Living in an up and coming area is what you will find in the West Valley. There are five cities (Tolleson, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Avondale, and Glendale), three towns (Buckeye, Youngtown, and Gila Bend), and three villages (Estrella Mountain Village, Laveen Village, and Maryvale Village) that make up this section of the Valley of the Sun. It is a hot spot that many are coming to live, work, and play.
Selecting a home in the West Valley is easy. There are many choices available. The West Valley is a hotbed for new home planned communities. Many floor plans and upgrades give prospective homeowners options. Affordable housing and a great southwestern lifestyle are two reasons people select the West Valley. Mature neighborhoods with tree lined boulevards are near the city of downtown Glendale. Retirement communities with a variety of amenities are sprinkled throughout the area. Locating the best living option is simple to do in the West Valley.
Location and accessibility to freeways are key, when deciding where to live in the Valley of the Sun. The West Valley has both Interstate 10, which runs east and west and Loop 101 that stretches north and south. These main thoroughfares provide residents with options and access to all point of the Valley.
There is shopping for everyone in the West Valley. Browsing for antiques is best done in the city of Glendale. Old fashioned store fronts and quaint cafes are found sprinkled around the downtown city park square. Glendale is known for its many antique shops. New shopping centers are popping up all over the West Valley. Desert Sky Mall and Palm Valley Pavilions West (formerly known as the Wigwam Factory Outlet Shopping Center) provide residents with lots of choices.
A great part about living in the West Valley is the accessibility to higher education institutions. Arizona State University West is located at 4701 West Thunderbird Road. This extended campus location serves undergraduate and graduate students on it expanding campus. Students at Arizona State University West can chose from bachelor and master’s degree programs in the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Education, Human Services, School of the Management and the Division of Collaborative Programs. The campus has a full service library, computer linked classrooms, bookstore, fitness center, child care, and a cafeteria. The Garvin School of International Management (formerly known as the Thunderbird American Graduate School of International Management) is situated in the city of Glendale. Students from all over the world come to the Garvin School to study. The school is recognized as being one of the best in the country. These higher education facilities, along with other public/private colleges are available in the West Valley, making this area a great place for learning.
Entertainment is found everywhere you turn in the West Valley. The Glendale Arena and new Arizona Cardinal Football Stadium are the highlights for this part of the Valley of the Sun. Both are located just off of the Loop 101, which makes it convenient for spectators. Concerts, Arizona Coyote Hockey, lacrosse, bull riding, motocross, and other special events are held in these venues. These venues are the starting points for more shopping, restaurants, and hotels. Phoenix International Raceway is in the city of Avondale, south of Interstate 10. Races are scheduled throughout the year and draw thousands of race car fans. Baseball Spring Training is located at the Maryvale Baseball Park in Maryvale Village. The Milwaukee Brewers make this stadium their home for practice before the regular season begins. The West Valley is a great place to take in entertainment throughout the year.
The beauty of the desert can be seen in almost every direction. The Sierra Estrella Mountains create the southern border of the West Valley. These mountains are a part of the Estrella Mountain Regional Park with 19,000 acres. Hikers, horseback riders, and campers enjoy the park’s amenities. To the west the White Tank Mountains frame the western edge of the West Valley. The White Tank Mountain Regional Park gives hikers an opportunity to discover ancient Indian petroglyphs or a trek to a scenic waterfall. The water from the waterfall comes from the natural water tanks that store up water throughout the year. These water tanks are the park’s namesake. The West Valley offers country charm and open areas that will remind visitors and residents of the old west.
With gorgeous sunsets and over 300 days of warm sunshine, the West Valley provides its residents with many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Towns, Cities, and Villages in the West Valley
Growing by leaps and bounds, the West Valley is expanding quickly. There are six cities, three towns, and three Phoenix Villages. It includes the city of Tolleson, city of Goodyear, city of Glendale, city of Litchfield Park, city of Avondale, and the town of Youngtown which make up a majority of the West Valley. All of these communities have new developments and commercial opportunities. The town of Buckeye and the town of Gila Bend have experienced phenomenal growth. Although, these towns are not technically a part of the Valley of the Sun, the growth in the area has caused them to become so close the Valley that many consider them to be a part of the Phoenix area.
