Arizona Meetings and Events

ARIZONA MEETINGS & EVENTS

2011 • azmeetings.com The definitive resource guide for industry professionals since 1993

ARIZONA

Table of

Contents

meetings & Events www.azmeetings.com Plan your meeting or event in Arizona – the heart of America’s Southwest. Use this guide to learn more about the weather and terrain before you pack. Our writers provide information worth reading so you won’t miss some of the state’s best attractions. This guide covers the basics and the little-known details of travel in Arizona – all you need to know to plan a memorable Arizona meeting or event.

Nickname: The Grand Canyon State State Motto: Ditat Deus - God enriches Land Area: 113,634 square miles Capital: Phoenix Colors: blue and old gold Neckwear: bola tie Fossil: petrified wood Flower: saguaro cactus blossom Tree: palo verde Gemstone: turquoise Mammal: ringtail cat Bird: cactus wren Reptile: Arizona ridgenose rattlesnake Fish: Arizona trout Amphibian: Arizona tree frog Butterfly: two-tailed swallowtail Published by Hennen Publishing & Marketing Group 3645 N. Marshall Way, Suite 3, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone (480) 664-0541 Fax (480) 664-0591 hennenpmg.com info@hennenpmg.com

Clockwise: Xona Resort Suites, TPC Scottsdale, Tucson Market, San Francisco Peaks

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Publisher/Editor Kathleen Hennen Art Director Tad Smith Account Executive Erin Edelstein Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means without consent of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure this publication is as accurate as possible. The publisher will assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions.

Arizona

DESTINATI O N S

Top 10 Reasons

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The Grand Canyon State

To Meet In Arizona

Events by the Month

Cowboy Up

Sports Shout it Out

Shopping Retail Therapy

Uniquely Arizona Wild West

R esources

Tempe Town Lake

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State Map Visitor Information Arizona’s CVBs Tours & Transportation Convention Services

Phoenix &

Central Arizona

44 50 52 52

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Accommodations Dining Golf Venues

Tucson &

Southern Arizona

65 Accommodations 65 Dining

Northern Arizona 68 Grand Canyon & Flagstaff 70 Sedona 71 Verde Valley, 73 Prescott 74 Payson 76 The Colorado River & Arizona’s Lakes

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STATE MAP of

ARIZONA

NEVADA

Glen Canyon St. George Lake Powell Colorado City Fredonia Vermilion Cliffs Pipe Spring Page Lees Ferry Littlefield 89 Kaibab-Paiute 89A Marble Canyon Jacob Lake Vermilion Cliffs

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Grand Canyon Parashant Las Vegas

67

Lake Mead

Co lo

Grand Canyon West Temple Bar Meadview

Hoover Dam

Grand Canyon Supai

Grand Hualapai Hilltop 64 Havasupai Canyon Village Tusayan 180

Hualapai

93

Chloride 68

66

Peach Springs

Valle

180 64

Seligman Williams Ash Fork

Monument Valley Tribal Park

163

98

Shonto

Cow Springs 160 Tonalea 89 Tuba City 264 Moenkopi

North Rim Grand Canyon

18

1

Lake Mead

o rad

r Rive

U TA H

Navajo

Mexican Water

64 Teec Nos Pos

Kayenta 191

59

Round Rock

Many Farms Chinle

Navajo

12 64

Tsaile

Canyon de Chelly

Hotevilla Keams Kykotsmovi Canyon 191 Window Cameron Oraibi Rock Second Polacca 264 Ganado Gray Mountain 2 Mesa Hubbell Hopi Trading Post St Michaels Wupatki 8

89

Sunset Crater Volcano

Leupp

15 87

77

15

Indian Wells

191

Lupton 40

Riordan

Riv e

r

40

Colora do

CALIFORNIA

Kingman

N E W M E X I CO

Flagstaff Sanders 99 Chambers Bullhead Walnut Homolovi Ruins Navajo City 89 Canyon Meteor Winslow Slide Rock Petrified Forest Crater Oatman 40 Sedona 95 Fort Mohave Red Rock Mormon Lake 87 Joseph City Holbrook Tuzigoot 179 Clarkdale Chino Valley Jerome Needles 191 Wikieup Dead Horse Ranch 180 Bagdad Yavapai 377 Cottonwood Lake Montezuma Topock 77 89A Jerome Montezuma Castle Prescott Valley 95 93 St. Johns Yavapai-Apache Prescott Snowflake Lake Havasu City Camp Fort Verde 96 Yavapai-Prescott Heber 277 Taylor Lyman Dewey Verde Lake Havasu 260 Strawberry Lake Fool Hollow 61 Mayer Overgaard 260 Pine Cordes Jct. Cattail Cove 89 Lake Yarnell Christopher Tonto Show Low Springerville Alamo Lake 17 Agua Buckskin Natural Payson Creek Pinetop-Lakeside Fria Mountain Black Canyon City Bridge Fort Parker Tonto 71 60 260 Eagar Apache Hon-Dah Wickenburg Apache New River McNary Bouse 87 188 Colorado Greer Carrizo Cave Creek Aguila 60 River Alpine Carefree 72 Roosevelt 74 73 Wenden 95 La Paz Fountain Dam Gila Salome Whiteriver 60 Fort Apache Hills Ft. McDowell Surprise 88 Scottsdale Quartzsite Hannagan Litchfield Peoria 10 Blythe Ehrenberg Meadow Salt River Tonto 88 San Carlos Park Glendale PHOENIX Tonopah Lost Dutchman Goodyear Globe Tolleson San Carlos Tempe Mesa 60 Apache Junction Miami Buckeye Avondale 191 Gilbert 70 Superior Gila River Chandler Queen Creek Boyce Thompson Casa Greenlee 95 Kearny Morenci Maricopa Grande McFarland Clifton Florence Hayden Winkelman Graham 85 Ak-Chin 10 Yuma Coolidge Pinal Aravaipa Pima Thatcher Territorial Ft. Yuma Gila Bend Casa Grande 8 Canyon Sonoran Desert Prison 77 Safford Eloy 79 Duncan Dateland San Yuma Yuma Oracle Manuel 15 Mt Quartermaster Picacho Roper Lake Wellton Somerton 85 Oracle Graham Depot Peak 191 10 Catalina Catalina Cocopah Ironwood Marana Mt Lemmon San Luis Forest Ajo Bowie Oro Valley Cortaro Willcox Why 10 Saguaro Tucson 186 Fort Bowie 86 Saguaro Pascua Yaqui Dos Organ Pipe Quijotoa 86 Santa Cruz Dragoon Cactus CochiseCabezas Chiricahua Vail Benson 89 Sells San Xavier Tohono Sahuarita Kartchner St. David Green Valley O’odham Caverns 80 Pearce 181 Lukeville Madera Kitt Peak Portal 90 Tombstone 19 Canyon 83 82 Tombstone Tubac Presidio Sonoita Sierra Vista Courthouse Sasabe Tubac Important Roads Indian Reservations 10 Interstate Highways Patagonia 80 Hereford Bisbee191 Tumacacori 15 Indian Roads State Park National Parks & Monuments Divided Highways Coronado Rio Rico 82 Douglas Scenic Roads State Parks 191 U.S. Highways Nogales Laughlin

