Fall/Winter 2019-20
624 THINGS TO DO in Arizona
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ARIZONA OFFERS
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE As an Arizona native, I’m continuously amazed at the new developments and incredible landmarks, entertainment and renowned restaurants that are in our backyard. In this issue of Experience Arizona, you’ll get a small glimpse into all Arizona’s tourism industry has to offer. From family-friendly and spectacular attractions — including exciting new additions Great Wolf Lodge Arizona and Crayola Experience — to dining at Maple & Ash— there’s something for everyone. Our already rich tourism landscape includes local treasures Pizzeria Bianco and Barrio Cafe, to breathtaking outdoor attractions including Havasu Falls and Antelope Canyon. Innovation is at the forefront of Arizona’s tourism industry, such as multi-functional entertainment destinations Westgate Entertainment District, OdySea in the Desert and Talking Stick Entertainment District that combine dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. From the majestic red rocks of Sedona to the Grand Canyon, to Out of Africa and the Phoenix Zoo, there’s no shortage of places to visit, attractions, events and restaurants to keep you entertained from morning until evening. Some of my favorite restaurants are Casanova Bros. pizza in Gilbert, which I’ve been going to for over 10 years and know the owners personally; Dahl and Di Luca Ristorante Italiano — where I’ve had incredible Italian food that far exceeds the hype; and I’ve enjoyed high tea at the historic Arizona Biltmore and explored Flagstaff and Sedona’s art scenes. So whether you’re in the mood for a trip to Flagstaff for a snow adventure, a visit to one of Arizona’s award-winning wineries, want to try an authentic Arizona dining experience with stunning views or relax at one of Arizona’s luxury resorts to wind down after a fun-filled day, we’ve got you covered. There’s something for locals and visitors alike to explore. No matter where you decide to visit in Arizona, we hope you enjoy your time here. We’ll see you again soon.
Alyssa Tufts Associate editor, Experience AZ Alyssa.Tufts@azbigmedia.com
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EDITORIAL Editor in chief: Michael Gossie Associate editors: Steve Burks | Alyssa Tufts Contributing writers: Emily Gadberry | Erin Thorburn Interns: Angelica Olivas ART Art director: Mike Mertes Design director: Bruce Andersen MARKETING/EVENTS Marketing & events manager: Keith Chandler Digital strategy manager: Gloria Del Grosso Marketing designer: Michael Bodnar OFFICE Special projects manager: Sara Fregapane Executive assistant: Briana Villa Database solutions manager: Amanda Bruno EXPERIENCE ARIZONA | PLAY BALL Director of sales: Jennifer Swanton AZRE | ARIZONA COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Director of sales: Ann McSherry Director of business development: Carol Shepard AZ BUSINESS ANGELS AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE Senior account manager: David Harken Account managers: April Rice | Kim Bailey AZ BUSINESS LEADERS Director of sales: Sheri Brown HOME & DESIGN RANKING ARIZONA Director of sales: Sheri King Experience AZ Magazine is published twice yearly by AZ BIG Media, 3101 N. Central Ave. Suite 1070, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, (602) 277-6045. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a SASE. Single copy price $9.95. Bulk rates available. Copyright 2019 by AZBIGMEDIA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Experience AZ Magazine.
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CONTENTS
Fall/Winter 2019-2020 6 8 12 14 16 22
Arizona State Map Visitor Centers in Arizona Hiking Tips Getting Around in Arizona Sedona Experiences Tucson Experiences
—— 10 TO TRY ——
—— 10 TO TRY ——
ACCOMMODATIONS
ATTRACTIONS & ADVENTURES
48 Bed & Breakfasts 50 Casino Resorts
Itineraries
—— 10 TO TRY ——
28 Cave Creek /Carefree
RESTAURANTS
30 Cottonwood 32 Flagstaff 34 East Valley 36 Glendale 38 Lake Havasu 39 Payson 40 Prescott 41 Winslow 42 Scottsdale 46 Northern Arizona
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52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66
Casino Italian Local Favorites Mexican Patio Dining Pizza Seafood Steaks & Chops
68 Air Adventures 69 Architecture Tours 72 Animal Parks 74, 76 Family Fun Spots 78 Special Events 80 Water Adventures 82 Art Galleries 84 Auto Attractions 86, 88 Casinos 90 Spas 92, 94 Festivals 93 Comedy Clubs 96 Gardens & Agritainment 98 Attractions 100 G rand Canyon Attractions 101 P arks And Monuments 102 Kids Experiences 104 Museums
106 N ative American Attractions 108 Off Road Adventures 110 Snowday Adventures 112, 114 Shopping 116 Western Accessories 117 Wineries 118, 120 Golf
SPORTS
122 Sporting Events 124 W aste Management Phoenix Open 125 W aste Management Phoenix Open Spectator Tips 126 Cactus League Baseball Guide
Arizona
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ARIZONA STATE MAP
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VISITOR CENTERS IN ARIZONA There are more than 60 designated Local Visitor Information Centers throughout Arizona. These centers provide information about area attractions, recreational opportunities, and hospitality amenities, as well as information about other regions in the state. Look for the blue Arizona Tourist Information signs along Arizona highways.
FLAGSTAFF AND NORTHERN ARIZONA Flagstaff Visitor Center 1 E. Route 66 Flagstaff, 86001 928-774-9541 FlagstaffArizona.org Grand Canyon Chamber and Visitors Bureau 469 Highway 64 Grand Canyon, 86023 928-638-2901 grandcanyoncvb.org Holbrook Chamber of Commerce 100 E. Arizona St. Holbrook, 86025 928-524-6558 HolbrookChamberofCommerce.com
Page/Lake Powell Tourism Bureau 6 N. Lake Powell Blvd. Page, 86040 888-261-PAGE VisitPageLakePowell.com
Snowflake-Taylor Chamber of Commerce 113 N. Main St., Ste. A Snowflake, 85937 928-536-4331 SnowflakeTaylorChamber.org
Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce 102-C W. White Mountain Blvd. Lakeside, 85929 800-573-4031 PinetopLakesideChamber.com
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce 318 E. Main St. Springerville, 85938 928-333-2123 SEChamber.com
Show Low Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Information Center 81 E Deuce of Clubs Show Low, 85901 928-537-2326 ShowLowChamber.com
Valle-Planes of Fame Visitor Center 755 Mustang Way Valle-Williams, 86046 928-635-1000 PlanesofFame.org
The White Mountain Apache Cultural Center and Museum Nohwike’ Bagowa 127 Scout Rd. Fort Apache, AZ 928-338-4625 wmat.nsn.us/wmaculture.html Williams-Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce 200 W. Railroad Ave. Williams, 86046 800-863-0546 ExperienceWilliams.com Winslow Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center 523 W. 2nd St. Winslow, 86047 928-289-2434 WinslowArizona.org
PHOENIX AND CENTRAL ARIZONA Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce 567 W. Apache Trail Apache Junction, 85220 480-982-3141 AJChamber.com
Gila Bend Chamber of Commerce 644 W. Pima St. Gila Bend, 85337 928-683-2255 GilaBendAZChamber.com
Mesa Visitor Center - Visit Mesa 120 N. Center Mesa, 85201 480-682-3666, 800-283-6372 VisitMesa.com
Sunland Visitor Center 3725 N. Camelot St. Eloy, 85231 520-466-3007 SunlandVisitorCenter.org
Arizona Mills Mall 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle Tempe, 85282 480-491-7300 Simon.com/mall/Arizona-Mills
Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau 5800 W. Glenn Dr., Ste. 140 Glendale, 85301 623-930-4500 VisitGlendale.com
Peoria Chamber of Commerce 16165 N. 83rd Ave., Ste. 101 Peoria, 85382 623-979-3601 PeoriaChamber.com
Superior Chamber of Commerce 165 W. Main St. Superior, 85173 520-689-0200 SuperiorAZChamber.net
Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce 508 E. Monroe Ave. Buckeye, 85326 623-386-2727 BuckeyeValleyChamber.org
Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce 575 N. Marshall St. Casa Grande, 85122 520-836-2125 CasaGrandeChamber.org
Scottsdale Tourism Information Center at Scottsdale Fashion Square 7014 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 528 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 800-782-1117 ExperienceScottsdale.com
Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza Surprise, 85374 623-583-0692 SurpriseRegionalChamber.com
Coolidge Chamber of Commerce 351 N. Arizona Blvd. Coolidge, 85128 520-723-3009 CoolidgeChamber.org
Downtown Phoenix Visitor Center Visit Phoenix 125 N. 2nd St., Ste. 120 Phoenix, 85004 877-225-5749 VisitPhoenix.com
Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce 289 N. Litchfield Rd. Goodyear, 85338 623-932-2260 VisitSouthwestValley.com
Tempe Tourism Office 222 S. Mill Ave., Ste. 120 Tempe, AZ 85281 866-914-1052 TempeTourism.com
Florence Visitor Center at McFarland State Park 24 W. Ruggles Ave. Florence, 85132 520-868-9433 VisitFlorenceAZ.com 8
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Maricopa Chamber of Commerce 44480 W. Honeycutt Rd., Ste. 106 Maricopa, 85138 520-568-9573 MaricopaChamber.org
Sun City West Visitor Center 13823 Camino Del Sol Sun City West, 85375 623-214-8629 SunCityWest.org
Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce 216 N. Frontier St. Wickenburg, AZ 85390 928-684-5419 OutWickenburgWay.com
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VISITOR CENTERS IN ARIZONA SEDONA AND NORTH CENTRAL Ash Fork Tourist Information Center 901 W. Old Route 66 Ash Fork, 86320 928-637-0204 Black Canyon Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center 33955 S. Old Black Canyon, Ste. 3 Black Canyon City, 85324 623-374-9797 BlackCanyonAZ.com Town of Camp Verde Visitor Center 435 S. Main St., Ste. 102 Camp Verde, 86322 928-554-0851 VisitCampVerde.com Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce 175 E. Road 2 S Chino Valley, 86323 928-636-2493 ChinoValley.org High Desert Heritage Museum and Visitor Center - Cordes Junction 19600 Stagecoach Trail Cordes Junction, AZ 86333 928-632-4633 Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce 1010 S. Main St. Junction of Hwy. 89A and Hwy. 260 Cottonwood, 86326 928-634-7593 cottonwoodchamberaz.org
TUCSON AND SOUTHERN ARIZONA
Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce 1360 N. Broad St. Globe, 85501 928-425-4495 GlobeMiamiChamber.com
Ajo District Chamber of Commerce 1 W. Plaza St. Ajo, 85321 520-387-7742 AjoChamber.com
Payson-Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce 100 W. Main St. Payson, 85547 800-672-9766 RimCountyChamber.com
Asarco Mineral Discovery Center 1421 W. Pima Mine Rd. Sahuarita, 85629 520-625-0879 MineralDiscovery.com
Oracle Visitor Center 1470 W. American Ave. Across from the Fire Station) P.O. Box 5423 Oracle, 85623 520-896-3300 VisitOracle.org
Prescott Chamber of Commerce 117 W. Goodwin St. Prescott, 86303 800-266-7534 Prescott.org
Benson Visitor Center 249 E. 4th St. Benson, 85602 520-586-4293 BensonVisitorCenter.com
Patagonia Visitor Center 299 McKeown Ave. Patagonia, AZ 85624 520-397-7750 PatagoniaAZ.com
Bisbee Visitor Center Queen Mine Tour Building 478 Dart Rd. Bisbee, AZ 85603 520-432-3554 DiscoverBisbee.com
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park 1 Burruel St. Tubac, AZ 85646 520-398-2252 TubacPP.com
Clifton Visitor Center 100 N. Coronado - Train Depot Clifton, AZ 85533 928-865-3313 VisitCliftonAZ.com
Nogales-Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce 123 W. Kino Park Way Nogales, 85621 520-287-3685 TheNogalesChamber.org
Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce 3001 N. Main St., Ste. 2A Prescott Valley, 86314 928-772-8857 PVChamber.org Sedona Chamber of Commerce Uptown Visitor Center 331 Forest Rd. Sedona, 86339 928-282-7722 SedonaChamber.com
City of Douglas Visitor Center 345 16th St. Douglas, 85607 520-417-7344 VisitDouglas.com Green Valley/Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce 270 W. Continental Rd., Ste. 123 Green Valley, 85614 520-625-7575 GreenValleySahuarita.com
YUMA AND THE WEST COAST Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce 1251 Hwy. 95 Bullhead City, 86429 928-754-4121 BullheadAreaChamber.com Chloride Chamber of Commerce 4940-B Tennessee Ave. Chloride, AZ 86431 928-565-9777 chloridechamber.com
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Kingman Visitor Center 120 W. Andy Devine Ave. Kingman, 86401 866-427-7866 GoKingman.com
Parker Area Chamber of Commerce 1217 California Ave. Parker, 85344 928-669-2174
Lake Havasu City Convention and Visitor Bureau 422 English Village Rd. Lake Havasu City, 86403 928-453-3444 GoLakeHavasu.com
Yuma Visitors Bureau at Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park 201 N. 4th Ave. Yuma, 85364 928-783-0071 VisitYuma.com
Marana Chamber of Commerce 13881 N. Casa Grande Hwy. Marana, 85653 520-682-4314 DiscoverMarana.org
Safford-Graham County Chamber of Commerce 1111 Thatcher Blvd. Hwy. 70) Safford, 85546 888-837-1841 Graham-Chamber.com Sierra Vista Visitor Center 1011 N. Coronado Dr. Sierra Vista, 85635 520-417-6960 VisitSierraVista.com Tombstone Visitor Center 109 S. 4th St. Tombstone, 85638 520-457-3929 TombstoneChamber.com University of Arizona Visitor Center 811 N. Euclid Ave. Tucson, 85719 520-624-1817 VisitTucson.org Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture 1500 N. Circle 1 Rd. Willcox, 85643 520-384-2272 WillcoxChamber.com
HIKING TIPS
Worst case scenarios:
HIKING IN ARIZONA Hitting the trails in Arizona is primarily a safe and rewarding activity. However, there are a few tips and tricks that out-of-towners should brief themselves on before lacing up their boots. DON’T FEED THE JAVELINAS! Those furry pig-looking guys you see sniffing around the trails are not wild pigs at all. They’re javelinas. They love food, but you should never feed one. Javelinas, especially those with large tusks, can do serious harm to humans. If their ears are down and they’re growling, they may charge at you. If you encounter one, try to scare it off with loud noises. Don’t be afraid to get really loud. You’re more likely to encounter a javelina when hiking at dusk or in shaded areas. SNAKE! If it’s coiled, has seen you and, if applicable, is rattling its tail, move away as quickly as possible. Do this with caution. You don’t want to trip during your getaway. Snakes don’t always strike from a coiled position, but it’s usually a sign of aggravation. If the snake seems nonchalant to your existence and is just working its way across the trail, you can choose to wait for it to pass. IT BIT ME! Move away from the snake as quickly as possible to avoid a second attack. Now: Don’t panic. Don’t suck the wound. Don’t rip your shirt off to make a tourniquet. Don’t break out the snake bite kit. Just breathe. The buzzards won’t start circling you unless you’re hours or days away from civilization and antivenom, which we doubt is the case. So, if you have cell service, call 911. If not, try to find someone who can take you to the nearest hospital. Here’s what you do now: Keep breathing. If you panic, your heart is going to pump blood faster. Let it bleed for about 30 seconds and then bandage the wound without cleaning it (this can help medical professionals figure out what kind of venom is in your body, if any). Keep the affected area as immobile as possible. Movement gets your blood flowing, which spreads venom. However, you may need to move a little to get to a car or medical help. That’s a worthy use of blood flow. If you’re in pain, though, breathe through it. Don’t grab for the flask. That, too, will disperse the venom more quickly.
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GETTING LOST What happened to the trail? Do I cross this stream? The answer: Look for a cairn. Cairns are stacks of rocks used for directing hikers along paths that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes they’re made by other hikers, and are subtle stacks, but other times they’re larger and contained in metal netting by park rangers to ensure hikers they’re on the right path. These are most commonly seen when you need to cross a wash or stream.
TIPS
• BRING (AND DRINK) WATER. You filled your Camelback? Awesome. Now pack a waterbottle, too. Bring lots of water, even when you’re hiking on a chilly morning. It’s important to stay hydrated in Arizona.
• APPLY SUNSCREEN. You can still wake up with a nice lobster-y hue after being outside on a cloudy day. UV rays aren’t disabled by fluffy clouds, unfortunately. What you need: SPF 30 or higher (grab chapstick with SPF, too). Apply your sunscreen while indoors and on dry skin. Then, reapply every two hours. If you’re sweating a lot, you may want to reapply hourly. • KNOW YOUR LIMITS. If you’re not usually an active
person, heading out on a 14-mile roundtrip hike is probably going to hurt the next day. Save yourself injury and self-loathing by picking a slightly shorter hike. It’s important to research elevation changes and how rigorous a trail is.
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GETTING AROUND IN ARIZONA
You’re in Arizona.
Now what?
Phoenix has aggressively pursued public transportation options to help residents and tourists get around the city with ease and good timing. However, since you’re new to the city, there are a few things you need to know.