Fourteen villages make up the city of Phoenix, two of the villages are found in the West Valley. Estrella Mountain Village, Laveen Village, and Maryvale Village are situated at the southern boundaries of the West Valley area.
Tolleson
Tolleson is a small town covering about six square miles. It is a self contained community located approximately 10 miles west of downtown Phoenix in the West Valley. Sandwiched between the city of Phoenix to the north and east, the city of Avondale to the west, and the Gila River Indian Community to the south, Tolleson is in the middle of it all. With Interstate 10 marking the city’s northern boundary, State Highway following Tolleson’s southern boundary, and Loop 101 connecting to the north, it is easy to get around the Valley of the Sun. Spectacular mountain views to the south of both Sierra Estrella Mountains and South Mountain make living in Tolleson a perfect choice.
People move to Tolleson to share in the small town feeling that represents the city. New home developments are springing up. Properties range from single family homes to townhouses. Larger homes with bigger lots are available. One little known fact is that Tolleson was the first city in Arizona to have all paved streets.
History of the city of Tolleson can be traced way back in time to the ancient Hohokam Indians, who once inhabited this area. These early settlements date back to the 14th century. It wasn’t until 1912 and the arrival of W.G.Tolleson for which the town received its name, before the community started to grow. He built a ranch and then enticed people from Phoenix to come out and purchase land. Today, Tolleson remains a close-knit community.
Agriculture has always played a big role in the town and it continues to benefit the city today. However, other businesses have come to the area. Situated near several highways and the mainline Southern Pacific Railroad, the city offers an ideal location for new businesses and companies. Many warehouses/shipping facilities have sprung up. Tolleson has a strong commercial and industrial base.
Tolleson is known for being a community will friendly people with a southwestern attitude. There a wide range of community facilities available in the city. A community center, library, and several parks offer recreational activities for all residents. The city is developing new city government buildings with a green design. These facilities will be energy efficient. Recycled materials, solar power, and water conservation are some of the technologies that will be implemented in the design. Tolleson’s goal is to meet high standards, yet be environmentally friendly.
Tolleson features a unique blend of small town America, a strong commercial and industrial base, and a pleasant quality of life. It is a city with a foundation that includes a friendly atmosphere. The community supports a positive and diverse growth environment that enriches the way of life for the residents of Tolleson.
Goodyear
Goodyear is located about 17 miles west of downtown Phoenix and covers nearly 115 square miles. The Sierra Estrella Mountains stand to the south of the city and provide beautiful views. It is one of the larger municipalities in the Valley of the Sun. Interstate 10 bisects the city and allows for easy access to other parts of the Valley. The city’s proximity to metropolitan Phoenix and ability to locate transportation routes have led to Goodyear’s growth.
There is a mix of mature single family homes and new homes. Today, much of the agricultural land is being developed. There are several large master planned communities in Goodyear. This new growth and residential expansion has caused many to make the move. Affordable housing and convenient location to work and shopping has made the city the perfect choice. Families, retirees, and professionals enjoy living in Goodyear.
Cotton played a big role in the emerging city of Goodyear. The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company bought large parcels of land during World War I. The company used this land to plant Egyptian cotton, which was used for developing tire cords. Later, the Goodyear Aerospace Division came to the area and after several company transitions it is now owned by one of the largest defense contractor’s in the country. Today, Goodyear’s future is bright, with other large companies arriving on the scene and new homes popping up.
The town is committed to planned growth and maintaining open spaces. From Goodyear’s early start for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, the city has always promoted business development. One of Goodyear’s economic centers is the Phoenix-Goodyear Municipal Airport. It hosts one of the largest passengers to cargo jet conversion projects in the world. The airport along with the defense plant, Goodyear has a solid presence in the aerospace defense industry. Residents will find that there are many business opportunities in the city.
Achieving the small town community feeling is simple. The Estrella Mountain Ranch hosts an annual concerts and symphony presentations, which draws many residents out to share the experience outside. Several parks, a pool, and golf courses are just some of the community’s facilities available. The friendly attitude found in Goodyear is another reason people select this city to be their home.
Recreational activities can be found in the southern edge of the city. Estrella Mountain Regional Park is located just to the south of the city. It is 19,840 acre park that offers hiking, horseback riding, camping, and picnicking. There is also an 18 hole golf course which is set against the spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Estrella Mountains and the beauty of the desert. This regional park offers residents so many choices in outdoor activities and numerous opportunities to enjoy the Arizona’s mountain desert.
