Spring-Summer 2016
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EVERY SUMMER HAS A STORY.
what will yours be?
create your summer memories with us Intriguing characters, an enviable setting, and a plot that’s, well, entirely up to you. Is it a romantic comedy, action-adventure, or fun for the whole family? Maybe it’s all three, or something entirely different. Whatever it may be, it’s all yours. It’s time for your summer story to start at Four Seasons.
RATES FROM
$179 per night*
• Luxuriously appointed casitas • Complimentary treats served poolside • World-class cuisine, from casual to upscale dining • Amazing setting with incredible sunset views • Complimentary Kids For All Seasons program • Summer events and activities for all ages • Summer spa happy hour and seasonal treatments
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 480.513.5039 or visit fourseasons.com/scottsdale *Rates start at $179 per night Sunday through Thursday; weekend rates vary during season. Based on availability, exclusive of taxes. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Other restrictions may apply. Valid through 09-01-2016.
President and CEO: Michael Atkinson Publisher: Cheryl Green Vice president of operations: Audrey Webb
UNDER WATER: Editor in Chief Michael Gossie’s favorite place to swim is Saguaro Lake, the fourth reservoir on the Salt River formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam. The lake is off State Route 87, about halfway between Phoenix and the ghost town of Sunflower.
Arizona packs adventures for everyone, every day
M
ore than a decade after moving to Arizona from my native New York, people still ask me what I like the most about living in the Grand Canyon state. My answer is always the same: “I haven’t had to shovel snow once since I moved here.” But if I lived a couple hours north, the yearly snowfall would give my home turf in upstate New York a run for its money. That is what makes Arizona great: Where else can you sunbathe in Scottsdale and have a snowball fight in Flagstaff on the same day? Arizona offers something for everyone, every day. From hiking and biking to shopping and spas, Arizona provides the experiences that create memories that last a lifetime. That’s what Experience AZ is all about. We want to guide you to adventures and experiences that will make your visit to Arizona one you will never forget. Based on votes from our readers, we have listed the five best dining experiences, tours, attractions and places to visit in a variety of categories. Want to know my personal fab five Arizona adventures? Hiking to the waterfalls of Havasupai. Running and riding at South Mountain on “Silent Sundays.” Relaxing at Briar Patch in Sedona. Getting away for a staycation at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess or The Boulders. And when friends visit, we always dine at Clever Koi near downtown Phoenix. So get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. And use Experience AZ to guide you toward a visit that will make you want to come back time after time to keep crossing the mustsee hot spots off your Top 5 lists. And when you find a favorite, be sure to vote for it by visiting azbigmedia.com so others can share your amazing memories.
EDITORIAL Editor in chief: Michael Gossie Staff writer: Meryl Fishler Interns: Kaia Evans | Samantha Pouls | Gianna Tracey EXPERIENCE ARIZONA | PLAY BALL Director of sales: Joe Freedman ART Art director: Mike Mertes Graphic designer: Ana Richey DIGITAL MEDIA Web developer: Mark Brown Digital coordinator: Jesse A. Millard MARKETING/EVENTS Marketing & event manager: Heidi Maxwell Marketing coordinator: Kristina Venegas OFFICE Special projects manager: Sara Fregapane Executive assistant: Mayra Rivera Database solutions manager: Cindy Johnson AZ BUSINESS LEADERS Director of sales: Sheri Brown AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE Senior account manager: David Harken Account managers: Ann McSherry | Bailey Young AZRE | ARIZONA COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Director of sales: Jeff Craig CREATIVE DESIGNER Director of sales: Joe Freedman RANKING ARIZONA Director of sales: Sheri King
Michael Gossie Editor in chief michael.gossie@azbigmedia.com
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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 2016 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.
Spring-Summer 2016
CONTENTS Chambers of Commerce Chambers Guide.............................................................6 Glendale..........................................................................8 Scottsdale.....................................................................10 Itineraries Scottsdale.....................................................................12 Tempe...........................................................................14 East Valley.....................................................................16 Phoenix.........................................................................18 Glendale........................................................................20 Sedona..........................................................................22 Flagstaff........................................................................24 Tucson...........................................................................26 Travel Tips Get Around....................................................................28 Things to Know.............................................................30 Accommodations Staycations...................................................................32 Northern Arizona...........................................................34 Southern Arizona..........................................................36 East Valley Arizona........................................................38 Dude Ranches..............................................................40 Bed & Breakfast............................................................42 Uniquely Arizona...........................................................44 Casino Resort Destinations..........................................46 Restaurants Local Favorites..............................................................50 Hipster Hangouts..........................................................52 Steaks & Chops............................................................54 Mexican/Southwest......................................................56 American Contemporary..............................................58 Italian............................................................................ 60 Seafood.........................................................................62 Cocktails.......................................................................64 Adventures Arizona Must Do’s........................................................ 66 Central Arizona Must Do’s............................................68 Southern Arizona Must Do’s.........................................70 Northern Arizona Must Do’s.........................................72 Grand Canyon...............................................................74 Places to Cool Off.........................................................76 Outdoor.........................................................................78 Best Places to take Kids...............................................80 Native American Experiences......................................82 Performing Arts.............................................................84 Air Tours........................................................................86 Animal Parks.................................................................88 Family Fun Spots......................................................... 90 Arizona Tours................................................................92 River Rafting.................................................................94 Trail Riding................................................................... 96 Lake Activities...............................................................98 Casinos.......................................................................100 Sporting Events..........................................................102 Auto Attractions..........................................................104 Golf Courses...............................................................106 Beauty & Day Spas.....................................................108 Wineries...................................................................... 110 Parks & Monuments.................................................... 112 Museums.................................................................... 114 Shopping Jewelers...................................................................... 116 Shopping Centers....................................................... 118 4
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ARIZONA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Flagstaff The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce is was founded in 1891 as the Board of Trade and is community problem solver that promotes Flagstaff community and its total economy.
flagstaffchamber.com 928-774-4505 Glendale
The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, non profit, membership-driven organization comprised of over 750 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals.
glendaleazchamber.org 623-937 4754 Mesa
With a history that extends more than 110 years, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce continues to bring top of the line networking opportunities to the community.
mesachamberofcommerce.org 480-969-1307 Phoenix
The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce has been part of its community since 1888, working with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations helping them stay connected, informed and prosperous.
phoenixchamber.com 602-495-2195 Sedona
This is the best first stop for any visitor to Sedona. The Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau’s well-informed and trained staff and volunteers serve almost 300,000 visitors annually with helpful and free information about Sedona.
sedonachamber.com 928-282-7722 Tempe
For more than a century, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce has built an environment that enhances the economic vitality of our membership and the business community as a whole.
tempechamber.org 480-967-7891 Tucson
The mission of the Tucson Metro Chamber is to promote a strong local economy resulting in business growth, ample employment and improving quality of life for all citizens.
tucsonchamber.org 520-792-1212 6
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AROUND ARIZONA
GLENDALE Historic Downtown Glendale Annual Glendale Glitters Light Display
GLENDALE Discover 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. We welcome you to use our sunsets, championship moments and unparalleled shopping, dining and entertainment destinations as the stage for your lasting memories. Looking to get your game on? We’ll knock your socks off. Want to submerse yourself in a neverending wonderland of shops and boutiques? We’ve got you covered there, too. In Glendale, you can have it all. A visit to Glendale will begin a lifelong romance, marked with memories and excitement.
SPECIAL EVENTS January Glendale Glitter & Glow February Glendale Chocolate Affaire March Paris in the Spring April Sidewalk & Yard Sale May Mother’s Day Event June Summer Band Concerts Summer Scavenger Stroll July Summer Band Concerts August Dog Days of Summer September Teddy Bear Day October Front Porch Festival November Holiday Open House Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekend December Glendale Glitters Holiday Weekend
FOR MORE INFO Glendale Visitor Center Boasting a countless collection of free local, regional and statewide maps, brochures and travel information, the Glendale Visitor Center is the first place to start your journey. GLENDALE VISITOR CENTER 5800 W. Glenn Dr., #140 Glendale, AZ 85301 (623) 930-4500 / (877) 800-2601 VisitGlendale.com
SHOP
ARTS & CULTURE
Rev up those credit cards. Between the mega malls, unique boutiques, antique troves and specialty shops with one-of-a-kind buys, Glendale’s shopping destinations have a way of turning a day out on the town into a full-blown mission. The discoveries in retail neighborhoods, like Historic Downtown Glendale, Westgate and Arrowhead, will only whet your appetite for more. You’ll find every store will deliver on your desires, so plan your route accordingly – you won’t want to miss a thing. Historic Downtown Glendale has been named one of the country’s 10 best places for shopping. In fact, Historic Downtown Glendale is actually two distinct neighborhoods: Historic Catlin Court with its white picket fences and mature shade trees welcoming visitors to the bungalows-turned-specialty shops, and Old Towne boasting brick-trimmed sidewalks and glowing gaslights leading the way to the famous antique stores and ethnic eateries. The neighborhoods span 10 square blocks, which can easily be strolled in an afternoon. Shoppers can also delight at the beautifully designed Arrowhead Towne Center. Conveniently located just off the Loop 101 freeway, the mall features fountains, a movie theater and more than 170 shops and restaurants. The Arrowhead Entertainment District and Glendale’s Northern Shopping Corridor offers boutique clothing shops, wine shops and an enviable collection of rave restaurants. The Westgate Entertainment District, located at Glendale Avenue and Loop 101, redefines Glendale dining and nightlife. Often labeled the “Times Square of the Desert,” visitors will enjoy an array of shops and restaurants. And, the newest addition, Tanger Outlets Westgate featuring more than 90 brand-name stores in an open-air mall. The outdoor enthusiast won’t want to miss Cabela’s – the world’s foremost outfitter, located just north of the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.
DINE
Mouthwatering. Savory. Seasonings. Aroma. Welcome to destination dining the Glendale way. Our restaurants serve up a feast of worldly flavors, with tastes ranging from traditional German or Polish fare to contemporary Chinese and home-style Mexican flavors. Take your taste buds on a global tour. And our reputation won’t let your cravings down, as our restaurants have earned local and national accolades. Another popular attraction is Cerreta Candy Company – the owners delight in giving tours during which visitors receive samples.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Stand atop any of Glendale’s nearby mountain crests, and you’ll soon learn that the climb is well worth the effort. A clear day presents opportunities for nearly endless views of the Valley below. Head to the city’s northern region, and you’ll find Thunderbird Conservation Park – a 1,185-acre park in the Hedgpeth Hills dedicated to preserving our native desert environment. Park activities include picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, jogging and bird-watching. The park also boasts nearly 20 miles of multi-use trails.
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Glendale has grown into a true sports destination with Gila River Arena, home of the NHL Coyotes; the University of Phoenix Stadium, home of the NFL Cardinals and the Fiesta Bowl; and Camelback Ranch-Glendale, spring training home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox.
Glendale Police Museum 6835 N. 57th Dr. (623) 930-3486 • GlendaleAZ.com Dedicated to Glendale’s finest, the exhibit spans police history from the early days of the territorial sheriff to the present day. View early police equipment and items. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Manistee Ranch 5127 W. Northern Ave. (623) 435-0072 • GlendaleAZ.com Discover one of Glendale’s best-kept secrets, operated by the Glendale Historical Society. Enjoy an outstanding tour of Manistee Ranch, a National Register of Historic Places site. Built by Herbert W. Hamilton in 1897 as a home for his family, the house is better known as the residence of Louis M. Sands, who purchased it in 1907 and named it Manistee after his hometown in Michigan. Tours offered October to mid-May; $5 for adults. Sahuaro Ranch Historical Area 9802 N. 59th Ave. (623) 930-4200 • GlendaleAZ.com The 1886 homestead is one of the oldest and best-preserved early ranches in the Salt River Valley. The 17-acre historical area, including 14 structures and a barnyard, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restored 1895 Main House and 1898 Guest House are open for tours October-May. The lush grounds and rose gardens are open each day from dawn to dusk. Free.
STAY Glendale boasts of more than 8,000 hotel rooms within a 15-mile radius, ranging from four - and - five star luxury properties to modest accommodations. Glendale accommodations are conveniently located within easy access to mustsee attractions. Visit VisitGlendale. com for a list of great places to stay.
