What is there to see and do in Arizona

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Q. What is there to see and do in Arizona, asked Candy

A. The area dates back to about 300BC when the dry landscape yielded crops for the Hohokom people. Later small groups of Indians eeked out an existence around the river, but it wasn't until 1860, when the US Army built Fort McDowell in north-east Phoenix, that a proper town was established. Darrel Duppa, a British settler, suggested the town had risen from the ashes of the Hohokam culture, like the fabled phoenix, and hence we have the name for the capital city - Phoenix.

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Q. Most of the state is in the desert, so when is the best time of the year to go

A. From September to April the state enjoys mild weather and many people prefer autumn to visit the area. If you go in the summer, the temperature can regularly reach 100F and the summer is also the monsoon season when there are thunder storms and flash flooding can be a problem for hikers. The views are spectacular - like that of Monument Valley, pictured above, at Sunset.

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Q. What's the main economy of the state

A. The area's economy is mainly driven by politics, agriculture, transportation and tourism, but more recently, there has been significant growth in industry and the manufacturing of computer components.

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Q. Where are the best places to learn about the history of Arizona

A. Check out the Heard Museum, which is a one-stop-shop place to learn about the Indians' history and culture. There are also thousands of exhibits and a magnificent Kochina dolls collection on show. Also try the Desert Botannical Garden, which has thousands of species of desert flora.

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Old Town Scottsdale is a very popular destination for visitors. There is a cluster of early 20th century buildings, which create an old town feel with saloons reliving the cowboy days.

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Nearby is the Scottsdale Historical Museum and Scottsdale Center, which have exhibits and contemporary art collections.

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Q. What does Frank Lloyd Wright have in common with Arizona

A. Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the US's most famous 20th century architects. He lived and taught in Scottsdale at Taliesin West. Set in about 600 acres of desert, Taliesin West is a working example of Wright's architecture, using natural forms to shape structures. A visit to Taliesin West is well worth it.

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Q. What's the event of the year

A. The biggest parade of the year is the Fiesta Bowl college football game on New Year's Day at the ASU Sun David Stadium. Between January and February, Scottsdale enjoys rodeo, hoedowns and pony express re-enactments and the All Arabian Horse Show. The Azizona State Fair takes place during the last two weeks of October.

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Q. What about getting there

A. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the largest in the south west of the USA and once there, the area is well served by Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses.

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By Katharine MacColl