LIGHT RAIL
The Valley Metro light rail connects the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport to downtown Tempe, Mesa and Phoenix. Frequency between trains changes by time of day. Monday through Thursday, rails run between 4 a.m. and midnight. On Friday and Saturday, the trains run nearly 24 hours. On Sundays, trains stop around 2 a.m. Tickets: $2 one-way, $4 all day; Purchase them at kiosks at station platforms and present the ticket to rail security if they board your car. Tip: If you have a ticket for an event downtown, such as a basketball game, you can ride the rail for free to and from the event. To find a nearby station and schedules: Download Ridekick app
LYFT AND UBER
Phoenicians are increasingly using the Uber and Lyft ridesharing apps to get around the city. All you have to do is download the app to your phone and enter payment information that will automatically pay your driver at the end of the trip. An added bonus is that fee estimates are provided via the app before you even request a ride. This takes the element of surprise out of your ride. Drivers are also incentivized to be good stewards because patrons can rank their drivers after a trip concludes. To reserve: Download the Lyft or Uber app
TRAVEL IN STYLE
If you’re looking for a step up in style and service from Lyft and Uber, The Driver Provider has you covered, whether you’re traveling alone or need a party bus to carry your crew. To reserve: Visit driverprovider.com 14
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GRID BIKE SHARE PROGRAM
Those neon green bikes aren’t just meant to brighten the streetscape around Phoenix. They’re bikes you can rent and ride around downtown in lieu of driving or taking the rail. There are 500 bikes at 50 locations around the city. The fee is $5 per hour for non-members. Tip: If you’re worried a bike won’t be available, you can reserve one up to 15 minutes prior to pickup via the SoBi app. To reserve: Download the SoBi app
SCOTTSDALE SEGWAY TOURS
Want to explore Scottsdale in a unique way? Look no further than Scottsdale Segway Tours which offer daytime, sunset and holiday tours of Old Town Scottsdale. Hop on your segway, put on your headset, receiver and helmet and take plenty of photos as you discover Scottsdale. To reserve: Visit at scottsdalesegwaytours.com
ON FOOT
If you’re flaunting your pedestrian prowess by hitting the sidewalks of Phoenix, look for the unnaturally cheerful Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors. They’re usually in flourescent T-shirts and are wearing an “Ask Me” button. This isn’t a trick. These ambassadors are volunteers of Downtown Phoenix Partnership and are more than happy to help lost travelers or to suggest things to do. Think of it as Siri in human form. Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors
SEDONA
— OUTDOOR — EXPERIENCES
CLOTH AND FLAME
Golf
Seven Canyons Golf Club isn’t just a golf course, it’s an experience. The course was crafted by a legendary golf champion and is in the middle of an “epic red rock setting.” Boasting its natural beauty and walkability, it’s still sure to provide a challenge considering its small greens, subtle contours and constantly changing elevations. sevencanyons.com/golf_club Jeep Tour Hop into a pink jeep to delve directly into Sedona’s red rocks with this off-road adventure. Choose from different terrain types and lengths, and even take a tour that includes hiking. If you’d like something a little smoother, check out the jeep ride that is all pavement. pinkadventuretours.com/ tours/sedona-tours
Hiking Head out early in the morning and start your day on one of Sedona’s hiking trails. Devil’s Bridge Trail is most recommended, as it leads to a natural sandstone arch that you can walk under or directly across. For more of a challenge, you can hike Cathedral Rock, which offers views of the entire city and is home to a famous energy vortex. hikesedona.com
Yoga
Sedona is known for its vortexes that are meant to radiate healing energy. There’s no better way to explore these vortexes than by taking a yoga class atop them. Aumbase Adventures will take you on a yoga hike or a meditation journey on the red rocks to clear your chakras. aumbasesedona.com
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Creating unconventional culinary events, Cloth and Flame designs temporary venues and culinary experiences. They hold community dinners, corporate and private events, and weddings everywhere from inside the Grand Canyon, Alaskan mountain sides and Oregon forests. Their community dinners in Arizona have been in the Coconino National Forest, at L’Auberge de Sedona and at Slide Rock State Park. clothandflame.com
SEDONA — DINING — EXPERIENCES
Hideaway House While it may be a bit harder to find, guests say that the cozy atmosphere of the Hideaway House is worth the trouble. The restaurant has three balconies that make you feel like you’re sitting in a tree house while enjoying their “curious country Italian” food, which is fresh, quality ingredients prepared simply. sedonahideawayhouse.com
Saltrock Southwest Kitchen at Amara Resort Saltrock Southwest Kitchen features an inventive menu mixing southwest flavors with California sensibility, using the freshest ingredients from Verde Valley. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner or for a snack and a famous agave-based drink that you can enjoy while overlooking the red rocks. amararesort.com/ eat-drink/saltrock
Cress on Oak Creek at L’Auberge de Sedona This memorable dining destination is situated on Oak Creek for an exclusive and scenic dining experience. Choose a three or four course dinner to enjoy at the L’Auberge resort that begins with salad or rainbow trout farm tartare, then enjoy duck, or lobster and at last indulge in strawberry cheesecake. lauberge.com/cress
Oak Creek Brewery and Grill Located in historic Tlaquepaque, Oak Creek Brewery wants you to enjoy their “fabulous brews with Red Rock views.” Pair one of their beers brewed on premises such as their awardwinning Oak Creek Amber Ale or Snake Charmer IPA with a brew pub pretzel, burger or pizza and relax on the second-story patio. oakcreekbreweryandgrill.com
DAHL RESTAURANT GROUP You won’t believe your taste buds as you dine at one of the best restaurants in Arizona. Owner and executive chef Lisa Dahl has five restaurants including acclaimed Italian restaurants Cucina Rustica, Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano, Mariposa - Latin Inspired Grill, Pisa Lisa pizza and Butterfly Burger. The renowned chef and restaurateur has pioneered the culinary scene in Sedona for the past 20 years. Enjoy delicious food including high-end traditional Italian, rustic Mediterranean, South American-inspired, burgers and woodfired pizza, along with award-winning wine collections and delectable desserts. dahlrestaurantgroup.com
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SEDONA
— CULTURAL — EXPERIENCES
THE MELTING POINT Experience the art of glassblowing at The Melting Point, where you can take a beginner class and make a flower, cactus or bowl. If you decide not to take a class you can still stop in and watch the artists do their work and view all of the glass art for sale in store. sedonaglassblowing.com
Blazin’ M Ranch Located 20 minutes outside of Sedona, Blazin’ M Ranch is an Arizona western town where you can go on a tractor pull, take roping lessons, or try shooting a target with wax bullets. At the end of the day, visit the Copper Spur Saloon and watch the Blazin’ M Cowboys take the stage after dinner. blazinm.com
Sedona Arts Center Serving as the creative heart of Arizona, this nonprofit organization offers a school of the arts with workshops, classes and crash courses and field expeditions. If you don’t have the time to take a class, you can still stop in and explore the current exhibition. sedonaartscenter.org Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village Tlaquepaque means the “best of everything,” which is what you’ll find at this distinct shopping complex. Modeled like a Mexican village, it holds more than 45 specialty shops with different types of traditional and contemporary art, clothing, leather goods, jewelry and home decor. tlaq.com Sedona Soul Adventures Enjoy a custom-designed, life-changing spiritual retreat while you’re in Sedona. Decide whether you’d like to go on a personal or couples retreat, then let the Angel Guides personalize your retreat to ensure you experience a spiritual connection. sedonasouladventures.com
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TUCSON
— RESORT — EXPERIENCES
JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa Enjoy a luxurious stay at the resort and savor award-winning Italian cuisine at Primo or BBQ at Catalina Barbeque Co. and Sports Bar; wind down with a specialty treatment at the Hashani Spa with a lap pool, fitness center and cafe; play Starr Pass Golf Club’s three nine-hole championship courses and enjoy basking in the sun at the outdoor multi-level pool, Starr Canyon Lazy River, Monsoon Falls Waterslide and Dancing Springs Splash Pad and Whirlpool. marriott.com
Canyon Ranch This wellness resort in the Santa Catalina Mountains offers wellness programs that include fitness classes, workshops and discussions to explore healthy living. Relax at their spa with fitness and wellness options, or try one of their signature treatments such as their rejuvenating waters massage or chakra balancing ritual. canyonranch.com/tucson Loews Ventana Relax to the fullest at Lakeside Spa with a massage, facial or red clay body treatment; enjoy majestic views at the Serenity Pool and Hot Tub; explore the environment on the parcourse fitness trail or window walk nature trail; play one of two championship 18-hole golf courses, and experience delicious Southwestern food at Flying V Bar & Grill. The resort is also pet-friendly. loewshotels.com/ventana-canyon Miraval Arizona The 400-acre destination resort and spa offers private villas, rooms and suites with breathtaking views. Try flavorful dining options, relax poolside or at the Life in Balance Spa with fitness center, body renewal rituals and skin care featuring outdoor treatment rooms; and choose from over 120 wellness activities and fitness classes that include outdoor adventures, meditation, yoga and sustainable living. miravalarizona.com El Conquistador Tucson The AAA Four Diamond designation resort has comfortable and scenic suites for your fun-filled stay. Enjoy acclaimed Southwestern cuisine at Epazote Kitchen and Cocktails with scenic views or enjoy poolside pizza and ice cream at Spuntini. Cool off in one of five swimming pools and 143-foot water slide or relax in the Acacia pool for guests 16 and older. Escape to Elements Wellness Center for a custom massage, body wrap or energy work; or take on three challenging and scenic nine-hole golf courses. hiltonelconquistador.com
El Conquistador Tucson 22
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The perfect occasion. Flawlessly orchestrated. From rehearsal dinner to ceremony, reception to honeymoon, our stunning resort within the Tucson Mountain Park combines luxury, personal service and amenities to enhance your wedding. Immerse yourself and your guests in unlimited recreation, five unique restaurants and lounges, championship golf and tennis, a tranquil spa, sparkling pools, lazy river and waterslide and so much more. For more information on saying “I do” at JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass, visit jwstarrpass.com, call 520.791.6053 or contact jessica.robertson@marriott.com JW Marriott® Tucson Starr Pass jwstarrpass.com
TUCSON
— ARTS AND CULTURE — EXPERIENCES
Tucson Food Tours Explore Downtown Tucson and Main Gate Square and the historic 4th Avenue district through visiting and tasting food at locally owned restaurants, some of which have been featured on the Food Network. You can also go on their Brewstillery Tour, where you tour downtown breweries and distilleries with beer flights and spirit samples. Eat, drink and learn about Tucson’s cuisine, culture and history on your tour as your guide mentions architectural highlights, cultural sites and local shops along the way. tucsonfoodtours.com
Visit art galleries As an art town, there’s no shortage of galleries to visit to admire various types of art in Tucson. Some notable ones include: Etherton Gallery, known for its photography exhibitions; Davis Dominguez Gallery in a warehouse features contemporary Southwest landscape painters; and Madaras Gallery, which showcases the works of local award-winning artist, Diana Madaras and features paintings, sculpture, blown glass and jewelry by renowned Arizona artists. visittucson.org/ things-to-do/arts
Visit museums The Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block displays collections that include modern art, Native American, Latin American, European and Asian art, hosts events and gives educational tours. MOCA-Tucson (Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson), which is located in a former firehouse, has been reimagined into innovative displays and is devoted to contemporary art. MOCA-Tucson also hosts events and gives guided educational tours. tucsonmuseumofart.org and moca-tucson.org
KITT PEAK NATIONAL OBSERVATORY
O.K. Corral Experience Tucson’s western history with a trip to the O.K. Corral in Tombstone. Visit the site of the famous Gunfight and see the reenactment show with Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Virgil and Morgan Earp fight the McLaurys and Clantons at the Tombstone Theater. Explore O.K. Corral’s Historic Complex exhibits: the 1880s Stables that display buggies, saddles and fire equipment or the O.K. Corral Office Museum. ok-corral.com
Located 56 miles southwest of Tucson and part of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO), Kitt Peak operates three major nighttime telescopes and hosts the facilities of consortia which operate 22 optical telescopes and two radio telescopes. Stop in the Kitt Peak Visitor Center to get information about daytime tours featuring research telescopes and indoor and outdoor exhibits, nighttime stargazing programs and explore the Visitor Center Museum and gift shop. noao.edu/kpno
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TUCSON
— ATTRACTION — EXPERIENCES
Arizona Zipline Adventures
Located about one hour from Tucson, Arizona Zipline Adventures started out as a working cattle ranch but is now on a mission to build experiences and create a space for all to enjoy. Book your reservation to travel on the five different ziplines ranging in length from 400 feet to 1,500 feet; the tallest zipline is 80 feet high. ziparizona.com Biosphere 2 This 40-acre research facility is named Biosphere 2 because it is modeled on Earth, the first biosphere. It is sealed from the earth below by a 500-ton welded stainless steel liner. The facility houses different biomes such as an ocean with a coral reef, mangrove wetlands, a tropical rainforest, a savanna grassland and a fog desert. biosphere2.org
PIMA AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM The concept for the museum began in 1966 after the commanders of Tucson’s air force base set examples of World War II and 1950s era aircrafts on the fence line for the public to view. In 1976, the new museum site opened where it now holds an extensive collection of aircrafts and exhibits. pimaair.org
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Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum This museum is 97 acres with 16 individual gardens, 1,200 native plant species and 56,000 individual plants. There are also three different live animal presentations with venomous reptiles, native mammals, reptiles, and birds and raptors. desertmuseum.org Tucson Botanical Gardens Described as Tucson’s urban oasis, the Botanical Gardens’ mission is to connect people with plants and nature through art, science, history, and culture. Explore 17 different gardens like the zen garden, historical garden, cactus and succulent garden, and a butterfly greenhouse; you can also dine at the restaurant at the garden. The Botanical Gardens also offers tours and classes about meditation, yoga and gardening. tucsonbotanical.org
A day in
CAVE CREEK / CAREFREE
Cave Creek is one of those quirky hot spots that is hard to pigeonhole: motorcycle and horseback riders share Main Street with one-of-a-kind shops and saloons.
Cave Creek Trail Rides
7 a.m.
GRAB A CUP OF COFFEE AT ROASTERY OF CAVE CAVE Roasting in the Valley since 1997, the Roastery of Cave Cave - ROC2 - is one of the Valley’s best-kept secrets. Call them a bunch of coffee geeks, but the experts at ROC2 use a balance of art and science to methodically roast and cup their coffees and separate themselves from other roasters. roc2.coffee 8 a.m.
PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF Cave Creek offers several world-class golf courses situated among some of the most beautiful desert landscapes you will ever see. Public courses include the Rancho Mañana Golf Club, boasting some of the state’s most breathtaking views, along with Dove Valley Ranch and Legend Trails Golf Club. Private courses feature the popular Tatum Ranch Golf Club and other well-known spectacular places such as Desert Forest Golf Club and The Boulders. 11 a.m.
HORSEBACK RIDING Ride through the Sonoran Desert on horseback with Cave Creek Trail Rides, which operates from November to May. Learn about the flora and fauna and history of the area from your guide while overlooking the perfect view of the Go John Mountains and the Phoenix Valley. cavecreektrailrides.com 1 p.m.
LUNCH AT THE HORNY TOAD Cave Creek’s oldest and most famous restaurant, The Horny Toad serves the most loved and sought-after fried chicken in the state. It is always fresh, is lovingly created with a very special breading and an array of secret spices, then cooked to perfection in a Henny Penny pressure. But everything is great at the Toad. thehornytoad.com 28
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Dove Valley Ranch
2 p.m.
TAKE A WALK THROUGH FRONTIER TOWN Take a couple of hours to explore this quirky old western town that’s home to gift shops and boutiques. This old cowboy town is also a great place to take Instagram-worthy pictures. frontiertownaz.com 6 p.m.
DINNER AT BRYAN’S BLACK MOUNTAIN BARBECUE Bryan’s Black Mountain Barbecue is Cave Creek’s award-winning pecan wood-smoked barbecue. Be sure to try their famous olive coleslaw and ask for your meat without sauce or with sauce on the side to really taste every bit of it. bryansbarbecue.com Night
SPEND THE NIGHT AT CIVANA Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, CIVANA offers a chance to relax in nature-inspired rooms, to restore in the healing waters of its spa, to move surrounded by the breathtaking mountain scenery and to enjoy and savor healthy culinary offerings. civanacarefree.com
A day in
COTTONWOOD Although Cottonwood is a small town in the heart of Arizona, you can still find plenty to do here. There are historic ancient civilizations and state parks to explore nearby, even while riding an ATV! If you’re not the outdoors type, you can also spend time in Historic Old Town, visit the galleries and boutiques and eat at some quirky and tasty restaurants.
Crema Craft Kitchen
7 a.m.
START THE DAY WITH A HIKE Get up and feel the day break along the Old Town Jail Trail, easily accessed off the old jail parking lot on Main Street in Old Town Cottonwood. The trail provides an easy hour of hiking through a surprising riparian forest, a Verde River flood zone, and a dense willow river’s edge, all a known birders’ delight. verdebirdingtrail.com 8 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT CREMA CRAFT KITCHEN Back in Old Town Cottonwood, breakfast is served fresh and ready at Crema Craft Kitchen, and this walk is the perfect way to get your appetite ready for one of their Lobster Benedicts, or the Traditional, if that’s more your pace. An exceptionally crafted menu includes black coffee to Honey Vanilla Breve, made-from-scratch pastries, gelato and sorbet, and a range of craft cocktails from Aviation including crème de violette to the Ultimate Mimosa. cremacottonwood.com 10 a.m.
WALK THROUGH OLD TOWN COTTONWOOD Take a stroll down the street and see all the fine galleries, wine rooms, boutiques and antique shops that Old Town Cottonwood has to offer. Known once as the Biggest Little Town in America, Cottonwood’s Historic District is listed on the National Register and boasts a streetscape reflecting this history. oldtown.org 11:30 a.m.
HAVE LUNCH AT OLD CAR SERVICE STATION Bing’s Burger Station used to be a service station in the early 1940s. Much has changed in and out of the building, but there are still two gas pumps out front, a functioning garage door over the entrance to the patio, and inverted Coca-Cola bottles are embedded in the cement outside. They even have menu items for your pets! bingsburgers.com 30
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Verde Canyon Railroad
1 p.m.
RIDE THE VERDE CANYON RAILROAD An experience like no other, the whole family will enjoy this four-hour excursion by train ride through Verde Canyon to view spectacular rock faces and native flora and fauna. So board the renovated vintage train at the historic train depot and let the journey begin! verdecanyonrr.com 7 p.m.
DINNER AT MANZANITA RESTAURANT Manzanita Restaurant, which has been named a “culinary oasis in the desert,” is a perfect spot to enjoy an elegant, romantic dinner. It is located in Verde Valley’s wine country just outside of Cottonwood. They are known for their German cuisine, bringing a variety of wild game to the menu; and they also serve seafood and steaks. themanzanitarestaurant.com
• Children with eagle wings soar through the miniature Bird’s-Eye Village • Holiday lights, music, and refreshments • Train ride through a magic tunnel to the North Pole and back • Santa boards the train at the whimsical North Pole Village with gifts for all of the children • Meet Flurry, a real bald eagle and Princess Noel, characters from The Magical Christmas Journey™ book
Christmas Trains Depart at 5:30pm and 7:00pm, December 6 to 28 www.VerdeCanyonRR.com/Christmas-Train • 1-800-293-7245
A day in
FLAGSTAFF At an elevation of 7,000 feet surrounded by Ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff is Arizona’s four-season hub of activity where an eclectic mix of small town charm, a wealth of fine art and cultural offerings and endless outdoor adventure beckons. 8 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT MACY’S EUROPEAN COFFEEHOUSE Macy’s is a cozy vegan friendly coffeehouse that serves the best biscuits and gravy, pastries and hot chocolate. The patio is dog-friendly, and the place is always busy (in a good way)! macyscoffee.net 10 a.m.
TAKE A RIDE ON THE SCENIC CHAIRLIFT Head out to the Snowbowl, where you can take a scenic chairlift in the summer and fall, or enjoy snowboarding and skiing in the winter. Go up 11,500 feet on the lift and appreciate the 360-degree views of Sedona and the Grand Canyon from the top of the San Francisco Peaks. snowbowl.ski 1 p.m.
LUNCH AT SATCHMO’S BBQ Satchmo’s is a Cajun and Creole restaurant that has become a local legend. Satchmo’s serves very good local beer, excellent food (try the ribs and Jambalaya) and features the some of the best service in Northern Arizona. satchmosaz.com
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6 p.m.
GO STARGAZING AT THE LOWELL OBSERVATORY Flagstaff is the world’s first “International Dark Sky City’’ because of their lighting codes made to restrict artificial sky glow. The Lowell Observatory – where Pluto was discovered – offers different programs and tours to check out the sky. lowell.edu 7 p.m.
DINNER AT BLACK BART’S This steakhouse, saloon and musical revue is known for its oak-broiled steaks and seafood. Be sure to make a reservation before watching the waiters and waitresses perform Broadway, Disney and 60s and 70s songs beginning at 5:30 every night. blackbartssteakhouse.com 8 p.m.
FINISH THE NIGHT CLOSE TO YOUR BED Before facing the ghosts in your room at Monte Vista, visit the Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge, which was the first speakeasy in Flagstaff, welcoming everyone from celebrities and law-breakers to skiers and river runners. During prohibition, the Cocktail Lounge opened and was successfully running a major bootlegging operation in the very same location as today. hotelmontevista.com
A day in the
EAST VALLEY
Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse
Some of the biggest cities in the East Valley are Mesa, Gilbert and Chandler. Visitors can enjoy eating, shopping and can catch a show in the area all in one day because of brief driving distances between them. 7 a.m.
HIKE THE RIPARIAN PRESERVE Created as an innovative and unique way to combine water resource development with wildlife habitat, educational and recreational opportunities, the Riparian Preserve features an urban fishing lake, over 4.5 miles of trails and wildlife and bird watching. There is even a dinosaur dig site for future paleontologists. riparianinstitute.org 9 a.m.
TRENDY BREAKFAST AT HASH KITCHEN Hash Kitchen describes themselves as a “creative a.m. eatery that boasts a social dining experience.” They are home to Arizona’s largest bloody mary bar with over 50 craft toppings to create your ultimate drink. They also have a variety of specialty cocktails, including a cereal shooter flight that comes with four different cereals and flavored alcohols. hashkitchen.com 11 a.m.
VISIT TORTILLA FLAT FOR FUN AND LUNCH Known as “the town too tough to die,” this little Western oasis attracts locals and tourists alike for its quaint scenery, delicious food, and charming stores. Originally a stagecoach stop built in 1904, Tortilla Flat is a point of pride along the historic Apache Trail. Points of interest include a country store, mercantile/gift shop, and the renowned Superstition Saloon and Restaurant, where the wallpaper is made up of currency from all over the world. There’s even a working post office, which still services residents of Apache Lake, Horse Mesa Dam and Tortilla Flat itself. tortillaflataz.com 34
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The White Rabbit
2 p.m.
SHOPPING IN GILBERT Gilbert has multiple premier shopping options, including SanTan Village, an outdoor destination with top shopping and dining; and the Heritage District, the downtown experience with local restaurants, unique shops and cultural attractions. shopsantanvillage.com and discovergilbert.com. 5 p.m.
DINNER AT GALETO BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE Savor meats from filet mignon to ribeye, lamb, chicken and pork at this all-you-can-eat experience in Chandler as servers parade a variety of 12 to 14 different meats right to your table. Pace yourself, as you’ll want to save room for one of their many delicious desserts such as Brazilian pudim or a doce de leite crepe. galeto.com 7 p.m.
DRINKS AT ONE OF THE EAST VALLEY’S HOT BREWERIES Arizona’s craft beer industry has gained a reputation for excellence. So why not tip a few back at one of the East Valley’s trendy craft beer establishments. Some to consider include Four Peaks in Tempe, Oro Brewing Company or Beer Research Institute in Mesa, Arizona Wilderness Brewing in Gilbert or SanTan Brewing in Chandler. Or, if beer is not your thing, check out Cider Corps in Mesa, Arizona’s first cidery; or The White Rabbit, Gilbert’s very own speakeasy.
A day in
GLENDALE Relax, rev up and have the time of your life in Glendale. Game time, girl time, family time — a trip to Glendale can truly be the time of your life.
Sahuaro Ranch
6 a.m.
START YOUR DAY EXPLORING THE HISTORIC SAHUARO RANCH This 17-acre ranch was developed in 1886, and still has 13 of the original buildings, including the dairy barn and corrals. There are also vineyards, orchards, a barnyard and a rose garden you can explore during your visit. glendaleaz.com 8 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT ONE OF GLENDALE’S UNIQUE RESTAURANTS If you’re looking for a great meal in a relaxed atmosphere, look no further than The Rogue Tomato. The breakfast menu at The Rogue Tomato may not be large, but it’s very unique and packed with deliciousness. An equally amazing option is Kiss the Cook Restaurant, whose mini muffins are legendary. theroguetomato.com and kissthecookrestaurant.com 10 a.m.
SHOPPING AND LUNCH IN DOWNTOWN GLENDALE There is no shortage of shops to visit in Historic Downtown Glendale, which has been named by USA Today and Sunset Magazine as one of the country’s 10 best places for shopping in recent years. From vintage treasures to unique antiques, painted canvases to hand-blown glassware, and teddy bears to homemade chocolates, no visit to the Valley would be complete without a visit to Historic Downtown Glendale. visitglendale.com
Glendale Glitters
State Farm Stadium
Afternoon
CHECK OUT A SPORTING EVENT Glendale has grown into a true sports destination with Gila River Arena, home of the NHL Coyotes; State Farm Stadium, home of the NFL Arizona Cardinals and the Fiesta Bowl; and Camelback Ranch-Glendale, spring training home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. So depending on the month you’re visiting, there will always be a sports adventure awaiting. And if being part of the action is more your style, visit Glendale’s Topgolf location. visitglendale.com 6 p.m.