L E G E N D Points of Interest

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Interstate Highways

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State Highways

M E X I CO

ARIZONA The grand canyon state

The beauty of a meeting or event in Arizona is that it’s anything – and everything – you want it to be. From the Ponderosa pines and 7,000-foot elevation of Flagstaff to the sagebrush and red rock high deserts of Sedona and Prescott to the cactus-covered mountain slopes of Greater Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona offers every natural backdrop imaginable. There are even rivers and lakes with beaches in the northern and western parts of the state.

What’s more, there is a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, golf courses and attractions to fit every budget. Whether your tastes run to shopping and spas or hiking and horseback riding, Arizona has it all. If you’re craving big-city sophistication and cutting edge trends, you’ll find it here. If you want pure serenity and back roads escapes, you’ll find that here, too. You’ll enjoy stunning sunsets and a rich heritage blended from Old West, Native American and Mexican influences and more than 325 sunny days each year. Arizona is truly the treasure of the Southwest. Come enjoy!

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Tumacacori National Historic Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Saguaro Sunset

Superstition Mountains

Northern Arizona Cross Country Skiing

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ARIZ ONA

visitor information topography

Clockwise: Monument Valley, Phoenix Skyline, San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff

What Time Is It?

Arizona is in the Mountain Time Zone. Sometimes Arizona’s time zones get a bit confusing, especially when Day Light Savings is in effect as Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time (except on the Navajo Reservation).

Getting Here

Served by 17 airlines reaching 85 domestic destinations and 19 international destinations – most people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – the largest international airport in the Southwest. It is located in central Arizona, in the heart of Phoenix proper, and is very convenient to the entire metropolitan area. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport provides a convenient alternative in the East Valley and is served by Allegiant Air. In the southern part of Arizona, Tucson International Airport is served by eight airlines.

Getting Around

If you want to see a lot of Arizona, renting a car is your best bet. Even if you plan to base in the Phoenix or Tucson area, you’ll appreciate being able to ‘daytrip’ to numerous attractions at your leisure. Most national car rental companies offer service at the airports. On the other hand, if you want to check into a resort and just relax in the spa or poolside, transportation options include the resort’s shuttle, private shuttles, taxis, and public transportation via bus or the new light rail. In December, 2008 the first 20-mile starter line of the METRO light rail system for Phoenix started accepting passengers.

Dressing for Travel in the Southwest

Sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are all standard attire for locals. Beyond that, bring clothing that you can layer – on the same day, you may find yourself in the desert heat and in a matter of hours, as you climb toward the mountains, or watch the sun set, you will want a light sweater or jacket. Arizona, as a rule, is pretty casual when it comes to personal attire. Few restaurants require a coat or tie.

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Sonoran Desert

Arizona is incredibly diverse.

From the high country to the Sonoran Desert in the Phoenix and Tucson areas, Arizona’s weather and topography can be extreme. When you travel throughout the state, you will encounter deserts, mountains, and large cities (Phoenix is the fifth largest in the country).

Weather – During any season in Arizona, some part of the state enjoys near-perfect weather. Generally, the busiest season in the desert areas (southern half of the state) lasts from January through March; the next most popular is from April to May and September through December; and the season when visitors can find the greatest values is June through August. Peak and value seasons in the mountainous regions (in the northern half of the state) are the opposite of the desert areas. Peak season in some mid-climate areas of the state, such as Sedona, is from March to May and September through October.

Topography – Arizona covers almost 114,000 square miles, with about 350 square miles of water surface. The state has three main topographical areas: (1) a high plateau averaging between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation in the northeast; (2) a mountainous region oriented southeast to northwest with maximum elevations between 9,000 and 12,000 feet; and (3) the Sonoran Desert in southwestern Arizona with elevations as low as 100 feet above sea level.

Top 1 0 Reasons to Meet in A rizona

Grand Canyon National Park

1 . a f f ordabi l ity

3. g olf

The summer in Arizona may be hot, but it’s the perfect time to cool off your budget. Arizona resorts used to shut down during the hot summer months, but now they open their doors to amazing savings and amenities packages, and you can save between 50-75% off regular rates. Escape to the resort pool or spa to cool off between breakout sessions – you’ll find great deals there too.

With over 5,400 inviting fairways, 5,400 manicured greens and 5,400 appropriately named roughs, Arizona is definitely one of the world’s prized golf destinations. The state’s 300-plus courses have been ranked among the best in every American golf publication. The popularity of these courses is quite simple. The scenery and course design are unlike any other destination on earth. Nowhere else do holes cling to rugged mountainsides and saguaro cactuses flank fairways and raise their mighty arms, seemingly in homage to the game of golf.

2 . scenery The Sonoran Desert is home to thousands of species of plants and animals offering the most diverse desert habitat in the world, probably due to the fact it gets more rainfall than any other desert. That said, the Sonoran Desert boasts more than 330 days of sunshine each year, making almost every day a good day to explore. Among the stunning wildflowers and succulent plants, the towering Saguaro with its humanlike arms reaching up to 50 feet tall has become the most recognizable and unique symbol of the Sonoran Desert.

The Sonoran Desert’s beauty can most easily be experienced through sanctuaries and botanical gardens around the state. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum near Tucson is world-renowned for its presentation of native plants and animals in habitats replicating natural environments. In Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden is one of only 44 botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums and hosts one of the world’s finest collections of desert plants.

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4. g rand C anyon It’s the Grand Canyon. It’s on life’s to-do list. And it’s Arizona’s crown jewel.

A photographer’s dream and a poet’s delight, it only takes one glimpse to understand why Grand Canyon National Park is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Located entirely in northwestern Arizona, the Canyon, incised by the Colorado River, is immense, averaging 4,000 feet deep for its entire 277 miles. Nestled within are numerous side canyons abundant with greenery, wildlife, waterfalls, raging rapids and calm, glassy pools.