Goodyear is known for being a city that displays a relaxed attitude and southwestern friendliness. It is what many call “Authentic Arizona.” The true feeling you get when you have found a great place to be home.
Buckeye
On the southwestern edge of Maricopa County with a majestic view of the White Tank Mountains from almost every vantage point sits the town of Buckeye. It is located approximately 30 miles west of downtown Phoenix. The town is one of largest, when it comes to size, covering nearly 600 square miles. The area stretches from almost the town of Wickenburg in the north to the town of Gila Bend in the south and Hassayampa River to the west and Perryville Road to the east. Buckeye is Arizona’s biggest “small town.” Buckeye is accessible from Interstate 10 and State Highway 85.
At one time Buckeye sat on far fringes of the Valley of the Sun, in an area where residential and commercial developments ended and desert wilderness and farming began. However, today it is much different. Some consider Buckeye to be the last frontier for new development in the Valley of the Sun. It is the hot spot in the West Valley.
Buckeye is fast becoming an area where new homes are being built and planned communities are popping up. It is projected that over 240,000 homes will be constructed in Buckeye. Once it was a sleepy agricultural community, now Buckeye is a place where families, retirees, and professionals have made it their home. Buckeye is a desirable place to call home, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Properties in Buckeye range from newer single family residences to homes within the historic district. There are custom homes located at the base of the White Tank Mountains that offer larger lots and great views. Homes that include horse privileges are also found in town and many include multiple acres. Buckeye is known for its friendly neighborhoods and affordable suburban living. Many have discovered that Buckeye is a town where residents receive more for their real estate dollar, compared to other parts of the Valley of the Sun.
When a group of settlers left Ohio and arrived in the area in 1888, it was the start of what is now Buckeye. Jackson Sydney built a canal to help haul water to his crop and named the canal Buckeye, in honor of the state he left. The name was later passed on to the town. Throughout the years, inhabitants of the land have endured floods and droughts. However, these people were able to transform the land from a barren desert into a fertile farming valley. Cotton, feed grains, and vegetables flourish in the warm climate. Today, Buckeye holds onto its farming heritage.
Location is one of the main reasons people select Buckeye to live. Buckeye is far enough from Phoenix to be out of the traffic, yet close enough to receive the metropolitan advantages. Residents enjoy the amenities found in Phoenix and then return to the quiet comforts of living in Buckeye. This town has so much to offer.
People move to Buckeye for rural living with the southwest charm. Main Street – Buckeye is an Arizona Main Street town. The street has been designated by the National Register of Historic Places. One annual event that began in 1935 continues to bring out the community is the Hellzapoppin Days. This local tradition includes a parade, carnival, rodeo, demolition derby, and street dances. Buckeye also celebrates Countryfest, Pioneer Days, and a wonderful hometown Fourth of July. Local libraries, community center, parks and a history museum are community facilities that the town of Buckeye is proud to provide its residents.
New businesses and companies are also selecting Buckeye to be their home base. Almost every major form of transportation is available in town. There are also multiple points of access from Buckeye. Five highways, a general aviation airport, and the railroad are located in the area. Making Buckeye a perfect choice to develop and expand a business.
Experiencing the outdoors is simple when living in Buckeye. The Buckeye Hills Regional Park is located just five miles west of town. The park consists of 4,474 acres of natural desert. Visitors enjoy the rolling hills of pristine Sonoran Desert, with beautiful views of the Gila River riparian area. The park has restrooms, but currently there is no running water or electricity available. The Robbins Butte Wildlife Area is also located nearby. The wildlife area covers approximately 1,600 acres and is situated about seven miles southwest of town. Visitors have lots of opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing. The Gila River Christmas Bird, raptors, or any of the over 115 species of winter resident birds may be spotted. Reptiles, amphibians, and mammals have found the perfect habitat in this wildlife area. The Ringtail cat or Miner’s cat is common to the area. Residents have many choices for hiking and horseback riding in and around Buckeye.
The town of Buckeye has farming roots and small town charm. Selective planning and the town’s predicted growth may soon cause Buckeye to be the Valley’s largest community. That is why so many residents have found Buckeye to be the perfect place to live, work, and discover the best part that Arizona has to offer.