DINNER AT DESERT ROSE PIZZA GASTROPUB & STEAKS After the sporting event is done, hop over to this familyfriendly sports pub with a variety of burgers, entrees including steak and chicken, pasta and pizza the whole family will enjoy. They also host live bands and events like televised sports, karaoke and car shows desertrosepizzaandgastropub.com All day
CHECK OUT A SPECIAL EVENT Glendale is home to some of the most amazing special events in the Valley. Be sure to check the calendar to find out if Glendale Glitters, the Folk and Heritage Festival, Glendale Glitter & Glow, Glendale Chocolate Affaire or Paris in the Spring are going on during your visit. visitglendale.com 36
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GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL
One of the only family friendly, dog friendly sports bars on the West side with giant yard games like chess and checker, Jenga, corn hole, and so much more for the the whole family to enjoy. Lots of live music on the patio and crafts nights. We are great for large groups, team building, reunions and weddings. Great atmosphere, scratch kitchen with a focus on fresh, clean, local eating. Open daily at 7am for breakfast, Sunday brunch 10:30-2:30 and close Sunday 9:30pm, M-Th 10pm, and Fri/Sat 1am. Thank you so much for supporting small businesses!
6729 N. 57TH DR. GLENDALE AZ 85301 • desertrosepizzaandgastropub.com • 623-937-3004
A day in
LAKE HAVASU
Lake Havasu attracts more than 775,000 visitors annually due to its variety of outdoor activities and events such as Desert Storm and the World Jet Ski Finals. When you visit Lake Havasu, enjoy a water activity, go hiking or fishing, and be sure to take some pictures of the London Bridge. 6 a.m.
VORTEX ENERGY SITES Begin your day with a hike to areas with unusual concentrations of electromagnetic activity. These vortexes — swirling masses of energy — can manifest as tornadoes or whirlpools. However, they aren’t all visible. Even if you can’t see them, you might be able to feel them. golakehavasu.com
London Bridge
10 a.m.
LIGHTHOUSES Lake Havasu is unexpectedly home to more lighthouses than any other city in the United States. You can take a boat to see fully-functioning replicas of famous lighthouses from the East Coast, the West Coast and the Great Lakes. golakehavasu.com Noon
LUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE At The Nautical Beachfront Resort, there is a restaurant and bar where you can sit at the edge of an infinity pool. It also has a palapa bar and poolside cabanas. The resort also has a variety of other restaurants to choose from. You can also dine to-go; and by to-go, we mean on a boat. nauticalbeachfrontresort.com 2 p.m.
LONDON BRIDGE This is not a replica. This is the real deal. The bridge used to span the Thames River in London for years before Lake Havasu City placed a bid of $2.46 million. The bridge was numbered in blocks and then disassembled. It traveled overseas through the Panama Canal and then eventually ended up in California where it then came to Arizona. There is a 90-minute walking tour where they’ll point out its World War II scars while you pass over the Bridgewater Channel. golakehavasu.com 38
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Nautical Beachfront Resort
5 p.m.
LAKESIDE DINNER Enjoy poke or your favorite burger served on a mini surfboard at the Blue Chair, where they say that they are the “fun side of the lake.” Or you can go to the Barley Brothers Restaurant & Brewery with its handcrafted beer and ribs with a view of the London Bridge. There are many options for dining alongside the water’s edge. barleybrothers.com and golakehavasu.com/the-blue-chair 8 p.m.
HAVASU 95 SPEEDWAY From September to May, you can watch a race at Havasu 95 Speedway, a paved oval track sanctioned by the American Speed Association. If you visit close to the end of the season, you might be able to see the waterless boat race where the least destroyed boat wins. golakehavasu.com/havasu-95-speedway. barleybrothers.com and babaloolounge.com
A day in
PAYSON
It’s no wonder that Payson has been called “The Heart of Arizona.” With its historic charm and outdoor wonders, Payson always delivers a day to remember. Spend the morning hunting for fossils and the afternoon flying over Rim Country in an airplane. Plus, don’t forget to take a few breaks to enjoy some of the delicious eateries. Macky’s Grill
7:30 a.m.
FOSSIL HUNTING AT PALEO SITE Get an early start in the morning and discover history by fossil hunting at Payson’s famous Paleo Site. Visitors can find fossils of ancient fish, reptiles and insects from up to 300 million years ago. 9 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT BEELINE CAFE Sit down and savor a classic homestyle breakfast at this classic diner. Enjoy anything from a selection of various egg dishes, griddle-cooked french toast and more. 11 a.m.
AIRPLANE RIDE OVER RIM COUNTRY It’s been said by many of Payson’s locals that you can’t truly appreciate the beauty of Rim Country until you see it from the sky. You can book a flight through one of the air tour companies in town. One of them will even let you fly the plane. 12:30 p.m.
STRAWBERRY SCHOOLHOUSE
4:30 p.m.
VERDE HOT SPRINGS Nothing says relaxation like a hot spring. Start with a scenic two-and-a-half-mile hike, and then just sit back and let your muscles enjoy the natural heat. paysonrimcountry.com/verde-hot-river-springs 7 p.m.
DINNER AT AYOTHAYA THAI CAFE Mix it up for dinner with some good ethnic food. With a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and entreés featuring chicken, beef, pork or tofu, no one will leave the table hungry. ayothayathaicafe.com 9 p.m.
END THE DAY STARGAZING Take advantage of Payson’s large rural landscape with unobstructed views of the sky. Spend the evening taking in the beauty of the stars to see if you can spot any constellations. paysonrimcountry.com/star-gazing
Take a minute to see what school was like “way back when.” The Strawberry Schoolhouse has been in place since the 1800s and was restored to the museum it is today. Don’t forget to ask about the story of the infamous schoolhouse thief. pinestrawhs.org/schoolhouse 2:30 p.m.
LUNCH AT MACKY’S GRILL Enjoy some classic American eats when you stop in at Macky’s. Choose between a light salad, a variety of sandwiches, gourmet burgers and so much more. Try to leave room for dessert. Macky’s famous southwest cheesecake won’t disappoint. mackysgrill.com
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A day in
PRESCOTT Prescott may be small with a population of about 42,000, but there is plenty to do. Explore the outdoors and stop at a few museums before ending your day with a drink on Whiskey Row. 6 a.m.
START YOUR DAY WITH A HIKE Take a hike on Thumb Butte, just ten minutes from downtown Prescott. From the top you can see panoramic views of Prescott and many of the surrounding mountain ranges. If you head out really early, you might even see deer or other wildlife.
Thumb Butte
10 a.m.
VISIT THE SHARLOT HALL MUSEUM The Sharlot Hall Museum — an open-air museum and heritage site — is the crown jewel of history museums in Arizona. Opened in 1928 by Sharlot M. Hall as the Gubernatorial Mansion Museum, the museum that now bears her name is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Central Highlands of Arizona. sharlot.org Noon
LUNCH AT THE PEACOCK DINING ROOM AND THEN CHECK INTO THE HASSAYAMPA INN Take in the magnificent Art Deco décor at the Hassayampa Inn while savoring exceptional cuisine at the Peacock Dining Room, consistently renowned among the top restaurants in downtown Prescott. The Hassayampa Inn offers a unique and timeless lodging alternative where old meets new and you’ll discover an enticing blend of historic touches and modern amenities. Be sure to ask for one of the rooms that offer spectacular views of the historic buildings on Gurley Street. hassayampainn.com 2 p.m.
VISIT THE HERITAGE PARK ZOOLOGICAL SANCTUARY The Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals. The sanctuary provides a source of recreation, education and entertainment for all ages. heritageparkzoo.org 40
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6 p.m.
DINNER AT BISTRO ST. MICHAEL This restored 1901 bar and eatery offers a vintage vibe and classic American meals. Located right on the corner of Whiskey Row, relax and take in the view of the Court House Plaza, which offers some of the best people-watching opportunities in Prescott. stmichaelhotel.com Night
CHECK OUT WHISKEY ROW Whiskey Row is Prescott’s — not to mention one of Arizona’s — most famous streets. In its heyday, Whiskey Row was lined with saloons that welcomed many well-known cowboys and outlaws on a regular basis. Today, Whiskey Row is the ideal place for unique shopping, dining, entertainment and a nightcap. prescott.com/whiskey-row
Whiskey Row
A day in
WINSLOW
Turquoise Room
Winslow is where the past meets the present. You can see it in the brick facades, the thriving railroad, Route 66 and the variety of cultures gathering in one area to create a community true to itself and Arizona. Here, you’ll learn about the area’s storied history, going back millennia when ancient Hopi tribes roamed the lands. View the wonders of the railroad, and much, much more. As you walk and congregate with the residents of Winslow, you’ll quickly learn why this Northeastern Arizona city is known as “The City of Ten Thousand Friendly Faces.”
Relicroad Brewing Company
7 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT THE TURQUOISE ROOM Start your day right by heading to the Turquoise Room for a classic breakfast where you can enjoy any of your favorite breakfast staples. This restaurant is located within the La Posada Hotel, one of Winslow’s architectural masterpieces. 8:30 a.m.
PHOTO TIME AT STANDIN’ ON THE CORNER PARK After your breakfast, take the five-minute walk to the corner made famous by the Eagles song “Take it Easy.” You’ll feel relaxed and ready for a complete day of adventuring as you hang around the statues to mark the spot of the famous corner, while taking in the sites of the Route 66 iconography in the area. standinonthecorner.com 9 a.m.
LEARN THE HISTORY OF THE HOPI AT HOMOLOVI STATE PARK Here, you’ll find many preserved archaeological sites, including pueblos and panels of petroglyphs depicting kachina and clan symbols. You’ll feel immersed at this cultural site, which is only a brief drive outside of Winslow. azstateparks.com/homolovi 11 a.m.
OLD TRAILS MUSUEM Learn about the many cultures that have called the Winslow area home for many years at the Old Trails Museum. It showcases the many paths that had to be blazed to bring us to the world we live in today, including exhibits of the planes, trains and automobiles that have passed through Winslow. oldtrailsmuseum.org
Photo time at Standin’ On The Corner Park
1 p.m.
LUNCH AT THE RELICROAD BREWING COMPANY Stop off for a cold beer and a burger at this recently opened joint in Winslow. The RelicRoad serves nothing but Arizona beer on tap by a friendly staff. Be sure to try the Diablo Burger everyone is raving about, and don’t forget to play one of the board games they have available while you wait for your meal. facebook.com/brewery2017 2:30 p.m.
STUDY THE HEAVENS AT METEOR CRATER See the results of an asteroid collision on our Earth at 26,000 miles per hour at Meteor Crater. The crater was created about 50,000 years ago, and has an amazing visitors center that will tell you all about its history and the power of the cosmos. The kids will leave inspired, and you’ll leave wondering about our celestial place in the universe. meteorcrater.com 5:30 p.m.
SUNSET PICNIC AT THE LITTLE PAINTED DESERT Let the colorful combination of natural rock formations, coupled with one of Arizona’s legendary sunsets help you unwind from a busy day in the Winslow area. There are many areas for a picnic at this unique locale, along with camping and hiking options that will show you what it means to be in Arizona. wmonline.com/attract/navaprks.htm
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A day in
SCOTTSDALE Scottsdale is the Valley’s lap of luxury. It’s where baseball players hang out during Spring Training and the location of Arizona’s elite shopping centers and fashion hub. You’ll see sparkly convertibles, such as Ferrari car clubs doing a happy hour, or the hottest DJs spinning in the Entertainment District during weekends. Here’s how the Scottsdalians do it: 8 a.m.
BREAKFAST AT THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE Winner of the James Beard Award and a Scottsdale staple, the Original Pancake House has been voted one of the Top 10 Best Restaurants of Arizona. originalpancakehouse.com 10 a.m.
SPEND TIME EXPLORING OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE Old Town Scottsdale consists of a mix of the reminiscent western cowboy town that it once was with new trendy spots. Grab ice cream at the bright pink Sugar Bowl, or spend the afternoon popping in and out of the many local artists’ shops and galleries. experiencescottsdale.com/old-town/ 11 a.m.
VIEW THE ROTATING EXHIBITS AT THE SCOTTSDALE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Scottsdale’s contemporary art museum was transformed from a former movie theater and now has four galleries that rotate exhibitions regularly. Spend time at the museum and check out what exhibitions are up when you’re in town. smoca.org
Scottsdale Fashion Square
Noon
LUNCH AND SHOPPING AT SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE Scottsdale Fashion Square is the city’s multi-story luxury mall in the middle of town. Shoppers will find Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton and Gucci among hundreds of other retailers of similar upscale caliber. Dining options include Kona Grill, Culinary Dropout, Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse, Olive & Ivy, Yard House and many more. fashionsquare.com 4 p.m.
GRAB SOME SOUVENIRS AT KACTUS JOCK Kactus Jock in Old Town Scottsdale offers the most commemorative Scottsdale shopping experience. The atmosphere of this store will leave you feeling happy and whimsical. The store is abundant in souvenirs, gifts, apparel and home decor. kactusjock.com 7 p.m.
DINNER AT THE OLD TOWN TORTILLA FACTORY Up for southwestern food with a Mexican twist? The Old Town Tortilla Factory was built from a 75-year-old historic adobe home and features a 1400 square foot patio. Their world renowned tequila bar offers over 120 premium tequilas and an award-winning margarita. oldtowntortillafactory.com 10 p.m.
NIGHT CAP AT THE BEVERLY Formerly a stylized speakeasy known as Mabel’s on Main, The Beverly carries that same old-time vibe. More than 100 whiskey options and spirits line the walls and the cocktail menu is extensive as well. Settle up in a booth and get sophisticated — “Mad Men” style. thebeverly.us
The Beverly
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
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Discover
Discover forested mountains by bike and boot or spend a relaxing afternoon at Arizona’s award-winning vineyards or nearby Parker Canyon Lake. Sierra Vista, at the foothills of southeast Arizona’s Sky Islands, is a year ‘round cool destination where outdoor adventure is second nature. Discover Sierra Vista.
800-288-3861
South
A day in
NORTHERN ARIZONA Spend a day, or a few days if you have the time, in northern Arizona to see some of the most beautiful sights the state has to offer.
Antelope Canyon
6 a.m.
1 p.m.
There are five beautiful waterfalls to see on the Havasupai Indian reservation in the Grand Canyon. The waterfalls are known for their natural pools, vivid blue-green color and natural travertine dams. thecanyon.com/havasupai-falls
Have lunch in Prescott at The Lone Spur Cafe, that boasts their cowboy food, cowboy service, and genuine cowboy charm. Their menu offers everything from burgers and salads, to nachos and quesadillas. lonespurcafe.com
9 a.m.
2 p.m.
Lia Leaf Tea House in Flagstaff wants to teach you all about the different types of teas that there are. They remove the large amounts of sugar that are typically found in tea to make their specialty drinks and loose leaf teas from natural ingredients. Don’t forget to snack on one of their baked goods to complement your drink. lialeaf.com
Walk through Antelope Canyon, which are red rock slot canyons, then head over to the overlook at Horseshoe Bend to see the scenery from a completely new perspective. The canyon is located on Navajo Nation land, so be sure to book a tour with a guide before heading out. visitpagelakepowell.com
11 a.m.
See the results of an asteroid collision on our Earth at 26,000 miles per hour at Meteor Crater. The crater was created about 50,000 years ago, and has an amazing visitors center that will tell you all about its history and the power of the cosmos. The kids will leave inspired, and you’ll leave wondering about our celestial place in the universe. meteorcrater.com
BEGIN YOUR DAY WITH A HIKE TO HAVASU FALLS
ENJOY A CALM MORNING OVER TEA
DRIVE OVER THE HOOVER DAM Take a tour and learn all about the history of the Hoover Dam. It took five years to construct, and was built to control floods, store water for irrigation, and provide hydroelectric power. It stands at 736 feet tall, making it the highest concrete dam in the U.S. usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam
LUNCH AT A COWBOY CAFE
ANTELOPE CANYON
4 p.m.
STUDY THE HEAVENS AT METEOR CRATER
5 p.m.
DINNER AT CREEKSIDE STEAKHOUSE AND TAVERN Enjoy a steak or an order of ribs for dinner at this old historic tavern just east of Payson. The restaurant has been around for about 44 years and is amidst the world’s largest group of Ponderosa pines—you might even get the chance to see some wildlife while you eat. creeksidesteakhouse.com
Meteor Crater
Havasu Falls
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BED & BREAKFASTS ACCOMMODATIONS Adobe Rose Inn This is one of the most sought after bed and breakfasts in Tucson, offering exquisite rooms and unique packages for every occasion. aroseinn.com
Alpine Inn Bed & Breakfast Styled after a country home, the Inn features all the character and warmth you would expect from the early 1900s, plus the amenities of today. alpineinnaz.com
Boots and Saddles This B&B was awarded the TripAdvisor. com Traveler’s Choice Award for the last 10 years and labeled as the best Bed and Breakfast in the U.S. oldwestbb.com
Creekside Inn at Sedona Want a beautiful wedding? The Creekside Inn at Sedona specializes in romantic and private Sedona weddings. creeksideinn.net
Maricopa Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn
BRIAR PATCH INN THINGS TO KNOW: In the 1930s, a German carpenter sought solace in Oak Creek Canyon, built his home and then saw the need to provide lodging for the “movie folk” who were making westerns in Sedona. In 1940 he built the first cottage, the “Bluejay,” complete with hand hewn wooden door latches, still functioning today. Subsequent buildings became “Rocky’s Cottages,” after his name Raacke. Today, Briar Patch Inn is a nine-acre oasis nestled in Oak Creek Canyon along the lush banks of Oak Creek. Nineteen individual cabins are defined by Southwestern charm and Native American arts, cozy fireplaces, kitchens and private patios, all in a secluded setting. Briar Patch Inn has been owned and operated by the Olson family for 35 years and they look forward to exceeding your expectations.
DON’T MISS: A hearty, healthy, homemade breakfast is included and can be enjoyed in the lodge or beside the creek. But breakfast along the creek, with live musicians and the music of nature serenading you cannot be beat. Guests can also relax with a soothing creek-side massage.
INFORMATION: briarpatchinn.com
This inn is a private oasis in the heart of Phoenix. Relax, refresh, get away. maricopamanor.com
Orchard Canyon If you don’t know it’s here, you won’t find it. But once you’re inside, you’ll love that secret quality as much as other guests have loved it. enjoyorchardcanyon.com
Sedona Views Located in a multi-level contemporary house on a hill, this B&B offers stunning views of the red rocks and each room has a private patio and entrance. sedonaviewsbb.com
The Canyon Wren The Canyon Wren cabins are settled right along Oak Creek Canyon, surrounded by sycamores, hammocks, private patios and grassy lawns. canyonwrencabins.com
The Vineyards Bed & Breakfast If the weeping willows outside are any indication, this B&B is a romantic, secluded getaway overlooking Arizona’s wine country. thevineyardsbandb.com
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CASINO RESORT ACCOMMODATIONS
TALKING STICK RESORT THINGS TO KNOW: This resort hotel features a lively 240,000-square-foot casino with more than 700 slot machines and 50 table games. An open-air spa on the 14th floor offers views of the surrounding valley. Guests can enjoy six restaurants and 11 lounges and bars. There are also three outdoor pools. Talking Stick Resort, an enterprise owned and operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, was named “Casino of the Year” at the 2018 International Entertainment Buyers Association Honors and Awards Ceremony. The resort is the first Arizona casino to win such a prestigious international award.
DON’T MISS: Long considered the ultimate destination for entertainment in Scottsdale, the Talking Stick Resort plays host to numerous musicians, bands and comedians throughout the year.
INFORMATION: talkingstickresort.com
Apache Gold Casino Resort When you need a break from winning in the casino, check out Apache Stronghold, an 18-hole golf course ranked by Golfweek magazine as a top golf course in Arizona. apache-gold-casino.com
Bucky’s Casino With more than 525 of the most exciting and entertaining slot machines and the clear skies and cool pines of Prescott, you just can’t lose. buckyscasino.com
Casino Del Sol Resort Mediterranean architecture surrounds the gaming space, featuring 1,000 nickel, quarter, $1, $5 and multidenominational slot machines. casinodelsol.com
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Cliff Castle Casino Hotel The family-friendly casino offers live poker, blackjack and more than 660 gaming devices, as well as Kids Quest and Orbits arcade. cliffcastlecasinohotel.com
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment Tucson The casino floor is packed with the hottest slot machines and table games. ddcaz.com
Gila River Casinos Gila River Casinos are overflowing with excitement at its three locations — Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino and Lone Butte Casino. wingilariver.com
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa This resort boasts 500 culturally themed rooms, 36-hole Troon North Golf Club, 100,000-square-foot casino and a Western theme park. wildhorsepassresort.com
Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort Located east of Flagstaff, this is northern Arizona’s premier casino resort destination, offering luxury amenities and best-in-class gaming. twinarrows.com
We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center This refined casino and resort offers a pair of 18-hole golf courses, a 24-hour casino and a day spa. wekoparesortandconferencecenter.com
ALWAYS
STUNNING Dine in style at the Valley’s culinary jewel on the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort. With world-class entrées and wines, live entertainment and unparalleled views of the McDowell Mountains, your night at Orange Sky is certain to be memorable.