5. conv enience As the 5th largest city in the country, Phoenix has countless resources to help you in all of your meeting planning needs.

With some of the top rated CVBs in the country, the cities

Clockwise: Hilton El Conquistador, METRO light rail, Sonoran Desert, Orpheum Theatre

that make up the Valley of the Sun have a plethora of people who are available to assist you and answer any questions you may have. Arizona’s CVBs are listed on page 15; it has never been easier to utilize these free resources.

6. top-Ranked Hotels and Dining For 2011 AAA again recognized Arizona as a leader in the industry by awarding 68 Dining and Accommodation properties the prestigious Four Diamond Award and six properties the Five Diamond Award. In fact, the Camelback Inn is one of only three properties in the country to hold the Five Diamond distinction for 35 consecutive years.

When choosing these ratings, AAA considers high levels of service, comfort and standards of excellence, which you can guarantee will translate to your meetings’ needs.

7 . accessibi l ity Arizona and the Valley of the Sun are some of the destinations in the country to visit. On a typical day Sky Harbor International Airport sees more than 1,200 airplanes arrive and depart carrying over 100,000 passengers.

Reaching over 100 destinations worldwide, Sky Harbor is the easiest way to start your trip. Other airports include Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, Tucson International Airport, and the Scottsdale Airport.

The introduction of the METRO light rail system makes getting around the Valley of the Sun a breeze, with affordable all-day passes, frequent trains and stops in multiple valley cities this is a convenient option for your group.

8. scenic Op tions The beauty of a meeting in Arizona is that it’s anything – and everything – you want it to be. From the Ponderosa pines and 7,000-foot elevation of Flagstaff to the sagebrushand red rock-filled high deserts of Sedona and Prescott to the cactus-covered mountain slopes of Greater Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona offers every natural backdrop imaginable.

There are even rivers and lakes with beaches in the northern and western parts of the state.

9. entertainment Whether it’s opera, drama or ballet, the performing arts in Arizona are rich and diverse. If spectator sports get your blood pumping, Arizona has a major professional sports team in every sport including baseball, hockey, football, basketball (NBA and WNBA), and even professional soccer and lacrosse teams.

10. w ine & D ine The Wall Street Journal wrote, “Arizona wines topped nearly every category in our tasting.” Arizona has many wineries, some in Southern Arizona’s Santa Cruz and Cochise counties, and some as far north as the Verde Valley and Sedona. Many restaurants and resorts offer a taste of the Southwest with a fine wine pairing suggested by a world-class sommelier, cooking classes, and chef’s tables.

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Uniquely

ARIZONA

Chase Field

P.F. Chang’s Rock “N” Roll Marathon

Events by the Month

25th Annual Fountain Hills Great Fair

Annual Crossing River Daze

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Arizona Renaissance Festival

Dates were correct at time of publication. Since dates are occasionally changed, please confirm them in advance.

J anuary Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and Tostitos BCS Championship Game – Glendale January 1 and 10, 2011, 480.350.0900 fiestabowl.org Held at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, the 40th Annual Tostitos Fiesta Bowl will match up the Big 12 conference champion with another BCS team, bringing together the two highest ranked BCS teams.

P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon and 1/2 Marathon – Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe January 16, 2011, rnraz.com While running the city streets and desert miles of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, participants in the seventh annual P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & ½ Marathon will enjoy 70 live bands and a free Headliner Concert making for an all-out rockin’ party.

Dillinger Days – Tucson January 21, 2011, 520.837.6504, hotelcongress.com In January 1934, the Tucson Police Department was able to do what countless law enforcement agencies around the country had been unable to do – capture the notorious Public Enemy No.1 John Dillinger and his gang. Dillinger Days provides a fun way to honor this unique bit of Tucson history and celebrate a nostalgic era.

Febr uary World Championship Hoop Dance Contest – Phoenix February 5-6, 2011, 9am-5pm $12 Adults, 602.252.8840, heard.org American Indian and Canadian First Nations hoop dancers compete for the prestigious title of world champion during a weekend of competition at the Heard Museum. These accomplished dancers will showcase their skills in amazing performances of the intertribal hoop dance. Also enjoy frybread and the museum’s 10 exhibit galleries.

Arizona Renaissance Festival – Apache Junction February 12-April 3, 2011, 520.463.2600, royalfaires.com (Saturdays & Sundays only) The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a medieval amusement park, a 12-stage theater, a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament and a feast – all rolled into one non-stop, day-long family adventure.

Annual Crossing River Daze – Yuma February 11-13, 2011, 928.783.0071 visityuma.com This festival celebrates the river and its role in Yuma’s story, and the amazing engineering feats that made the thirsty desert bloom.

Join in celebrating the history, beauty, and assets of the Colorado River!

25th Annual Great Fair – Fountain Hills February 25-27, 2011, 480.837.1654, fountainhillschamber.com More than 500 artists and 200,000 attendees enjoy the three-day festival which includes bands, food and arts and crafts for sale. www.AZMeetings . c o m

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ARIZONA

Events by the Month

Chandler Farmers Market

33rd Blessing of Sonoita Vineyards Festival

March Tucson Festival of Books – Tucson March 12-13, 2011, tucsonfestivalofbooks.org, 520.721.7964 More than 400 nationally known authors host readings, lectures, workshops, and panel discussions. Located at the University of Arizona.

Ostrich Festival – Chandler March 11-13, 2011, 480.963.4571, ostrichfestival.com One of the “Top 10 Unique Festivals in the U.S.” – the Ostrich Races are the most popular attractions at the event, but two stages of continuous live entertainment run all day long with nationally known headliners each night. State fair-size rides and more than 150 exhibitors selling arts and crafts, as well as children’s activities round out a whole day of fun.

Arizona BBQ Festival – Scottsdale March 26, 2011, azbbqfestival.com Over 60 professional teams come together in Scottsdale to compete for $20,000 in prizes in this KCBS sanctioned event.

15th Annual Arizona Bike Week – Scottsdale March 30-April 3, 2011, azbikeweek.com Located at WestWorld in Scottsdale, this motorcycle rally promotes riding to all motorcycle enthusiasts. There will be daily charity rides, bike races, parties and other activities.

A p ri l Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball – Phoenix April-September, 2011, 602.462.4600, diamondbacks.com Baseball, hot dogs and apple pie – all still representative of American values – and thankfully, all still affordable. Prices for single game tickets in the upper deck range from $5 to $20.