Glendale
As the fourth largest city in Arizona, Glendale is one of the fastest growing cities in the state. The city’s growth is highlighted by creating a balance with an emphasis on education and building a solid economic abase. However, Glendale has not forgotten its roots. A “small town feeling” is felt wherever you are in the city.
The city offers its residents many unique qualities. Scenic mountain views, desert vistas, golf courses, and lakes are sprinkled throughout Glendale. It is a vibrant community with many master planned developments, luxury executive homes, mature residences in quiet neighborhoods, townhouses, and condominiums, and affordable properties.
Glendale has earned the title of “Arizona’s Antique Capital.” Old Towne Glendale and the Historic Caitlin Court Shopping District are located in downtown Glendale. This area offers more than 90 antique stores, boutiques, specialty shops, and cafes. Shoppers delight in being able to walk to so many stores. All of this is centered on Murphy Park, Glendale’s city square. Many residents and visitors are drawn to the area. Gas lit street lamps, brick sidewalks, tree lined streets, and friendly people make shopping in downtown Glendale an event you won’t want to miss.
For those who want to keep up with the times, shopping at Arrowhead Towne Center is the best choice. The 1.3 million square foot super regional mall has something for everyone. There are several anchor stores and numerous retail businesses, including restaurants, specialty stores, entertainment, and services. Arrowhead Towne Center has become a popular shopping destination for the entire West Valley.
Outdoor enthusiast’s with love Glendale. There are over 50 parks, including the Thunderbird Regional Mountain Park in the northern section of the city. The Thunderbird Regional Mountain Park includes 1,180 acres. Visitors can hike or picnic in the park. Sunsets and amazing views of the Valley of the Sun can be seen from the mountain trails. Murphy Park in the center of downtown Glendale offers many annual events. Residents and visitors enjoy Glendale Glitters and Glow, Glendale Chocolate Affaire, World Port, and the Glendale Jazz and Blues Festival.
Education plays a key role in Glendale. The Garvin School of International Management (formerly known as the Thundererbird American Graduate School of International Management) attracts students from all across the world to study. The Midwestern University of Osteopathic Medicine continues to expand its campus and increase its student numbers. Arizona State University West is an off shoot of Arizona State University in Tempe that provides a variety of degrees ranging from undergraduate to graduate. Glendale Community College serves many individuals who want to further their education. This strong concentration of higher education facilities draws many people to Glendale to pursue their goals.
Luke Air Force Base is situated at the western edge of the city. The base is the largest jet fighting training base in the world.
Litchfield Park
Located just north of Interstate 10, the city of Litchfield Park is 16 miles west of downtown Phoenix. The city of Litchfield Park is considered inside the boundaries of south of Camelback Road, west of Dysart, north of Indian School Road Bypass or east of Litchfield Road (including Litchfield Park Greens and the new Village at Litchfield Park. The city is very small compared to most in the Valley of the Sun, covering only about three square miles.
Litchfield Park is one of the West Valley’s best kept secrets. Although the borders of this city touch others, Litchfield Park is unique. Some have stated that this small city feels almost like and enclave. The streets are shady and many of the neighborhoods are mature. Properties range from large estates to new home developments. Families, retirees, and professionals have found the perfect match in Litchfield Park.
The planting of Egyptian cotton in the Litchfield Park area by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company began in 1916. Two tracts of land were purchased by the company. One became the city of Goodyear and the other became Litchfield Park. Egyptian cotton was the key component in creating tire cords. As a matter of fact, Paul Litchfield was a Goodyear vice-president for which the city was named. Litchfield was credited with coming up with the ideal location for growing the cotton. Then in the 1960’s the area was developed into a master planned community. The city was designed around the concept of creating several self-sufficient villages. This concept can still be seen today. Litchfield Park is a city with beautiful surroundings.
Residents enjoy the small town atmosphere found in Litchfield Park, along with the advantages of living close to metropolitan Phoenix. Tierra Verde, the business district offers residents the convenience of shopping in Litchfield Park. The district is located in the center of the city. There are a full range of shops and services available. This makes living in Litchfield Park easy.
