Ah, Chandler! This vibrant desert city is a true gem of Arizona.

Its Sun City with style, a modern metropolis that retains its natural beauty and undeniable charm. Let me tell you, dear reader, if you want to really experience Chandler and its people the eclectic mix of artists, entrepreneurs, retirees then there are some places you simply must visit.

First up on our journey through this aweinspiring city is none other than Tumbleweed Park (745 E Germann Rd). Now I know what youre thinking: But wait just one darntootin minute here pal! Thats not exactly an unknown spot! And sure enough it isnt. But hear me out. What makes Tumbleweed Park so unique is the variety of experiences it offers visitors.

You can play a game of frisbee golf on the parks 18hole course or watch baseball games at one of their multiple fields. You can explore the Hummingbird Habitat or saddle up for a horse ride around the trail system surrounding the park. Check out Pioneer Living History Museum where costumed interpreters teach Old West skills like blacksmithing and candle making.

Other odd spots worth exploring in Chandler include visionaries like Royse Contemporary Art Gallery (7077 E Main St #6), where local artists from near and far showcase their work in strikingly contemporary displays; Gangplank Collaborative Workspace (260 S Arizona Ave), which has become a hotbed for creative types looking to launch startups or share ideas; and Nishikawa Midori Japan Center located on ASU campus next door to Desert Breeze Park(650 East Morelos Street) ,which offers unparalleled insight into traditional Japanese culture with classes ranging from tea ceremony to calligraphy.

If youre looking for eats while visiting Chandler check out Espos Mexican Food (3867 W Elliot Rd) for mouthwatering carne asada tacos or El Zocalo Mexican Grill (28 S San Marcos Pl) for a classy twist on classic Mexican dishes. You cant go wrong with The Brickyard Downtown (85 W Boston St), either, which serves up farmtotable American cuisine and artisan cocktails in an intimate setting.

But perhaps the best way to experience Chandler is by simply wandering its streets and taking in all the sights and sounds. From unique boutiques like Vintage Home Mercantile (20225 N 67th Ave Ste A9 Glendale Az 85308) or Antique Plaza(114 E 6th St,) , to coffee shops like Peixoto Coffee Roasters (11 W Boston St.), theres always something new to discover.

At the end of the day, Chandler is more than just a city its an experience. So take my advice, dear reader, and immerse yourself in all that this vibrant desert wonderland has to offer.

Websites:

www.chandleraz.gov

www.downtownchandler.org

Twitter:

@DowntownChandler

@chandlerazgov