The List - Phoenix

1 PIESTEWA PEAK
Named after Lori Piestewa, the first Native American woman to die in combat in the US (in Operation Iraqi Freedom), this centrally located mountain is the third-highest peak in Phoenix. It offers trails for varying skill levels, from grandmas in Keds to serious hikers looking for a challenge. www.phoenix.gov

2 Barrio Cafe
Forget combo plates and chips and salsa. This colorful, noisy eatery takes diners on an upscale spin through southern Mexico, courtesy of the talented chef Silvana Salcido Esparza. For dessert, order the famous churros, stuffed with goat's milk caramel. www.barriocafe.com

3 Phoenix Art Museum
Make a beeline for the museum's contemporary gallery to check out artwork made from surprising and unexpected materials like computer-controlled LED lights, charred wood struck by lighting and mirrored glass. www.phxart.org

4 Paris Envy
Feeling Continental? Stroll to this tiny but très jolie shop, which stocks a well-curated collection of French-inspired furniture and fashions, bath and beauty products, and home and garden accessories. www.parisenvy.com

5 Downtown Phoenix Public Market
If you're downtown on Wednesday night or Saturday morning, drop by this urban farmers market, where you can buy local and organic produce, check out funky crafts, enjoy live music or just take in the community spirit. www.downtownphoenixpublicmarket.com

6 Char's Has the Blues
Catch live blues, funk and soul at this low-key local institution. Open seven days a week, it has the kind of feel-good vibe that makes everyone who steps in feel like a regular. www.charshastheblues.com

7 Arlecchino Gelateria
There's often a line out the door for the heavenly gelato, made with all-natural ingredients by native Italians Marina and Moreno Spangaro. Try the Cortina, a blend of toasted almond and lingonberry, or any of the intense fruit flavors. www.arlecchinogelateria.com

8 Xtreme Pursuit Paintball
Let your inner warrior out at this 30,000-square-foot arena, one of the largest indoor paintball facilities in the US, complete with bunkers, sniper towers, 500 tons of dirt and professional referees. www.westworldpaintball.com

9 "Chiles & Chocolate"
Savor the Southwest at this annual culinary festival. On Nov. 14-15, explore the Desert Botanical Garden's glorious grounds, watch cooking demonstrations and take a flamenco dancing lesson. www.dbg.org

10 Scottsdale ArtWalk
There's no better way to experience Scottsdale than at "America's original artwalk." Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm, more than 100 galleries are open to art lovers and people-watchers. www.scottsdalegalleries.com