101 & TALKING STICK WAY | SCOTTSDALE | 480.850.8606 | TALKINGSTICKRESORT.COM
Online reservations available. Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
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CASINO RESTAURANTS Ahnala Mesquite Room
The Southwestern restaurant offers a casual gathering place for romantic dinners with views of Four Peaks Mountain. wekoparesortandconferencecenter.com
Apache Prime Steakhouse
The restaurant has a mouth-watering menu, where you’ll find all your favorite cuts, plus home-style specialties and sides. apache-gold-casino.com
Artisan Restaurant
The Artisan Restaurant offers an all-youcan-eat breakfast buffet, and an a la carte lunch and dinner menu with sandwiches, burgers, salads and Angus steaks. cocopahresort.com
Chop, Block & Brew
Featuring gourmet burgers and a woodburning mesquite grill, the rustic and relaxed environment at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino serves as a perfect venue to enjoy pure-aged steaks, prime rib and seafood. caesars.com
George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen
CHOLLA PRIME STEAKHOUSE & LOUNGE THINGS TO KNOW: Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge has been called the hidden gem among Phoenix steakhouses. Cholla offers one of Scottsdale’s best fine-dining experiences in an intimate, upscale environment. Located just off the gaming floor inside Casino Arizona in Scottsdale, Cholla’s top chefs are known for creating steakhouse classics such as filets and lamb chops as well as crab stuffed prawns and elk tenderloin. It has been the recipient of TripAdvisor’s prestigious “Certificate of Excellence” for two years in a row.
DON’T MISS: Unlike the adjacent room of slot machines, dinner at Cholla isn’t a gamble, thanks to healthy portions of robustly-flavored meat and seafood, savory appetizers and sides, and delectable desserts. Favorites include the bleu cheese-crusted New York steak, 14-ounce pan-seared ribeye and the rich double chocolate mousse and a full-bodied cup of coffee are an excellent way to end the meal.
INFORMATION: casinoarizona.com
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At Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, enjoy buildyour-own tacos, burritos and bowls. Start off with hand-made guacamole and finish with churros. playatgila.com/dining
Kai
The recipient of the Coveted AAA Five Diamond Award and Forbes Five-Star Award, Kai, meaning “seed” in the Pima language, features a menu rich in creativity, history and Native American culture at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass. marriott.com
Ocean Trail
This restaurant brings classic New Orleans favorites to Phoenix. Try a Cajun style boil and watch your food be prepared in front of you at their open cooking station. talkingstickresort.com
Orange Sky
Located within Talking Stick Resort, Orange Sky features new American plates and an award-winning wine list presented in an elegant 15th-floor dining room with beautiful sunset views of the Valley. talkingstickresort.com
PY Steakhouse
With the finest cuts of meat, fresh seafood and a wine list second to none, PY Steakhouse at Casino Del Sol Resort in Tucson boasts an elegant dining experience with food and drink to match. casinodelsol.com
Because you never outgrow playing with friends.
We’re Your Casino, Arizona. Casino Arizona is more than a casino. It’s familiar faces, unparalleled levels of comfort and it’s always here when you’re ready. No one knows you like we do.
SCOT TSDALE
|
48 0.850.7777
|
CASINOARIZONA .COM
Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Please gamble responsibly.
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ITALIAN RESTAURANTS
FRANCO’S ITALIAN CAFFÉ THINGS TO KNOW Franco’s is the creation of Tuscan-born Franco Fazzuoli, who had three wildly popular Italian restaurants in Phoenix starting in the 1980s before leaving the Valley in 2006 to follow his daughters to New York, where they were studying ballet. While in New York, he opened a well-received Italian restaurant in Greenwich Village. Luckily for Arizona diners, Franco came back and is more creative and innovative than ever. Franco’s creates the perfect blend of traditional and progressive. The pastas are all homemade, but they are done in ways that you have never experienced.
DON’T MISS Go to Franco’s with a group of friends and let everyone order something different. Ask for an extra plate if you need to and then sample everything. The parade of palate pleasers will leave you wanting to return to try all the tasty options on the menu.
INFORMATION: francosscottsdale.com
Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano
Mora Italian
Tomaso’s Italian Cuisine
The dining room has an element of mystique, a magical aura that will take your breath away upon entering. dahlanddiluca.com
Chef Scott Conant, a Food Network star and judge for the cooking competition TV show called “Chopped,” presents this stylish Italian osteria. moraitalian.com
For more than 40 years, Tomaso’s has been a destination restaurant in the Central Camelback Corridor in Phoenix. tomasos.com
Parma Italian Roots
Award-winning chef Chris Bianco, who also owns Pizzeria Bianco, prepares their food and drinks with farmers, ranchers, millers, and local artisans to represent the southwest. trattophx.com
EVO Scottsdale EVO is both upscale and comfortable; ideal for Sunday dinner with the entire family or a romantic dinner with the one you love. evoscottsdale.com
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Parma serves artfully prepared, West Coast-influenced Italian cuisine in a comfortable, easygoing ambiance. parmaitalianaz.com
Marcellino’s
Pubblico Italian Eatery
Many of Chef Marcellino Verzino’s offerings are grown on his personal farm in Arizona or in the herb garden outside the restaurant. marcellinoristorante.com
Pubblico serves wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta along with handcrafted cocktails and a curated wine collection. pubblicoitalianeatery.com
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Tratto
Tutti Santi Ristorante by Nina This opulent example of Italian food at its finest has won itself local, national and even international fame. tuttisantiristornante.com
Photo b
y Brian
Goddard
Creating genuine Italian cuisine with love and care is Franco’s mission. Diners will experience authentic Italian Florentine cooking.
480.481.7614 francosscottsdale.com 4327 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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LOCAL FAVORITES
Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails
THE MARKET BY JENNIFER’S THINGS TO KNOW: Chef Jennifer Russo developed The MARKET by Jennifer’s RESTAURANT+BAR as a casual and elegant space with a menu that incorporates locally grown, sourced and crafted ingredients. Some standout menu items to try are: the shrimp and grits with butter poached shrimp, Hayden flour grits, grilled corn, gremolata, candied lemon and flaky salt; lamb chop with fennel potato au gratin, sweet peas, olive oil poached pearl onions and garlic and red wine reduction; and for dessert, try the chocolate ricotta cake, a flourless chocolate cake garnished with a red wine caramel and topped with homemade strawberry ice cream.
DON’T MISS: The MARKET by Jennifer’s also offers corporate and social catering services under Jennifer’s Catering. Prioritizing a fresh menu, Jennifer’s Catering selects the finest ingredients from prime meats, hand-selected produce, freshly baked breads and creamery rich dairy to prepare your menu. They offer their services for hors d’oeuvre parties with passed ‘shooters,’ and minis, to full-service five-course plated dinners, buffets or themed stations.
INFORMATION: themarketbyjennifers.com
A decadent menu free of butter and heavy cream brings big taste without that heavy feeling afterward. It also saves room for dessert. bluehoundkitchen.com
Citizen Public House Known for its amaro meatloaf, don’t miss The Original Chopped Salad, which is so good, it has its own Facebook page. citizenpublichouse.com
Crepe Bar The restaurant traded in their food truck in 2012 to open their Tempe location serving their playful interpretation of crepes. crepe-bar.com
LON’s LON’s at The Hermosa Inn offers an intimate dining experience with globally inspired Arizona cuisine such as their popular Himalayan Salt Seared Ahi Tuna. lons.com
Los Dos Molinos Los Dos Molinos is an iconic, family-owned Phoenix restaurant that features festive decor and a kick of spice in its dishes. losdosmolinosphoenix.com
Sierra Bonita Sierra Bonita puts new and inventive twists on on a Southwestern menu to create a perfect blend of Mexican, Native American and cowboy cultures. sierrabonitagrill.com
Sumo Maya This hip hot spot does a delicious job deconstructing traditional Mexican and Japanese dishes and re-imagining them to make them their own. sumomaya.com
T. Cook’s T. Cook’s at Royal Palms has been the goto dining destination for more than two decades. The chef combines his California sensibility with French techniques. tcooksphoenix.com
Worth Takeaway Offering a variety of sandwiches plus mac and cheese and chicken, Worth ranked No. 14 in Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in the US” for 2019. worthtakeaway.com
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HAPPY HOUR 4PM - 6PM Draft Specials ♦ $3 Draft Beer $5 Sean Minor Wine ♦ $5 Well Drinks
Rent THE MARKET! A great place for your next event for up to 50 people
Check out our seasonal weekend and weekday menus. With its open-air feeling and misted patio, The MARKET is the perfect setting for a rendezvous for two or and energetic party of twenty.
602.626.5050 | themarketbyjennifers.com 3603 East Indian School Road, Suite A, Phoenix S.E. Corner of 36th St. & Indian School in the Gaslight Square
2018 Caterer of the Year
602.579.5327 | jenniferscatering.com
Brunch Sat & Sun 9am - 3pm (Brunch Drink Specials) • Dinner Wed - Fri 4pm - 9pm • Closed Mon & Tues
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MEXICAN RESTAURANTS Barrio Cafe Acclaimed Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza serves authentic southern Mexican meals, prepped with a subtle French twist at times. barriocafe.com
Elote Chef Jeff Smedstad prepares food inspired by 15 years of visiting Mexican markets south of the border. elotecafe.com
La Hacienda Enjoy fresh takes on classic Mexican recipes amid Spanish architecture at the Fairmont Scottsdale princess.fairmont.com/scottsdale
Macayo’s Woody Johnson, founder of Macayo’s, claims he first invented the chimichanga several decades ago (although other restaurants make a similar claim). macayo.com
Nando’s
OLD TOWN TORTILLA FACTORY THINGS TO KNOW: Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale and built from a historic 75-year-old Scottsdale adobe home, Old Town Tortilla Factory captures timeless charm and distinct atmosphere that exemplifies the essence of the Southwest. Dine on their 1,400 square foot flagstone patio surrounded by 100-year-old pecan trees with a bar and gazebo that offers over 120 tequilas, including an award-winning margarita, beers, wine and liquor. The patio is heated in the winter months and is illuminated by stringed patio lights and a flame-spitting waterfall.
DON’T MISS: Their gourmet, house-made tortillas are a must try, along with specialties such as the Pollo Margarita Chicken, Red Chile Pork Chop topped with Ancho raspberry sauce and bacon-wrapped Sonoran Meatloaf with chipotle gravy. Finish your delectable meal with a delicious dessert like the Tortilla Factory Banana Crisp – sliced bananas in a sweet tortilla wrap with blackberry compote.
INFORMATION: oldtowntortillafactory.com
This Sonoran-style Mexican restaurant claims that family is their main ingredient with a menu based on traditional family recipes. nandosmexicancafe.com
Sandbar Mexican Grill Sandbar Mexican Grill epitomizes the breezy beach mentality while still remaining a high-energy sports bar. sandbaraz.com
Serrano’s Family-owned and operated, enjoy authentic Mexican food at Serrano’s and try out their monthly lunch specials. serranosaz.com
Sol Cocina Inspired by coastal Baja, SOL Cocina is an upscale, accessible Mexican restaurant in the heart of Scottsdale Quarter. solcocina.com
Valle Luna Mexican Restaurant Valle Luna is an old-fashioned family owned-and-operated business that observes the Sonoran food traditions. valleluna.com
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PATIO RESTAURANTS
LINCOLN A JW STEAKHOUSE THINGS TO KNOW: Lincoln - a JW Steakhouse partners with local farms to ensure the freshest ingredients. Order a table tower that has oysters, shrimp, lobster, and king crab on ice to share, or indulge in your own ribeye or sirloin. Their steaks are seared at 1200 degrees in Paradise Valley’s only Josper Charcoal oven from Spain. While enjoying dinner, take in the views of Camelback Mountain and the Sonoran Desert if sitting on the patio, or revel in the sleek contemporary decor with floor to ceiling windows inside the restaurant. Be sure to make a reservation to be able to watch the sunset while finishing off your meal with the JW cheesecake, their most popular dessert.
DON’T MISS: Stop by for a drink at the restaurant’s Bar 1936, named for the year that Camelback Inn opened. Their cocktails are homegrown, also using local ingredients for unique spins on classic cocktails.
INFORMATION: marriott.com
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Café Monarch
Gertrude’s
T. Cook’s
This Scottsdale hot spot has been named to Opentable’s list of the 100 Best Al Fresco Restaurants in America for three straight years. cafemonarch.com
Desert Botanical Garden’s relaxed bar and restaurant serves sustainable, refined American meals with amazing views from the patio. gertrudesrestaurant.net
T. Cook’s offers two patios and a courtyard with a fountain, fireplaces and impressive views of Camelback Mountain, surrounded by citrus trees. tcooksphoenix.com
Chelsea’s Kitchen
LON’s at The Hermosa
Tonto Bar & Grill
Bustling, industrial-chic eatery featuring American comfort fare and a patio overlooking the canal. chelseaskitchenaz.com
Upon entering the patio, you’ll see a fountain, trees, tables, beautiful views of Camelback Mountain and a cozy fireplace. lons.com
This Cave Creek favorite serves Southwestern-focused cuisine in a rustic space with a Native American vibe. tontobarandgrill.com
El Chorro
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
Windsor
Enjoy breathtaking views on the patio at the base of Camelback and Mummy Mountains for an authentic Arizona dining experience. elchorro.com
This Latin Inspired Grill is designed for the best Sedona dining experience. The views from the patios and dining rooms could be the finest world wide. mariposasedona.com
Windsor is a neighborhood bar and restaurant that serves global comfort food and retro cocktails in one of the most hip, romantic restaurants in Central Phoenix. windsoraz.com
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PIZZA RESTAURANTS
Casanova Bros.
GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA THINGS TO KNOW: Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has more than 100 years of pizza-making traditions and is famous for pizzas baked to perfection in the signature coal-burning oven. In the world of pizza, Grimaldi’s is an institution that has earned more awards than any other pizzeria in the country, with more celebrity sightings than most five-star restaurants. Using only the freshest ingredients, a “secret recipe” sauce, homemade mozzarella cheese and dough, Grimaldi’s serves traditional pizza (as it began in Naples, Italy) in an upscale yet casual, family oriented environment. Grimaldi’s was awarded The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ Five Star Diamond Award, which was given to the pizzeria for its excellence in gastronomy, attitude, quality, cleanliness and overall service. Grimaldi’s is the first family-owned, multi-location upscale pizzeria to be bestowed the Five Star Diamond Award.
DON’T MISS: Sink your teeth into The Don, a traditional pizza topped with Italian sausage, meatballs and pepperoni is made with fresh ingredients, handmade mozzarella, “secret recipe” dough and pizza sauce that comes together for the perfect pie that melts in your mouth.
INFORMATION: grimaldispizzeria.com
Casanova Bros. Pizza brings New York style pizza and ambiance to Gilbert and is decorated with photos of old New York. casanovabrospizza.com
Cibo Whether you want a salad, pasta dish, pizza, or a sweet crepe for dessert, Cibo has it all. cibophoenix.com
La Piazza Al Forno La Piazza will make you feel like you’re in Naples, Italy, where pizza was invented with their homemade mozzarella, dough and tomatoes imported from Italy. lapiazzaalforno.com
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Lou Malnati’s brings Chicago style deep dish pizza to Arizona. Every pizza is handmade from scratch including their signature Buttercrust. loumalnatis.com
Pizzeria Bianco Chris Bianco started his restaurant in the back of a neighborhood grocery store — now he has several throughout the valley and was named “arguably the best pizza in America” by Food & Wine. pizzeriabianco.com
Pomo Pizzeria Napoletana This pizzeria napoletana has an extensive beer, wine, and cocktail list and a variety of hand tossed pizzas. pomopizzeria.com
Spinato’s Pizzeria You’ll be treated like part of the family when you step in to try their artisan ingredients at a restaurant that’s been running for over 40 years. spinatospizzeria.com
The Parlor Pizzeria Housed in a former hair salon, their market pizza changes frequently to incorporate the best seasonal ingredients. theparlor.us
VinciTorio’s Restaurant Enjoy live music and half-off wine bottles on select nights along with your pizza at this neighborhood Italian restaurant. vincitoriosrestaurant.com
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SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS Ada’s Fish Fry A hidden gem in the West Valley, the batter on Ada’s Fish Fry’s signature haddock is light and perfect. Don’t miss the Hush Puppies and calamari. adasfishfry.com
Angry Crab Shack Exclusively located in Arizona, this restaurant features cajun-style seafood with everything from gator nuggets to cajun fries loaded with gumbo. angrycrabshack.com
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Elegant fine-dining chain with a seafood and steak menu, plus a cocktail lounge featuring live jazz. eddiev.com
Mastro’s Ocean Club The restaurant’s menu features an impressive array of fresh upscale seafood, including the three-tiered iced Seafood Tower and a oneof-a-kind warm butter cake. mastrosrestaurants.com
BLUEWATER GRILL SEAFOOD RESTAURANT THINGS TO KNOW: Celebrating more than 20 years in business, Bluewater Grill’s mission is to serve great food in a casual, relaxed environment by friendly and knowledgeable people at a fair price. Bluewater Grill operates its own swordfish harpoon boat, the Pilikia, and serves the finest quality harpooned swordfish in season. To ensure the highest quality fish available, the restaurant purchases directly from fisherman, in season, at the peak of quality and freshness. Being fishermen at heart, the experts at Bluewater Grill want to ensure the future availability of seafood and make responsible seafood purchasing a core value of its operation.
DON’T MISS: Bluewater Grill offers more than 40 varieties of seafood annually, with oysters on the half shell, award-winning chowder, a kid’s menu approved by the Kids LiveWell program of the National Restaurant Association, patio dining, full bar and wine list, brunch, and happy hour.
INFORMATION: bluewatergrill.com
Ocean 44 Enjoy a coastal dining experience in an upscale atmosphere specializing in worldclass seafood and steaks with a raw bar and glass expo kitchen. ocean44.com
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen Convivial chain dishing up hearty portions of New Orleans-style seafood, steaks, salads and more. pappadeaux.com
RA Sushi RA is a trendy spot for quality Japanese fusion with an emphasis on sushi. Happy hour is popular in Tempe, near ASU’s main campus, and Old Town. rasushi.com
Roka Akor This tiny fine dining spot in Scottsdale is an amazing destination for sashimi, nigiri and sushi rolls. rokaakor.com
Salt Cellar While it serves amazing seafood, it’s the funky atmosphere — the dining rooms, bar and kitchen are underground — makes Salt Cellar a must-visit restaurant. saltcellarrestaurant.com
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fintasTIc & freSh Come taste the best in ultra fresh and sustainable seafood, prepared classicaly or with a modern twist. Get up to $20 and invites to special events when you join our eCrew at bluewatergrill.com/ecrew.
come in, get hooked 1720 east camelback rd tel 602 277 fish (3474)
bluewatergrill.com oy ste r b a r 路 s us h i b a r 路 s e a f o o d m a r k e t 路 k i d s m e nu 路 c e n t r a l ly l o c at e d
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STEAKS AND CHOPS
THE STOCKYARDS RESTAURANT THINGS TO KNOW: This Southwestern culinary landmark originally opened in 1919 as the world’s largest cattle feedlot. With the addition of a steakhouse in 1947, it’s been serving culinary aficionados ever since. It’s famous for both the role it played in Arizona’s cattle industry, as well as its stunning architectural design, and was even recently placed on the City of Phoenix Historical Register. Stockyards offers lunch, dinner, and happy hour menus, as well as a wine list.
DON’T MISS: All customers are treated to a traditional relish tray and a heaping basket of baking soda biscuits and cornbread muffins. After savoring these, don’t miss out on the filet mignon, served with whiskey peppercorn demi-glace bearnaise sauce, or house steak butter on the side. If steak isn’t really your thing, go for the skillet salmon with citrus-chile glaze and rice pilaf. And for dessert, try the citrus burnt cream (their version of creme brulee), a subtle and delectable way to finish off your evening.
INFORMATION: stockyardssteakhouse.com
Desert Rose Steakhouse
Lincoln - a JW Steakhouse
Morton’s The Steakhouse
Capitalizing on the boom of backyardstyle restaurants and bars, Desert Rose is housed in a hip renovated Glendale welding facility. desertrosesteakhouse.com
Lincoln’s menu boasts hand-cut Prime butcher’s steaks perfectly seared at 1200 degrees in the Valley’s only Josper Charcoal Oven from Spain. lincolnrestaurantpv.com
Morton’s steakhouse is widely regarded as the best place for prime steak anywhere. mortons.com
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Maple & Ash
Fleming’s pairs a passion for service and seasonal ingredients with the finest USDA Prime beef. flemingssteakhouse.com
An innovative take on the traditional steakhouse, Maple & Ash mixes modern aesthetic with authentic service to serve the finest wood-fired steaks and seafood. mapleandash.com
Offering an unparalleled fine dining experience, Steak 44 serves USDA Prime Grade beef, fresh seafood, unique side dishes and has a 3,000-bottle wine vault. steak44.com
J&G Steakhouse J&G Steakhouse offers a sophisticated menu of steakhouse classics as interpreted by Michelin-starred chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten. jgsteakhousescottsdale.com
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Mastro’s Steakhouse Mastro’s is recognized for its combination of world-class service, highly acclaimed cuisine and elegant yet energetic atmosphere. mastrosrestaurants.com
Steak 44
The Capital Grille More than two weeks before a steak is served to customers, The Capital Grille dry ages its meats for an unmistakable flavor and texture. thecapitalgrille.com
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AIR ADVENTURES Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course There are rope swings, wobbly ladders, monkey bars, tunnels, bridges and nets, all ending with a zip line. flagstaffextreme.com
Hot Air Expeditions You’ll have an unobstructed 360-degree view to take excellent photographs of the Arizona mountains and desert. hotairexpeditions.com
iFly Ever wondered what it was like to fly? This indoor skydiving operation lets guests enter a 14-foot wide wind tunnel and be propelled into the air. iflyworld.com
Maverick Helicopters Maverick offers helicopter tours that will take you deep into the aweinspiring Grand Canyon. maverickhelicopter.com
Pima Air & Space Museum
RAINBOW RYDERS THINGS TO KNOW: The largest hot-air balloon business in the Southwest offers sunrise, sunset and private balloon rides. Their sunrise balloon rides are offered year round and sunset balloon rides are offered November-March, all conclude with a post-flight breakfast with prickly pear cactus mimosas and local treats and a flight certificate. Their professionalism and renowned pilots will make it an unforgettable experience. Meet the Rainbow Ryders team the day of the ride at their North Phoenix office and you are driven over to the launch site.