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You’ll Love Every Minute Glendale, AZ & the West Valley It is more than a perfect blend of the old and the new, the wild and the tame, the luxurious and the rustic. With so much to see and do, you’ll love every minute of your visit. Call us for your personalized itinerary at 623.930.4500.
Glendale Visitor Center 5800 W. Glenn Dr., Suite 140, Glendale, AZ VisitGlendale.com Stop in for a free tote to fill with all your great finds.
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AROUND ARIZONA
SCOTTSDALE Scottsdale Waterfront
SIGNATURE EVENTS Stradivarius: Origins and Legacy of the Greatest Violin Maker Thru June 05, 2016. On view only at the MIM, this one-of-a-kind exhibition introduces the story of how early violin makers from the northern Italian city of Cremona shaped music from the sixteenth century onward. mim.org
Spring Music in the Garden Series Through June 24, 2016. The Music in the Garden Concert Series features some of the best musical performers that the Valley has to offer. dbg.org
Scottsdale ArtWalk Ongoing. “America’s Original ArtWalk”The 40-year tradition of Scottsdale ArtWalk takes place every Thursday evening from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. in galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way in downtown Scottsdale. scottsdalegalleries.com
McDonald’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Car Show at The Pavilions Ongoing. The McDonald’s Rock ‘n’ Roll car show is the longest running show of its kind! This is the perfect destination to see classic cars and motorcycles. thepavilionsattalkingstick.com
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Scottsdale is a city steeped in superlatives, scenery and the Western spirit. Minutes from some of the state’s finest shopping and dining, mountain lions still roam rugged desert canyons. Here ranches, hiking trails and cowboy bars share elbow room with five-star resorts, acclaimed galleries and world-class sporting events. Rooted in a frontier spirit, but home to cutting-edge art, development and industries, Scottsdale reflects its motto as “The West’s Most Western Town.” Located just east of Phoenix, Scottsdale is a great place to visit but it’s also a tremendous place to live. The city is home to 55 golf courses, 220 tennis courts, dozens of parks and hundreds of miles of bike paths and hiking trails. Many of those amenities occur along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, a lush system of lakes and open space. The greenbelt runs from Scottsdale’s southern boundary, through the heart of the city and transitions into a trails system serving the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The preserve encompasses some of the most scenic desert lands and mountains in Arizona. It is planned to span 36,000 acres
– about one-third the city’s land. While the preserve offers unspoiled nature and Old West solitude, Scottsdale’s eclectic Downtown districts serve up buzz, bustle and sophistication. On any weekend night, the area hosts more than 30,000 visitors. The Downtown is home to 20 hotels, about 120 restaurants and nightclubs and roughly 80 art galleries. This blending of urban cool and natural beauty attracts more than just residents pursuing the good life. Businesses find Scottsdale a great place to thrive, too. The Scottsdale Airpark is one of the largest employment centers in Arizona, boasting nearly 48,000 employees in more than 2,500 businesses. SkySong, located just a few miles south of Downtown, is a high tech innovation center designed to help companies grow by providing services and programs offered or facilitated by Arizona State University. Scottsdale business also means tourism. More than 8 million people visit Scottsdale annually generating an economic impact of $2.9 billion. Scottsdale is home to some of the finest resort and hotel properties in the world, from the Four Seasons and Princess to the trendy “W” in the Downtown.
Vans Warped Tour August 02, 2016. Vans Warped Tour is making its 2016 debut at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. vanswarpedtour.com
Arabian National Breeder Finals Horse Show Sept. 29-Oct. 2, 2016. The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona is back for the return of the National Arabian Breeder Finals in the fall. scottsdaleshow.com
FOR MORE INFO SCOTTSDALE TOURISM & EVENTS 7506 E. Indian School Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-312-2459 scottsdaledowntown.com
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A DAY IN SCOTTSDALE Scottsdale is the Valley’s lap of luxury. It’s where the beautiful people come to party or retire 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:
10 a.m.: Scottsdale Fashion Square Start your day shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square, the city’s multi-story luxury mall in the middle of town. Shoppers will find Barneys New York, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton and Gucci among hundreds of other retailers of similar upscale caliber.
fashionsquare.com
Noon: Lunch at Rehab Burger Therapy Rehab Burger Therapy was founded on the idea that everyone deserves a break from the daily grind. A belief that it’s actually therapeutic to slow down and celebrate life’s simple pleasures like the company of friends, great music and a ridiculously delicious burger.
rehabburgertherapy.com
2 p.m.: Fun at Topgolf Get into the swing of things at the premier entertainment and event venue in Scottsdale with fun point-scoring golf games for all skill levels, upscale bar food and drinks, music and more.
topgolf.com/us/riverwalk
4 p.m. Happy Hour at Second Story Liquor Bar Second Story Liquor Bar’s happy hour menu, which is served from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, combined with the seasoned bartenders’ encyclopedic cocktail knowledge, knocks it out of the park every time.
secondstoryliquorbar.com
7 p.m.: Franco’s Italian Caffe Franco’s serves authentic Florentine Italian cuisine made with love and care. Take a culinary journey through a fivecourse, traditional Italian meal.You’ll feel like you’re dining in Florence.
francosscottsdale.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
Frank Lloyd Wright Spire
BONUS: Maya Day & Nightclub pool parties Party with the pretty people at the biggest Vegas-style pool party in Arizona. Get your party shoes on for this experience like no other poolside party outside of the strip.
mayaclubaz.com
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WELCOME TO SUN Tempe is home to the main campus of Arizona State University, which has the largest enrollment in the country. It’s a college town with a strong, urban sensibility.
7 a.m.: Run at Tempe Beach Park Use the cool Arizona morning to jog around the man-made Tempe Town Lake, which has a large, flat, paved perimeter that’s perfect for various run lengths and experience levels.
tempe.gov/parks
9 a.m.: Grab a bagel at Chompie’s Chompie’s is a New York-style deli that makes the best bagels and bialys in 35 varieties. If you’re hungry for more, make a sit-down meal out of the trip. It’s hard to go wrong here.
chompies.com
10 a.m.: Shop the Mill Avenue District If you’re into vintage threads and boutique shops, walk the Mill Avenue District. From antique bookstores to Urban Outfitters, it’s a mix of unique finds. Be sure to check out the nearby Buffalo Exchange and Meat Market Vintage, too.
downtowntempe.com
Arizona State University Music Building 14
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DEVIL COUNTRY!
Noon: Lunch at Four Peaks
5 p.m.: Nosh at The Handlebar
The founders of Four Peaks Brewing Company are a close-knit crew of beer enthusiasts who got tired of paying for beer, so they figured by brewing it themselves, they could drink as much as they wanted for free. Today, they craft exceptional beer to be able to share it with good people. The food is pretty outstanding.
As you may glean from the name, this is a bicycle-friendly bar. Located in the cute, boutique Mill Avenue District, Handlebar is a fun place to try a beer, bratwurst and some fries before your next adventure. Whatever you do, get the pepper ranch and beer cheese dipping sauces with fries.
fourpeaks.com
3 p.m.: Hike on Papago Buttes Those pretty red rocks you may see off in the distance are the Papago Buttes (pronounced “beauts,” like beautiful) in Papago Park. This park is just outside of Tempe but offers an expansive hiking area that includes the Phoenix Zoo and the famed Hole-in-the-Rock formation. It’s sure to be Instagram-worthy.
phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/ papago-park
handlebaraz.com
8 p.m.: Laugh at the Tempe Improv A trip to the Tempe Improv to see a good comedian is always a good time. Drawing some of the biggest headliners in comedy, the Improv guarantees a night full of laughter. One thing to remember: The seating is first come first serve, so try to get there early.
tempeimprov.com
Get the
RECOGNITION you deserve! SPRING-SUMMER 2016
Restaurants: Italian
Franco’s Italian Caffé
ONLINE STORE Many more styles and sizes available online
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A DAY IN THE EAST
VALLEY
Some of the biggest cities in the East Valley are Mesa, Gilbert and Chandler. Within brief driving distances between them, visitors can easily enjoy the best each town has to offer in a single, productive day.
10 a.m.: See a gunfight at Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse
7 a.m.: Hike Siphon Draw or visit Saguaro Lake
rawhide.com
The Superstition Mountains are a volcanic range about an hour outside of Phoenix. Perhaps one of the most popular hikes within the range is located in Lost Dutchman State Park. The Siphone Draw Trail takes you on a scenic, four-mile (round trip) hike into the Siphon Draw canyon. Saguaro Lake, which is named for the stoic cacti surrounding it, was formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam in 1930. It was the last of the reservoirs to be built on the Salt River.
alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/siphondraw-trail
See the roughest, toughest stunt show around. These boys are the reason the West was wild. Witness gunfights, daring falls and all the antics of Rawhide’s Rough Riders.
1 p.m.: The Farm at Agritopia The Farm at Agritopia is a 15-acre USDA Certified Organic urban farm in the heart of the 166-acre Agritopia community. It hosts more than 100 crops, as well as sheep, chickens and honeybees. While here, visitors can walk the pathways to see the farm in production. The farm also offers tours and U-Picks throughout the growing seasons, information for which is available online.
thefarmatagritopia.com
5 p.m.: Rosa’s Mexican Grill After a day of activity, head to Rosa’s Mexican Grill, an institution in Mesa for more than 20 years. Rosa’s is beloved for serving the finest “Baja Style” Mexican food in Arizona. Its trophy wall is covered with numerous awards received for its fine food and dining. Don’t miss the chimichanga.
osasgrill.com
8 p.m.: Walk through Heritage District While you’re visiting, take a walk through Gilbert’s Heritage District, where history meets entertainment and modern restaurants and breweries each one are a stone’s throw from any corner.
hmpaz.com
BONUS: It’s a dog’s life at Cosmo Dog Park This paradise for pooches in Gilbert features a lake for dogs to launch themselves into and four fenced acres along with doggie drinking fountains, wash stations, an obstacle course, tables, benches and walkways.
gilbertaz.gov/cosmo-park
Saguaro Lake 16
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A DAY IN PHOENIX 6 a.m.: Lux Central
Noon: Go Old School at The Duce
Located on the Central Avenue Corridor, this coffeehouse (that also serves dinner and cocktails) is the place to see all the hipsters who enjoy starting their remote workday “at the office.” Lux has amazing drip coffees, pastries, a variety of seating options (indoor and outdoor) and just hums with people networking. Plus: It isn’t bad people watching.
The Duce is a retro-chic warehouse that is a hipster paradise. From the crafty and surplus store to the vintage workout classes held in an actual boxing ring to the art deco bar, mason jar cocktails and delicious comfort food from a vintage camper. Play Ping-Pong, old school Scrabble boards or just make your own fun on old workout equipment.
10 a.m.: Crack your spine at Changing Hands Bookstore
2 p.m.: Take an Arizona brewery tour
luxcoffee.com
If it’s refreshing for you to see a crowded bookstore, Changing Hands will feed your soul. This large, long-standing bookshop pairs its titles with beer, coffee, snacks and author events without a texting teen in sight.
changinghands.com
theducephx.com
We hope you had a big lunch, because the 5-hour Arizona Brewery Tour is the easiest and most popular way to experience Arizona craft breweries. Whether you are on vacation, at a conference, or a long time Arizonan with a craving to experience new beer, a HOP’on Arizona Brewery Tour is a great way to discover the local craft-brew scene.
azbrew.com
7 p.m.: Dinner at La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria This might be the best place for people watching in Phoenix. The food is pretty exceptional, too. Pastries, creative breakfasts and gourmet pizzas star at this chic bakery/cafe with a grocery section.
lagrandeorangegrocery.com 9 p.m.: Live music at Crescent Ballroom
Crescent Ballroom is the best music venue for an intimate show with 500 of your best friends. Many of the hottest indie bands have taken the Crescent stage over the years, and its light rail accessibility makes it a popular spot for people who hate parking downtown. The other perk is that if you’re not feeling the band, you can just take a break in the Crescent Lounge, where there’s a low-key neighborhood bar vibe. Crescent also has a limited kitchen that serves the best burritos you’ll find at 9 p.m. in Phoenix.
crescentphx.com
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A DAY IN GLENDALE Glendale has hosted the two biggest sporting events — the Super Bowl and College Football Playoff National Championship — in back to back years. So you know the city has some swagger. Here’s how to spend a day in the Arizona Cardinals’ hometown.
