How can you not love this place? I'm a card carrying member of the DBG so admittedly, I'm slightly biased. :) I wish my backyard looked like the Desert Botanical Gardens (Actually, it's where I've borrowed a lot of ideas.)
I'm a proud Phoenician and love the Sonoran Desert. I've lived in a lot of cities and traveled the world and to me our desert is unique and one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The new cactus garden is spectacular; I love standing in the herb garden and taking deep breaths. My favorite trail is the Sonoran Desert Trail because it has some of the best views of the east valley and Papago Park.
I like to buy a glass of wine and watch the sun set as I wander around and admire the statuesque and colorful flora of the desert. If you are visiting Phoenix, spend some time here. (And bring a camera.)