DON’T MISS: Before each ride, you’ll get the chance to observe and help out with the inflation process, and even take pictures. Sunrise riders are treated to a Sonoran Sunrise Gourmet Breakfast afterwards, with fresh fruit, organic greek yogurt parfaits and delicious muffins. If you decide on the sunset ride, you’ll feast on a Saguaro Sunset Charcuterie platter with homemade hummus, meats and cheeses and grilled artisan bread.
INFORMATION: rainbowryders.com
The museum features a display of nearly 300 aircraft spread out over 80 acres on a campus occupying 127 acres. pimaair.org
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters Since 1965, Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters has been showing guests the majesty of the Grand Canyon. papillon.com
Sedona Air Tours Tours allow guests to see great parts of Sedona and the Grand Canyon that you’d never be able to see by hiking or taking a jeep tour. sedonaairtours.com
Skydive Arizona Home to the world’s largest drop zone, Skydive Arizona is the best way to fall. Tandem and solo jumps are available. skydiveaz.com
Superstition Zipline at Goldfield Ghost Town Get whisked away at 30 mph along a cable on a quarter-mile ride 120 feet above Goldfield Ghost Town. superstitionzipline.com
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ARCHITECTURE TOURS
Arcosanti Attend a workshop at Arcosanti which is an architectural site and urban laboratory that explores the experiential and educational benefits of integrating architecture and ecology. arcosanti.org
Arizona Biltmore The Biltmore’s Happy Hour History Tour highlights the resort’s storied past since opening in 1929 involving celebrities and U.S. Presidents. arizonabiltmore.com
Hotel Valley Ho Tour the minimalist and modern style of this 63-year-old hotel designed by Edward L. Varney. hotelvalleyho.com
Mission San Xavier Del Bac Take a free tour of the church to learn more about the history, architecture and preservation work and culture of the building. patronatosanxavier.org
Mystery Castle The Mystery Castle was built by a father for his daughter who built sandcastles on the beach, but wanted one that would never wash away. mymysterycastle.com
Riordan Mansion The Riordan Mansion is two separate homes that are connected through a common area, which was lived in by a set of brothers and their families. azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion
The Rosson House Museum This fully-restored 1895 Queen Anne Victorian house museum is sure to make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. heritagesquarephx.org
Tovrea Castle Often referred to as a jewel in the desert, Tovrea Castle is four-stories and 5,000 square feet located on a hill in the heart of Phoenix. tovreacastletours.com
Wrigley Mansion Take an hour of your afternoon to explore the Wrigley Mansion, which was a 50th anniversary gift from William Wrigley Jr. to his wife. wrigleymansion.com
TALIESIN WEST THINGS TO KNOW: Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed 1,114 architectural works. He decided to make the desert foothills of Scottsdale his winter home in 1937. He believed that structures were an extension of where they were, and wanted to use Arizona’s desert as a new inspiration for his structures. Wright and his apprentices built and maintained Taliesin West, which is now an architectural school that offers a three-year immersive Master of Architecture program.
DON’T MISS: Taliesin West offers many different tours for all visitors. The signature tour is the Insights Tour where you can visit Wright’s private quarters and living room, his drafting studio, music Pavillion and more. If you’d like a more extensive view of the home, you can go on the Behind the Scenes and the Details tour. Taliesin West’s Night Lights Tour is the perfect date night, where you will see the structure in a different light with only the starry sky overhead.
INFORMATION: franklloydwright.org/taliesin-west
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ANIMAL PARKS
OUT OF AFRICA WILDLIFE PARK THINGS TO KNOW: The employees at Out of Africa stress one thing — this place is not a zoo. Rather, it’s an immersive experience that allows one the sensation of being in a real-life African bush safari. Animals from all over Africa and Asia wander about in spacious habitats, and visitors will be surprised by how up-close and personal you’ll be able to get. Take a fence-free photo from the expertly placed photography platforms, and make sure to check out the free-roaming safaris and splendid habitats.
DON’T MISS: Out of Africa boasts the world-renowned Tiger Splash show, where Bengal tigers interact with each other and their keepers in a large aquatic play land. Right next to the Tiger Splash arena, you’ll find the Jungle Hut Eatery, where you can savor offerings like the Black-Bean Chipotle Burger and the Pilgrim Sandwich (gluten-free bread is available upon request). But the best cannot-miss experience: Go into the sloth enclosure and have an up-close and personal encounter with one of the most fascinating and adorable creatures of all time — the two-toed sloth.
INFORMATION: outofafricapark.com
Bearizona
Navajo Nation Zoo
Reid Park Zoo
Drive through the habitats of this wildlife park, where bears, wolves, bison and other animals walk up to vehicles as if they’re part of the scenery. bearizona.com
The Navajo Nation Zoo and Botanical Park is the only Native American owned-and-operated zoo in the country. navajozoo.org
Features more than 500 animals and consists of four zones that are organized by the types of habitats and animals they house. reidparkzoo.org
Butterfly Wonderland
The aquarium has a vast repertoire of “ambassador animals” that are available for human interaction, adding the potential for a surprise each visit. odyseaaquarium.com
Occasionally, a butterfly or two will land on an unsuspecting visitor. Here’s a tip: Wear bright colors to attract the butterflies. butterflywonderland.com
Heritage Park Zoo This wildlife sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals. heritageparkzoo.org
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OdySea Aquarium
Phoenix Zoo The zoo is divided into four themed areas — the Arizona Trail, the Africa Trail, the Tropics Trail and the Children’s Trail, which includes a petting zoo. phoenixzoo.org
Sea Life Arizona Sea Life is a 26,000 square foot interactive aquarium that contains thousands of aquatic creatures, plus interactive touch pools and a 360-degree ocean tunnel. visitsealife.com/arizona
Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium This attraction takes pride in its exotic animals, including kangaroos, rare white alligators, a flightless emu and white rhinos. wildlifeworld.com
UP-CLOSE ENCOUNTERS & ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME INTERACTIONS
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Valid on general admission only. Cannot be combined with any other discount or offers. Must present this coupon or use promo code EXPA23 when purchasing online. Kids 2 and under are free. *Zipline not included with general admission.
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FAMILY FUN SPOTS
Arizona Science Center
PHOENIX ZOO
One of the best ways to learn about the world around you is to pay a visit to the Arizona Science Center. azscience.org
AZ on the Rocks THINGS TO KNOW: Visit the Phoenix Zoo and explore a wondrous world of curiosity, imagination and discovery. For more than half a century, the Zoo and its animals have amazed guests from across Phoenix and around the globe. Whether you are on the lookout for awe-inspiring Asian elephants, on safari to spot the great Sumatran tiger or seeking towering giraffes roaming the savanna, a day at the Zoo offers adventures like no other place in the Valley. With cafes, shops, lush gardens and exciting experiences like Stingray Bay, Giraffe Encounter, Monkey Village, Safari Train, 4-D Theater and many more, your visit to the Zoo will be memorable for the entire family. The Phoenix Zoo is one of the nation’s largest non-profit zoos, committed to conservation and providing experiences that inspire people and motivate them to care for the natural world. The Phoenix Zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, including 30 species that are endangered or threatened.
DON’T MISS: ZooLights is a magical event that will illuminate your holiday season. The nightly evening viewings feature millions of lights, hundreds of sparkling displays throughout the zoo and more activities and performances.
INFORMATION: phoenixzoo.org
This family-friendly facility features more than 14,000 square feet of climbing terrain, and offers bouldering, top-rope sport climbing, and lead sport climbing. azontherocks.com
Biosphere 2 Tour the entire world in a manner of speaking at this research facility owned by the University of Arizona. b2science.org
Butterfly Wonderland Walk through a rainforest ecosystem and the largest butterfly conservatory in the country. butterflywonderland.com
Children’s Museum of Phoenix Designed for children up to the age of 10, this is the kind of museum where visitors are encouraged to touch everything. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
Dave & Buster’s This venue offers great games, food and TVs for gamers and sports fans of all ages. Be sure to check out Dave & Buster’s special events. daveandbusters.com
I.d.e.a. Museum The i.d.e.a. museum is a children’s museum where your child can explore his/her imagination through design in art, science and technology. ideamuseum.org
Main Event Entertainment Gravity ropes, laser tag, karaoke, bowling, rock climbing, mini golf and video games are among the highlights. mainevent.com
Out of Africa Wildlife Park The Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde allows visitors to discover and learn about a variety of native African species. outofafricapark.com
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FAMILY FUN SPOTS As You Wish Pottery Painting This studio allows you to pay a small fee and the cost of pottery to paint anything you’d like and provides all of the tools that you will need. asyouwishpottery.com
Escape the Room This is designed to test your problemsolving skills. You have one hour to find clues and figure out how to escape the room. escapetheroom.com/phoenix
Glow Putt Mini Golf This miniature golf course isn’t what you’re used to seeing—it’s all glow-inthe-dark featuring a jungle-safari theme. glowputtaz.com
Mansel Carter Oasis Park Queen Creek’s newest park offers baseball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, a fishing lake and more. queencreek.org
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO THINGS TO KNOW: Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park is home to more than 600 exotic and endangered species and more than 6,000 individual animals. See and learn about small mammals, tropics of the world reptiles, kangaroos, rhinoceros and big cats at the zoo, sea lions, fish, amphibians and reptiles from the Caribbean, South Pacific and the Amazon, and penguins, turtles, sharks and stingrays at the aquarium. Try some of their activities like giraffe feeding, stingray feeding, or take in an educational sea lion show. The zoo is divided into several areas based on the animal habitats and several rides and restaurants are stationed throughout the park.
DON’T MISS: Explore and see animals in their natural habitat by walking or taking a tram ride through several animal exhibits in the 15-acre Safari Park which includes an African lion habitat, African birds, oryx, antelope, ostrich, jackals, wildebeest, gazelle, ring-tailed lemur, spotted hyena and cheetahs. Experience Adventure Land, a 15-acre exhibit of North, Central and South American animals including buffalo, bears, cougars, bobcats, monkeys and more in outdoor and three indoor exhibit buildings.
INFORMATION: wildlifeworld.com
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Take a ride on one of the park’s trains, built and operated as an exact reproduction of a Colorado narrow gauge railroad. therailroadpark.com
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament Enjoy a four course meal in a castle watching a medieval jousting tournament with competing knights, real weapons and beautiful horses. medievaltimes.com
SEA LIFE Aquarium The aquarium features an interactive tidepool exhibit where you can reach in and touch sea stars and sea urchins, and even has a live coral reef. visitsealife.com/arizona
Superstition Farm Take a tour of this working dairy farm and learn about where your milk comes from before it’s at the grocery store. superstitionfarmaz.com
Uptown Jungle This indoor playground includes everything from climbing walls and super slides to trampolines and a mini zipline. uptownjungle.com
Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park
See our two new
baby giraffes!
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Arizona’s Ultimate, Year-Round Family Fun Destination. Arizona’s Largest Collection of Exotic Animals. Northern Ave. and the 303 Freeway • 623-935-WILD (9453) • WildlifeWorld.com
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SPECIAL EVENTS
ARABIAN HORSE SHOW THINGS TO KNOW: The 65th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show will take place Feb. 13-23, 2020. Since 1955, the Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has set the pace in the Arabian horse world. It has grown from 50 horses to nearly 2,400 horses, bringing top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world competing for a chance at winning. A win at Scottsdale can mean big money in the breeding barns.
DON’T MISS: Next to watching the superstar horses, the barn tours are the must-see experience. Attend on a weekday if you want a less crowded tour, but the barns can fit you in because they are huge and speakers allow people to hear. The guided talks start with a walk on the WestWorld grounds with a primer about the horse show, which dates back to 1955, on the way to a barn. Once inside the barn, a horse is trotted out and a trainer takes over. The trainer discusses the attributes of an Arabian and how it gets ready for a show.
INFORMATION: scottsdaleshow.com
Barrett-Jackson
Arizona Roots Festival
Country Thunder
Jan. 11-19. The collector car auction will return to Scottsdale to showcase unique and valuable cars as they cross the block in front of a global audience. barrett-jackson.com
Feb. 22-23. This music and arts festival features reggae artists and bands at Rawhide Western Town in Chandler. arizonarootsfestival.com
April 16-19. This four-day festival includes popular country musicians from solo artists to bands. countrythunder.com/az
Waste Management Phoenix Open
Devour Phoenix
ASU Gammage
Feb. 22-23. This week-long festival with several events showcases celebrity culinary talent and fine food and drink producers in Arizona. devourphoenix.com
Broadway Series includes: “Fiddler on the Roof” Jan. 28-Feb. 2; “Beautiful” Feb. 21-23; “Once On This Island” Mar. 3-8 and “Mean Girls” Apr. 21-26. asugammage.com
Jan. 27- Feb. 2. Head out to the green and watch your favorite players tee up at the 85th Open. wmphoenixopen.com
Conservation Science Night at Phoenix Zoo Feb. 21. Register for this free event to learn about conservation, work through hands-on activities and meet scientists. phoenixzoo.org
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Ostrich Festival
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
March. Enjoy rides, attractions and music at the 32nd Annual Ostrich Festival in Chandler. ostrichfestival.com
Through spring 2020. The exhibition features reconstructions of the interior of the ship with artifacts recovered from the ocean floor where the Titanic was found. titanicaz.com
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WATER ADVENTURES
Apache Lake
DOLLY STEAMBOAT THINGS TO KNOW: Dolly Steamboat tours on Canyon Lake in Tortilla Flat have been around since 1983, and they just keep getting better and better. This beautiful ship can carry up to 142 passengers, and is staffed by a crew of 3. Each crew member is vessel emergency training qualified, and will leave you feel safe and at peace from beginning to end. They offer several tours, from the Astronomy Dinner cruise to the Desert Bighorn Sheep cruise. They also are available for charters, and will gladly be the setting for your wedding, private party or corporate event.
DON’T MISS: Bighorn sheep are often spotted on these cruises, and your painstaking guides will backtrack if needed so that everyone can get a better look. Take some binoculars to catch the full majesty of the wildlife and views. The trip is fully narrated, and the captain’s comments will leave you both entertained and informed. They offer gift certificates for adults and children, and infants get in for free. A snack bar is available on board with snacks, soda and other beverages.
INFORMATION: dollysteamboat.com
If you’d like to opt for a longer drive, it might be worth it for a less crowded lake. Apache Lake boasts that its unique location means it feels secluded and relaxing. apachelake.com
Bartlett Lake If you’re feeling like treating yourself, grab twenty of your friends and rent out a “party yacht” at Bartlett Lake, equipped with a bar and a barbecue grill at an extra cost. bartlettlake.com/party-yacht
Dead Horse Ranch Test your luck on the lake and see if you’re able to catch a Largemouth Bass or a Rainbow Trout. azstateparks.com/dead-horse
Lake Mead Lake Mead lies on the border of Arizona and Nevada and is the first National Recreation Area. In the lake, there is a 20 mile-long unobstructed water ski run. nps.gov/lake
Lake Pleasant Just an hour away from central Phoenix, Lake Pleasant offers scuba diving where you can see rock walls, canyons and underwater structures. maricopacountyparks.net
Lake Powell Take a boat tour on Lake Powell of the breathtaking Antelope Canyon or the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. lakepowell.com
Saguaro Lake Try out jet skiing and enjoy the beautiful Saguaro cacti all along the lake rushing by you. fs.usda.gov
Slide Rock Go swimming on the natural slippery slide that is made out of sandstone at Slide Rock State Park. azstateparks.com/slide-rock
Tempe Town Lake Rent a swan pedal boat, or try paddleboard yoga on this two-mile long lake in Downtown Tempe. tempetourism.com
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ARIZONA'S WORLD CLASS CRUISE
CANYON LAKE, ARIZONA There's a different kind of adventure waiting for you aboard a steamboat. See an Arizona rich in history, lore and legends. Cruise the secluded inner waterways of the “Junior Grand Canyon” on a Nature Cruise or Twilight Dinner Cruise. Bring your camera and binoculars! (480) 827-9144 - www.dollysteamboat.com
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ART GALLERIES Bonner David Galleries A remarkable selection of traditional and contemporary artists. bonnerdavid.com
DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Historic District is the artistic manifestation and architecture constructed by Ettore DeGrazia. degrazia.org
Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art The largest fine art gallery in Sedona, Exposures is among the finest, most unique fine art galleries in the world. exposuresfineart.com
Jerome Artists Cooperative Gallery This gallery offers a wide variety of original artwork from some of Northern Arizona’s most talented artists. eromecoop.com
Monorchid
WESTERN SPIRIT — SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST THINGS TO KNOW: Explore the history, art and rich cultural heritage of the West at one of TripAdvisor’s most highly rated Scottsdale attractions. From exhibits of Hopi pottery masterworks to rare posters starring silver screen cowboys and Indians, you’ll discover the unique stories of the people, places and events of the 19 states of the American West, and the bordering Canadian provinces and Mexican states.
DON’T MISS: In addition to its regularly changing exhibitions, the museum offers entertaining events, gallery tours and educational activities. The award-winning, contemporary museum building is located in Old Town Scottsdale, within easy walking distance of the Main Street art galleries and other popular downtown Scottsdale destinations. It is located on the Downtown Scottsdale trolley route.
INFORMATION: scottsdalemuseumwest.org
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The gallery features an entirely open floor plan, several modular gallery walls and a cycloramic backdrop. monorchid.com
Renee Taylor Gallery Contemporary jewelry and fine art featuring Lyman Whitaker, Alex Sepkus, Loet Vanderveen, Hearts on Fire, Peter Skidd at Tlaquepaque. reneetaylorgallery.com
Royse Contemporary The gallery in Scottsdale presents monthly rotating exhibitions including painting, sculpture, photography and artist installations. roysecontemporary.com
The Marshall Gallery of Fine Art Exceptional art presented in an open and relaxed gallery space, which is perfect for browsing the ever-changing collection. themarshallgallery.com
Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery The gallery of Western American and American Indian Art at Bashas’ corporate office in Chandler is open to the public, free of charge. bashas.com/bashas-art-gallery
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Visit us at MollyMaid.com to learn more. ©2018 Molly Maid, LLC. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.
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AUTO ATTRACTIONS
ISM RACEWAY THINGS TO KNOW: This hub of the motorsports scene was originally built in 1964 as Phoenix Raceway. Today, it’s known as ISM Raceway, and delivers more action, fun, and thrills than ever before. The track hosts some of the biggest events in racing year-round, including the IndyCar weekend and the spring and fall NASCAR weekends, as well as the Phoenix Grand Prix. There are spacious areas available for regular parking and RV camping, and you can rent the track for driving lessons or other events that are sure to be unforgettable.
DON’T MISS: The all-new Fan Zone, which debuted in 2018, lets you get up close to your favorite drivers and teams as they work live on their cars or walk the red carpet to the drivers’ meeting. While watching the races, go the extra mile and rent a FanVision controller to see 10 channels of live video with eight in-car cameras, a radio scanner and other special NASCAR content. Make sure to hit up the Trackside Bar & Grill, open at no additional cost to all fans attending ISM Raceway events. And be on the lookout for special driver and celebrity appearances; they show up often to take selfies and offer autograph signings.
INFORMATION: ismraceway.com
Arizona Speedway
CrackerJax
Penske Racing Museum
Dirt track race fans can get all the action they will ever need with races featuring a host of makes and models. arizonaspeedway.net
This Scottsdale hub has double the gokarting with two tracks, including the 1,200-foot CrackerJax Speedway. crackerjax.com
The Penske Racing Museum chronicles the career of one of the most successful dynasties in all of sports. penskeracingmuseum.com
Autobahn Indoor Speedway
K1 Speed
White Mountain Family Fun Park
F;y around this Tucson track like the cars that fly down the famous German motorway system of the same name. autobahnspeed.com
Go-kart racers can experience a professionally designed track at K1 Speed, as well as karts that go up to 45 mph. k1speed.com
A family track allows kids who are at least 54 inches tall to test their skills behind the wheel. whitemountainfamilyfunpark.com
Bondurant Racing School Channel champion race car driver Bob Bondurant while learning tricks to make you a better driver. bondurant.com
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Octane Raceway The self-proclaimed largest indoor racetrack in America features two quarter-mile tracks and go-karts that drive up to 45 mph. octaneraceway.com
Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park This venue features a quarter-mile dragstrip, a road course, an off-road course and motorboat racing lake. racewildhorse.net
WHAT’S AHEAD AT ISM RACEWAY
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! st The West Valley’s Brighte
Holiday Tradition
November 29 - December 31
Witness a winter wonderland at ISM Raceway, with a dazzling 1.6-mile drive-through experience, featuring more than 300 sparkling LED displays.
