in touch with the Valley's latest trends, events, personalities and places.

All photos by Ellie Willard

Come see the Best of the Valley all in one place in Downtown Phoenix on Saturday, Aug. 13.

2022 Best of the Valley - 561 of the Most Marvelous People, Places and Things in the Valley!

The band members cleaned up nicely for a family fun night themed photo shoot.

Three of the worst things about the Valley. Not everything can be the best.

Our editorial picks for local personalities and media consumables.

Our editorial picks for best workouts and places to hike or play in the Valley.

Welcome back, life. As the pandemic winds down, the Valley’s cultural diversions – festivals, the arts, gyms and tours – are blossoming anew.

Our editors conjure their favorites in this roundup of the metaphysical Valley.

From pet grooming to a present for grandma, these are the editor's picks.

So much of what we love about the Valley is what it puts in our bodies, from lavender-infused lattes to Korean corn dogs to pomegranate cosmos. Salut!

Our picks on the best spots in the Valley for a brew, a pour and a vino.

Where is Phoenix magazine sold?

Where can I purchase single copies of the current issue of PHOENIX magazine? PHOENIX magazine is on sale at all major grocery, pharmacy and book retailers in the Phoenix area. The current issue also may be purchased by calling the PHOENIX magazine office at 480-478-8806 or online at phoenixmag.com/shop.

Why is Phoenix known as the Valley of the Sun?

The metropolitan area is known as the "Valley of the Sun" due to its location in the Salt River Valley. It lies at a mean elevation of 1,086 feet (331 m), in the northern reaches of the Sonoran Desert.