Noon: Lunch at Mama Gina’s Pizzeria
6 p.m.: Dinner at Desert Rose Steakhouse
7 a.m.: Breakfast at Kiss the Cook Restaurant
From Tanger Outlets, you can walk to Mama Gina’s, a family-run restaurant that serves amazing pizza and homemade food in a cool, urban, industrial interior with a lot of wood and exposed vents painted bright red.
mamaginaspizzeria.com
The minds behinds Desert Rose have taken the backyard-style restaurant trend to a whole new level, combining Desert Rose Steakhouse, Desert Rose Pizza & Gastro Pub and Desert Rose Cigar Lounge & Club in a renovated Glendale welding facility and bringing fine food and a whole lot of backyard fun to one property.
No matter what deliciousness you decide to have for breakfast, you’ll always want to go back to Kiss the Cook for the basket of mini muffins that come with your breakfast. You can’t go wrong with Kiss the Cook, but it’s very popular so be prepared to wait ... but it’s more than worth the wait.
kissthecookrestaurant.com
10 a.m.: Shopping at Tanger Outlets at Westgate Tanger Outlets offers something for everyone in the West Valley, located near the Westgate Entertainment District, the University of Phoenix Stadium and Gila River Arena. The outdoor mall is a great way to enjoy the Arizona weather and find amazing deals and fashions, too.
tangeroutlet.com/glendale
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2 p.m.: Have some fun at Dave & Buster’s After a great lunch, you can walk to Dave & Buster’s Westgate, where adults and kids can get their game faces on. Be sure not to miss the Star Wars Battle OPod, where you take control of the coolest vehicles in the Star Wars universe and pilot them to victory.
daveandbusters.com
desertrosesteakhouse.com
9 p.m.: Toe tap your way to Shout! House Dueling pianists play rock ‘n’ roll tunes from the 1950s until now at this highenergy, fun-filled bar with American grub. It’s impossible to walk out of here without a smile on your face. Bonus: Walk through Historic Glendale The downtown historic area of Glendale has dozens of antique shops, interesting restaurants and a beautiful park. It’s the perfect place to find that item that will create a lifetime memory of your visit. historic-glendale.net
GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL
Desert Rose Steakhouse’s signature is Certified Angus beef, slightly seasoned & seared. We also feature 1/2 lb burgers, lightly seasoned, seared & grilled on an open flame. Looking to stay on the lighter side, try our signature salads or homemade soups. We love craft beers and have a large variety of local brews on tap, signature cocktails from our mixologist, excellent wine list, or try our whiskey or vodka flights. Sunday - Thursday 11am-11pm • Friday - Saturday 11am-12 midnight
6729 N. 57TH DR. GLENDALE AZ 85301 • desertrosesteakhouse.com • 623-937-3004
GET YOUR ZEN ON IN SEDONA
Sedona’s beautiful rock formations in varying hues of orange and red is an otherworldly setting known for being a place to find zen and inner light. Here’s the best way to go about that, if we do say so ourselves.
6 a.m.: Sedona Spirit yoga, vortex or hiking tour You know that picture of a woman doing yoga on the peak of a red rock that made you want to visit Sedona? Now you can be her! Sedona Spirit offers customizable tours to sacred sites, for aspiring yogis or just plain old hikes through the red rocks. You can also put your energies to the test and visit vortecies with a guide. Talk about a way to start the day!
yogalife.net
8 a.m.: Slip into Slide Rock This is Mother Nature’s ultimate Slip ‘N’ Slide. Slide Rock State Park is a state park that takes its name from a natural water slide formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek.
azstateparks.com/Parks/SLRO
10 a.m.: Shop at Tlaquepaque Nestled beneath giant sycamore trees on the banks of beautiful Oak Creek, Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village is in a class by itself. Tlaquepaque is the most distinctive shopping complex to be found in the Southwest — or just about anywhere else.
tlaq.com 22
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Noon: Lunch at René at Tlaquepaque After working up an appetite shopping, you’ll be regaled by a menu of Continentalinfluenced dishes, like roasted duck with sun-dried cherry sauce, Rocky Mountain rainbow trout and free-range chicken piccatta, crisp salads and elegant appetizers (don’t miss the lobster martini).
renerestaurantsedona.com
2 p.m.: Align your chakras at Amara Resort and Spa Realign your chakras, from your head to your toes. From facials to foot and hand rituals, Amara Resort and Spa’s Mii Amo is prepared to provide the ultimate spa services. The spa’s signature facial is Moon Chasing Sun, which alternates the use of hot and cold stones during a concentrated scalp massage.
amararesort.com/sedona-hotel/spaservices.html
5 p.m.: Dinner at Elote Everyone who leaves Elote Cafe can be heard saying, “That’s the best meal I’ve had in a long time.” Elote serves the cuisine of Mexico culled from more thaty 15 years of travels through Mexico by chef Jeff Smedstad. Elote Cafe features local products such as wines from Page Springs Winery, Black Mesa Goat cheese and Sedona/Verde Valley area produce.
elotecafe.com
7 p.m.: Reconnect with nature with wine at L’Auberge de Sedona L’Auberge Restaurant on Oak Creek has the most extensive wine menu in Sedona, so, naturally, you should end your day with a night cap in the forest at the edge of Oak Creek. Catch the sunset through the tree branches and embrace how much life slows down when you’re in Sedona.
lauberge.com/dining
Voted Ranking Arizona #1 Steakhouse Since 2011 3101 EAST CAMELBACK ROAD, PHOENIX, 602-955-3666 PHOENIX SAN DIEGO LA JOLLA donovanssteakhouse.com
LIVING AMONG LUMBERJACKS 7 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
8 a.m.: Wet Beaver Creek’s Bell Trail This popular trail takes between four and six hours, round trip, and is moderately difficult. Most hikers walk just over 3 miles to Bell Crossing (known to locals as “The Crack”), which features a swimming hole, before turning around.
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
3 p.m.: Check into Hotel Monte Vista Built in 1926, this classic hotel is a three-minute walk from the Amtrak train station and 1.5 miles from the Lowell Observatory. The hotel is allegedly haunted, and many guests, including the actor John Wayne, have reported encounters with ghosts.
hotelmontevista.com
6 p.m.: Dinner at Beaver Street Brewery You can watch the chefs create your meal in Beaver Street Brewery’s open kitchen or watch the brewer’s create Beaver Street Brewery’s handcrafted ales and lagers behind the bar.
beaverstreetbrewery.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.
Sunset Crater volcano 24
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BEAR DOWN IN TUCSON The thing about Tucson is it’s a large metro that revolves around the University of Arizona. If you see Wildcats — noted for their blue and red college gear — don’t be alarmed. It’s just a part of Tucson’s community spirit. Here’s how, as Wildcats would say, you “bear down” in southern Arizona.
8:30 a.m.: Rock climbing at Mount Lemmon
2 p.m.: Pool party at Casino Del Sol As Morris Day would say: “This party isn’t for everyone, only the sexy people.” Casino Del Sol Resort hosts some of the best pool parties featuring some of the best beach bodies in Southern Arizona.
7 a.m.: Breakfast at Frank’s
Mount Lemmon provides an equal amount of diverse rock climbing, from classic multi-pitch traditional routes to bolted sport climbs. Almost all of Mount Lemmon’s climbs are on south facing crags, offering the best winter, spring and fall climbing weather in the country.
summitpost.org/mt-lemmon/151231
This isn’t classy dining by any stretch of the hungry spectrum, but, boy, does Frank’s have the best breakfast in town! All the staples for a breakfast joint are on the menu with a southern Arizona kick.
franksrestaurant.com
Noon: Lunch at Baja Cafe of Tucson After working up an appetite on the slopes, descend upon Baja Cafe for a refueling meal. This mom-and-pop restaurant blends American comfort food with the Southwestern flair that Tucson is known for. We always find ourselves craving Baja’s from-scratch pancakes or the mouthwatering Wildcat Benedict.
bajacafetucson.com
casinodelsol.com
5 p.m.: Walk 4th Avenue Fourth Avenue, between 9th Street and University Boulevard, is a collection of the boutique shopping that tends to form around college campuses, such as the University of Arizona.
fourthavenue.org
6 p.m.: Dinner at Tucson Tamale Company When Food Network star Alton Brown traveled the country on a 46-city lecture and performance tour, he raved about Tucson Tamale Company. His top tamale picks: The Santa Fe, with pork loin, green chile sauce and cheese; and the chile relleno, with green chiles stuffed with cheese and wrapped in a roasted red pepper.
tucsontamale.com
8 p.m.: Catch a show at Arizona Theatre Company ATC’s Tucson home is a fitting showcase for the top-quality theatre that happens inside. The Temple of Music and Art, located in historic downtown Tucson, is a refurbished 1927 theatre, built in the Spanish Colonial style that flavors so much of Tucson. Inside, the intimate 627-seat theatre ensures a great view from every location – no seat is more than 66 feet from the stage.
arizonatheatre.org
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AZRE: ARIZONA COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
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TRAVEL TIPS YOU’RE
IN ARIZONA. NOW WHAT?
GETTING AROUND 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
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Uber
Clean Air Cab
Phoenicians are increasingly using the Uber ridesharing app 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 Uber app
If you’re set on taking a cab, do so with a clean conscience. Clean Air Cab uses a fleet of Prii (the official plural form of Prius) and guarantees a happy ride, but it’s also an award-winning local business. To reserve: 480.777.9777
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
Silvercar Want to travel in style? Silvercar is a car rental company that takes makes life easy. You’ll always get a classy silver Audi A4. No surprises or convincing you significant other that the red mustang really isn’t worth the extra $40 per day. All Silvercar rentals automatically come with GPS, WiFi and satellite radio. To reserve: Download the Silvercar app
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.
TRAVEL TIPS THINGS
TO KNOW
DEGREES OF SEPARATION Arizona is a state where you can go skiing and sunbathe in the same day with just a short drive from Flagstaff to Phoenix. The state is versatile, but that means visitors need to plan ahead. If you are primarily staying in Phoenix, but intend to see the sunrise at the Grand Canyon, you’re
going to wish you brought closed-toe shoes, pants and a jacket. If you’re planning to head south, toward the border, you’re going to see less of a tundra-desert dichotomy, but you may face a whole new set of climate challenges.
Northern Arizona
Central and southern Arizona
What’s in season in Northern Arizona:
What’s in season in central Arizona:
Average temperature (low, high, rainfall) May 67F 30F 0.63” June 77F 36F 0.43” July 81F 46F 2.36” August 78F 46F 3.46” September 73F 37F 2.56” Hiking and running outdoors, lots of fun festivals
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Average temperature (low, high, rainfall) May 95F 69F 0.12” June 104F 78F 0.04” July 106F 83F 1.04” August 104F 83F 0.98” September 100F 77F 0.63” Sun is shining, pack plenty of sunblock
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TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS STAYCATIONS Boulders Resort & Spa
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Phoenician
The newly-renovated Boulders Resort is a peaceful paradise that offers summer amenities and programs designed for a blissful adult getaway with rates that start at $109 per night.
Summer Beach Party at the Princess kicks off Memorial Day weekend with the grand opening of 102 all-new guest rooms and the resort’s sixth and largest pool, Sunset Beach, with 9,000 square feet of luxurious white sand, a splash pad and glamorous cabanas from $169 per night.
Discover AAA Five Diamond luxury at The Phoenician with rates starting at just $169 per night and enhance your stay with signature spa specials at The Centre for Well-Being.
Hotel Valley Ho
ThRoyal Palms is offering Luxe Lounging — rooms from $149 per night (available Memorial Day through Labor Day). Includes accommodations, two $40 Alvadora Spa credits, one $25 T. Cook’s credit and two welcome cocktails at The Mix Up Bar.
theboulders.com
scottsdaleprincess.com
Experience the ultimate summer stay starting at $149 nightly with the Stay2Play Package. Enjoy a $50 daily resort credit, two welcome drinks, complimentary upgraded internet and a special gift upon arrival.
hotelvalleyho.com
thephoenician.com/offers
Royal Palms Resort and Spa, A Destination Hotel
royalpalmssummer.com
Photo courtesy Boulders Resort & Spa 32
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TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS NORTHERN ARIZONA L’Auberge de Sedona
Enchantment Resort
Sonesta ES Suites Flagstaff
Surround yourself with towering red rocks and the babbling bank of Oak Creek within one of the 87 luxury guest rooms and cottages on this 11-acre resort. The resort just underwent a $25 million refurbishment that included a new outdoor pool, yoga classes and stargazing sessions.