SPEED
0 2 0 2 , 8 6 H C R A M
! T S E F
March 6 March 7 March 8
ARCA Menards Series race Gatorade Qualifying + NASCAR Xfinity Series race FanShield 500 NASCAR Cup Series race *schedule subject to change
Witness Phoenix’s first-ever NASCAR Championship Weekend! November 6-8, 2020 November 6
Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series Championship race
November 7
Desert Diamond West Valley Casino 200 NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race and West Series Championship race doubleheader NASCAR Cup Series Championship race
November 8
*schedule subject to change
CALL 866-408-RACE (7223) OR VISIT ISMRACEWAY.COM
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CASINOS Apache Sky Casino
APACHE GOLD CASINO RESORT THINGS TO KNOW: Apache Gold Casino Resort is owned by the San Carlos Apache Tribe, whose tribal land covers over 1.8 million acres in eastern Arizona, from the Sonoran desert to Ponderosa pine forests. The Tribe’s ancestral lands once stretched across Arizona into New Mexico. Historically, the San Carlos Apache were hunters, and they have deep cultural and spiritual ties to the land. The tribe has made the decision to keep most of its land in a natural state, which protects the habitat for big and small game and allows the Apache to preserve their special and personal relationship with the natural world.
DON’T MISS: Apache Gold Casino, located five miles east of Globe on Highway 70, features 600 of the newest slot machines, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You’ll be able to discover the most penny slots in the state, along with exclusive games like Apache Ponies. Find state-of-the art video and reel slot machines and progressives as well as Black Jack. Play at the casino’s 200-seat bingo hall that’s open five days a week. Enjoy it all in a friendly and casual atmosphere that promises more uninterrupted play, which means more chances to win. Join Apache Gold’s Player’s Club to win valuable points for prizes and perks, like rounds of golf, hotel stays and dining.
INFORMATION: apache-gold-casino.com
The sister property to Apache Gold Casino Resort offers over 300 slot machines, table games and entertainment. apacheskycasino.com
BlueWater Resort & Casino Arizona’s only riverside casino and resort has everything from live concerts to an 18-hole golf course and indoor water slide. bluewaterfun.com
Bucky’s Casino Bucky’s offers a 24/7 non-smoking poker room with cash games and tournaments. buckyscasino.com
Casino Arizona This casino offers more than 100,000 square feet devoted to gaming and entertainment, including 52 table games and 1,026 slot machines. casinoarizona.com
Casino Del Sol Mediterranean architecture surrounds the gaming space, featuring 1,000 nickel, quarter, $1, $5 and multidenominational slot machines. casinodelsol.com
Cliff Castle Casino Hotel Cliff Castle has been voted Favorite Arizona Casino 15 years in a row. cliffcastlecasinohotel.com
Cocopah Casino At Arizona’s Cocopah Casino, you’ll experience all the excitement of a Las Vegas casino in a friendly, hometown resort setting. cocopahresort.com
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment Tucson The casino floor is packed with the hottest slot machines and table games. ddcaz.com
Desert Diamond West Valley Casino Located in the vibrant Westgate Entertainment District, this is Glendale’s home for lucky days and electric nights. ddcaz.com/west-valley
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CASINOS Fort McDowell Casino Slots, keno, bingo, poker, blackjack and lunar bingo, which takes the traditional game to thrilling new heights. fortmcdowellcasino.com
Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino This contemporary casino hotel offers slots, keno, table games and a poker room. caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin
Hon-Dah Resort Casino Hon-Dah is surrounded by the great Northwoods and you can expect the finest hotels in the White Mountains of Arizona. hon-dah.com
Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Discover over 600 slot machines, black jack, table games, and live poker. mazatzalcasino.com
Paradise Casino
GILA RIVER CASINOS THINGS TO KNOW: Gila River has three casinos in the Phoenix area, each convenient to parts to the Valley of the Sun including west, east and south portions of the metro area. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino is the largest casino in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area south of Phoenix near Chandler and Ahwatukee. Lone Butte Casino is located in just south of the 202 freeway in Chandler. It is just southeast of Phoenix. You can merge with the 202 from Interstate 10 going southeast. Lone Butte is the only Gila River Casino that does not have live action poker or hotel accommodations. Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino is located in the southwest section of the Phoenix area in Laveen.
DON’T MISS: All three Gila River Casinos feature a wide variety of slot machines, table games, and black jack. Vee Quiva and Wild Horse Pass have live action poker rooms. Lone Butte and Vee Quiva have bingo. All three casinos have a wide selection of dining venues, bars, and lounges. You can enhance your visit with one of a kind experiences including spa, adventure, shopping, adrenaline and culture. Be sure to check out Gila River Casinos’ calendar for a comprehensivie schedule of the amazing events across the three properties.
INFORMATION: playatgila.com
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This casino in Yuma has more than 500 slot machines, bingo, dining options, entertainment and an event center. paradise-casinos.com
Talking Stick Resort and Casino With more than 50 table games, 800 slot machines and poker tournaments almost every day, it’s thrilling gaming all in one place. talkingstickresort.com
Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort Located east of Flagstaff, this is northern Arizona’s premier casino resort destination, offering luxury amenities and best-in-class gaming. twinarrows.com
We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center This refined casino and resort offers a pair of 18-hole golf courses, a 24-hour casino and a day spa. wekoparesortandconferencecenter.com
Yavapai Casino The casino has a 6,000-square-foot gaming floor with 235 slots and a cantina. 80 of the games are located in a new non-smoking game room. buckyscasino.com
When you’re off the clock, it’s time to stop behaving and have fun the way only the real you can at the Valley’s three best entertainment and gaming destinations.
Your Best Life is Waiting.
So You, Do You.
SW I P E T H E K E Y TO T H E KINGDOM
PlayAtGila.com | 800-WIN-GILA Owned and operated by the Gila River Indian Community
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SPAS
WELL & BEING SPA AT THE FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE PRINCESS THINGS TO KNOW: You’ve yet to have fully meet relaxation unless you’ve visited the Well & Being spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. It has all the much-needed amenities perfectly matched to a desert environment such as a wet steam room, eucalyptus inhalation room, cold plunge pool and Swiss shower, combined with an equally accommodating spa menu. Enjoy hydrating body wraps, massages, facials and aromatherapy sessions after an energizing fitness experience such as aerial Hammock Yoga or an Aqua Fitness class.
DON’T MISS: Treat yourself to a unique fitness option such as the Surfset Circuit, complete with weights, resistance bands, Bosu ball, kettle bells, and yes, an actual surfboard! Invigorate and unwind simultaneously with the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage designed to soothe sore muscles, remove toxins and provide overall balance. Accompany your blissful state with The Well & Being Facial full of enzymes that will make your skin bright and smooth. And, no Well & Being spa experience is complete unless you weave your way through the co-ed grotto waterfall.
INFORMATION: fairmont.com/scottsdale/spa
Alvadora Spa At The Royal Palms Resort & Spa
L’Apothocary Spa at L’Auberge de Sedona
Eight treatment rooms are steeped in Mediterranean beauty, and many spill into serene, private indoor-outdoor courtyards. royalpalmshotel.com
Take advantage of the healing energy that Sedona is known for and receive a signature treatment. lauberge.com/spa
Joya Spa at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia This spa takes the word extraordinary and elevates it to the highest standard. omnihotels.com/hotels/scottsdalemontelucia/spa
Kalologie 360 Spa Named one of America’s Top 10 Spas by Elle Magazine, Kalologie 360 Spa offers a full array of rejuvenating spa services. kalologie.com
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La Vidorra Spa at the Scott Resort & Spa Relax in a detoxifying soak in their healing copper bathtubs complete with a full-body massage. thescottresort.com/spa-wellness
Mii amo The setting, extraordinary. The treatments, inspiring. The service, impeccable. Mii amo is renowned for providing all that you need to rediscover your true self. miiamo.com
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa Miraval’s award-winning spa was designed to honor nature and inspire you with life-enhancing services. miravalresorts.com
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Indulge in signature experiences like the Sanctuary Luxury Facial, Sumatra Coconut Body Ritual or the In Harmony Massage. sanctuaryoncamelback.com/spafitness
Spa Avania Spend time at this luxurious indooroutdoor oasis where you can enjoy a hot stone massage or detox in a himalayan salt room. hyatt.com/en-US/spas/Spa-Avania/ home
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FESTIVALS Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker
WINTERHAVEN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS THINGS TO KNOW: This year, residents will be celebrating the 70th annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights in Tucson. It is one of the longest running light festivals in the country. Admission is free and instead ask that everyone bring a food or monetary donation to give to the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. During the 2017 festival, they donated 49,631 pounds of food to the Community Food Bank along with $23,820. There will be vendors at the festival serving hot dogs, cupcakes and coffee and hot chocolate to keep you warm while you enjoy the show.
DON’T MISS: The last day of the festival, December 29th, is a “drive-thru” date so you can enjoy the lights from your vehicle. You can also reserve a seat on a hayride, party bike, or a trolley limo and drive through the light display.
INFORMATION: winterhavenfestival.org
Experience the spectacular live show with the Phoenix Symphony performing Tchaikovsky’s score as 150 captivating performers command the stage. balletaz.org
Christmas at the Princess Spend the holidays ice skating, watching colorful light shows, enter S’mores Land, take photos with holiday characters and discover Santa’s Secret Headquarters. scottsdaleprincess.com
City Skate Try ice skating in the middle of downtown Phoenix when roads are closed off to house a rink complete with a lit up tree. Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa once you’re done skating. phxicerink.com
Glendale Glitters Downtown Glendale holds Glendale Glitters where there are 1.6 million lights over a 16-block area. glendaleaz.com
Las Noches De Las Luminarias At The Desert Botanical Garden Walk through the Desert Botanical Garden’s trails that are lined with 8,000 flickering luminaria bags. dbg.org/events/luminaria
Lights at the Farm Vertuccio Farms is transformed into a holiday wonderland with over two million lights synchronized to Christmas music. vertucciofarms.com
Merry Main Street Celebrate the holidays with a Winter Wonderland ice rink, Jack Frost’s food truck forest, Mesa’s Christmas Market and Santa’s selfie stations. merrymainst.com
Polar Express at the Grand Canyon Listen to the story of The Polar Express while on a train ride to the “North Pole” and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies on the way to meet Santa and his reindeer. thetrain.com/events/polar-express
Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo Enjoy a Valley tradition with millions of colorful lights, a 200 foot polar slide and real reindeer for a fun-filled evening. phoenixzoo.org
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COMEDY CLUBS
Comedy Spot They have hosted comedy stars from Comedy Central, HBO, Showtime, late night talk shows and movies. They also have classes where you can learn how to perform comedy. thecomedyspot.net
ImprovMANIA This comedy club has all-ages and unfiltered improv shows and standup comedy shows on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have improv comedy classes. improvmania.net
Jester’Z Improv This venue advertises clean comedy for all ages. The shows don’t have scripts, but have plenty of quick-witted and fast-paced jokes. jesterzimprov.com
National Comedy Theater This theater in Mesa has a spontaneous show with audience interaction. You get to shout out suggestions and challenge the performers. nctphoenix.com
Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy Rick Bronson owns and operates many comedy clubs throughout North America and the lineups that come to House of Comedy are sure to have you laughing the entire show. az.houseofcomedy.net
Stand Up Live In the heart of downtown Phoenix, this comedy venue brings in comedians who have made a name for themselves. phoenix.standuplive.com
Tempe Improv This comedy theatre typically has 90-minute shows and the venue is within proximity of Arizona State University, making it a popular place for college students. tempeimprov.com
The Dinner Detective This show with a comedic twist on detectives’ work is hosted at the Moxy Hotel Tempe on Saturday nights. The culprit will be hidden in plain sight, or it may be you. thedinnerdetective.com
The [Sic] Sense The name’s play on words foreshadows an evening of raunchy and twisted humor. It’s not recommended to the easily offended. thesicsense.com
STIR CRAZY COMEDY CLUB THINGS TO KNOW: This intimate venue designed like a traditional comedy lounge is at the heart of the Westgate Entertainment District above Whiskey Rose. The Glendalebased comedy club has hosted national stars from Comedy Central, the Tonight Show, Letterman and many more. Stir Crazy Comedy Club has designated clean nights, so that all ages can attend a family-friendly show; however, most of the time it is an 18 years or older show. Their shows are typically Thursday through Saturday, unless they have a show specially scheduled. They serve a variety of food, such as popcorn and cheeseburgers, in addition to a variety of wine, beer and cocktails to enjoy during the shows.
DON’T MISS: You can learn how to do improv or stand-up at one of their eight-week-long class sessions, which will end in a showcase for anyone to view. There is even an improv camp for kids 11 to 15 years old throughout select weeks in the summer; all of these classes are taught by experienced comedian instructors.
INFORMATION: stircrazycomedyclub.com
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FESTIVALS
DECEMBER/JANUARY Tempe Festival of the Arts, Dec. 6-8. tempefestivalofthearts.com
Phoenix Festival of the Arts, Dec. 13-15. phoenixfestivalofthearts.org
Mesa Arts Festival, Dec. 14-15. mesaartscenter.com
The Arizona Wine Festival, Jan. 24-26. willcoxwinecountry.org
FEBRUARY JOGS Tucson Gem & Jewelry Show, Jan. 30-Feb. 10.
jogsshow.com
30th Annual Phoenix Chinese Week’s Culture and Cuisine Festival, Feb. 7-9. phoenixchineseweek.org
Strong Beer Festival, Feb. 8. arizonabeerweek.com
ARIZONA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Innings Festival, Feb. 29-Mar. 1, inningsfestival.com
MARCH M3F, March 6-8.
THINGS TO KNOW:
m3ffest.com
Take a unique trip back in time to the Arizona Renaissance Festival in the foothills of the Superstition Mountains. Revel in the atmosphere of a 16th century European village every Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. from Feb. 8 through March 29, 2020, rain or shine. The Festival’s 30-acre village is filled with 14 stages of nonstop entertainment; music, comedy, falconry, dance, mermaids and acrobatics. Shop, eat and mingle with a cast of nearly 2,000 costumed characters and explore the village marketplace with more than 200 storybook shops, studios and galleries filled with unique arts and crafts, handmade wares, clothing and toys.
32nd Annual Ostrich Festival, March.
DON’T MISS:
Gilbert Global Village Festival, April 4.
Kids love the interactive games and people-powered rides — Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, the Slider Joust, Piccolo Pony (a rocking horse bigger than an elephant), the Dragon Climbing Tower, Castle Siege, the Maze, archery range and more. Watch one of the three live daily jousting tournaments in the 5,000-seat arena and enjoy dining by attending the Pleasure Feast and savor five courses of fine food, ample drink and enjoy Renaissance entertainment at its best.
INFORMATION: 520-463-2600 or arizona.renfestinfo.com
ostrichfestival.com
17th Annual Arizona Dragon Boat Festival, March. azdba.org
APRIL Tucson Folk Festival, April 3-5, tucsonfolkfest.org gilbertaz.gov
Adult Easter Egg Hunt at Mortimer Farms, April. mortimerfarmsaz.com
Astronomy Festival, April 11. tucsonastronomy.org
24th Annual Easter Egg-citement, April.
schnepffarms.com
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GARDENS & AGRITAINMENT
DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN THINGS TO KNOW: Discover the tranquil vibrancy of 50,000 desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes at Desert Botanical Garden. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of Sonoran Desert plant life, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. Delve deeper to learn more about desert landscaping, nature art, cooking and wellness and more through the Garden’s various lectures and workshops. Enjoy specialized tours, special events, seasonal exhibits, concerts, family activities, dining options and the Garden’s gift and plant shop.
DON’T MISS: Be a part of a Southwestern holiday tradition and experience Las Noches de las Luminarias Nov. 2930, Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 17-23 and 26-31. Each evening will feature more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags, thousands of white twinkle lights and music. Celebrate a Mexican holiday tradition of La Posada on Dec. 17 with singing processions through the Garden, break pinatas and savor traditional food and drinks.
INFORMATION: dbg.org
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park
Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix
Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden, the Arboretum was founded in the 1920s. arboretum.ag.arizona.edu
The garden encompasses 3.5 acres and includes a tea garden and tea house. japanesefriendshipgarden.org
Carefree Desert Gardens
Tour, shop, eat and repeat at Queen Creek Olive Mill, Arizona’s only working olive farm and mill. queencreekolivemill.com
One of the most prized plants and one not to be missed at this crown jewel of Carefree, is the crested saguaro. carefree.org
Hayden Flour Mills Hayden Flour Mills is a family business that is devoted to making the freshest and most flavorful flours from the world’s oldest varieties of wheat. haydenflourmills.com
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Queen Creek Olive Mill
Red Rock Lavender Visit Red Rock Lavender Farm, where lavender is grown in the pristine climate of the White Mountains of Arizona. redrockfarms.com
Schnepf Farms A family owned and operated fourthgeneration farm known mainly for its fall pumpkin festival and its youpick peaches. schnepffarms.com
The Farm at South Mountain Contemporary American farm cuisine made from ingredients featuring Arizona’s finest farmers, herdsmen and artisans. thefarmatsouthmountain.com
Tucson Botanical Gardens Named one of the Top 10 Gardens to visit in North America and one of the Best Secret Gardens in America by Reader’s Digest. tucsonbotanical.org
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ATTRACTIONS American Paintball Coliseum
WONDERSPACES ARIZONA
Grab a group of friends to play paintball, airsoft or laser tag at Arizona’s premier indoor extreme sports center. americanpaintballcoliseum.com
Castles N’ Coasters THINGS TO KNOW: Wonderspaces Arizona is a permanent art gallery at Scottsdale Fashion Square that showcases immersive artworks from artists around the world. Wonderspaces’ mission is to create shared understanding through shared experiences and believes art is for everyone; art can bring people together; and a wider audience for art benefits all. One Instagram-worthy installation is called “Submergence,” comprised of 8,064 individual points of light visitors walk through that continually change colors in correspondence to music; and “Levitate,” a new media interpretation of gravity where levitating balls float up and dance as visitors engage with the artwork. With each show, Wonderspaces intends to create a place where people can connect with art and with each other.
DON’T MISS: Their current show, “Elsewhere” with 13 installations, features artists whose work prompts us to question our reality, will run through the spring. Some of Elsewhere’s installations include “Old Friend,” a virtual reality experience with bright colors and animation; and “Akousmaflore,” a small garden of living musical plants which react in a unique way to visitor contact by producing a specific sound, resulting in random, interactive musicality. Their upcoming show, “In Common,” will open summer 2020.
INFORMATION: arizona.wonderspaces.com
Play a round of mini golf, compete in arcade games, or give yourself an adrenaline rush on the Skydiver, a free falling ride that drops 120 feet, all at the same place. castlesncoasters.com
Chase Field Watch a Diamondbacks game and take a guided tour of the field to check out one of the largest high definition video scoreboards in MLB and the D-backs pool. mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark
Fat Cats Go bowling, play a round of glow golf, or have “all out fun” in the arcade at Fat Cats. fatcatsfun.com/gilbert
Great Wolf Lodge The north-woods themed resort has an 85,000-square-foot indoor water park and an adventure park including mini golf and a ropes course. greatwolf.com/arizona
iFLY Ever wanted to try skydiving but aren’t ready for the real thing? Go to iFly to go indoor skydiving and still float through the air without falling thousands of feet. iflyworld.com/phoenix
K-1 Raceway Race your friends around the track going up to 45 mph at this indoor go kart racing facility. k1speed.com/phoenix-location
OdySea Aquarium Take a walk through the Great Barrier Reef Tunnel at the largest aquarium in Arizona that holds more than two million gallons of water and features more than 370 species. odyseaaquarium.com
Taliesin West Explore talented architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home that was named a National Historic Landmark. franklloydwright.org/taliesin-west
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GRAND CANYON ATTRACTIONS Arizona Outback Adventures AOA specializes in single-day to multi-day guided hiking, biking and backpacking in the Grand Canyon and Havasupai. aoa-adventures.com
Arizona Raft Adventures You will see places you have never seen, do things you’ve never done and awake every morning to breathtaking images that will last a lifetime. azraft.com
Bright Angel Bicycles & Cafe Biking around the Grand Canyon gives you access to a restricted area of the park where vehicle traffic is prohibited. bikegrandcanyon.com/
Centerfocus Adventures Tours for all experience levels that include traveling through sculpted rock while hiking, sliding, and jumping through crystal pools of water. thecenterfocus.com
Grand Canyon Trail Rides
GRAND CANYON SKYWALK THINGS TO KNOW: Located at Grand Canyon West, this 10-foot-wide glass platform that extends 70 feet out over the Canyon’s rim is a wonder all of its own. Strong enough to hold seventy 747 passenger jets at once, it easily bears groups of almost any size who want a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon floor. In fact, you can see right through it, all 4,000 feet down. It’s been featured on the National Geographic channel, The Today Show, and CNN, and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any Grand Canyon visitor.
DON’T MISS: After exploring the Skywalk, available with ticket purchase, congratulate yourself on your bravery with a delicious meal at Sa’ Nyu Wa, a one-of-a-kind restaurant that combines Southwest, Asian, and traditional Hualapai cuisine to create a memorable dining experience. Then, take a self-guided tour through the authentic Native American village, where you’ll observe traditionally built houses, ovens, and sweat lodges built by the Hualapai tribe. Finally, stop by the Native American gift shop, where you can purchase handcrafted jewelry and weavings made by the Hualapai, Hopi and Mojave tribes.
