Located in Yavapai and Maricopa counties, Peoria is the sixth largest city in terms of land in the entire state. Named after Peoria, Illinois, the city was ranked as one of the top 100 places to live in Money magazine's July 2008 issue. The only rivers that flow through the rivers are the New River and the Agua Fria River, but the Agua Fria River is normally dry because of the New Waddell Dam. Along the borders of the city, residents can find mountains such as the West Wing Mountain, Sunrise Mountain, East Wing Mountain, Twin Buttes and the Hieroglyphic Mountains.
Originally, Peoria was settled by settlers from Illinois. The city's chamber of commerce originally started in 1919, but the town was not incorporated until 1954. Following World War II, new businesses and the Luke Air Force Base drove a population growth in the area. Peoria property management firms grew as a postwar construction boom led to suburban homes and businesses. Today, both the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres use Peoria for spring training camps. It is also the home of the Peoria Sports Complex.
Chain stores, restaurants, local boutiques and a cinema can be found at Park West. For recreational options, residents can check out Alta Vista Park, Pioneer Community Park and Sahuaro Ranch Park. Meanwhile, some of the best restaurants in the area include Firebird's Wood-Fired Grill and Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant. To enjoy fine dining in an upscale environment, residents can head to Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