This resort combines luxury with rugged grandeur inspired by Native American culture. The adobe casitastyle accommodations offer world-class comforts amid the Sedona red rocks.
This contemporary and stylish allsuite hotel is 6.6 miles from the Lowell Observatory and 7.7 miles from the Walnut Canyon National Monument. Upgraded suites add fireplaces.
Hidden Meadow Ranch
PICTURE PERFECT
lauberge.com
Amara Resort & Spa Set against a superb backdrop of red-rock buttes and steps from the banks of Oak Creek, this hotel offers breathtaking views. It’s also just a block from uptown Sedona’s shopping and restaurants.
amararesort.com
enchantmentresort.com
Stay in a cozy log cabin on a private ranch community that started as a lodge and guest ranch, but has become a place where people can purchase gorgeous woodland homes.
hiddenmeadow.com
sonesta.com/flagstaff
Cathedral Rock Want to experience one of the most famous landmarks in Sedona? Cathedral Rock is one of the most-photographed sights in Arizona. This is a short, steep climb into the saddle points or “gaps” of Cathedral Rock. The towering side rocks keep the saddle points shaded and breezy; but the lower portion of the trail is bare red rock with total sun exposure, so be careful if you’re doing this in the summer.
Amara Resort 34
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TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS SOUTHERN ARIZONA Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment Tucson Desert Diamond’s casino floor is packed with the hottest slot machines and table games. Hungry? Your cravings are covered. Dancing? Monsoon Nightclub is there. When it’s all over, you can chill out in the hotel room.
ddcaz.com
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort Loew’s features 398 guest rooms, four restaurants and lounges, eight tennis courts, two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses, fitness trails, swimming pools and a full-service spa.
loewshotels.com
Miraval Resort & Spa The Miraval experience includes fresh locally sourced ingredients to make flavorful food, growth and development activities that make the heart pump, fabulous spa services that ignite the senses and an unrivaled team of well being specialists to help make positive and lasting change in your life.
miravalresorts.com
Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort The Conquistador’s newly renovated pool, new poolside cabanas and outdoor fire pits deliver the ultimate indoor/outdoor resort experiences with dramatic views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
hiltonelconquistador.com
Westward Look Resort Set high in the foothills overlooking Tucson and warmed by an abundance of desert sunshine, Westward Look Resort is a rejuvenating resort environment inspired by the beauty of its pristine natural surroundings.
westwardlook.com
Photo courtesy Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort 36
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TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS EAST VALLEY Arizona Golf Resort Hotel & Conference Center Convenient location with 186 resort rooms, on-site championship golf course and 12,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
arizonagolfresort.com
Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort Built in 1912, the historic Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort was one of the first hotels in Chandler and the newly renovated hotel provides contemporary comforts amid a rustic setting. The hotel boasts the first golf course created in the state and a host of distinctive amenities.
sanmarcosresort.com
Phoenix Marriott Tempe at The Buttes Set against an inspiring backdrop of a majestic hillside butte with breathtaking panoramic views of blue skies and desert sunsets, the resort attracts attendees with its cascading waterfalls, sparkling pools, first class dining and exceptional meeting facilities.
marriott.com
Phoenix Marriott Tempe Buttes 38
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The Saguaro Scottsdale Bright pink, orange and yellow walls make The Saguaro stand out in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, where the arts district and Civic Center Park meet. Meanwhile, the hotel’s pool, spa and meals prepared by Iron Chef winner Jose Garces make The Saguaro stand out among its peers.
thesaguaro.com
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa Arizona’s premier Native American-owned luxury resort boasts 500 culturally themed rooms, 36-hole Troon North Golf Club, the Aji spa, four pools, a 111-foot waterslide, Koli Equestrian Center and Rawhide, an 1880s Western town theme park.
wildhorsepassresort.com
TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS DUDE RANCHES Bumble Bee Ranch Adventures
Lazy K Bar Ranch
Tanque Verde Ranch
Horseback riding, cattle drives, nature hikes and Western dinners. Guided history-filled tours through Bumble Bee Creek, into the mountains and through the scenic Sonoran Desert. Guest accommodations are available.
Originally a homestead for the Staggs Family in the 1920s, the Lazy K is now a dude ranch. Located on 160 acres in the Tucson Mountains, this casual ranch offers horseback riding, hiking, wagon rides, nightly cookouts and plenty of relaxation whether for family time or as a corporate retreat.
Tanque Verde Ranch, founded in 1868 and located on 640 acres east of Tucson, offers horseback riding, tennis, guided hiking, mountain biking, nature walks, weekly breakfast rides and outdoor BBQs. All included in the nightly rate.
bumblebeeranch.com
lazykbarranch.com
Rancho de los Caballeros Rancho de los Caballeros is Arizona’s premier guest ranch, where you can sense the thrill of a desert trail ride or challenge yourself to a round of golf at Los Caballeros Golf Club.
ranchodeloscaballeros.com
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tanqueverderanch.com
White Stallion Ranch The True family invites guests to share in the timeless traditions of a working cattle ranch while enjoying all the comfort and service of a top-notch resort, nestled against the west side of the Saguaro studded Tucson mountains.
whitestallion.com
TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS BED AND BREAKFAST
Boots and Saddles Boots and Saddles, Sedona Bed and Breakfast, was awarded the TripAdvisor. com Traveler’s Choice Award for the last nine years and labeled as the best Bed and Breakfast in the U.S.
oldwestbb.com
Briar Patch Inn Stay in one of the 19 cottages nestled in Oak Creek Canyon and enjoy a peaceful, natural setting. Located three miles from shopping, dining and great views of the Sedona sunset.
briarpatchinn.com Sedona Views
Not all B&Bs have to be renovated historic cottages. Sedona Views is located in a multi-level contemporary house on a hill with stunning views of the red rocks. Each room has a private patio and entrance. Though residents will feel isolated among nature, the home is a short drive to downtown Sedona.
sedonaviewsbb.com
The Canyon Wren Looking for a cabin for two where you and your significant other can comfortably retreat after a day of hiking or shopping for crystals? 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, the recently opened Vineyards is a romantic, secluded getaway overlooking Arizona’s wine country. The proprietors, who found the location on Craigslist, of all places, pride themselves on Midwest hospitality and a solid homemade breakfast.
thevineyardsbandb.com
Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona 42
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Briar Patch Inn Cabins in Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona Arizona
A
9-acre oasis nestled in Oak Creek Canyon along the lush banks of Oak Creek. Nineteen Cabins with Southwestern charm and Native American Art, fireplaces, kitchens and private patios. A healthy, homemade breakfast is included each morning and can be enjoyed creekside with live music in the summer or fireside in the lodge during the winter months. Relax with a soothing massage in our creekside gazebo. Family owned and operated for 34 years. Sunset Magazine The West’s Best Cabins 2014 Top Choices Fodor’s & Frommers #1 B&B Ranking Arizona 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2014 3190 N. State Route 89A Sedona Arizona, 86336 www.briarpatchinn.com 888.809.3030
TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS UNIQUELY ARIZONA Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa
Jerome Grand Hotel
An Arizona landmark since its opening on Feb. 23, 1929, when it was crowned The Jewel of the Desert.
The Jerome Grand Hotel was originally constructred in 1926 under the name United Verde Hospital. After the hospital became a hotel, many alleged hauntings began to occur and is now popular among traveling ghost hunters.
arizonabiltmore.com Hassayampa Inn
Since 1927, when writers and artists were drawn to the stunning landscapes of the Southwest, the Hassayampa Inn has been the “Grand Jewel of Prescott,” a fashionable resort for the well-heeled. Georgia O’Keeffe stayed there. So did D.H. Lawrence, Clark Gable, Greta Garbo, Tom Mix and Will Rogers.
hassayampainn.com
jeromegrandhotel.com
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa Set on 53 acres on Camelback Mountain, this boutique resort is about four miles from Old Town Scottsdale offers spectacular views of Paradise Valley and the mountains beyond.
sanctuaryoncamelback.com
La Posada Rated as one of the “World’s Best Places to Stay” by Condé Nast Traveler Gold List in 2009, this hotel is the Last Great Railroad Hotel built in 1929 by the Santa Fe Railway for the Fred Harvey Company. It offers guests three gardens (Sunken, Rose and Potager), a wedding terrace and the fabulous Turquoise Restaurant.
laposada.org
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa 44
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AZ TOTEM ART Custom Bird Feeders ❋ Ceramic Art ❋ Totems
aztotemart.com
By Appointment Only 602.677.5999
TOP 5 | ACCOMMODATIONS CASINO RESORT DESTINATIONS Apache Gold Casino Resort Apache Gold Casino Resort is a 146-room hotel, an 18-hole championship golf course, convention center, nearby fishing and sightseeing.
apache-gold-casino.com
Casino Del Sol Resort Mediterranean architecture surrounds the gaming space, featuring 1,000 nickel, quarter, $1, $5 and multi-denominational slot machines. The $100 million resort, with luxury rooms and suites, has two new restaurants, a spa and 20,000 square feet of meeting space.
casinodelsol.com
Talking Stick Resort A distinct resort and entertainment destination in Scottsdale, Talking Stick Resort offers luxuries such as a rejuvenating open-air spa, eight worldclass restaurants, 10 entertainment lounges, a lively 240,000 square foot gaming floor and two pools.
talkingstickresort.com
Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort Twin Arrows, located east of Flagstaff, is northern Arizona’s premier casino resort destination, offering luxury amenities and best-in-class gaming.
twinarrows.com
Talking Stick 46
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We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center Located off Route 87 on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Reservation, this refined casino and resort offers a pair of 18-hole golf courses, a 24-hour casino and a day spa, fitness center, a sprawling outdoor pool and seven restaurants.