Taking part in the outdoors is something that Litchfield Park residents enjoy. The city has miles of winding pathways that are ideal for walking, jogging, or riding a bike. All of the pathways are edged with plants and trees. The abundance of trees earned Litchfield Park the designation of being Tree City, USA. Golf courses, swimming pools, library, picnic areas, and several parks provide residents with a wide range of community facilities to visit. The White Tank Mountain Regional Park lies to the west of Litchfield Park. The park provides visitors opportunities to see petroglyphs, hiking trails, and a seasonal waterfall. Visitors will discover this mountain regional park showcases the natural beauty of the desert.
The Wigwam Resort is a highlight of the city. In 1918, the Wigwam Resort was constructed to host Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company executives. It wasn’t until 1929 before the hotel was opened to the public, as an exclusive desert resort. Today, the 75 acre resort has been a consistent recipient of the five star awards. The grounds are a desert oasis with orange and palm trees, deep green lawns, and amazing flower gardens. Guests enjoy the three 18 hole golf courses that have received strong ratings. Distinctive restaurants provide guests with the taste of the southwest. Exceptional service is the main reason guests continue to return year after year. Throughout the resort’s long history, it has been a popular and exclusive Arizona destination spot. The Wigwam Resort is a place that will guarantee memories for years to come.
Children love going to the Wildlife World Zoo on Northern Avenue. The zoo has Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals, including one of the nation’s finest exotic bird collections. Visitors will see many types of animals ranging from bats to tigers. The giraffe feeding area is everyone’s favorite. The zoo’s mission is to educate and provide guests with an experience of a lifetime.
Those living in the Litchfield Park brag about the city’s small town atmosphere and its casual lifestyle. Residents have the unique charm found in a small community, along with the diverse entertainment options only available in a big city. It is a special community that many people have selected to call home.
Avondale
Sitting next to the Agua Fria River, just north of its junction to the Gila River, sits the city of Avondale. The city is located approximately 15 miles west of downtown Phoenix. Located in the West Valley with the city of Tolleson on the east, the city of Litchfield Park on the north, the city of Goodyear on the west, and the Sierra Estrella Mountains to the south Avondale is in the middle of it all.
Avondale is a great choice to live. It is away from the urban hustle and bustle. There are living choices available in Avondale. Some neighborhoods offer mature homes. However, much of the city is being developed into new suburban neighborhoods. Master planned communities are being built rapidly. Affordability and convenient location are some of the reasons both families and professionals have selected properties in the area. On the outskirts of the city larger properties are found. This city is the perfect place to call home.
It began in the 1900’s with a freight station created by a cowboy named Billy Moore. The area that is now known as the city of Avondale was first called Coldwater. The name referred to how the nearby Agua Fria River flowed sporadically on and off. Later, the town became an agriculatural community. The area received the nickname “Arizona’s Salad Bowl.” Eventually the name changed to Avondale, after the name of a local ranch. Crops such as lettuce, cauliflower, onions, melons, dates, citrus, and barley were grown in the area. Today, Avondale covers approximately 24 square miles and is still known for its farming. However, it is fast becoming a great location for new homes. Avondale is holding on to its small town feel, yet planning for its future.
It is a changing community from agricultural based to a growing residential and business area. It has become a town with a “small town atmosphere.” Community facilities such as parks, senior centers, a library, golf course, and a variety of outdoor recreational amenities are all available in Avondale. Billy Moore Days is an annual event that honors the first setter in the area. The ever popular team relay burro races are one event no one wants to miss. A parade, carnival, and other activities give residents opportunities to share the city’s friendly charm.
Interstate 10 runs east and west through the middle of the city, allowing residents’ access to other parts of the Valley of the Sun. The Loop 101 travels north out of Avondale giving travelers more options. All of these freeways provide Avondale residents choices in transportation.
Education is a part of the city of Avondale. Estrella Community College is available for those who want to further their level of higher education. Schools in the area provide students with a variety of vocational and job training programs. It is a great location to get ahead.
Phoenix International Raceway is on the southern edge of Avondale, at the base of the Sierra Estrella Mountains. The one mile oval track is edged with over 78,000 seats and is one of the fastest tracks. There are several major auto races held each year at the track. Both NASCAR and the Indy Racing League use Phoenix International Raceway. The raceway draws auto racing fans from all around the country and the world to see the varied motor sports events offered on the track. It is a great place for race car fans to enjoy a day.
