About thirty-five miles north of Phoenix’s downtown corridor lies the master-planned community of Anthem. This family-friendly area has been recognized in major publications for having the kinds of activities and amenities that are in high demand for kids and parents on the go. An extensive network of sidewalks and bike paths casts a net over the whole area, which is just as liberally sprinkled with tiny parks—but small parks aren’t all Anthem offers. With more than a third of the community’s land dedicated to open space and a lower average temperature than the city, Anthem is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast in your home.

Anthem’s sprawling Community Center boasts a veritable amusement park of features. Courts and fields for all manner of sports and games are available, and your family will love the water park and massive pool for keeping cool on those hot summer days. In cooler weather, residents enjoy the year-round sunshine with lakeside picnics or even a ride on the community’s train.

With leisure activities accounted for, parents can focus their efforts on choosing the right educational options for their family. While public schools are operated by the Deer Valley Unified School District, Anthem is also home to many charter and private school options, including Traditional, Preparatory, and religious alternatives.

Anthem’s values extend beyond the family with a Veterans Memorial, dedicated in 2011. Five white pillars honor each branch of the United States Armed Forces, and rise above a field of red paving stones, engraved with the names of men and women who have served. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the sunshine line up through holes in each pillar to illuminate the Great Seal of the United States at 11:11 AM on November 11th each year in honor of Veteran’s Day.