Arizona Easter Pageant – Mesa April 13-16 and 19-23, 2011, 480.654.1077 easterpageant.org Since 1928 the Mesa Arizona Temple has been producing the annual Arizona Easter Pageant, proclaimed as the world’s largest annual outdoor Easter pageant. The cast consists of approximately 450 actors as well as livestock on a 9,600-square-foot four-story-high stage.

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Cinco de Mayo

7th Annual Pats Run – Tempe April 16, 2011, pattillmanfoundation.org Pat’s Run is the signature annual fundraising event for the Pat Tillman Foundation. Created in April 2004 following Pat’s death, the Pat Tillman Foundation is investing in veterans and their families through education, community and advocacy.

33rd Blessing of Sonoita Vineyards Festival – Sonoita April 30, 2011, sonoitavineyards.com The Sonoita Vineyards spring festival features wine tastings, winery tours, food and wine pairings, live music and dancing, wagon rides, and a blessing for a bountiful crop.

May Cinco de Mayo Celebrations – Statewide 1st week in May, 2011 Neighborhood and community Cinco de Mayo celebrations throughout Arizona are free or very reasonably priced. You’ll find lots of Latino music, dance, Mexican food and games.

Annual Jerome Historic Home and Building Tour – Jerome May, 2011, jeromechamber.com This longest running tour in the state of Arizona promises a look at both the historic gems of this charming town and a few new Victorian and contemporary delights. This is a guided tour with transportation provided from home to home. The all-volunteer docents will explain the history and the fascinating stories behind each venue.

Farmers Markets – Statewide Various dates and locations, arizonafarmersmarkets.com Farm fresh seasonal produce and locally-produced food products are available as are arts and crafts.

37th Annual Phippen Museum Western Art Show & Sale – Prescott May 28-30, 2011, visit-prescott.com Located in the Prescott Courthouse Plaza, Arizona’s premiere outdoor western fine art show and sale features more than 120 of the very best Western artists from around the country. Special events include kids’ art activities, Quick Draw art demonstrations, and a Miniature Masterpiece Art Show and Sale.

Grape Train Escape, Verde Canyon Railroad

Rodeo

J une Flagstaff Music Festival – Flagstaff June, 18-19, 2011, flagstaffmusicfestival.com This two-day festival features live music from local bands, local artists, food and drinks and is located on Heritage Square.

Strawberry Festival – Pine/Strawberry June 11-12, 2011, strawberryfestivalaz.com In the pines of Northern Arizona enjoy specialty strawberry treats and entertainment. Activities for kids and fun for the whole family. This event is held in conjunction with the Strawberry Patchers’ Quilt Show and the Strawberry Valley Blues Festival.

J u ly 4th of July Celebrations and Fireworks – Statewide Throughout Arizona, communities come together to celebrate with food, kids activities, water fun, local bands and entertainment.

Celebrating Arizona’s Centennial – 6th Annual White Mountains Roundup July 15-16, 2011, 928.367.0240, whitemountainsroundup.com Celebrating Cowboy poetry, music and art, the White Mountains Roundup, Inc. was established in 2006 by a committee of local people who wanted to preserve the region’s true cowboy heritage and promote cultural tourism.

Stockmen were the first non-Native settlers in the White Mountains. In 2005 the U.S. Congress set aside the third Saturday in July as the National Day of the American Cowboy to honor our cowboy and Western heritage.

4th of July Celebration, Mesa

Arizona Restaurant Week, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Winebar

124th Annual World’s Oldest Rodeo and Frontier Days – Prescott June 28 – July 4, 2011, 866.407.6336, worldsoldestrodeo.com Since 1888 folks have come from miles around to see what the ruckus in Prescott, Ariz. was all about. Every year that ruckus gets bigger, the contestants more daring and bold.

When the bulls, the horses, the clowns come to town... well, let’s just say you’ll want to see what’s kicking up all that dust.

August Summer ROQ Concerts at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort – Paradise Valley Every Friday Night, 480.627.3042, icmontelucia.com The “Summer ROQ Concert” series, featuring local favorites including the Chris Parker Project, Rock Lobster, Easton Ashe and the Chadwicks, will occur every Friday night throughout the summer. Both resort guests and local residents are welcome to enjoy this complimentary concert series that will “ROQ” the Valley all summer long.

Grape Train Escape, Verde Canyon Railroad – Clarkdale Saturday Nights, 928.639.0010, verdecanyonrr.com Enjoy featured regional wine tastings every Saturday. The canyon comes alive with beauty and wildlife aboard the only railroad that travels through the Verde Canyon.

September Arizona Restaurant Week – Statewide September 2011, 602.307.9134, arizonarestaurantweek.com This exciting event produced by the Arizona Restaurant Association showcases the culinary scene throughout the state. Restaurants feature a three-course signature dish menu for $29 or $39 per person.

Smithsonian Museum Day September 2011, smithsonian.com Each year museums and cultural destinations that are affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution participate in Smithsonian Museum Day, offering free admission for you and a guest and special events and exhibits. You must present the Smithsonian card for the free admission which you can get on the Smithsonian.com website for no charge. www.AZMeetings . c o m

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Events by the Month

Sedona Jazz on the Rocks

Arizona Cardinals Football

Sedona Jazz on the Rocks – Sedona September 30-October 2, 2011, 928.282.1985, sedonajazz.com One of the oldest and most respected Jazz festivals in the Southwest. Each Fall, the newest talent and legendary performers are showcased for three days of incredible music in one of the most breathtaking settings on earth.

O cto b er MACFest! – Mesa October-April, Saturdays, 2011, macfestmesa.com MACFest! offers a consistent, easy, and affordable way for the many wonderful artists in Arizona to expose and sell their work. Only quality, original, hand made works of art may be exhibited. Music and entertainment. Held in Downtown Mesa.

Cowboy Artists of America Sale and Exhibition – Phoenix October-November, Phoenix Art Museum, 602.257.1880, caashow.org This is the only time of year when the entire Cowboy Artists of America membership exhibits together. This ticketed event attracts hundreds of collectors from around the world and includes everything from lunch with the artists to gallery tours.

60th Annual Rex Allen Days – Willcox September 30-October 2, 2011, rexallendays.org This event celebrates the life of Rex Allen and features many of his favorite events including a professional rodeo, parade, concerts and the Cowboy Music and Poetry Festival. Along with all of this you will find fun around every corner including comedy shows, tractor pulls, gunfights and showings of Rex Allen movies.

Bisbee 1000 – Bisbee Third weekend in October, bisbee1000.org The Bisbee 1000 event allows you to use any combination of walking, running and resting to traverse nine sets of steps and numerous back-roads at a mile-high altitude.