INFORMATION: grandcanyonwest.com
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The half-day mule trip descends 2,300 feet down the North Kaibab Trail to the Supai Tunnel. canyonrides.com
Grand Canyon Whitewater Whitewater rafting through the Grand Canyon is beyond your imagination and gives you a chance to experience the true spirit of the Canyon. grandcanyonwhitewater.com
Maverick Helicopters This helicopter tour departs from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and offers one of the most spectacular views in the entire canyon. maverickhelicopter.com
Phantom Ranch Phantom Ranch, a lodge designed in 1922 by architect Mary Colter, provides a beautiful and restful respite for hikers at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. nationalparks.org/phantom-Rranch
The Grand Hotel The warm and spacious lobby is reminiscent of a mountain lodge with exposed timbers and stone, a large flagstone fireplace and cozy seating areas. grandcanyongrandhotel.com
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PARKS AND MONUMENTS
SOUTH MOUNTAIN PARK THINGS TO KNOW: It’s the world’s largest city park, and an essential destination for all those who love hiking, nature, and history. The park includes close to 17,000 acres with more than 50 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. It’s home to more than 150 animal species, as well as a wide array of flora and fauna. There are petroglyphs left on countless rocks for you to observe, made by the Hohokam Indians and other ancient peoples.
DON’T MISS: There are many more ways to explore South Mountain Park than just by foot. Taking the scenic 5.5 mile drive to Dobbins Lookout, you’ll discover a favorite place of visitors and locals alike for watching the sun set over the Valley. If you decide on a horseback riding tour, you might pass by landmarks like Scorpion Gulch or Mystery Castle before ending up at T-Bone Steakhouse for a delicious dinner. Later on, if you want to settle down and unwind while surrounded by nature, the park has several ramada-covered areas with picnic benches, barbeque grills and restrooms and even concrete dance floors.
INFORMATION: phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/ south-mountain
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Monument Valley
Petrified Forest National Park
Steep canyon walls cradle hundreds of ancient pueblo ruins. Get up close with a hike or plan a guided tour to see even more scenic views. nps.gov/cach/index.htm
The angle of the sun accents these graceful formations, providing scenery that is simply spellbinding. navajonationparks.org/htm/ monumentvalley.htm
Take in the spectacular scenery in the land where the surroundings have aged for 225 million years, turning wood into stone. nps.gov/pefo
Chiricahua National Monument
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Stand in the “Land of Standing Up Rocks” and see the results of something that happened 27 million years ago. nps.gov/chir/index.htm
Montezuma Castle National Monument This monument is an enduring legacy of the prehistoric Sinagua. The 20-room stone, timber and adobe dwelling is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the U.S. nps.gov/moca
The monument exhibits an extraordinary collection of plants of the Sonoran Desert. nps.gov/orpi
Painted Desert For an unforgettable encounter with Arizona nature, enter into the Painted Desert, where art comes to life. nps.gov/pefo
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area This 56,000-acre area is teeming with plant and animal life with nearly 40 miles of riparian vegetation. blm.gov/visit/san-pedro
Tonto Natural Bridge For the adventurous, climb under this natural bridge to see beautiful rock formations and calming pools of water. azstateparks.com/tonto
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KIDS EXPERIENCES
ODYSEA AQUARIUM AND BUTTERFLY WONDERLAND THINGS TO KNOW: OdySea Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Southwest United States. It holds more than two million gallons of water, spans more than 200,000 square feet and is home to more than 30,000 animals and 500 different species in 50 exhibits. The aquarium offers an entertaining experience for guests with a 3D movie, SeaTREK underwater ocean walking and the OdySea Voyager which takes guests through the Open Ocean, Sea Turtle, Sea Lion/Seal and Shark exhibits. Its features include nine globe-shaped aquariums suspended from the lobby ceiling, a giant martini glass shaped aquarium and a submerged escalator allowing guests to descend deep into the ocean. Butterfly Wonderland, the largest butterfly conservatory in America with thousands of butterflies from around the world, is also the largest butterfly emergence gallery in the country.
DON’T MISS: At OdySea Aquarium, the adventure is all around you — even in the restrooms. OdySea creates jaw-dropping moments for its guests — which is why designers opted out of the typical mirror over the sinks and instead installed an enormous acrylic window leading straight into Shark Waters. Where else can you stare a 9-foot lemon shark in the eye as you wash your hands?
INFORMATION: odyseainthedesert.com Arizona Science Center
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Jake’s Unlimited
With a mission to inspire, educate, and engage curious minds through science, there is no better place to learn about flight, renewable energy and much more. azscience.org
One of the top three children’s museums in the nation, this 48,000-square-foot museum has over 300 play experiences. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
An indoor amusement park offering fun for the whole family: bowl, play laser tag and be sure to try their widelyknown unicorn cotton candy tacos. jakesunlimited.com
CrackerJax
Enchanted Island
Lego Discovery Center
This park features many attractions, including alien laser tag, go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf and batting cages. crackerjax.com
Geared toward children up to ten years old, the amusement park has 11 rides and other attractions such as a giant climbing wall and splash zone. enchantedisland.com
Play and learn about all things Lego while you explore the City Play Zone, go on the Merlin’s Apprentice ride or build with big soft bricks in the Duplo Farm. arizona.legolanddiscoverycenter.com
Crayola Experience This family attraction features 19 handson creative activities and a Crayola Store with Crayola products and souvenirs. crayolaexperience.com/chandler
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I.d.e.a. Museum
Makutu’s Island
Younger children can enjoy ArtVille, a “town” where they can be a chef, artist, performer and more. Older children can spend time in the HUB, a gallery with many interactive exhibits. ideamuseum.org
The name means Magic Island, which is what you’ll find when you enter and play in the structure resembling a jungle complete with rope bridges, spiraling slides, caves and tunnels. makutusisland.com
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MUSEUMS Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM
At the only combat aviation museum in Phoenix, you’ll take an aventure through history from World War I to present. azcaf.org
THINGS TO KNOW:
Arizona Museum of Natural History
Displaying more than 7,000 instruments collected from around 200 of the world’s countries and territories, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is the world’s only global instrument museum. With a collection of more than 13,600 musical instruments and associated objects, MIM displays 7,000 instruments with historic and artistic merit in it’s two floors encompassing 200,000-square-feet. Their five Geographic Galleries, Mechanical Music Gallery, Collier STEM Gallery, Conservation Lab, rotating exhibitions, along with the MIM Music Theater, Café Allegro and the Museum Store ensure a fun-filled day at the museum.
DON’T MISS: MIM displays are enhanced by state-of-the-art audio and visual technologies that allow you to see the instruments, hear the sounds and observe them being played in their original context in performances. You’re able to play instruments in the Experience Gallery and see instruments from music icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Buddy Rich in the Artist Gallery. MIM also hosts a concert series in their 300-seat MIM Music Theater, showcasing musicians and bands from various genres.
INFORMATION: mim.org
This museum in Mesa features collections including archaeology, art, ethnology, geology, natural history and paleontology. arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org
Arizona State Museum The largest anthropological research museum in the U.S. Southwest features archaeology, ethnology, photography and zooarchaeology collections. statemuseum.arizona.edu
Heard Museum Experience the myriad cultures and art of American Indians in 10 world-class exhibit galleries, plus enjoy sculpture courtyards and superb dining. heard.org
Penske Racing Museum The Penske Racing Museum chronicles the career of one of the most successful dynasties in all of sports. penskeracingmuseum.com
Phoenix Art Museum Their permanent collection includes more than 18,000 works of American, Asian, European, Latin American, western American, modern and contemporary art. phxart.org
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art SMoCA is dedicated to presenting exhibitions on contemporary and modern art, architecture and design. smoca.org
Scottsdale Museum of the West This museum celebrates the art, history, culture and unique stories of the 19 states comprising the American West. scottsdalemuseumwest.org
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures The museum’s collection of fine-scale artifacts includes over 500 antique and contemporary dollhouses and roomboxes. theminitimemachine.org
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URING O T T S E G R A M E E T TH E L R LD O W E H T N I X T. RE
WORLD PREMIERE EXHIBITION NOV. 17– MAY 25
GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY
Located in the SYBIL B. HARRINGTON GALLERIES
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NATIVE AMERICAN ATTRACTIONS Cocopah Museum and Cultural Center See traditional clothing such as bark skirts and leather sandals, traditional tattoo designs and the Cocopah warriors’ display. cocopah.com/museum
Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum The museum houses cultural artifacts, exhibits and provides an overview of CRIT and its people. crit-nsn.gov
Fort McDowell Adventures Visitors learn about the Yavapai Nation and Southwestern culture through bus and horseback riding tours. fortmcdowelladventures.com
Fry Bread House Get a taste of Native American culture at the first Native American restaurant to receive the James Beard American Classics Award. facebook.com/frybreadhouse
BESH BA GOWAH ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK AND MUSEUM THINGS TO KNOW: 800 years ago, this village southwest of Globe (the name is translated as “place of metal”) was occupied by the Salado people. Now, these ruins stand as a testament to this ancient civilization and how they lived. Visitors can walk around and explore the fascinating ruins, learning more about this fascinating culture and people. Around the ruins, there’s a museum that carries Salado pottery and artifacts, botanical gardens and a gift shop. The site is available for student field trips.
DON’T MISS: As you enter the museum, you’ll be treated to a brief film showing the history of Besh Ba Gowah, and will leave feeling far more informed than before. You’ll see firsthand how well-restored is the archaeological site: a point of pride for all those interested in preserving and maintaining Native American ruins. If you pass by Besh Ba Gowah in December, you can’t miss the Annual Festival of Lights, where the ruin walls are painstakingly covered in 2300 luminaries to celebrate the season’s magic, and where the Yellow Bird Dance Group performs their famed brand of entertainment.
INFORMATION: globeaz.gov/visitors/besh-ba-gowah
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Heard Museum Don’t miss one of Phoenix’s top cultural attractions and destinations for learning about Native American arts and cultures. heard.org
Hubbell Trading Post Feel the old wooden floor squeak beneath your feet as you enter the oldest, continuously operating trading post on the Navajo Nation. nps.gov/hutr
Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise The Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise owns and operates three properties in the heart of Indian Country. explorenavajo.com
Pueblo Grande Museum A fully accessible 2/3-mile trail takes you through a prehistoric Hohokam archaeological village site. pueblogrande.org
River Trading Post Navajo textiles and Hopi Kachina are sprinkled among baskets, pottery, jewelry and artifacts on display at this shop. rivertradingpost.com/scottsdale
Journey into the ancient past of Arizona and discover what life was like more than 700 years ago.
Annual Festival of Lights
Saturday, December 7th, 2019 5-9 pm This years event will showcase 5000 glowing luminaries placed along the ruin walls lighting the way for visitors to celebrate the magic of the season. The festival will offer cultural entertainment by the famed Yellow Bird Dance Group as well as a small variety of food and craft vendors. Admission is FREE for this event. Parking is limited. Visitors are encouraged to use FREE shuttle services being offered. Shuttles will run every 15-20 minutes. Shuttle parking and pick up is located at the Historic Train Depot 230 S. Broad St., Globe, AZ 85501.
The most accessible ancient ruins in the Southwest Open Daily 9-4:30 Summer Hours: July 1 - September 30, Closed Monday & Tuesday Adults $5 â—? Seniors (65+) $4 â—? Children 12 and under FREE We are a pet friendly facility
1324 S. Jesse Hayes Rd. Globe, AZ 85501 928.425.0320 | globeaz.gov/visitors/besh-ba-gowah Photography provided by: Kenneth Chan, Rick Hossman and Lee Kinnard
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OFF ROAD ADVENTURES
AZ ATV ADVENTURES THINGS TO KNOW: This one-of-a-kind group schedules ATV tours in both Sedona and on the Phoenix-Tucson border that are sure to be fun for the whole family. Trained tour guides will customize the group’s experience based on skill and experience levels, so you’ll know you’re doing something that’s safe and perfect for you. The company has been in the Arizona outdoor adventure business for more than 25 years, and is the largest and most experienced ATV tour company in the state. Before your tour, you’ll get the best hands-on training in their custom-built ATV training course, and will be evaluated for safety before the tour begins.
DON’T MISS: The West Sedona Canyon Tour is the most popular option, and takes you on a three-hour ride through some of the area’s best scenery. You’ll get a pristine view of the Verde Valley from the top of Skeleton Bone Mountain and might even see antelope running by your side as you drive. On the PhoenixTucson Box Canyon Tour, you climb up and over the front range of the Pinal Mountains near Florence as your guide points out ancient Native American petroglyphs. You’ll even see the old Butterfield Route way station that once serviced the Pony Express.
INFORMATION: arizonaatvadventures.com
American Gold Prospecting Adventures You will learn the techniques you need to prospect for gold in the deserts and mountains of Arizona. americangoldprospectingadventures. com
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden, the Arboretum was founded in the 1920s. arboretum.ag.arizona.edu
Flagstaff Extreme This is for daredevils only. Adults and kids can test their ability to overcome obstacles — among the treetops — at Flagstaff Extreme. flagstaffextreme.com
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Fort McDowell Adventures
Pink Jeep Tours
Choose from adventures including a City Slicker Cattle Drive, Segway tours in the desert, kayaking or riding the trail. fortmcdowelladventures.com
Take two- to five-hour tours exploring ancient ruins, notable rock formations, or pair your off-roading tour with horseback riding with a combo tour. pinkjeeptourssedona.com
Havasu Canyon trail
Spur Cross Stables
The strenuous eight-mile hike from Hualapai Hilltop to the water forces you to earn the spectacular views of Havasu Canyon’s waterfalls. waterfallsofthegrandcanyon.com
Spur Cross Stables is a guided horseback-riding ranch located on the site of an 1870s gold mine near Cave Creek. horsebackarizona.com
Kinishba Ruins
Verde Hot Springs
Explore the remains of a pueblo village built between 1250 and 1350 A.D. by the pre-Columbian Mogollon Culture. wmat.nsn.us/fortapachepark.htm
A hike, a crisp dip in the Verde River and a comforting float in the Verde Hot Springs are three of the best ways to spend a day trip to Payson. paysonrimcountry.com
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SNOWDAY ADVENTURES
Elk Ridge Ski Area The family-oriented skiing, snowboarding and tubing recreation area totals 37 acres with a top elevation of 8,150-feet. elkridgeski.com
SUNRISE PARK RESORT THINGS TO KNOW: Sunrise Park Resort is located in the White Mountains of Eastern Arizona on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and offers outdoor fun for all experience levels. Go for a leisurely snow outing and go tubing or sledding down Tubing Hill or test your skills on one of their three mountain trails: Sunrise Peak at 10,700 feet, Apache Peak at 11,100 feet or Cyclone Circle at 10,700 feet. Or if you’re a first timer, try their “Magic Carpet” conveyor belt on the Bunny Hill. The resort also offers season passes, private and group snow school lessons, has ski and snowboard rentals, lockers and Funland, a childcare center.
DON’T MISS: Try out one of their new state-of-the-art TechnoAlpin Snow Canons for added fun in the snow and once you’re done, head to Day Lodge at the base of Sunrise Peak to enjoy Indian Tacos, burgers and soup or the Crown Dancer Cafe to warm up with coffee, pastries or sandwiches. Going on your birthday? Bring your driver’s license or ID for a free lift ticket.
INFORMATION: sunriseskipark.com
Flagstaff Snow Park Located at 7,000 feet, Flagstaff Snow Park has everything from groomed tubing runs and kiddie hill to outdoor fire pits and food and drink. flagstaffsnowpark.com
Hitchin’ Post Stables Sleigh Rides Try a sleigh ride through the snowcovered Coconino National Forest between November and March. historichitchinpoststables.com
Macy’s European Coffeehouse After a day in Flagstaff’s snow, pair your hot cocoa with one of Macy’s gluten free pastries, and you have the perfect treat to fend off cold feet. macyscoffee.net
Mormon Lake Lodge Hop on a snowmobile or strap on cross country skis for tours along groomed tracks around Mormon Lake Lodge this winter. mormonlakelodge.com
Mount Lemmon Ski Valley The sky ride to the summit takes about 30 minutes and covers about one mile. skithelemmon.com
Oak Hill Snow Play Area Situated just outside Williams off Route 66, Oak Hill Snow Play Area is a great stop for beginner skiers and budding sledders. fs.usda/gov/recrea/kaibab
Polar Express The classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg comes to life on the Grand Canyon Railway, where Santa and his reindeer await. thetrain.com
Snow Week at Arizona Science Center Play in more than 100 tons of snow that blanket the Heritage & Science Park in seven days. azscience.org
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SHOPPING Chandler Fashion Center Chandler Fashion Center is the second largest mall in the Phoenix metropolitan area with more than 180 stores. shopchandlerfashioncenter.com
Coffin and Trout Fine Jewelers Stylish, contemporary store featuring a selection of fine jewelry, cufflinks and Rolex watches. coffinandtrout.com
Cornelis Hollander Modern, house-designed diamond rings, earrings, pendants and more, plus pieces with colored gemstones. cornelishollander.com
Elite Jewelry With over 60 years of experience in jewelry and lending, this family-owned and operated business has the largest selection of GIA, EGL and IGI certified diamonds in the Valley at wholesale prices. elitejewelryandloan.com
Oliver Smith Jeweler
BILTMORE FASHION PARK THINGS TO KNOW: The original luxury shopping destination in Phoenix offers clothing stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Ralph Lauren, Escada, Davinci Luxe, J. Crew and Lululemon Athletica and home decor stores Pottery Barn, Woods & Whites, Williams-Sonoma and Arhaus. You can also dine to your heart’s content with many options including the Cheesecake Factory, Blanco Tacos + Tequila, Bamboo Sushi, Zinburger, True Food Kitchen, The Capital Grille and Seasons 52. Stop in at one of their beauty stores Citrine Natural Beauty Bar, M.A.C Cosmetics, Sephora or Origins to pick up beauty essentials, TUMI for luggage and travel products for your next adventure or pick up a new pair of shoes at Allen Edmonds, a renowned men’s shoe brand.
DON’T MISS: Enjoy a variety of activities within Biltmore Fashion Park including cooking or skills classes at Williams-Sonoma, home decor classes at Woods & Whites, pottery classes at Color Me Mine, and special holiday concerts in the park on the Center Lawn.
INFORMATION: shopbiltmore.com
Since 1981, Oliver Smith Jeweler has offered exceptional house-designed fine jewelry, bridal jewelry and watches. oliversmithjeweler.com
Molina Fine Jewelers Molina Fine Jewelers services some of the world’s wealthiest and most influential people, from members of royal families to the Hollywood elite. molinafinejewelers.com
Scottsdale Quarter The hip, urban destination sits on 28 acres and restaurants, specialty and fashion retailers include Sephora, Pottery Barn, H&M, Apple and more. scottsdalequarter.com
Tanger Outlets Westgate Find great savings on merchandise from your favorite designer and name-brands direct from the manufacturer. tangeroutlet.com/glendale
Tempe Marketplace This open-air marketplace features a movie theater, a variety of restaurants, shops and activities for families and adults looking for a night out. tempemarketplace.com
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SHOPPING
WESTGATE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT THINGS TO KNOW: Just minutes from Historic Downtown Glendale, this vibrant outdoor complex is anchored by Gila River Arena, home of the Arizona Coyotes and adjacent to State Farm Stadium, home to the Arizona Cardinals where you can shop, listen to live music, or have a nice meal. With entertainment experiences that include As You Wish Pottery, Stir Crazy Comedy Club, Dave & Buster’s, Low Key Piano Bar and AMC Theatres and over 25 restaurants from Buffalo Wild Wings, Salt Tacos y Tequila, State Forty Eight Funk House Brewery and Whiskey Rose, there’s no shortage of tasty restaurants sure to satisfy everyone.
DON’T MISS: Check out a special event and see a comedian at Stir Crazy Comedy Club, cheer on the Coyotes or Cardinals or see artists on tour at Gila River Arena. While you’re exploring the Entertainment District, listen to live music in Fountain Park, create a one-of-a-kind art piece at As You Wish Pottery, participate in their free fitness series or watch a show at WaterDance Plaza featuring a Bellagioinspired dancing water attraction combining water effects with songs and light imagery.
INFORMATION: westgateaz.com
Arizona Mills
Mesa Riverview
San Tan Village
This indoor mall offers over 185 stores and fun experiences like the Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium and Harkins Theaters. simon.com/mall/arizona-mills
Shop everything from Party City to Marshalls at this outdoor shopping center before eating at one of the many restaurants. mesariverview.com
Spend a day shopping at Gilbert’s San Tan Village and stop for a movie while you’re there. shopsantanvillage.com
Hyde Park Jewelers
Park Place Mall
This jeweler offers a premier selection of diamonds, designer jewelry and timepieces, custom design and jewelry and watch repair services. hydeparkjewelers.com/locationsphoenix.aspx
This fashion and entertainment destination in Tucson features more than 125 stores, a cinema and a children’s play area. parkplacemall.com
Visit this three-story luxurious shopping center and stop into Guess, Louis Vuitton, Tesla and more. fashionsquare.com
London Gold
This outlet mall is the perfect place to find deals on brands like Calvin Klein, Kate Spade and Tommy Hilfiger. premiumoutlets.com/outlet/phoenix
London Gold prides itself on providing affordable luxury at prices always better than a sale. londongold.com
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Phoenix Premium Outlets
Scottsdale Fashion Square
The Shoppes at Casa Paloma An upscale outdoor shopping center in Chandler that offers fashion, beauty, furniture and home decor and a salon. theshoppesatcasapaloma.com
LONDON GOLD
LONDONGOLD.com SCOT TSDALE
CHANDLER
( 4 8 0 ) 367- 1717
(480) 705-4191
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WESTERN ACCESSORIES
Cave Creek Cowboy Company
CIMARRON RIVER COMPANY
Old West-themed store offering Western apparel, hats, buckles, jewelry, leather goods and home decor. facebook.com/cavecreekcowboycompany
Cowboy Corral THINGS TO KNOW: Cimarron River Company’s collection of authentic Native Indian jewelry is second to none. All of Cimarron River Company’s American Indian items are hand selected by the owners and are picked for quality and superior design. Cimarron River Company’s Native Indian artists use solid sterling silver and genuine turquoise, coral, spiny oyster, mother of pearl, opal and more in their jewelry pieces. Mother of Pearl has added horn sofa tables, lamps and decorative Southwestern accessories to its home decor section. Painted ponies are also trailing through the store!