wekoparesortandconferencecenter.com
R E G I S T E R AT A Z T O U R I S M C O N F E R E N C E . C O M
SAVE THE DATE T H E W E S T I N L A PA LO M A , T U C S O N , A Z
JULY 11-13, 2016
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I N C O M M E R C I A L R E A L E S TAT E
REVISED
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TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS LOCAL FAVORITES Durant’s Looking for a classic chophouse? Durant’s opened more than 65 years ago, evident from its red velvet interior finishes, and has served the likes of Clark Gable and other classic Hollywood royalty. So, really, you can say you’re dining like a king whilst in Durant’s booths. durantsaz.com Pizzeria Bianco Chef Chris Bianco started making artisinal pizzas in the back of a grocery store in the 1980s. Now, he has multiple restaurant locations in Phoenix and Tucson, and won the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Southwest in 2003. Best known for his pizzas, it’s hard to go wrong with anything from his kitchen. pizzeriabianco.com
The Vig There are multiple locations for The Vig around town, each with an upscale neighborhood feel. Head over for bocce ball and a beer or take on some tough choices from the mouthwatering menus. No matter how you spend your time at The Vig, you’ll never feel rushed or like a tourist. thevig.us
The Stockyards In 1947, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, opened its doors for the first time with a menu focused solely on its historical past: beef. Staying true to its heritage, The Stockyards’ menu continues to feature only the finest corn-fed, aged steaks and prime rib. stockyardssteakhouse.com
Sierra Bonita You know a restaurant is pure Arizona when former Gov. Rose Mofford eats dinner there nearly every day for eight years after in opens. Sierra Bonita take a Southwestern menu and puts new and inventive twists on those menu items to create a perfect blend of Mexican, Native American and cowboy cultures. sierrabonitagrill.com
BEST ENCHILADAS Gadzooks Rumor has it that founder Aaron Pool used to demand enchiladas for breakfast, lunch and dinner as a kid. Once you’ve tried his build-your-own enchilada joint, you’ll probably feel the same way. Gadzooks offers interesting filling options and a killer tortilla soup. Among favorite fixings are the short rib and cornbread enchiladas. gadzooksaz.com
Photo courtesy Pizzeria Bianco 50
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TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS HIPSTER HANGOUTS Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails Hounds may be man’s best friend, but Blue Hound is your stomach’s new best friend. A decadent menu free of butter and heavy cream brings big taste without that heavy feeling afterward. It also saves room for dessert. Mixologist Stephanie Teslar is an agave spirit master, so keep that in mind while looking over the cocktail menu. bluehoundkitchen.com Clever Koi This Chinese-American fusion restaurant is one of the greatest additions to the Phoenix foodie scene. It offers buildyour-own bowls, exquisite steamed buns and dumplings, craft cocktails and a casual, yet upscale atmosphere. This is great for dinner, but the lunch menu offers chilled green tea noodles that are worth visiting for two meals in one day. thecleverkoi.com
DeSoto Central Martket This red-bricked neighborhood market, situated in a former auto garage at the confluence of the Arts District, opens its doors at 6:30 a.m. every morning. The goal of the recently redeveloped market is to serve food to-go or for in-house dining. It’s as social as you want it to be. In addition to Teaspressa, a tea-centric beverage bar, patrons will experience a food court that caters to fine dining tastes, such as oysters and Latin-Asian fusion. Overseen by Chef Stephen Jones, this market is perfect for a group of people who just don’t know what sounds good. Because everything will. There’s also free Wi-Fi in the court. desotocentralmarket.com
La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria La Grande Orange is an artisinal grocery, wine and beer store that serves healthy breakfasts and lunches that come with a side of novelty books and goods. The establishment also offers vegan and vegetarian options that are wholesome and so, so flavorful. lagrandeorgangegrocery.com Welcome Diner Size doesn’t matter when it comes to big tasting sandwiches, like those served out of the red and white trailer better known as the Welcome Diner. Parked amid artsty downtown houses, the Welcome Diner is a charming place to mingle with locals over draft beer, craft cocktails and comfort food. welcomediner.net
Photo courtesy Blue Hound Kitchen 52
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TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS STEAKS & CHOPS The Capital Grille More than two weeks before a steak is served to cusomters, The Capital Grille dry ages its meats for an unmistakable flavor and texture. The restaurant’s inhouse butchers then engage in what the restaurant calls and “intensive process” of cutting the meat for maximum enjoyment. Any place that cares that much about its diners’ experiences is ready for the most discerning patrons. thecapitalgrille.com
Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge offers one of Scottsdale’s best finedining experiences in an intimate, upscale environment. Its menu includes crab stuffed prawns, strawberry fields salad, elk tenderloin and New York steak. casinoarizona.com/ restaurants-lounges/ cholla-steakhouse casinoarizona.com
Desert Rose Steakhouse Capitalizing on the boom of backyardstyle restaurants and bars, Desert Rose Steakhouse is housed with Desert Rose Pizza & Gastro Pub and Desert Rose Cigar Lounge & Club in a hip renovated Glendale welding facility offering the best steaks and prime rib in the West Valley. desertrosesteakhouse.com
Don & Charlie’s Since 1981 Don & Charlie’s has been serving prime steaks, baby back ribs, prime rib and fresh fish and many other entrees that are indicative to the owners’ Chicago roots. A hot spot for sports fans, Don & Charlie’s also enjoys showing off its collection of sports memorabilia. donandcharlies.com
Donovan’s Steak & Chop House Donovan’s sets the standard of fine dining excellence. A classic steakhouse. A stylish, lively atmosphere. USDA Prime Steaks reign supreme. Mouthwatering steakhouse fare. A depth of wine variety that has earned the prestigious Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. donovanssteakhouse.com
Photo courtesy Donovan’s Steak & Chop House 54
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With eclectic cuisine like Crab Stuffed Jumbo Prawns and Bacon Wrapped Elk Tenderloin, Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge can satisfy any palate. One of the 10 Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale - USA Today Certificate of Excellence - TripAdvisor
I N S I D E CA S I N O A R I ZO N A 路 1 01 & M C K E L L I P S 路 4 8 0. 8 5 0.7 73 6 路 CA S I N OA R I ZO N A .C O M O n l i n e r e s e r v a t i o n s n o w a va i l a b l e. Lo c a l l y o w n e d a n d c a r i n g l y o p e ra t e d by t h e S a l t R i ve r Pi m a - M a r i c o p a I n d i a n C o m m u n i t y.
TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS MEXICAN Photo courtesy Sumo Maya
Barrio Cafe Established in 2002 by partners Wendy Gruber and Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza, Barrio Cafe was a dream come true for the duo. The neighborhood eatery is now everywhere, from Terminal 4 at the airport, to various Valley “barrios” such as Scottsdale and Phoenix. Chef Silvana serves authentic southern Mexican meals, prepped with a subtle French twist at times. Get the pomegrante guacamole, which is prepared table-side. barriocafe.com Elote Chef Jeff Smedstad prepares food inspired by 15 years of visiting Mexican markets south of the border. The menu is a classically trained chef’s love letter to corn and other staples of Mexican cuisine. The Sedona restaurant doesn’t take reservations and only serves dinner beginning at 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. elotecafe.com
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Los Dos Molinos Los Dos Molinos is an iconic, familyowned Phoenix restaurant that features festive decor and a kick of spice in its dishes. The adovada ribs bring people in the doors and the pitchers of margaritas don’t hurt either. losdosmolinosphoenix.com Macayo’s With a focus on community involvement and fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine, Macayo’s Mexican Kitchen grows its own farm-fresh chiles, blends them into delicious signature recipes and delivers each meal with unmatched hospitality. You will taste the 68 years of tradition in every dish. macayo.com Sumo Maya The minds behind Sumo Maya in Scottsdale have done a delicious job deconstructing traditional Mexican and Japanese dishes and re-imagining them to make them their own. Everything is served tapas style, which gives diners an opportunity to sample a wide variety of dishes and flavors. sumomaya.com
BEST SOUTHWEST Sierra Bonita Grill This local favorite pays homage to the Sierra Bonita Ranch, founded in 1872 and one of the oldest cattle ranches in the United States. The restaurant combines three cultures — Mexican, Native American and cowboy — to serve acclaimed dishes Hopper’s poppers, four jalapeños served with a blend of four cheeses; Albondigas, homemade meatball soup and corn tortilla; buttermilk chicken; and smoked red chile pork roast. Yippee ki-yay.
TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY Photo courtesy elements
Citizen Public House Known for its amaro meatloaf, the menu at Citizen Public House is expansive in scope (from venison strip to duck leg, scallops and veggie burgers) and relatively brief. Pair anything on the menu with the exquisite The Original Chopped Salad. You won’t regret it. citizenpublichouse.com elements From its extraordinary views of Paradise Valley, this award-winning array of farm-fresh American Cuisine with Asian accents presented by Food Network star and Chef Beau MacMillan features innovative seasonal menus incorporating local, organic produce, sustainable seafood, and hormone-free meat. sanctuaryoncamelback.com/dining/elements
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Paul Martin’s American Grill Paul Martin’s timeless interior design and floor plans, combined with its well-trained and gracious staff, creates an atmosphere that is both inviting and comfortable and offers a classic American restaurant with a California twist that serves fresh, locally sourced seasonal food, prepared from scratch. paulmartinsamericangrill.com Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain Market-driven American cooking stars at this high-end, romantic destination set in a historic home. The flavors of Arizona terroir shine through Quiessence’s dishes, all prepared with a contemporary spin on traditional and classic culinary techniques. qatthefarm.com
Windsor Tucked into its namesake historic Phoenix neighborhood, Windsor is a neighborhood bar and restaurant with a backyard-style patio that serves global comfort food and retro cocktails in one of the most hip, romantic restaurants in Central Phoenix. windsoraz.com
BEST BRUNCH Snooze, an AM Eatery Beyond a doubt, this is the best breakfast place in Phoenix. Go savory with the customizable Snooze Spuds Deluxe or sway to the sweet side with red velvet or banana pancakes. snoozeeatery.com
TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS ITALIAN Dahl & DiLuca Ristorante Italiano The dining room has an element of mystique, a magical aura that will take your breath away upon entering. The authentic and delicious Italian fare and homemade pastas that headline this romantic restaurant with villa-themed decor and grotto make you feel like you’ve been transported to Rome. dahlanddiluca.com Franco’s Italian Caffé After a brief hiatus, Franco Fazzuoli and Chef Steve Martin are impressing Italian cuisine seekers at a new Franco’s Italian Caffe location in Old Town Scottsdale. francosscottsdale.com
Marcellino’s Chef Marcellino Verzino has brought a taste of authentic Italy to Old Town Scottsdale. Patrons may notice there is no salt or pepper on the tables at Marcellino’s, due to the fact that he believes in the perfection of flavor from the kitchen. Many of the seasonal offerings are also grown on Verzino’s personal farm in Arizona or in the herb garden just outside the restaurant. marcellinoristorante.com Oregano’s A bit of Phoenix-based Chicago-style pizza that serves thin, stuffed and pan pizzas to the sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Big Band. Additionally, each location is filled with antiques personally selected by the CEO. oreganos.com
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Virtu Intimacy is the name of the game with this buzz-worthy restaurant. Don’t let the size of the dining room deter you from making reservations. The menu is constantly changing, with an emphasis on creative cuisine and easy-to-share dishes that harken to Chef Gio Osso’s Italian roots. virtuscottsdale.com
BEST BRUSCHETTA Postino Originally located in a renovated post office, Postino now has four locations in the Valley and one in Denver. With an impressive wine list, the second-biggest draw to the cafe is its bruschetta boards (they can be served on glutenfree bread). Prosciutto with figs and mascarpone is one of the favorites, but patrons can order up to four different topping types on one board. postinowinecafe.com
Photo courtesy Oregano’s
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
TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS SEAFOOD/SUSHI
Photo courtesy Ra Sushi Bluewater Grill Seafood Restaurant Bluewater is casual, fun, owner-operated and offers a kid’s menu, oyster bar, patio dining and a full bar with a wine list and happy hour. bluewatergrill.com Mastro’s Ocean Club Mastro’s Ocean Club combines worldclass service and seafood-focused cuisine in an elegant and energetic atmosphere. The restaurant’s menu features an impressive array of fresh upscale seafood, including favorites such as the three-tiered iced Seafood Tower, bone-in filet, lobster mashed potatoes and a one-of-a-kind warm butter cake. mastrosrestaurants.com
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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. They also celebrate half birthdays. Be sure to ask what kind of specials you can get. rasushi.com Salt Cellar While Salt Cellar’s speciality is seafood — baked, broiled, sauteed, deep-fried, steamed and sliced — prepared to exceed expectations, it’s the funky atmopshere — the dining rooms, bar and kitchen are underground — that makes Salt Cellar a must-visit restaurant. saltcellarrestaurant.com/
Stingray Sushi Stingray is a luxe, modern sushi lounge that combines the artful creation of sushi, Japanese fare and savory libations by offering inventive cocktails and Latin-infused Japanese dishes. Stingray has locations in Scottsdale Quarter, Phoenix and Chandler. stingraysushi.com
BEST FISH TACOS Joyride Tacos This Central Phoenix hot spot offers elevated Mexican street eats, drinks and patio seating in a hip, colorful setting. The crispy fish tacos are as good as any in Southern California. Joyride Tacos also has a Gilbert location.
TOP 5 | RESTAURANTS BOTTOMS UP Brewery: Four Peaks Four Peaks is the original and most beloved craft beer company in Arizona. Brewing since 1996 out of an old creamery, patrons can now visit the brick brewery to enjoy pub fare and the freshest suds from the tap. fourpeaks.com Cocktail: Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour B&T’s motto is “drink better,” and it’s hard not to at this relaxed cocktail lounge. Beware: As unpretentious as the parlour may be, you may accidentally leave a bit more of a cocktail snob than when you left. You can thank the creative, 16-page menu for that. As far as food goes, try the ramen burger and hurricane popcorn. bitterandtwistedaz.com
Draught: Angels Trumpet Ale House Look to the ever-changing chalkboards for dozens of unique craft beers, many of which are from Arizona breweries, on tap. There may be bars with more than 31 taps nearby, but Angels Trumpet Ale House definitely has the best beers on tap. Pair the beers with the house poutine or The Churchill sandwich. angelstrumpetalehouse.com Fun: Cobra Arcade Bar Cobra Arcade Bar has more than 40 vintage arcade games, 17 delicious beers on tap and 10 arcade-themed cocktails. cobraarcadebar.com
Live music: Valley Bar This is an undergound hot spot — literally ... it’s located on the lower level of a three-story mid-century building. Valley Bar offers live music, film, spoken word and comedy showcased in an intimate venue with a game room and cocktail lounge. valleybarphx.com
Best Happy Hour O.H.S.O. Eatery + Nanobrewery O.H.S.O., a brewery that offers 30-plus beers on tap and an extensive American contemporary menu, opens its back patio to pups and their owners. This is especially nice during the fall and winter months and also provides a scenic view of the canals running through Arcadia.