While conquering over 1,000 steps you will be serenaded by musicians playing at strategic points along the route.

Participants can compete aggressively for overall and age group prizes; enjoy a challenging fitness walk or family stroll, or any combination thereof.

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Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

No vember Polar Express, Grand Canyon Railway – Williams November-mid-January, 2011, 6:30 & 8pm, $14-26, 800.843.8724, thetrain.com During a one-hour evening train journey, guests enjoy treats and a reading of the classic Christmas story on the way to the North Pole. Santa boards the train at the North Pole and presents young passengers with bells representing the spirit of Christmas and everyone sings carols on the return trip.

Leaf Changing – Statewide Fall Color Hotline 800.354.4595, fs.fed.us/news/fallcolors The Forest Service’s website offers the estimated percentage of current fall foliage, areas with greatest amount of color, recommended viewing routes and the estimated peak viewing period.

December ZooLights, Phoenix Zoo – Phoenix December, 2011, 602.273.1341, phoenixzoo.org Every year, the wildlife at the Phoenix Zoo gives way to wild lights during ZooLights, the largest holiday light display in all of Arizona. More than 3.5 million lights will glow and 600 glimmering animal light sculptures, unique only to the Phoenix Zoo, will swing through trees, hop across lawns, and sparkle in places where they’re least expected.

Arizona Cardinals Football – Glendale Various dates August-December, azcardinals.com The Arizona Cardinals play professional football in the Valley of the Sun. Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade – Tempe December 2011, Tempe Town Lake As many as 50 festively lighted boats of all sizes travel across the lake celebrating the “Winter Wonderland” theme.

Thousands of lights are used for each entry. Expect to see snowflakes, snowmen and reindeer.

ARIZONA’ s CVB s P R O F E S S I O N A L • C R E AT I V E • D E TA I L - O R I E N T E D

The Convention and Visitors Bureaus of Arizona are recognized as the most professional, creative and detailoriented in the business. Incentives for meeting planners abound and vary by city. Call one of the pros below to get started.

Services staff can help you plan it by suggesting off-site venues, providing promotional materials and connecting you with businesses that specialize in meeting services. To book your next meeting in the Phoenix area, contact us toll free at 1.877.MEETPHX or go to www.visitphoenix.com.

Fountain Hills Tourism

Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hold your next meeting in the real Arizona Southwest.

A truly majestic destination. Fountain Hills and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation offer spectacular views, worldclass golf, recreation, cultural heritage tours, and outdoor activities. Located just 30 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and adjacent to Scottsdale. For information about meeting venues and amenities contact Francesca Carozza: francescac@cox.net or 480.390.9880

Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau

Showcasing the West Valley – We’re hundreds of thousands of screaming NFL, NHL, NASCAR and MLB fans strong.

We’re the alluring gentle rolls of pristine fairways and masterfully challenging desert roughs. Our resorts transport the weary business traveler to the pinnacles of relaxation while our nightlife, concerts and cultural destinations are the root for weekend getaways and nights out on the town. More than 32 million visitors every year look to our restaurants, shops, convention centers, entertainment venues and Southwestern vistas for the ultimate business and leisure escape. 5800 W. Glenn Drive, #140, Glendale, 623.930.4500, www.VisitGlendale.com

Mesa Convention & Visitors Bureau

Mesa is unique among cities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Even though it is thriving, dynamic, and the third largest city in Arizona, it is located next to the Tonto National Forest and offers area visitors great outdoor attractions.

Guests can enjoy activities such as a lake paddle wheeler boat ride, wilderness Jeep adventures, helicopter tours, and more than 40 golf courses within a half-hour drive from downtown. Our Bureau offers complimentary services and will assist you with your meeting planning process. There is an abundance of hotels and resorts varying in amenities and price to meet your every meeting need. 120 N. Center St., Mesa, 480.827.4700, 800.283.6372, www.visitmesa.com, info@visitmesa.com

Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau

Whether you’re planning a national convention with thousands of participants or making arrangements for small corporate meetings, the Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau is here to help. Our sales staff and services team are dedicated to making your life easier and your event a success. Our Convention Center Sales team can help you book an event at the newly expanded Phoenix Convention Center, while the Hotel & Resort team focuses on finding the right property for your meeting or conference.

Regardless of where you hold your event, our Convention

Scottsdale Meetings Made Easy. Successful meetings and events take hard work and careful planning – that’s where we come in! The Scottsdale CVB provides a full range of services to meeting planners, including site selection, online requests for proposals, promotional materials and much more. Our staff can connect you with resident DMCs, event experts, golf tournament companies and more. And, when you visit www.MeetInScottsdale.com, you can input requests for customized bids from Scottsdale properties and review a listing of the meeting space and amenities offered at area hotels and resorts. Contact us today at 800.782.1117, 480.421.1004, or www.MeetInScottsdale.com and find out how easy planning the perfect Scottsdale meeting can be!

Tempe Tourism Office

Planning a meeting in Arizona? Think Tempe first! From mountaintop views to a lively and energetic downtown, Tempe provides the perfect setting for a successful meeting.

The Tempe Tourism Office offers complimentary services including requests for proposals, site inspection assistance, collateral materials and service referrals. Tempe is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and features sunny weather, numerous dining venues and top rated shopping. To learn more about Tempe, Arizona, contact our professional convention sales staff at 866.914.0685 or e-mail your meeting specifications to conventionsales@tempetourism. com. You may also complete our easy to use on-line RFP at www.tempetourism.com.

City of Prescott

No matter how demanding or diverse your group is, Prescott is the ultimate location to satisfy them all. From fine arts and fine dining – to exciting nightlife, entertainment, historic legends, and dozens of natural wonders to explore – Prescott has it all. It’s an unexpected world of year ‘round activities, now at incredible values you wouldn’t expect either. Something for everyone (including savings) at www.Visit-Prescott.com. 928.777.1100

Yuma Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

Nestled in the Yuma and Gila Valleys of Southern Arizona, Yuma’s climate blends pleasant desert sunshine with the cool waters of the Colorado River. The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, the first National Heritage Area in the West, is a tribute to our colorful history. Our historic district offers year-round recreation, especially during our 70-degree winters. 202 S. First Ave., Ste. 202, Yuma, 928.376.0100, 800.293.0071, www.visityuma.com www.AZMeetings . c o m

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Wil d West Cowboy Up

Clockwise: Rancho de los Caballeros, Goldfield Ghost Town, Prescott’s Whiskey Row, Tombstone Stagecoach

The first image of Arizona that most people have comes from the movies – the classic Hollywood westerns – where cowboys and gold miners and shootouts at High Noon dominated the landscape. These days, most of the gold is found in jewelry stores and the shootouts take place on a basketball court, but plenty of cowboys still roam the state.

