Buster 172
I trained as part of my ATPL in Arizona. The time of year we were there (autumn) was very pleasant. We were based in the Phoenix area and it afforded many opportunities to visit many different airfields for training.
Pinal airpark (lots of stored heavy jets), Phoenix Sky Harbor (busiest two runway airport in the world(?)-at night!!) + many other interesting places.. I really enjoyed it, and although I don't wish to be accused of any advertising (I DO NOT work for any flying school) I would recommend UND aerospace at Williams Gateway.
I'm sure a search on the net would provide a list of many schools in the area at airports such as Williams Gateway, Falcon Field,Chandler,Gila Bend etc etc.
I would thoroughly recommend this beautiful part of the USA for flight training.
Best of luck whatever you decide..
Calltheball
PS what about a multi rating (the biggest saving on the UK -but keeping it current back here may be a problem..)