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TOP 5 | MUST
DO
A Day in the West Start your adventure with a 4x4 Jeep tour through the beautiful high desert surrounding Sedona, then saddle-up for a scenic one-hour horseback ride on a 45,000-acre working cattle ranch. adayinthewest.com Arizona Raft Adventures With an emphasis on adventure, education and fun, whitewater rafting on the Colorado River allows you to see places you have never seen before, do things you’ve never done before, and awake every morning to beauty so breathtaking the images will last a lifetime. azraft.com
ARIZONA Grand Canyon Railway Take an unforgettable ride on one of Grand Canyon Railway’s lovingly restored cars and hear folklore and tales from a crew that is still bewitched by its spectacular surroundings. Be entertained by authentic characters and musicians who bring the Old West to life. thetrain.com Lava River Cave This mile-long lava tube cave was formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock that erupted from a volcanic vent in nearby Hart Prairie. The cave is as cool as 42 degrees even in summer, and you may even find some ice inside. fs.usda.gov
Petrified Forest National Park History speaks volumes as you take in the spectacular scenery in the land where the surroundings have aged for 225 million years, turning wood into stone. The park is located in Northeast Arizona and features one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. nps.gov/pefo
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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
TOP 5 | MUST
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Desert Botanical Gardens The Desert Botanical Gardens features a variety of desert plant life and offers education programs for students and adults. Alongside touring the grounds are numerous lectures and art events throughout the year. dbg.org First Friday First Friday is a monthly art walk from 6 to 10 p.m. By starting at the Phoenix Public Library, located south of McDowell Road on Central Avenue, participants can pick up a First Friday brochure, which includes the member galleries, their locations and the best shuttle bus route. artlinkphoenix.com
CENTRAL ARIZONA Mystery Castle The Mystery Castle was built by Boyce Luther Gulley before his death in 1945, but his daughter lived here for decades afterwards. The castle is made largely of stone and other odd pieces that were recycled into use. The house has all kinds of whimsical features and inlaid pieces. Although most people would not consider it a castle or a masterpiece, it is definitely a one of a kind building. mymysterycastle.com Salt River Tubing Enjoy a floating picnic and experience the natural wonders of the Salt River in beautiful Tonto National Forest near Mesa. You may choose two,three, and five-hour trips that include float time and shuttle bus ride, weather and water flow permitting. saltrivertubing.com Â
Taliesin West Visit a national historical landmark constructed in the 1930s and designed after the surrounding desert. The school features architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright. franklloydwright.org
BEST NEW COFFEE SHOP The Teapot is a family-oriented coffee shop located on 5th Avenue off of Roosevelt in Downtown Phoenix. The Teapot offers a place for parents to enjoy coffee while children play without the fear of bothering other patrons. The concept came from the owners’ personal experiences with their 3-year-old son
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101 & TA L K I N G S T I C K W AY 路 S C O T T S D A L E 8 6 6 . 8 7 7 . 9 8 9 7 路 TA L K I N G S T I C K R E S O R T. C O M Best rates available online. Please gamble responsibly. Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
TOP 5 | MUST
DO
Kartchner Caverns State Park Discovered in 1974, these caverns recently opened to the public and feature stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. The park includes guided cave tours, a discovery center, interactive displays, gift shops, 62 camping sites, hiking and walking trails. azstateparks.com/parks/KACA
SOUTHERN ARIZONA Kitt Peak National Observatory Kitt Peak National Observatory supports the most diverse collection of astronomical observatories on Earth for nighttime optical and infrared astronomy and daytime study of the sun. noao.edu/kpno Old Tucson Studios Passing through the gates of a western frontier town, visitors from around the globe are transported back to a time when fearless men with six shooters ruled the Old West and the setting for the more than 300 movies and television productions filmed at the location since 1939. oldtucson.com
Titan Missile Museum Once one of America’s most top secret places, this National Historic Landmark site and one-of-a-kind museum gives visitors a rare look at the technology used by the United States to deter nuclear war. Tour the underground missile site. See the 3-ton blast doors, the 8-foot thick silo walls, and an actual Titan II missile in the launch duct. Visit the launch control center, experience a simulated launch and more. titanmissilemuseum.org Tombstone The name Tombstone creates images of gunfights and dusty streets, whiskey and Faro games, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and a plethora of old Western movie scenes. Tombstone has been called “The Town Too Tough to Die.” cityoftombstone.com
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TOP 5 | MUST Havasu Falls The waterfalls in the Grand Canyon are known for their natural pools and high calcium carbonate concentration in the water, which creates a vivid blue-green color and forms the natural travertine dams that occur in various places near the falls. havasupai-nsn.gov
DO
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Hoover Dam The Bureau of Reclamation started conducting tours through the Hoover Dam in 1937. Today, close to 1 million visitors a year take the tour and millions more drive across the dam. Hoover Dam is the highest concrete dam in the U.S. usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam
London Bridge In 1962, the 130-yearold London Bridge was discovered to be sinking into the Thames. In 1968, the bridge was put up for auction and Robert P. McCulloch was the winning bidder. He spent $7 million to move the bridge to Lake Havasu City. golakehavasu.com
Lowell Observatory Lowell Observatory hosts 85,000 visitors per year at their Steele Visitors Center, who take guided daytime tours and view various wonders of the night sky through the Clark Telescope and other telescopes. In 2011, the observatory was named one of “The World’s 100 Most Important Places” by Time magazine. lowell.edu
Meteor Crater Meteor Crater is the breath-taking result of a collision between a piece of an asteroid traveling at 26,000 mph and planet Earth approximately 50,000 years ago. meteorcrater.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES GRAND CANYON
Grand Canyon flyovers Sedona-based Enchantment Resort’s “Over-the-Top Grand Canyon Adventure Package” takes up to four guests on a once in a lifetime experience where they embark on a breathtaking flight from Sedona to the Grand Canyon and soar over one of the seven natural wonders of the world in a private helicopter. enchantmentresort.com
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Grand Canyon Movie in IMAX This IMAX movie opens with the beginning of man’s fragile kinship with the twisting 277-mile Grand Canyon in Arizona, then moves the audience through time with brief glimpses at the stone pages of human history. explorethecanyon.com Grand Canyon Skywalk The Grand Canyon Skywalk at Grand Canyon West extends 70 feet beyond the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, allowing visitors to gaze nearly 4,000 feet to the canyon floor, a height far exceeding those of the world’s largest skyscrapers. grandcanyonwest.com
Grand Canyon Trail Rides The half-day mule trip descends 2,300 feet down the North Kaibab Trail to the Supai Tunnel. Wranglers take riders of all levels into the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon every day. canyonrides.com Grand Canyon Whitewater Grand Canyon Whitewater rafting trips give you the opportunity to be in one of the most spectacular places on Earth. Whitewater rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is beyond your imagination and gives you a chance to experience the true spirit of the Canyon. grandcanyonwhitewater.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES PLACES TO COOL OFF
Big Surf Opened in 1969, Big Surf boasted the first wave pool in the United States. At a ceremony on August 17, 2013 the Waikiki Beach Wave pool was designated as an ASME Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. The recognition is for being the “first inland surfing facility in North America.” bigsurffun.com
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Golfland Sunsplash Golfland-Sunsplash is separated into two separate parks. Golfland operates year-round and features miniature golf courses, an arcade, a pizza restaurant, a go-cart track and bumper boats. Sunsplash operates in the summer and features 29 water-based attractions. golfland.com/mesa
Havasu Falls The vibrant blue water contrast against the striking red rocks of the Grand Canyon walls as Havasu Falls plunges nearly 100 feet into a wide pool of bluegreen waters. This, the most striking waterfall in the Grand Canyon, sports a wide sandy beach and plenty of shady cottonwood trees to relax by. havasupai-nsn.gov Slide Rock Slide Rock State Park takes its name from a natural water slide formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek. Tall red rock formations that are typical of the region also surround the park, which contains a 43-acre working apple farm. azstateparks.com/parks/slro Wet ’n’ Wild Phoenix Wet ’n’ Wild Phoenixis situated on approximately 35 acres, making it the largest theme park in the state. The water park features more than 30 exhilarating attractions for families and thrill seekers alike. wetnwildphoenix.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES OUTDOOR Pink Jeep Tours
Hiking the Havasu Canyon trail One of the most incredible outdoor adventures in the world — whether you decide to hike, ride a horse, or take a helicopter to the falls — the strenuous 8-mile trip between Hualapai Hilltop and the water forces you to earn the spectacular views of the five waterfalls of Havasu Canyon are a nearly impossible blue-green shade that even Crayola couldn’t hope to match. waterfallsofthegrandcanyon.com
Flagstaff Extreme Daredevils only! Adults and kids can test their ability to overcome obstacles — among the treetops — at Flagstaff Extreme. flagstaffextreme.com
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Pink Jeep Tours Take two- to five-hour tours through Sedona and the Grand Canyon, exploring ancient ruins, notable rock formations, or even pair your offroading tour with horseback riding with a combo tour. pinkjeeptourssedona.com
Verde Hot Springs 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. The remains of a former hot springs resort, there are still many pools available just after a brief hike near the Verde River. As a fair warning, there may be nudists. paysonrimcountry.com/MountainRecreation/Other-Points-of-Interest/ Verde-Hot-Springs Willow Dells Slickrock Trails What makes Prescott so appealing to mountain bikers is the variety of trails. The Willow Dells Slickrock Trails are some of the most challenging and rewarding, circling through the otherworldly Granite Dells — outcroppings that protrude from the earth like eroded drip castles. In the early mornings and evenings, the still water of Willow Creek reflects the mounds, adding to the surreal feel. cityofprescott.net
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES BEST PLACES TO THE KIDS Castles N’ Coasters The approximately 10-acre park features four outdoor 18-hole miniature golf courses, several rides and an indoor video game arcade. castlesncoasters.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. With more than 300 things to experience, our personal favorite is The Climber. It’s an interactive structure that hangs above the atrium and is fun for kids to explore. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
Great Arizona Puppet Theater The Great Arizona Puppet Theater offers puppet shows year round at its own theater — complete with soaring, handpainted arches — and Great Arizona Puppet Theater tours all across Arizona and beyond, so be sure to check its schedule. azpuppets.org
Sea Life Arizona Located in Arizona Mills, Sea Life is an aquarium built for kids that transports visitors into an amazing ocean world that provides close encounters with a vast array of creatures. visitsealife.com
Legoland Discovery Center Arizona Old and new fans of Lego rejoice. Legoland Discovery Center Arizona is an interactive attraction boasting two Lego rides, a 4D Cinema, a large, soft play area and an assortment of massive, Arizonaspecific models and renderings. legolanddiscoverycenter.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES NATIVE AMERICAN EXPERIENCES Hubbell Trading Post Feel the old wooden floor give slightly and squeak beneath your feet as you enter the oldest, continuously operating trading post on the Navajo Nation. As your eyes adjust to the dim lighting of the “bullpen,” you might catch a trader negotiating a deal with a Native American artist for their art. nps.gov/hutr
Navajo Arts & Crafts Enterprise The only enterprise of the Navajo Nation that specializes in handmade Navajo jewelry, such as bracelets, rings, belts necklaces and more, Navajo Arts & Crafts Enterprise also offers woven rugs and represents many artisans on and off the Navajo Reservation. gonavajo.com Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise Come visit the largest Indian Reservation in the United States. The Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise owns and operates three properties in the heart of Indian Country — Quality Inn Navajo Nation, Quality Inn Navajo Nation Capital and the Navajo Travel Center. explorenavajo.com
Pueblo Grande Museum A fully accessible 2/3-mile trail takes you through a prehistoric Hohokam archaeological village site with a partially excavated platform mound, ballcourt, and replicated prehistoric houses. There are three galleries to visit while at the museum, including a children’s hands-on gallery to help kids learn about the science of archaeology. pueblogrande.org Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community The SRPMIC operates two casinos on its land under the Casino Arizona brand name. It also operates Salt River Fields at Talking Stick — home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies — the first Major League Baseball spring training facility to be built on Indian land. srpmic-nsn.gov
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Journey into the ancient past of Arizona and discover what life was like more than 700 years ago.