Rodeos, working cattle ranches and gold prospecting still have their place in Arizona. You just have to know where to find them.

Phoenix & Centra l Greater Phoenix’s version of the Old West is more mild than wild, but there’s still plenty to be found in these parts.

You’ll find a few period buildings and hitching posts still standing in Old Town Scottsdale, but what really stands out are the many art galleries that display classic western sculptures and paintings, along with a handful of western wear stores.

A half-hour north of Scottsdale is funky Cave Creek where several saloons and restaurants feature sawdust on the floor, with mountain backdrops to boot. Speaking of boots, they’re definitely in order if you and the group choose horseback riding as an option. Cave Creek Outfitters is a good bet for small group rides. Another long-time favorite is Don Donnelly’s D-Spur Ranch in Apache Junction, which transports riders deep into the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix.

West of Cave Creek, along I-17, is the Pioneer Living History Village, a collection of 30 buildings that reels in visitors with a time trip to the 1800s. A miner’s cabin, ranch houses, blacksmith shop and farm animals are all part of

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the scene. More family fun takes place at Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse, on the Gila River Indian Reservation in Chandler. Stunt shows and shootouts, pony rides and petting zoos, train and stagecoach rides – it’s all there, including live country music.

Whether you take to the Superstitions on horseback or on foot, it’s worth exploring the ghost town of Goldfield and the Lost Dutchman State Park, both of which provide firsthand reminders of the gold-rush frenzy of the late 1800s.

An hour northwest of Phoenix is Wickenburg, probably the closest place you’ll find near Phoenix that embodies the spirit of the Old West. Rancho de los Caballeros is the perfect place to stay and get the authentic western feel. With over 100 horses to ride, and a full-service spa to work out your tired muscles, you have everything you would want from a luxury resort coupled with yesteryear hospitality. Be sure to visit the Desert Caballeros Western Museum illuminating the rich character of the land when life revolved around cowboys, mines and minerals.

Tucson & S o uthern The roll call of famous Old West names is legendary: Geronimo and Cochise; Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.

These four and many more make Tucson and southern Arizona a must-stop for western history buffs. Start with the kid-friendly Old Tucson Studios, which was actually built as a set for the 1939 movie, Arizona. Since then, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood and Paul Newman have all filmed movies here. Today, it’s more of a Wild West theme park, with train rides, staged gunfight stunts and musical shows.

Tucson is also justifiably famous for its guest ranches, where

Gulch, a collection of shops and galleries on a wildly hilly street that once housed 50 saloons and brothels.

Northern Arizona

Blazin’ M Ranch

you can eat, sleep and breathe like a real ranch-hand. Lazy K Bar Ranch, Tanque Verde Ranch and White Stallion Ranch are three of the best for groups.

Sixty-five miles southeast of Tucson sits the most famous Wild West town of them all: Tombstone. Its reputation was cemented in the silver-boom days of 1881, when Wyatt Earp and his brothers, together with Doc Holliday, met up in a violent quarrel with the Clanton Gang at O.K. Corral. Unquestionably, “the town too tough to die” now caters purely to tourists. However, what remains is the real thing – the dusty streets, the wooden boardwalks, the Bird Cage Theater, the Crystal Palace Saloon and notably, the O.K. Corral itself. Just before you arrive into town, you’ll encounter Boot Hill, the notorious graveyard where outlaws are buried.

As you continue to explore Cochise County, drive a few miles southeast to Bisbee, which once was the largest town between New Orleans and San Francisco. Bisbee’s fortunes were tied to its vast copper mines. Today, well-preserved miners’ shacks line the ridges that overlook the town. To see what fueled the growth, tour the Queen Mine, the Lavender Open Pit, a gargantuan gouge in the earth and Brewery

Fragments of the Wild West are scattered throughout the rugged, remote lands that characterize the northern half of the Grand Canyon state, but Prescott offers the boldest blend of old and new. In the 1860s, when President Abraham Lincoln established Arizona as a Territory, Prescott was made its first capital. Then, as now, Courthouse Plaza is Prescott’s central hub, its west side lined with a collection of haunts that comprise Whiskey Row. The Palace Saloon serves libations on the same bar that served Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp. Prescott also lays claim to the world’s oldest rodeo held in early July, a distinction it shares with Payson, a mountain community a couple of hours to the east. Payson’s is billed as the world’s oldest continuous rodeo and its version takes place on the third weekend in August.

Just a short distance from Prescott is the Verde Valley, where you will find the Blazin’ M Ranch. Here you will step back in time with a chuckwagon-style all-you-can-eat barbeque dinner, live western stage show, rustic ambiance, and a western town complete with cowboy activities.

Your final Wild West must-see is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in northeast Arizona. From the flat valley floor rises otherworldly natural sculptures of sandstone, piercing the horizon and the sky with an eerie precision. So starkly dramatic is the setting that it’s been used as the backdrop in hundreds of western movies, TV shows and commercials.

There’s no question: If you’re fixing to discover the Wild West – past and present – Arizona is the place to hang your hat. www.AZMeetings . c o m

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Sports

Shout it Out

F

Phoenix International Raceway

or the college fans, Arizona hosts the Insight Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Fiesta BCS Championship Game this year. For the baseball fans, catch the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field April-September, and the 15 teams in Cactus League Spring Training. Baseball is also braving the summer heat to bring the 2011 MLB All-Star game to Phoenix in July. For basketball fans, the Suns and Mercury shoot hoops at US Airways Center. For football fans, the Arizona Cardinals tackle the competition at the University of Phoenix Stadium. And, if those don’t satisfy the need for competitive action, Arizona also offers PGA Golf, NASCAR racing and one of the largest horse shows in the nation.

Cact us Leagu e Spring Trainin g Chase Field

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2011 brings many anticipated changes to Arizona’s Cactus League Spring Training. With the completion of Salt River Fields at Talking

Clockwise: Arizona Cardinals Football, Cubs Spring Training, Phoenix Coyotes, Phoenix Mercury

Stick, the first Spring Training facility to be located on Indian land, the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies are moving to the Valley of the Sun. This puts all 15 Cactus League teams within a short drive from each other, giving fans the ability to visit every stadium during their visit. Make sure to see the stars of the 2010 World Series when the San Francisco Giants take on the Texas Rangers March 7th and 13th.