Outdoor fun is found in a nearby mountain park. Estrella Mountain Regional Park to the south, offers camping, horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, and a 18 hole golf course. There is something for everyone at Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
Avondale is an up and coming city. There is much potential in the area. Residents are working hard to preserve the past’s traditions and promote the future.
Youngtown
Youngtown is land locked, the city of El Mirage on its western border and Peoria wrapping the rest of its edges to the south, east, and north. The town is situated approximately 15 miles west of downtown Phoenix.
Real estate broker, Ben Schleifer and banker, Clarence Suggs came together to create Youngtown in 1954. These men decided to purchase 320 acres of farmland and create a retirement community. They also enlisted Elmer Johns, who was a pioneer in the idea of retirement living to help develop Youngtown. It became a self contained community with a man made lake, recreational hall, medical facilities, and shopping. As a matter of fact, Youngtown became the first master planned retirement community in the nation. It was also the first to impose age restrictions. However, those restrictions were lifted in 1998. Today, all ages are allowed to live in town. Even so, the history of the town remains with nearly one-third of the population is of retirement age.
As time has passed, Youngtown has changed. The town is different from its neighboring retirement developments of Sun City, Sun City West, and Sun City Grand. Youngtown has not grown too large. Its small size has helped the town continue its small town charm.
Original properties in Youngtown were small ranch style homes. These vintage 1950’s and 1960’s affordable homes are still found today. The town offers residents quiet streets. The 2 acre Maricopa Lake is ideal for residents to enjoy. It is the perfect backdrop for the simple houses that comprise a majority of the town.
Now that the age restrictions have been lifted from Youngtown, many families have chosen to live in town. This influx of residents has contributed to the number of spatiality shops and services that are available in Youngtown. Community facilities such as a library, parks, and lake have drawn many to the area. Clubs and local organization have created a charming small town.
Youngtown boasts to its visitors that the tranquil lifestyle that they see is what residents experience every day. It has become a town with a “small town atmosphere.”
Gila Bend
A sharp bend in the Gila (hee-la) River is Gila Bend’s namesake. The town is located near this river bend on a desert plain surrounded by a low mountain range. It is situated at the intersection of State Highway 85 and Interstate 8. Gila Bend is in Maricopa County and is the far southwest edge of the West Valley.
The town still has farming and ranching. However, the recent growth in the West Valley has caused Gila Bend to become a great place to live. Single family homes both new and resale are found in town. Larger homes with multiple acres and horse privileges are available. There are many choices in living options in Gila Bend.
Travel to Gila Bend from Phoenix by taking Interstate 10 west out of Phoenix, then take State Highway 85 south to the intersection of Interstate 8. The town connects major routes from both Phoenix and Tucson to the Pacific to the west. Many travelers heading to Rocky Point or San Diego from Phoenix use Gila Bend as perfect place to stop and take a breather. These heavily used roadways make the town an ideal overnight stop. There are many facilities, including hotels, restaurant, and shops to meet the needs of those traveling through. For the past three centuries, this area has been a resting spot for travelers. The town plans to continue the tradition.
Long before Gila Bend became a town, the Hohokam Indians planted crops. These ancient inhabitants diverted water from the Gila River to help the plants grow. In 1774, the Spanish Captain Juan Bautista de Anza and Father Francisco Tomas Garces passed through discovering this method of sustaining the crops in the fields. Soon, the area became a popular place to stop when traveling through. Throughout history, the town has been a resting area for weary travelers. Beginning in 1858 Gila Bend became a stage stop along the overland stage route. This route was a major thoroughfare in Arizona. Then, in 1879 it was a depot for the railroad. However, agriculture has always been the community’s mainstay. Cotton, alfalfa, and grain are the most common crops grown. Today, both agriculture and traveling tourists make Gila Bend a busy town.
The small town feeling is felt throughout the year in Gila Bend. There are numerous events held that bring the community together. Annual rodeos and roping competitions, parades, sporting events, and community fairs are just some of the special events offered by the town. A local museum, community center, swimming pool, and parks give residents more opportunities to share the hometown feel that the town is known.
The Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field and the Barry Goldwater Gunnery Range encompass 2.8 million acres and are located south of town. Today, the field is used for ongoing military aircraft and personnel training. Jump training (parachute jumping) is conducted at Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field. It is also an emergency landing facility for nearby Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona.