The most accessible ancient ruins in the Southwest Open Daily 9-4:30 Summer Hours: July 1 - September 31, 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: Lee Kinnard and Rick Hossman
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES PERFORMING ARTS CULTURAL CENTERS Hale Centre Theatre Hale Centre Theatre is a 110-seat theater-in-the-round putting on familyfriendly shows throughout the year. haletheatrearizona.com Herberger Theater Herberger Theater is home to Actors Theatre, Arizona Theatre Company, and Center Dance Ensemble. Approximately 175,000 patrons visit the Herberger annually. herbergertheater.org
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Mesa Arts Center This unique, architecturally stunning, international award winning facility located in the heart of downtown Mesa is home to four theaters, five art galleries and 14 art studios that host concerts, performing arts, events, art activities, music, dance, shows, comedy and more. mesaartscenter.com
Orpheum Theatre After 12 years, $14 million and an incredible amount of perseverance, the historic Orpheum Theatre has been renovated for ‘adaptive reuse’. The Orpheum Theater hosts a great variety of first class productions, drawing thousands of people to a vibrant downtown venue. orpheum-theater.com Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts showcases a diverse season of dance, music, theater and film from around the world. More than 1,000 indoor and outdoor performances, educational programs, festivals and other events are presented and hosted at the Center each year. scottsdaleperformingarts.org
VISIT PHOENIX’S #1 ATTRACTION
The World’s Only Global Musical Instrument Museum® Ranked in the Top 20 Museums in the United States —2015 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award
MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | Open Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85050
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES IN THE AIR Hot Air Expeditions As you gently leave the Earth, you’ll be amazed at how light the balloon feels. During the flight you have an unobstructed 360-degree view to take excellent photographs of the Arizona mountains and desert. hotairexpeditions.com Maverick Helicopters Maverick Helicopters offers a list of unique air tours for every attraction seeker. It has helicopter tours that will take you deep into the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. maverickhelicopter.com
Red Rocks Biplane Tours Choose from four tours and view Sedona from above in the new WACO opencockpit biplane. sedonaairtours.com Skydive Arizona Home to the world’s largest drop zone, Skydive Arizona is the best way to fall in style. Tandem and solo jumps available. For those who just aren’t ready to jump, SkyVenture offers an indoor skyduving experience within a wind tunnel. skydiveaz.com
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters Since 1965, Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters has been showing guests the majesty of the Grand Canyon. papillon.com
ON THE WATER Barlett Lake Marina Lake Powell Resorts & Marina The popular way to spend a day at Lake Powell is to rent a houseboat and tour the beautiful 2,000 miles of shoreline. Guided expeditions also available. bartlettlake.com
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BlueWater Jet Boat Tours Launch from the London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge) for Topock Gorge while aboard “Starship 2010” along the Colorado River. See 3,500-year-old petroglyphs and search for big horn sheep. The 50-mile journey is narrated and story-filled. coloradoriverjetboattours.com
Dolly Steamboat The Dolly Steamboat has been cruising for 90 years in Arizona. Current patrons can take it through inner waterways of Canyon Lake within the Superstition Mountains. dollysteamboat.com Roosevelt Lake Marina Rent a boat and skim along the largest lake in central Arizona. rlmaz.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES ANIMAL PARKS Bearizona 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. It’s interactive and great for kids. bearizona.com Out of Africa Take an aerial safari — a two and a half hour zipline tour — at Out of Africa, a wildlife park that is home to tigers, lions, giraffes and other animals native to Africa. The park also offers a bush safari and other creative ways to elevate the zoo experience. outofafricapark.com
Phoenix Zoo Home to more than 1,400 animals, including komodo dragons, the Phoenix Zoo features a 2.5-mile walking path on which to visit with each animal. phoenixzoo.org
Reid Park Zoo The Reid Park Zoo features more than 500 animals and consists of four zones that are organized by the types of habitats and animals they house — the Adaptation Zone, the South America zone, the African Animals zone, Expedition Tanzania and a large aviary named Flight Connection hosts dozens of species of birds from Australia, Africa, and Asia. reidparkzoo.org Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium Wildlife World Zoo takes pride in its exotic animals, including kangaroos, rare white alligators, a flightless emu and white rhinos. wildlifeworld.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES FAMILY FUN SPOTS Arizona Science Center One of the best ways to learn about the world around you is to pay a visit to the Arizona Science Center, where there are interactive exhibits, a planetarium and an IMAX theater to encourage the learning process. On the first Friday of every month, adults are invited to explore the museum after hours and kids-free. azscience.org Butterfly Wonderland Walk through a rainforest ecosystem and the largest butterfly conservatory in the country, where thousands of butterflies and exotic moths freely flutter between flowers and trees. Occasionally, a butterfly or two will land on an unsuspecting visitor. Tip: Wear bright colors butterflywonderland.com
Dave & Buster’s Dave & Buster’s was around long before the current hipster arcade bar trend started booming. Dave & Buster’s 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 Flip Dunk Sports Are your travel companions the type who like to “bounce off the walls”? Stop by for an open jump session at Arizona’s indoor trampoline gym. Put some extra bounce in your basketball, dodgeball or bungee game with special trampolines, too! flipdunksports.com
Main Event Entertainment Gravity ropes, laser tag, karaoke, bowling, rock climbing, mini golf and video games are among the highlights of this one-stop entertainment hub. mainevent.com
UNIQUELY ARIZONA Biosphere 2 Tour the entire world in a manner of speaking at this research facility owned by the University of Arizona. Biosphere 2 recreates all biosystems that are contained on the planet, such as the rainforest. b2science.org
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES ARIZONA TOURS Arcosanti This urban laboratory focuses on innovative design, community and environmental accountability. Paolo Soleri (creator of Soleri Windbells) created Arcosanti based on his architectural concepts. Day tours and week-long stays are available. arcosanti.org
San Xavier del Bac This Catholic mission was founded in the late 17th century and is now a National Historic Landmark. The church was completed in 1797, making it the oldest European building in Arizona, and is filled with the original statues and murals. sanxaviermission.org
Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park At Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park in Globe, Arizona, visitors walk through a 700-year-old Salado Culture pueblo, climb ladders to second story rooms and view the typical furnishings of the era. globeaz.gov/visitors/besh-ba-gowah Taliesin West Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home holds multiple tours, focusing on topics from architectural insights to photography. Built in 1937, the multiple-building property is located near the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale. franklloydwright.org Tovrea Castle The wedding cake-shaped building visible from the Loop 202 was originally built as a centerpiece hotel in 1930. Surrounded by a cactus garden, the castle is a nonprofit and is open for weekly tours. tovreacastletours.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES RIVER RAFTING Photo courtesy Colorado River Discovery
Arizona Raft Adventures With an emphasis on adventure, education and fun, whitewater rafting on the Colorado River allows you to see places you have never seen before, do things you’ve never done before, and awake every morning to beauty so breathtaking the images will last a lifetime. azraft.com
Colorado River Discovery Colorado River Discovery offers smoothwater float trips perfect for the entire family (ages 4 years and older). raftthecanyon.com
Arizona River Runners Since 1970, Arizona River Runners has provided complete Grand Canyon whitewater rafting trips on the Colorado River. raftarizona.com
Salt River Rafting Salt River Rafting offers guided whitewater raft trips in Arizona’s spectacular Upper Salt River Canyon March through May. raftingsaltriver.com
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Yuma River Tours Offers a variety of jet boat tours, including day trips with stops at historic sites, student field trips, canoe trips, photography and birding trips, or custom charters. For a relaxing cruise, take a lunch or dinner cruise aboard the Colorado King sternwheeler. yumarivertours.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES TRAIL RIDING Bumble Bee Ranch Adventures Horseback riding, cattle drives, nature hikes and Western dinners. Guided history-filled tours through Bumble Bee Creek, into the mountains and through the scenic Sonoran Desert. Guest accommodations are available. bumblebeeranch.com
M Diamond Ranch A working cattle ranch with cowboys who take you on trail rides and cookouts. The M Diamond Ranch provides the only horseback rides permitted by the Coconino National Forest in the Red Rock Ranger District and is the only working ranch in Sedona that is open to guests. sedonahorsebackrides.com MTM Ranch At MTM Ranch, amateur and long-time horse enthusiasts will be thrilled with their specially chosen trail ride mount. The age and fitness of MTM Ranch’s horses allows them go where many can’t. mtmranch.com
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Ponderosa Stables Horseback riding is the ideal way to view the beautiful South Mountain Park. Enjoy the peace and quiet as you meander along the vast system of trails. Please bring water and wear closed toe shoes. arizona-horses.com Tanque Verde Ranch Tanque Verde Ranch offers trail-riding adventures on horseback, mountain bike and on foot. With experienced guides to explore the Saguaro National Park and Rincon Mountains, you will experience the flora, fauna and wildlife of the ranch’s beautiful desert location. All ranch activities are included in the rate. tanqueverderanch.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES LAKE ACTIVITIES Bartlett Lake Marina Located in the heart of the Tonto National Forest, just 45 minutes north of downtown Phoenix, Bartlett Lake Marina offers fishing, boating and watersports; it’s a wonderful location for a weekend getaway with the family. bartlettlake.com
Bluewater Jet Boat Tours Enjoy breathtaking views as the tour travels up the Colorado River through the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll see places like Devils Elbow, interesting rock formations and 3,500-year-old Indian petroglyphs. coloradoriverjetboattours.com Dolly Steamboat The Dolly Steamboat is a family owned and operated business for more than 25 years, continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925 starting with the SS Geronimo. dollysteamboat.com
Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas Take a boat tour, a dinner cruise or rent a powerboat for a little exploring or to have a picnic with your family on a secluded beach — Lake Powell Resort has it all. lakepowell.com Roosevelt Lake Marina It’s the largest lake in Central Arizona, consisting of 112 miles of shoreline and 22,000 acres of surface water — Roosevelt Lake. Head to the lake to water ski, fish, boat or camp. rlmaz.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES CASINOS BlueWater Resort & Casino BlueWater’s list of amenities include everything from live concerts and wakeboarding, to an 18-hole golf course and indoor water slide. BlueWater is Arizona’s only riverside casino and resort. bluewaterfun.com Casino Arizona at Salt River This casino offers more than 100,000 square feet devoted to gaming and entertainment. Amenities include 52 table games, 1,026 slot machines, keno, a high-limit lounge and a worldclass showroom. Guests seeking food and refreshments can enjoy one of the facility’s five lounges and four restaurants. casinoarizona.com
Desert Diamond Feeling lucky? Swing by Desert Diamond in Tucson for keno, slots, table games and bingo 24/7. Desert Diamond has its own nightclub, too, and a variety of restaurants. ddcaz.com Fort Mcdowell Casino Fort McDowell Casino offers some of the finest, most exciting gaming in the Southwest. Slots, keno, bingo, poker, blackjack, and lunar bingo, which takes the traditional game to thrilling new heights. fortmcdowellcasino.com
Casino Del Sol Mediterranean architecture surrounds the gaming space, featuring 1,000 nickel, quarter, $1, $5 and multidenominational slot machines. The $100 million resort, with luxury rooms and suites, two new restaurants, a spa and 20,000 square feet of meeting space. casinodelsol.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES SPORTS ATTRACTIONS Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald and the Cardinals made the playoffs last year after an 13-3 regular season. The Cardinals’ 2016 schedule features games against New England, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa Bay and the New York Jets. azcardinals.com
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Arizona Diamondbacks The Diamondbacks have the lowest Fan Cost Index ($126.89) in Major League Baseball for the eighth consecutive season. All-You-Can-Eat Seats are available starting at $34 and include unlimited access to ballpark traditions such as hot dogs, chips, popcorn, peanuts, water and Pepsi soft drinks in a special section on the Insight Diamond Level. dbacks.mlb.com
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Arizona Rattlers The Arena Football League’s Arizona Rattlers have won eight division titles and have played in nine ArenaBowl Championship games, winning championships in 1994, 1997, 2012, 2013 and 2014. Watch the action-packed Rattlers try to win the ArenaBowl title again in 2016. azrattlers.com