The people of Mesa love their baseball and love their Chicago Cubs. In November 2010 they passed, with an overwhelming majority, Prop 420 which allowed for $84 million to build the Cubs a brand new Spring Training complex. The ‘mini’ Wrigleyville will feature the Spring Training Stadium, practice facilities, and bars, restaurants and hotels that you would find at its Chicago counterpart.

Other teams include the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox in Glendale; the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in Tempe; the Milwaukee Brewers and Oakland A’s in Phoenix; the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners in Peoria; the Kansas City Royals in Surprise; and, the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds in Goodyear for the 2011 season.

Cro w d- Pleasing Action The Greater Phoenix area is one of 13 metropolitan areas in the U.S. to have at least one team in each of the four major professional sports. The University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, home of the Arizona Cardinals of the NFL, is home to the annual Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and the 2011 Tostitos BCS Championship Game. Located nearby, the 17,000-seat Jobing.com Arena serves as home to the NHL Coyotes. Chase Field in Downtown Phoenix is home to MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks and the 2011 MLB AllStar Game, and the NBA Phoenix Suns play only a block away at US Airways Center. (So do the women’s Phoenix Mercury, the 2009 WNBA Champions.)

Buckl e Up Phoenix International Raceway is home to the NASCAR Nextel Cup and Busch Series Racing, while Firebird Raceway hosts NHRA events. The nearby Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving teaches aspiring racers to drive like the pros. Other facilities around the state offer a variety of motor sports from dirt-bike racing to high performance go-cart action. www.AZMeetings . c o m

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SHOPP ING Retail Therapy

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ithout question, if you’re into power-shopping, the number of prized properties in the Valley of the Sun are too numerous to mention, but here’s a short lineup of remarkable facilities that will help you get started.

Scottsdale continues to evolve as a shopping, culinary and entertainment destination with additions like Scottsdale Quarter. Inspired by quaint cityscapes with welcoming storefronts, this new hotspot recently dedicated its public gathering place The Quad, featuring a pop-up fountain and three public art statues that also double as park benches.

In addition to Arizona’s first H&M, Scottsdale Quarter boasts Arizona’s Nike flagship store, Deegie’s Carma, the health-conscious True Food Kitchen, Narcisse Champagne Lounge, TK’s Urban Tavern, lululemon athletica (a yogainspired athletic apparel store), and more being added daily.

View the newest releases in style at IPic Theaters, a newto-Arizona premium movie theater, with a customizable “dinner and a movie” evening with reserved seating, fullservice dining and an after-hours lounge.

Another outdoor center and adjacent to the Westin Kierland Resort, Kierland Commons blends shopping, dining and luxury loft living in a spirited indoor/outdoor mix. It’s beach season year-round at Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Café and Emporium, while that perfect one-ofa-kind gift could be tucked into any nook or cranny at Anthropologie.

Downtown Scottsdale is home to both the largest indoor mall in the Southwest and a unique assortment of independent retail centers, notably, the downtown Scottsdale Arts, Shopping & Entertainment Districts, within walking

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Clockwise: Kierland Commons, Mill Avenue District, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Cabelas

distance of each other. World-famous is Scottsdale’s 5th Avenue arts district, home to more than 30 restaurants and 80 specialty shops. The district pairs the Old West vibe of Scottsdale’s past (pick up a cowboy hat and boots at Saba’s) with the elegance and fashion forward Scottsdale of today (pick up pieces by Chanel or Pucci at Fashion by Robert Black). Just down the street is the Scottsdale Waterfront, which recently made its splashy debut along the Arizona Canal. Landscaped pathways and pedestrian-only bridges lead to some of the hottest drink spots and shops in town, such as the acclaimed FnB, and Oh My Dog and Studio by Joy Li, dubbed the “Prada of Scottsdale”.

Across the street at the coveted Camelback and Scottsdale Road corner, Scottsdale Fashion Square offers some of the best department stores in the country including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Barneys New York. Specialty shops are also plentiful – Arizona’s first Tory Burch boutique, free people, 7 for All Mankind, and the global trendsetting Ted Baker. After all this fruitful shopping, the see-and-be-seen crowd will want to wine and dine at the new Modern Steak, the latest in the Fox Restaurant concepts.

Biltmore Fashion Park has been a Phoenix institution for years and today it has become the “go-to” destination for the most unique shopping and dining experiences. Its red poinsettia displays at Christmastime are legendary, but at any time of year, count on eye-catching floral arrangements.

The Valley of the Sun’s only Saks Fifth Avenue is a crowdpleaser here, and new restaurants like Zinburger Wine and Burger Bar, Stingray Sushi and Seasons 52 ensure that shoppers’ every need is taken care of.

Downtown Scottsdale

Downtown Mesa

In the center of Downtown Phoenix, the brand new CityScape Phoenix debuted in 2010. The 1.8 millionsquare-foot mixed use facility contains retail, dining, commercial, residential, and hotel development. A great place for live music and entertainment, Macy Gray and Third Eye Blind headlined the Grand Opening celebration in November 2010. Restaurants to open in 2011 will bring many new faces to the Phoenix dining scene including La Crepe Nanou and Rasputin Vodka Bar, and for the first time old Phoenix standbys will be opening second locations including the Breakfast Club, an Old Town Scottsdale favorite, and La Grande Orange, one of the most popular Arcadia neighborhood landmarks. You will even find Downtown Phoenix’s first grocery store here.

On the west side of Greater Phoenix, Historic Downtown Glendale is well-known for its picket-fenced yards housing the cutest shops, restaurants and boutiques. And pretty much brand new, Glendale’s Sports and Entertainment District is exactly what it sounds like. Located here is the University of Phoenix Stadium and the Jobing.com Arena – both hosting numerous special events in addition to the sports teams they were built for. Next door to these, visitors can shop at Westgate City Center, the Zanjero District and Cabela’s, the world’s foremost outfitter.

If staying in the east Valley, visit Chandler Fashion Center. Anchored by Nordstrom, Dillard’s, Macy’s and

Sears, the 240-store shopping center also features The Village, an outdoor pavilion with the unique Dancing Waters, an interactive fountain display of music, light, sound and water.

A visit to Downtown Mesa is a must for any serious shopper. The independent, locally-owned boutiques are filled with antiques, fashions, and unique décor coupled with coffee shops, museums and art galleries. Make sure to swing by Domestic Bliss on Main Street for vintageinspired beauty or Mystic Paper to pick up the one-of-akind necessities to scrapbook your experiences.

