Located within the larger Phoenix metropolitan area, Surprise, Arizona is a little gem hidden away, looking to be discovered by the traveler who is searching for just a little something different to add to his or her annual vacation. It is a diamond in the rough, an adventure waiting to be had by all who come for a visit. My family decided to head to this little spot for our last family vacation, and we were not disappointed.

If you like sports, then you will love Surprise, Arizona. This sleepy town outside of the hustle and bustle of Phoenix is home to a vibrant Cactus League Baseball division and boasts a large multi-use sports complex. In addition to all of this, both the Texas Rangers and the Kansas City Royals professional baseball teams call Surprise home during spring training. Quite a coup for a small town such as this! Believe me, my husband and son were very pleased.

There is also a fantastic aquatic center located in Surprise that provided fun and excitement during our vacation. This is a great way to cool off from the heat of the desert that permeates Surprise year round. And like all good southwestern towns, there are numerous opportunities to play golf and enjoy the day outside basking in the beauty of the Arizona desert.

Surprise, Arizona, is just that, a welcome surprise of activities in the midst of the metropolitan Phoenix area. It is a city that cannot be missed if you are doing a tour of the American Southwest.