Just nine miles from downtown Phoenix, Glendale is home to over 252,000 people. With 40 miles of hiking trails, recreation facilities, public pools, and skate parks, there's no need to venture outside of the city.

Completed in 1885, Arizona Canal Company's 40-mile long project brought water to the desert, giving communities and agriculture the chance to thrive. The head of the project, William J. Murphy, sought to colonize the area as a way of paying off his construction debts. After years of promotion, the Temperance Colony of Glendale was established in 1892.

Incorporated in 1910, Glendale has retained many historical buildings. You can find most of them listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These must-see locations include Sahuaro Ranch, built in 1891, and Manistee Ranch, which grows citrus and dates. The ranch covers four acres and its structures are all restored. Many of these historic buildings make up the two distinct neighborhoods of Downtown Glendale: Catlin Court and Old Towne.

After exploring the architecture, you can pop into dozens of shops and antique stores. Be sure to check out Cerreta Candy Co., Gracie's Marketplace, Spinning Wheel Antiques, and Zola Bell's Vintage. Considered one of the nation's best places to shop, Glendale is also the self-proclaimed Antique Capital of Arizona.

For a bite to eat, locals know it's all about Dazzo's Dog House, Papa Ed's Ice Cream, and Haus Murphy's. Whatever you're craving, Glendale has what you're looking for. For nightlife, you'll want to find your way over to the Westgate Entertainment District. Attend a hockey or football game, or cheer on the Coyotes and Cardinals in one of the district's many sports bars. And as both stadiums also host concerts, you're likely to catch up with your favorite performers. Between shows, Westgate boasts dozens of restaurants and other activities. Whether you want to throw pottery or axes, there's something to do every day of the year.

Want to reconnect with nature? Heroes Regional Park offers an archery range, splash pad, playgrounds, and athletic courts. In the autumn, visit Tolmachoff Farms, pick a pumpkin, and explore the corn maze. When the heat's too much, take refuge inside one of the area's many museums, including the Arizona Doll & Toy Museum, and the Historical Society.

With so much to do, you don't want to be stuck at home in the desert sun, trying to manage wayward trees. Instead of hauling out the ladder and fighting with the clippers, let LawnStarter make tree care easy. LawnStarter pros provide all sorts of tree care services, including emergency removal. All you need to do is download the app, enter your ZIP code, schedule your service, and let LawnStarter handle the hard stuff.