DON’T MISS: Be sure and look for Cimarron River Company’s “Native Indian Presentations” and let Cimarron River Company’s experts help you with your gift giving ideas. Cimarron River Company offers wonderful sterling silver baby and children’s gifts, along with an amazing display of home décor.
INFORMATION: cimarronrivercompany.com
Authentic 1800s Western cowboy apparel, clothing, accessories, guns, gun leather, gifts and antiques. cowboycorral.com
Cowboy Shop The Cowboy Shop has been outfitting the Arizona Cowboy since 1983 with the finest western wear, western boots and cowboy hats to be found. cowboyshopusa.com
Drumbeat Indian Arts This business offers authentic Native American recordings and is a major supplier of American Indian religious herbs, craft supplies and books. drumbeatindianarts.com
Gilbert Ortega Native American Galleries This business has been selling different types of Native American jewelry, fine art and crafts since 1958. gilbertorteganativeamericangalleries.com
Grey Wolf Gallery Authentic Native American jewelry from the Southwest. Everything is handmade, unique and one-of-a-kind by First Nations tribal people. greywolfgalleryaz.com
River Trading Post Extensive collections of authentic vintage and contemporary Native American art including jewelry, weavings, pottery, beadwork and more. rivertradingpost.com
Saba’s Western Store This apparel outpost is part of a longtime local chain, specializing in cowboy boots for men, women and kids. sabas.com
Victorian Cowgirl Women’s boutique selling Old West– influenced dresses, jeans, tunics, corsets, boots and more. victoriancowgirl.com
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WINERIES Alcantara Vineyards Alcantara Vineyards, the first winery on the Verde River, is one of the largest vineyards in central and northern Arizona. alcantaravineyard.com
Arizona Hops & Vines This cheeky little winery is run by two “crazy awesome sisters,” who say most of their wines pair well with Cheetos. azhopsandvines.com
Burning Tree Cellars “Co-conspirators” Mitch Levy and Corey Turnbull turn grapes into small batches of wine with artistic labels. burningtreecellars.com
Caduceus Cellars & Merkin Vineyards Maynard James Keenan, made famous as the vocalist of rock band Tool, embarked into Arizona’s Verde Valley. caduceus.org
Dos Cabezas Wineworks Its wine has been enjoyed at the White House, earned critical acclaim and grabbed international attention. doscabezaswinery.com
Keeling Schaefer Vineyards Sunny days and cool nights combines with the rhyolite volcanic soils to create some of Arizona’s finest wines. keelingschaefervineyards.com
Page Springs Page Springs is a family owned vineyard and winery tucked into the volcanic landscape overlooking pristine Oak Creek. pagespringscellars.com
Pillsbury Wine Company Owned by New Zealand film director Sam Pillsbury, this winery earned 14 medals at the 2018 American Wine Awards. pillsburywine.com
Zarpara Vineyard This vineyard with views of the Dos Cabezas Mountains features handcrafted wines. zarpara.com
ARIZONA STRONGHOLD VINEYARDS THINGS TO KNOW: In the heart of Old Town Cottonwood, you’ll find this wine-lover’s paradise stocked with a variety of unique and delectable offerings. Tasting flights are $9 for five wines, with red, white, and combo lists available for sampling. The excellent staff will guide you through each wine you try, and the fully-stocked kitchen offers a wide variety of tapas and skewers to pair with your beverage.
DON’T MISS: The olive bowl tapa with blue cheese crumbles is an absolute must, and visitors rave about the duck skewer with grilled seasonal fruit and kalbi sauce. If you’re looking to get more out of your wine tasting experience, joining the Archive Club at Arizona Stronghold grants you discounts, promotions, and more. Depending on the level that you join, you are able to get up to $180 per release. Live Music Fridays bring an extraordinary atmosphere to this one-of-a-kind experience, and Second Saturday Art Walks are a must-see. Arizona Stronghold Vineyards also participates in offsite events, including the Spring Heritage Pecan & Wine Festival, and the Tempe Festival of the Arts.
INFORMATION: azstronghold.com
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GOLF
LEGACY GOLF CLUB THINGS TO KNOW: Legacy Golf Club’s championship course features lush, green fairways, forgiving rough and strategically-placed hazards. Dramatic elevation changes provide extensive views of nearby Camelback Mountain, Squaw Peak and the Phoenix skyline. The resort itself features 328 suites with kitchens, a practice facility, pool, fitness center and tennis court. The facility also includes a fully stocked pro shop and a golf academy. The course measures 6,966 yards from the back tees and carries a 125 slope rating, so it’s no pushover. But it’s nuanced enough to accommodate a range of skill levels.
DON’T MISS: Legacy Golf Club was voted the No. 1 public golf course in Phoenix, is the site of Golf Channel Academy and is known for hosting exceptional golf outings. The Legacy Golf Club, rich in heritage and history, is an 18-hole par 71 championship golf course designed by renowned golf course architect Gary Panks. Located on what was once Dwight B. Heard’s 7,500-acre ranch, the original two grain silos, built in 1902, still remain along the 18th fairway and were once the tallest structures in Maricopa County. The Sierra Vista House, which marks the 1st tee, was visited on occasion in the early 1900s by Theodore Roosevelt and Pancho Villa.
INFORMATION: golflegacyresort.com
Arizona Biltmore
Forest Highlands Golf Club
Sedona Golf Resort
This resort offers two PGA 18-hole golf courses with simplistic beauty and modern design. arizonabiltmore.com/golf
The Meadow Course and Canyon Course were ranked among the top 10 in Arizona by Golf Digest. fhgc.com
A premier Arizona golf course tucked in between Sedona’s “jaw-dropping” red rocks. sedonagolfresort.com
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Their two scenic courses are made up of mountain vistas, towering trees, and multiple lakes. marriott.com/hotels/travel/phxcb-jwmarriott-scottsdale-camelback-innresort-and-spa
Flagstaff Ranch This golf course is sure to provide a challenge, located in the middle of a thick forest of Ponderosa Pines with dramatic vistas and mountain wildlife. flagstaffranch.com/golf
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Longbow Golf Club
Tubac Golf Resort and Spa
A course that’s enjoyable by players of all skill levels and features a one-of-akind contemporary clubhouse. longbowgolf.com
This course was originally designed in 1959 and made famous by the movie Tin Cup. tubacgolfresort.com/arizona-golfcourse
Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain These three courses—Saguaro, Tortolita, and Wild Burro—include beautiful desert characteristics. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/arizona/ dove-mountain
Wigwam Resort The Wigwam offers lessons if you’d like golf instruction, and if not, tee off at one of their three unique courses which pose unique challenges. wigwamarizona.com/golf
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GOLF Grayhawk Golf Club
MCCORMICK RANCH GOLF CLUB THINGS TO KNOW: Located in the heart of Scottsdale, McCormick Ranch Golf Club features two unique courses that are tour tested and amateur approved. The Palm and Pine Courses have breathtaking views of Camelback and McDowell Mountain, and combine well-manicured resort golf course layouts with pockets of desert infusion. McCormick Ranch Golf Club was designed by Desmond Muirhead and opened in 1972 and the courses and dining facilities have been open to the public ever since. Whether you need space for a business meeting, corporate party, holiday event, awards luncheon, Wedding or Mitzvah, McCormick Ranch Golf Club can accommodate your group.
DON’T MISS: Looking to improve your game? Check out McCormick Ranch Golf Club’s bermuda grass driving range, two chipping areas, and putting green, which is one of the largest in the Scottsdale golf scene.
INFORMATION: mccormickranchgolf.com
Grayhawk has become one of Arizona’s most celebrated daily-fee golf clubs with two exceptional 18-hole golf courses – Talon and Raptor. grayhawkgolf.com
Quintero Golf Club Located in northwest Peoria, Quintero Golf Club is described as the “Purest Golf Experience” in the Southwest. quinterogolf.com
Talking Stick Golf Club Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, together as a design team, created the magic of Talking Stick. talkingstickgolfclub.com
The Boulders The Boulders Resort & Spa was named “Best Golf Resort in the Southwest” by Golf Digest magazine. bouldersclub.com
The Short Course at Mountain Shadows Nestled in the foothills of Camelback Mountain, the Short Course offers a scenic layout and a challenging round of golf. mountainshadows.com/golf
Troon North Troon North Golf Club embodies the Scottsdale desert golf experience with two 18-hole courses stretching through the foothills of Pinnacle Peak. troonnorthgolf.com
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club The course made Golf Digest’s list of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” for the 2017-2018 season. wekopa.com
Westin Kierland The Westin Kierland Golf Club was honored as one of the “Top 10 Public Courses in Phoenix/Scottsdale” by Golf Advisor and ranked by Golf Digest as one of “America’s 9 Most Cheerful Golf Courses.” kierlandgolf.com
Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club The Big Wick Course has been voted No. 1 in the United States for Course Conditions by Golf Advisor. Wickenburgranch.com
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SPORTING EVENTS
PLAYSTATION FIESTA BOWL
CHEEZ-IT BOWL
WHERE: State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale 85305 WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 28 at 11 a.m. TICKETS: fiestabowl.org
WHERE: Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85004 WHEN: Friday, Dec. 27 at 8:15 p.m. TICKETS: fiestabowl.org
GAME IMPLICATIONS: The 49th Annual PlayStation Fiesta Bowl is one of the nation’s premier college bowl games and is an integral part of college football’s postseason.
GAME IMPLICATIONS: The 31st Annual Cheez-It Bowl (formerly the Cactus Bowl until 2017); is one of the nation’s premier college bowl games featuring teams from the Big 12 and Pac12 conferences and is an integral part of college football’s postseason.
SEATING: The stadium has permanent seating for 63,000, but expands to hold approximately 73,000 for events such as the Fiesta Bowl. A total of 88 luxury suites on two levels, club seating for 7,000 with access to private club lounge areas, lower bowl seating for 29,000 and upper deck seating for approximately 26,000 accommodate patrons. All seats are individual chairs with arm rests and cup holders.
SEATING: Chase Field has football seating capacity of 39,056 and is divided into six levels: the field, main concourse, press level, suite club level, upper concourse and mechanical level. All seats are individual seats with arm rests and cup holders.
PLAYING SURFACE: Natural grass
PLAYING SURFACE: Artificial turf
STADIUM: Encompassing over 1.2-million square feet, State Farm FUN FACT Stadium was completed in August The 2011 BCS National of 2006 and set the standard for Championship game multi-purpose NFL facilities. The had 78,603 fans in basic form of the design takes attendance, which was its cue from a barrel cactus and the largest crowd in the offers alternating vertical slots with history of State Farm smooth panels. Its retractable roof Stadium. uses two large panels to uncover the entire field and the retractable grass field, which sits on a 12-million-pound tray, is rolled-out of the stadium until game day for maximum sun exposure and nourishment. The multi-functional stadium is home to a variety of events including Arizona Cardinals home games, the annual Fiesta Bowl, international soccer matches, motorsports, trade & consumer shows, and corporate and social functions.
VENUE/STADIUM: Spanning 1.3 million square feet, Chase FUN FACT Field, home of the Arizona University of Arizona and Diamondbacks, is transformed Arizona State University into a football field for the Cheez-It have both made two Bowl. Chase Field features a appearances in the retractable roof, comprised of bowl game; ASU’s most nine million pounds of steel; recent appearance was in a 136-feet-by-46 feet highJanuary 2016. definition LED video board and a 1,119-feet long LED ribbon display; the stadium also has the D-backs pool and hot tub. Chase Field also hosts company outings, conferences, birthday parties and weddings.
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THE PEOPLE’S OPEN JAN. 27 – FEB. 2, 2020 TPC SCOTTSDALE
85 YEARS RESPECT THE FANS RESPECT THE PLAYERS RESPECT THE GAME
R E S P E C T T HE FA N S | R ES P E C T T H E P LAY E R S | R E S P E C T T H E GA M E
WMPHOENIXOPEN.COM
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WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN WHAT: “The People’s Open” is the best-attended golf tournament in the world and has gained legendary status for being the most unique stop on the PGA Tour. The 2018 tournament broke several attendance records, including a PGA Tour record 719,179 fans for the week. The 2020 edition will mark the 85th playing of the event (one of the five oldest events on the PGA Tour) and the 11th as the Waste Management Phoenix Open. BACKGROUND: The list of professional golfers who have won in Phoenix reads like the golf Hall of Fame: Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Jimmy Demaret, Billy Casper, Gene Littler, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Miller Barber, Johnny Miller, Ben Crenshaw, and more recently Lee Janzen, Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, Tom Lehman, Mark Calcavecchia and Kenny Perry just to name a few. The Phoenix Open began in 1932 but was discontinued after the 1935 tournament. The rebirth of the Phoenix Open came in 1939 when Bob Goldwater, Sr. convinced fellow Thunderbirds to help run the event. The Thunderbirds, a prominent civic organization in Phoenix, were not as enthusiastic about running the event as he was, leaving Goldwater, Sr. to do most of the work in getting a golf open started. The event was played at the Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix, both in its earlier incarnations and after Goldwater resuscitated it. Beginning in 1955, the Arizona Country Club (also in Phoenix) alternated as event host with Phoenix Country Club; this arrangement lasted until Phoenix Country Club took The Arizona Country Club’s turn in 1975 and became the event’s permanent home again. In 1987, the tournament was moved to its current home, the Stadium Course at TPC of Scottsdale.
WHERE: TPC Scottsdale WHEN: January 27 – February 2, 2020 TICKETS: wmphoenixopen.com BIRDS NEST: For four nights every year, the hottest nightclub in Scottsdale is located inside a tent erected in North Scottsdale. It is, of course, the Birds Nest. With its great music and enthusiastic partying, the Birds Nest has earned a reputation on the PGA Tour. It offers a show all its own and is totally unlike anything else associated with professional golf. In fact, the Birds Nest shares much more in spirit and style with the best concert venues in the country than a golf tournament.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS MONDAY, JAN. 27
Practice Rounds for PGA Tour pros only; Monday ProAm, 9:30 a.m., TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course
TUESDAY, JAN. 28
Practice Rounds for PGA Tour pros only; R.S. Hoyt Jr. Family Foundation Dream Day Activities, 10 a.m. with motivational speeches by PGA Tour professionals, trick shot show and junior golf clinic presented by PING; TPC Scottsdale Champions Course Practice Range; San Tan Ford Special Olympics Open, TPC Scottsdale Putting Green, 11 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29
Annexus Pro-Am, 8:30 a.m., TPC Stadium Course; Phoenix Suns Charities Shot at Glory, 3:30 p.m., TPC Scottsdale 16th hole; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens, 3:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JAN. 30
Waste Management Phoenix Open 1st round, 7:30 a.m.; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens, 3:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 31
Waste Management Phoenix Open 2nd round, 7:30 a.m.; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens, 3:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, FEB. 1
Waste Management Phoenix Open 3rd round, 9 a.m.; Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent opens, 3:30 p.m. All day green out where everyone is encouraged to wear green to support eco-sensitive efforts of the tournament.
SUNDAY, FEB. 2
Waste Management Phoenix Open 4th round, 9 a.m.
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WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN
— SPECTATOR TIPS —
ARRIVE EARLY
Arrive early to reserve a spot, especially if you plan on watching the tournament “Parade Style.” On Thursday and Friday, groups are simultaneously started on the first and tenth holes. Most people watch the action on the back nine holes which may give you the opportunity to get a better view of the players on the front nine.
PARKING
Free public parking (with shuttle access to the tournament gates)is available in Lot H located at Loop 101 and Hayden Road. The free shuttles from Lot H will operate Monday and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Free public parking is also available Wednesday through Saturday at WestWorld in Lot W located at 94th Street and Bell Road. The free shuttles from Lot W will operate Wednesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 pm. There is no shuttle service from Lot W on Monday and Tuesday.
HAVE A PLAN
There are basically two ways to watch a golf tournament. “Parade Style” is where you pick a spot and watch the field pass by or “Cross-Country Style” is where you follow a particular player or group around the course.
MUST-HAVE ITEMS
Sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes and binoculars.
AUTOGRAPHS
Players are more receptive to requests for autographs after they have completed their round, so don’t interrupt them before or during their round. A good place to catch them is at the practice area, as most players will return there after they play their round.
CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS
Wednesday, many celebrities and others take part in the annual Annexus Pro-Am, which begins at 8:30 a.m.
DAILY PAIRINGS
Pick up a daily pairing sheet to find out when the players tee off and the order of the groups. Pairing sheets include a course map, and are available near the entrances and at selected other locations on the tournament grounds. The pros usually play in threesomes on Thursday and Friday and twosomes on the weekends. Check the scoreboards to find out who the leaders are, and where they are on course. One way to tell the players from a distance is to look for their caddies, who wear colorcoded vests (green, white or yellow), which will be indicated on the daily pairing sheet.
FAVORITE PLAYERS’ TEE TIMES
Daily pairings will be published in the daily newspaper sports sections and will also be posted on the PGATour.com website. Thursday and Friday pairings are determined before the tournament starts, with each golfer playing one day in the morning and the other day in the afternoon. Saturday and Sunday pairings are based on a player’s score, with the leaders teeing off last.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Concession stands are located throughout the tournament grounds. For lunch or dinner, visit the Fan Zone. Souvenirs are located at the TPC Merchandise Tents, near the 1st tee and the main entrance.
WEATHER CHECK
Check the weather forecast before you visit the Waste Management Phoenix Open and dress appropriately. Expect cool mornings and sunny afternoons, so dressing in layers is the best idea.
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
Spectators will be alerted to weather that tournament officials identify as potentially dangerous. Weather warnings will be broadcast on the electronic leader boards that are located throughout the golf course. Spectators should take appropriate precautions upon observing any weather warnings. A prolonged blast on an air horn, repeated once, will indicate that tournament play has been suspended, all attendees should seek safe shelter immediately. Two short blast of an air horn, repeated once, will indicate play has resumed.
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CACTUS LEAGUE BASEBALL GUIDE
HISTORY: Surrounded by the scenic landscape of the Sonoran Desert, Cactus League baseball games are played in Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise and Tempe. Spring training in the Arizona sun has been a tradition for devoted fans since 1947, when just two teams, the Cleveland Indians and the New York Giants, came here to prepare for the season. Today, 15 teams train in the Phoenix Metro area. For visitors, the Cactus League couldn’t be more convenient, with short drive times between ballparks and a full range of hotel, dining and shopping amenities. WHEN: February through April, 2020
INFORMATION: cactusleague.com
— SPRING TRAINING FACILITIES — AMERICAN FAMILY FIELDS OF PHOENIX: Formerly Maryvale Baseball Park, the spring training home of the Milwaukee Brewers and their minor league affiliates underwent a $60 million renovation that doubled the size and was unveiled before the 2019 season. The stadium holds 10,000 people and features a recessed playing field and shaded concourse, which provides an uninterrupted view of the action. Location: 3805 N. 53rd Ave., Phoenix 85031
SALT RIVER FIELDS AT TALKING STICK: The spring training facility home for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies. The stadium complex is located in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale. The complex represents the first MLB park to be built on Native American Indian land. Location: 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale 85258
CAMELBACK RANCH: The spring training home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. The stadium holds 13,000 people. There are eight full suites, four mini-suites, one press box, one suitelevel party deck and a series of outfield terraces. Location: 10710 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix 85037
SCOTTSDALE STADIUM: The spring training home of the San Francisco Giants. The stadium was built in 1992 and holds 12,000 people. The stadium underwent a $23.1 million renovation in 2006. In return, the San Francisco Giants agreed to play at the stadium for an additional 20 years. Location: 7408 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale 85251
GOODYEAR BALLPARK: The current spring training home of the Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds. Outside the main entrance, the concourse features a 60-foot, 6-inch fiberglass statue titled “The Ziz” created by artist Donald Lipski. Location: 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear 85338
SLOAN PARK: The spring training home of the Chicago Cubs. The $99 million complex opened in 2014 and is owned and operated by the Chicago Cubs. With a capacity of 15,000, Sloan Park is the largest spring training stadium by capacity in Major League Baseball. Location: 2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Mesa 85201
HOHOKAM STADIUM: The spring training home of the Oakland Athletics. The stadium was named for the Hohokam people who occupied the region from approximately AD 1 to the mid-1400s. From 1979 to 2013, the Chicago Cubs held their spring training at Hohokam Stadium. Location: 1235 N. Center St., Mesa 85201
SURPRISE STADIUM: The spring training home of the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers. The stadium was designed by HOK Sport, built in 2002 and holds 10,714 people. Location: 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise 85374
PEORIA SPORTS COMPLEX: The spring training home stadium of both the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners. It consists of the main baseball stadium and 12 practice fields. It is also one of five facilities to host Arizona Fall League games. Location: 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria 85382
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TEMPE DIABLO STADIUM: The spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The stadium was built in 1968 and holds 9,558 people. The stadium underwent an extensive $20 million renovation and was rededicated on Mar. 3, 2006. Location: 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe 85282
THE EXCLUSIVE PUBLICATION OF THE CACTUS LEAGUE
A Grand Slam season is ahead for the Cactus League
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