Discovery Series Ornament – Phoenix
Discovery Series Ornament Phoenix is a mini release for the most populous city in Arizona.
Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and one of the fastest-growing cities in the American Southwest, built in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Its history traces back to ancient Hohokam canal systems, later developing into a modern desert metropolis. The city is defined by extreme landscapes, outdoor recreation, and year-round sunshine. This mug design highlights activities and natural elements that are closely tied to life in Phoenix.
Here are the symbols and landmarks as seen in the design of this Phoenix ornament.
– Salt River Tubing is a popular warm-weather activity just east of the city. Visitors float down the Salt River on inner tubes while surrounded by desert cliffs and wild horses. The experience combines relaxation with scenic desert views. It is a seasonal tradition for locals during the hot summer months.
– Common cacti in the Phoenix area reflect the distinctive plant life of the Sonoran Desert. Saguaro, barrel cactus, prickly pear, and cholla are among the most recognizable species found around the city. These plants thrive in extreme heat and low rainfall. Cacti are one of the most iconic visual symbols of Phoenix and its surroundings.
– Desert buggy tours showcase the rugged terrain surrounding Phoenix. Off-road vehicles travel through sandy washes, rocky trails, and desert hills. These tours offer an adventurous way to explore the landscape beyond the city. They highlight the raw, open nature of the desert environment.
– Directional sign appears in the design as a colorful, vintage-style signpost often associated with desert highways in Arizona. Rather than pointing to specific locations, it reflects the road-trip culture surrounding Phoenix and nearby outdoor destinations. Similar signs are commonly seen near scenic routes, rivers, and recreation areas.