Serving Gila Bend and the surround area is the Gila Bend Municipal Airport. The airport offers a paved runway extending over 5,000 feet. Light passenger aircrafts use the airport, which is located about two miles from town.
There are many unique outdoor spots located close to town. The Painted Rock Petroglyph Site is just south of Gila Bend. Visitors to the one acre site will wind their way along a trail to see hundreds of symbolic and artistic etchings on rock. These petroglyphs where made centuries ago by Native Americans. In addition, there are rock inscriptions made by people passing through the area marking the early history of the state of Arizona. Currently, the Painted Rock Petroglyph Site is under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management. Camping and picnic areas are found nearby. The Gatlin Site is on the National Registry of Historic Locations. The site is east of town revealing traces of the Hohokam Indian village that once occupied the area in 800 A.D.. Remains of a canal system and ceremonial platform can still be seen today. The rich Native American history surrounds the town of Gila Bend, giving residents a look back in time.
Gila Bend is a small agricultural town that continues to show its love of the land. Residents enjoy the low mountains and beautiful Sonoran desert vistas that edge the town providing amazing views. Those who chose to live in Gila Bend love the blend of Native American history, agriculture, warm climate, and spectacular desert landscapes.
Estrella Mountain Village
This Phoenix urban village is unique. Estrella Mountain Village offers residents large tracts of land, natural desert beauty and access to other parts of the Valley of the Sun. Many people have been drawn to Estrella Mountain Village for this unique combination of amenities.
The village encompasses over 40 square miles. There is a mix of living options. In the northeast section of Estrella Mountain Village bungalows built in the 1940’s and 1950’s can be found. These mature neighborhoods are combined with a variety of businesses. Commercial and industrial activities are located in the central portion of the village. Development and expansion opportunities are still available in this area. The southwest part of Estrella Mountain Village is a transitioning area. Once farms, ranches, and dairies were found, now new home developments and master planned communities are springing up.
The boundaries of the Estrella Mountain Village are Interstate 10 to the north, Interstate 17 (Black Canyon Freeway) and 19th Avenue to the east, Salt River to the south and 75th, 83rd, 107th Avenues on the west.
Maryvale Village
Maryvale Village is the result of the beginning of the post-war housing boom. The village was developed into many planned neighborhoods. Today, Maryvale Village preserves its history with a wide variety of housing and neighborhoods. Properties range from mature homes to new single family subdivisions.
One of the bonuses in living in the Maryvale Village is it access to freeways. Both the Loop 101 and Interstate 10 pass through. Loop 101 runs north and south, in the western section of the village. Interstate 10 travels east and west length wise on the southern most boundary of Maryvale Village. This gives residents the convenience of traveling only minutes to downtown Phoenix.
Another area perk is the Maryvale Baseball Park, on 51st Avenue. This ballpark is the spring training home for the National League Milwaukee Brewers. It is a state of the art facility that features a recessed playing field and shaded concourse with uninterrupted views of the baseball game. With 7,000 seats visitors enjoy games in a fan friendly ballpark. This facility is a highlight for Maryvale Village residents.
Maryvale Village is bounded by Grand Avenue/Interstate 17 (Black Canyon Freeway) to 83rd Avenue to McDowell Road to Indian School Road to El Mirage Road, to Bethany Home Road to 99th Avenue to Camelback Road.
Laveen Village
Laveen Village is special place. Residents enjoy the blend of natural desert beauty and the area’s agricultural background. Situated along a strip of land between the Salt River and South Mountain this area has long been an ideal location for farming. This village continues to maintain its rural atmosphere and enhance its character.
There are areas within the village’s boundaries that are undeveloped and open space farmland. Ranch/farm properties are located in this area. However, Laveen Village is a young developing area that offers other living options.
South Mountain Park Preserve to the south contains over 16,000 acres of desert land. The Baseline/Dobbins Scenic Drive gives travelers spectacular views and desert landscapes. Those individuals who are searching for mountain views and quiet living have chosen Laveen Village to make their home.
Laveen Village is close to Phoenix, Interstate 10 runs close by providing access to downtown. The Gila River Indian Community is on the west. Indian gaming is offered and is a popular place for entertainment.
The village is bounded by the Salt Rive on the north, 27th Avenue on the east, Gila River Community on the west, and South Mountain Park on the south.
