Nestled in the northwest Phoenix Metropolitan area, just a short 45-minute drive from Downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor International Airport:

Surprise offers the perfect blend of suburban charm and urban conveniences. Despite its growth and development, Surprise maintains a welcoming small-town vibe while boasting amenities typically associated with larger cities. From vibrant community celebrations and art galleries to rich cultural experiences and regional festivals, Surprise caters to residents and visitors of all ages and interests.

Nature lovers find solace in Surprise's breathtaking surroundings, bordered by the majestic White Tank Mountain range to the west and the serene Sonoran Desert and Lake Pleasant Regional Park to the north. Outdoor adventures such as hiking, fishing, and camping are mere minutes away, providing endless opportunities to explore and reconnect with nature. Sports enthusiasts rejoice in Surprise, home to the southwest's largest tennis and racquet complex, top-notch golf courses, an urban fishing lake, and state-of-the-art aquatic centers. Each spring, the city comes alive with the arrival of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers for the Cactus League Spring Training, drawing baseball fans from far and wide. Surprise Stadium, voted Arizona's Number 1 Spring Training Stadium in 2018 by USA Today, offers an unparalleled fan experience with opportunities to interact closely with major league players.

Surprise's proximity to the bustling Phoenix Metropolitan area ensures residents and visitors access to world-class shopping, dining, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions. Additionally, its strategic location allows for convenient day trips to scenic destinations like Sedona, Prescott, and Flagstaff, as well as the vibrant city of Las Vegas and the coastal gems of California. The city's origins trace back to 1938 when Flora Mae Statler founded what was then a humble one-square-mile farmland. Despite naming the town "Surprise" as a nod to her skepticism about its future prospects, Surprise has defied expectations and blossomed into Arizona's 10th largest city. Today, remnants of its agricultural past remain in the aptly named "The Original Townsite."

To delve deeper into Surprise's rich history and transformation, one can explore "The City of Surprise: A History in Progress," a comprehensive book and accompanying DVD documenting the city's evolution, available for purchase at the Surprise History Project or for viewing on SurpriseTV's website.

City Facts:

• Population: 160,273 (MAG July 1, 2023 Estimate)

• Incorporation: 1960

• Size: Approximately 110 incorporated square miles; approximately 302 square miles of planning area

• Government: Governed by a mayor and a 6-member city council, with representatives serving 4-year terms.

Education:

• Public Education: Dysart Unified School District

• Charter Schools: Legacy Traditional School, Arizona Charter Academy, Paradise Honors Elementary School, Paradise Honors High School

• University: Ottawa University Arizona (OUAZ)

Awards & Recognitions:

Surprise has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition for innovation in transportation, economic development, quality of life enhancements, and public health initiatives.

Arts, Culture, and Library:

The city's commitment to arts and culture is exemplified by its director, Kelsey Lamphier, who was honored with the Arizona Women Leading Government "Women Leading in Excellence Award" in 2023.

Recreation & Tourism:

Surprise's Sports & Tourism Department has been celebrated for its role in hosting national events, such as the USTA League National Championships, and for innovative programs like Virtual Bingo, which won the Outstanding Program award from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association.

Water Resource Management:

In 2023, Surprise received the Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Award for its Solar Biosolid Dryer Project, showcasing the city's dedication to sustainable water management practices.

In essence, living and playing in Surprise offers an unparalleled blend of suburban tranquility, urban excitement, and boundless opportunities for recreation, culture, and exploration. With its ever-expanding offerings and commitment to progress, Surprise continues to captivate residents and visitors alike, ensuring that each day brings new discoveries and delightful surprises