Phoenix International Raceway Phoenix International Raceway, also known as PIR, is a one-mile, low-banked tri-oval race track located in Avondale, Arizona. The motorsport track opened in 1964 and currently hosts two NASCAR race weekends annually. phoenixraceway.com
Phoenix Mercury 201 E. Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 wnba.com/mercury The Mercury are looking to once again become WNBA champions in 2016. The Mercury are led by 6-8 center Brittney Griner, who is the first WNBA player to dunk twice in one game, and superstar Diana Taurasi. mercury.wnba.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES AUTO ATTRACTIONS Phoenix International Raceway
Bondurant School of High Performance Driving Channel champion racecar driver Bob Bondurant while learning tricks and honing skills to make you a better driver. Take a late model GM car out on a 1.6-mile racetrack with a professionally trained staff that will help you accomplish your driving goals. bondurant.com K1 Speed Go-kart racers can experience a professionally designed track at K1 Speed, as well as karts that go up to 45 mph. k1speed.com
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Octane Raceway The self-proclaimed largest indoor racetrack in America, Octane Racing features two quarter-mile tracks and go-karts that drive up to 45 mph. octaneraceway.com Penske Racing Museum The Penske Racing Museum showcases an amazing collection of cars, trophies and racing memorabilia that chronicles the career of one of the most successful dynasties in all of sports. Penske Racing has more than 40 years of racing with more than 300 major race victories. penskeracingmuseum.com
Phoenix International Raceway NASCAR races heat up in the fall. When this track isn’t being used for races, fans can camp their RV in ZOOMTOWN, USA at the raceway. phoenixraceway.com
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES GOLF Grayhawk Golf Club Since opening in 1994, Grayhawk has become one of Arizona’s most celebrated daily-fee golf clubs, mostly because of Grayhawk’s two exceptional 18-hole golf courses – Talon and Raptor. Both have hosted high-profile events such as the Frys.com Open (2007-2009). grayhawkgolf.com
McCormick Ranch Golf Club McCormick Ranch 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. mccormickranchgolf.com
Legacy Golf Club Legacy Golf Club was voted No. 1 public course in Phoenix and is the site of the Golf Channel Academy. The 18-hole, par-71 golf course was designed by Gary Panks. The Sierra Vista House, which marks the 1st tee, was visited on occasion in the early 1900’s by Theodore Roosevelt and Pancho Villa. golflegacyresort.com
Talking Stick Golf Club Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, together as a design team, created the magic of Talking Stick. Located on and owned by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the north and south courses provide a serene yet challenging day of play. talkingstickgolfclub.com
The Boulders The Boulders Resort & Spa was named “Best Golf Resort in the Southwest” by Golf Digest magazine. The Boulders features a 6,811 yard, par 72, championship North Course and a 6,726 yard, par 71 championship South Course, both designed by Jay Morrish. The courses are considered the most demanding in the Southwest. bouldersclub.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES BEAUTY AND DAY SPAS Alvadora Spa At The Royal Palms Resort & Spa Old World ambiance melds with contemporary amenities, including a fitness center, massage therapy, pools, golf, biking and nearby hiking trails. royalpalmshotel.com/phoenix-spasroyalpalmshotel.com/spa/alvadora-spaphoenix
Mind, Body & Soul — Prescott Arizona Day Spa This is a retreat where men and women can escape the rigors of daily stress and, most importantly, to replenish the spirit. Mind, Body & Soul is a three-time winner of Best Day Spa in Arizona. prescottazdayspa.com
The Spa at Camelback Inn With a variety of massages, facials, body treatments, packages and specials available, including farm-to-treatmenttable experiences, the Spa at Camelback Inn allows you to experience complete rejuvenation and relaxation. camelbackspa.com
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Indulge in signature experiences like the Sanctuary Luxury Facial, Sumatra Coconut Body Ritual and In Harmony Massage, or choose from an extensive list of offerings that can be tailored to fit your own personal well-being. sanctuaryoncamelback.com/spa-fitness
Well & Being The Fairmont Princess’ Well & Being spa is about living life well. Wrap your worries up and away with aerial hammock yoga, stop to smell the roses with a customizable aromatherapy massage or try one of many other energizing and enlightening services, such as accupunture, scrubs and wraps, offered at this AAA Five diamond resort. fairmont.com/scottsdale/spa
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We surf the Internet. We swim in magazines. The Internet is exhilarating. Magazines are enveloping. The Internet grabs you. Magazines embrace you. The Internet is impulsive. Magazines are immersive. And both media are growing. Barely noticed amidst the thunderous Internet clamor is the simple fact that magazine readership has risen over the past several years. Even in the age of the Internet, even among the groups one would assume are most singularly hooked on digital media, the appeal of magazines is growing. Think of it this way: during the life of Google, magazine readership actually increased 11 percent. What it proves, once again, is that a new medium doesn’t necessarily displace an existing one. Just as movies didn’t kill radio. Just as TV didn’t kill movies. An established medium can continue to flourish so long as it continues to offer a unique experience. And, as readers’ loyalty and growth demonstrate, magazines do. Which is why people aren’t giving up swimming, just because they also enjoy surfing.
The Power of Print Copy Credit: Young & Rubicam
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES WINERIES
Alcantara Vineyards Alcantara Vineyards, the first winery on the Verde River, is one of the largest vineyards in central and northern Arizona. Make it a day trip from the Phoenix or Scottsdale area. Check out the Arizona winery tours and tasting with an outstanding selection of wines, made right here in Arizona. The winery’s vineyards have more than 19,000 vines and offers 12 varietals. alcantaravineyard.com Arizona Stronghold Vineyards Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, the top producer of high-quality wines in Arizona, was formed in 2007 by vintner Eric Glomski and musician Maynard James Keenan to put Arizona on the fine wine map. For $9 per person, Stronghold’s knowledgeable staff will guide you through a tasting of five wines. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with the Arizona Stronghold portfolio of wines. azstronghold.com Caduceus Cellars & Merkin Vineyards Maynard James Keenan, made famous as the vocalist of rock band Tool, and vintner Eric Glomski embarked into winemaking in the desert conditions of Arizona’s Verde Valley. Their story is documented in the film “Blood Into Wine,” and the success they’ve seen in the decade since its inception. caduceus.org Dos Cabezas Wineworks Dos Cabezas WineWorks is a family owned and operated winery that challenges the perception that Arizona does not produce exceptional wines. Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been producing wines in Arizona since 1995. Its wine has been enjoyed at the White House, earned critical acclaim and grabbed international attention. doscabezaswinery.com Page Springs Page Springs is a family owned vineyard and winery tucked into the volcanic landscape overlooking pristine Oak Creek. Page Springs Cellars offers Rhone style wines and $5 tastings. pagespringscellars.com
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TOP 5 | ADVENTURES PARKS & MONUMENTS
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument The monument exhibits an extraordinary collection of plants of the Sonoran Desert, including the organ pipe cactus, a large cactus rarely found in the U.S. nps.gov/orpi Montezuma Castle National Monument This monument is an enduring legacy of the prehistoric Sinagua. The 20-room stone, timber and adobe dwelling is 80 percent intact, making it one of the bestpreserved cliff dwellings in the U.S. nps.gov/moca Monument Valley This great valley boasts sandstone masterpieces that tower at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet, framed by scenic clouds casting shadows that graciously roam the desert floor. The angle of the sun accents these graceful formations, providing scenery that is simply spellbinding. navajonationparks.org/htm/ monumentvalley.htm
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Petrified Forest National Park History speaks volumes as you take in the spectacular scenery in the land where the surroundings have aged for 225 million years, turning wood into stone. The park is located in Northeast Arizona and features one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood. nps.gov/pefo South Mountain At more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve is the largest municipal park in the country. South Mountain features some of the most popular urban hiking and biking trails in the city and horseback riding. phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/ south-mountain
TOP 5 | ADVENTURES GALLERIES & MUSEUMS Heard Museum Experience the myriad cultures and art of American Indians in 10 world-class exhibit galleries, plus enjoy sculpture courtyards, superb dining and shopping for uniquely Southwestern gifts and art. heard.org
Scottsdale Museum Of Contemporary Art SMoCA is an educational institution dedicated to presenting exhibitions on contemporary and modern art, architecture and design. smoca.org
Musical Instrument Museum Be prepared to spend more time than you anticipated at this multi-level museum for music and culture lovers. At the first global musical instrument museum, nearly 300 exhibits immerse visitors in the sights and sounds of the world’s instruments. There are also rotating popular culture and celebrity exhibits. mim.org
Scottsdale Museum of the West Located on the former site of the Loloma Transit Station, Scottsdale’s Museum of the West celebrates the art, history, culture and unique stories of the 19 states comprising the American West. scottsdalemuseumwest.org
Phoenix Art Museum The Southwest’s premier destination for world-class visual arts, features popular exhibitions and a collection of more than 18,000 works. The museum has free general admission on the first Friday of the month and Wednesdays between 3 and 9 p.m. Don’t miss the Firefly Room or the work of Arizona transplant Philip C. Curtis, whose work has its own room in the museum. phxart.org
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HIGH-FLYING DISPLAYS Pima Air & Space Museum Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the largest air and space museums in the world and the largest non-government funded aviation museum. pimaair.org
TOP 5 | SHOPPING JEWELERS E.D. Marshall Jewelers Providing clients with Arizona’s largest selection of high-end gems since 1981, E.D. Marshall Jewelers produces original fine jewelry designs with a focus on craftsmanship. edmarshalljewelers.com Hamra Jewelers Hamra features an exquisite selection of platinum, gold and gemstone designs in earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings from such renowned artists as Jack Kelege, Charles Krypell, Roberto Coin, Aaron Basha, Penny Preville, Jude Frances, Simon G., Tacori, Michael B., Scott Kay and David Yurman. hamra.com
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Jewelry By Gauthier Over the past 24 years, Scott Gauthier has become one of the most renowned and recognized high-end jewelry designers in the country. His unrivaled work favors a clean and modern aesthetic, accented with some of the world’s most precious and rare gemstones. jewelrybygauthier.com
London Gold Regardless of your jewelry interests, customers find than they are always satisfied at London Gold, which prides itself on providing affordable luxury at prices always better than a sale. London Gold has direct access to the finest diamonds, so your choices are virtually unlimited. londongold.com Sami Fine Jewelers Voted one of “America’s Top 5 Cool Jewelry Stores,” Sami has been designing jewelry for more than 40 years. Discriminating jewelry buyers around the country have sought out original Sami designs. This certified gemologist works with diamonds and exotic gemstones from around the world. samifinejewelry.com
TOP 5 | SHOPPING CENTERS Biltmore Fashion Park The original luxury shopping destination in Phoenix is a newly polished classic. Think: Saks, Ralph Lauren, Escada, Apple and more. A delicious collection of restaurants, including True Food Kitchen and The Capital Grille, let you order up levels of flavorful virtue. Also, try a few local luxury businesses in Biltmore’s Union, where you can find clothes, food, crafts and furniture made by Arizonans. shopbiltmore.com
Desert Ridge Marketplace Desert Ridge Marketplace delivers the ultimate shopping experience in a distinctive outdoor setting. The center’s 1.2 million square feet of retail space is home to more than 100 retailers and restaurants and bursts with color, energy and fun, creating a one-of-a-kind lifestyle destination you’ll want to come back to again and again. shopdesertridge.com
Scottsdale Fashion Square Scottsdale Fashion Square is a diamond in the desert, with more than 225 retailers including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Barneys New York. It’s the ultimate shopping destination for fashionistas. fashionsquare.com
Scottsdale Quarter Scottsdale Quarter is an open-air center where the vibe of the city meets the serenity of the desert. The hip, urban destination sits on 28 acres and restaurants, specialty and fashion retailers include Sephora, Pottery Barn, iPic Theaters, NIKE, Dominick’s Steakhouse, H&M, Apple and True Food Kitchen. scottsdalequarter.com
Tempe Marketplace This open-air marketplace features a movie theater, a variety of restaurants, shops and activities for families as well as adults looking for a night out. Shoppers can even catch the occasional, free outdoor concert on the weekends. Notable retailers include Target, Old Navy, Ulta and Barnes & Noble. tempemarketplace.com
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Experience AZ is an exciting guide to Arizona lifestyle and adventures, offering readers the best advice on where to eat, stay and play.
Included in the 2016 fall/winter issue: Super
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