2024 CONFERENCE UPDATE
by water ( head out on the water for leisurely lake tours or river rafting adventures ).
DESERT LIFE Anyone visiting Phoenix will want to see a saguaro cactus , one of the most iconic symbols of the American Southwest . Luckily , you can find saguaro cactus just about anywhere you go in Phoenix , whether you ’ re in the city or out on a hike .
Saguaro and other desert flora and fauna are accessible within several nature havens close to Phoenix . Two worth researching are : l Boyce Thompson Arboretum : Experience the lush beauty of the Arizona Upland Sonoran Desert at the state ’ s oldest and largest botanical garden . The Arboretum is on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts hidden gardens , historic buildings , more than 3,900 different plant species , world-class birding and spectacular views of Picket Post Mountain . l Desert Botanical Garden : Five thematic trails illustrate topics such as conservation , desert living , plants and people of the Sonoran Desert and desert wildflowers . l Greater Phoenix ’ s fusion of natural splendor and metropolitan verve sets it apart from a lot of big cities — and everyone is invited to experience it . As you explore the city ’ s urban core , you ’ ll discover a strong LGBTQ + community that ’ s integrated throughout the area ’ s businesses , spaces , events and entertainment . l From the barrier-free trails of the Sonoran Desert to ADAcompliant facilities at tourist destinations , Greater Phoenix is home to a wide variety of accessibility-friendly indoor and outdoor attractions .
UNIQUELY PHOENIX SHOPPING Gone are the days of shot glasses and postcards . Today ’ s travelers are seeking the most authentic souvenirs and exclusive gifts unique to the places they visit . Phoenix is home to a wide variety of shops and boutiques overflowing with local flavor . So , whether you are shopping for yourself or for someone back home , you ’ ll find something unique and memorable in Phoenix . n
DIVERSITY , INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY Several museums , national monuments and outdoor activities honor the many contemporary and historic cultures that have combined and interwoven to form modern Phoenix , and a wide variety of festivals , restaurants , attractions and other businesses represent the various cultures and incredible local talent within Phoenix ’ s diverse community . l Some of Phoenix ’ s most iconic businesses are Blackowned and have been ingrained in the city ’ s fabric for decades . In every pocket of Greater Phoenix , you can find a Black-owned business to support . l Like much of the Western United States , Greater Phoenix saw its first wave of Asian and Pacific Islander immigrants arrive near the end of the 19th century . The AAPI community has become a key component of Phoenix ’ s culture , adding countless contributions to the area ’ s arts , cuisine , retail , hospitality , medical and tech industries . l The region around Phoenix has been home to several American Indian cultures . Take a step back in time and learn about the history of the indigenous peoples who lived here , such as the Hohokam , and those still here today , such as the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation , Gila River Indian Community , Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and Tohono O ’ odham Nation .
Some of the text and images in this story originated on visitphoenix . com . Contents has been modified for brevity and to focus on travel information of interest to 2024 ISPA Conference attendees .
20 PULSE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023