A mere 10 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport is Arizona Mills in Tempe. With more than 175 stores, restaurants and entertainment venues, it’s worth canceling your first flight and catching the next one just to see it all. If you’re searching for bargains, look no further than the Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th Outlet or Neiman Marcus Last Call. Arizona Mills houses the brand new SEA LIFE Arizona. This 26,000-square-foot aquarium has more than 5,000 creatures for guests to observe and even some creatures that guests are able to touch! Sea creatures include sharks, rays, topical fish, sea horses and more.

If you’d like to enjoy the sunshine and find a few treasures to take home, visit Mill Avenue or Tempe Marketplace for unique outdoor shopping experiences. Finally, the monumental 342,000-square-foot IKEA store in Tempe houses Swedish-style furniture and accessories for folks with savings on their minds. Without question, if you’re the kind of person who likes to shop until you drop, by all means drop in on Arizona. www.AZMeetings . c o m

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PHOENIX & CENTRAL Arizona

As the nation’s fifth largest city, Greater Phoenix is the Southwest’s premier meetings and leisure travel destination. The metropolitan area offers meeting planners an immense variety of venues, architectural styles, themes and cuisine. Add in the multitude of recreational opportunities and Phoenix is the perfect blend of business and pleasure. The Phoenix metropolitan area, locally known as The Valley of the Sun, encompasses 23 contiguous cities with Phoenix in the center, and includes Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, Fountain Hills and other smaller communities.

Phoenix Skyline

Fort McDowell Adventures

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Granite Reef Recreation Area

Tempe Town Lake

Crowne Plaza San Marcos Reso

rt

The vibrant look of Downtown Phoenix might be unrecognizable to someone who hasn’t visited in a few years. The unique local boutiques, emerging nightlife scene and eclectic art galleries are bustling with renewed energy, spearheaded by the arrival in 2009 of the METRO light rail system and the major expansion of the Convention Center. Scottsdale is giving visitors a sensory overload. With some of the Valley’s best dining, shopping, public art, resorts and meeting options – boredom is not an option. Glendale is now an international dateline for significant sporting events such as the 2008 Super Bowl, the Fiesta Bowl, the 2007 and 2011 Tostitos BCS Championship Game, and Wrestlemania.

And that’s just for starters. With more than three million citizens, top-rated arts, shopping, dining, and outdoor attractions, plus the world-class Sky Harbor International Airport – it’s easy to see why Greater Phoenix is the political, commercial and recreational heart and soul of the Southwest.

www.AZMeetings. c o m

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P hoenix

Tatum Blvd

40th St

32nd St

7th St

19th Ave

27th Ave

36th Ave

43rd Ave

51st Ave

PEORIA

Cave Creek Rd

Area Map

PHOENIX

101

303 Bell Rd

Bell Rd

SURPRISE

Greenway Rd

101

Thunderbird Rd

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52nd St

EL MIRAGE

59th Ave

Dunlap Ave

67th Ave

Shea Blvd

75th Ave

Peoria Ave

83rd Ave

Cactus Rd Mirage Rd

Cactus Rd

Northern Ave

51 Lincoln Rd

89

Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport

Mill Ave 24th St

16th St

7th St

Central Ave

Baseline Rd

202

27th Ave

36th Ave

43rd Ave

51st Ave

59th Ave

7th Ave

115th Ave

Southern Ave Dysart Rd

Litchfield Rd

Cotton Ln Estrella Pkwy

Broadway Rd

67th Ave

AVONDALE

75th Ave

Buckeye Rd 83rd Ave

Yuma Rd

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TOLLESON

Van Buren St

40th St

McDowell Rd

32nd St

Thomas Rd

48th St

99th Ave

METRO light rail

Indian School Rd

PARADISE VALLEY

60

48th St

GLENDALE

Camelback Rd

44th St

Bethany Home

36th St

GOODYEAR

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an Gr

Glendale Ave

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56th St

Greenway Rd Thunderbird Rd

TEMPE

L E G E N D 10

Interstate Highways

202 State Highways 60

U.S. Highways

Important Roads

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Priest Dr

Interstate Highways

Kyrene Rd

N O R T H

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Scottsdale Rd

yd d Llo lv nk ht B Fra rig W

Hayden Rd

SCOTTSDALE

FOUNTAIN HILLS

Pima Rd

Miller Rd

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ne

eli

Osborn Rd

Be

Sonoran Desert

y Hw

Thomas Rd

SCOTTSDALE

McDowell Rd McKellips Rd Brown Rd University Dr Main St

MESA

Stapley Dr

METRO Apache Blvd light rail

Mesa Dr

202

Broadway Rd Southern Ave

60 101

Baseline Rd Guadalupe Rd

87

Elliot Rd

GILBERT

Warner Rd Ray Rd Chandler Blvd

202

Higley Rd

Greenfield Rd

Val Vista

Lindsay Dr

Gilbert Rd

Cooper Rd

McQueen Rd

Country Club Dr

Alma School Rd

Dobson Rd

McClintock Rd Price Rd

Rural Rd

CHANDLER QUEEN CREEK Historic Downtown Glendale

www.AZMeetings. c o m

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P hoenix

& CENTRAL Arizona

P hoenix Each year millions of people visit the Valley of the Sun, so it is no surprise that, as the fifth largest city in the U.S., Phoenix has the resources to meet every meeting planner’s need, from the everyday to the obscure. To be sure, there are plenty of amenities, such as professional sports teams, innovative restaurants, a superior international airport and modern public transportation. Nonetheless, the city’s historic Southwestern and Native American roots can be seen in everything from spa treatments to cuisine. Saddle up for a horseback ride, stroll through a downtown art gallery US Airways Center or just look out at the cactus-studded mountains drenched Set to open February 2011, the Westin will occupy nine in a reddish-purple sunset, and the distinct beauty of the floors of the new 26-story Freeport McMoRan building, a recognizable standout in Downtown Phoenix. The 242place registers instantly.

Vibrant, energetic and inventive is how Downtown room hotel will feature oversized guestrooms averaging 550 Phoenix is shaping up. It is the commerce and cultural square feet, with the entire Westin brand suite of amenities.

Delve into the region’s cultural center with a trip to the capital of Arizona, representing an urban hub of performing arts venues, unique restaurants, museums, educational Heard Museum, an unmatched representation of Native opportunities and diverse residential options. From sun- American art and folklore. Don’t miss a visit to the gift shop, a treasure trove of the finest in locally produced up to sundown and well into the night, crafts. The perfect complement is a stop-off at Downtown provides a truly unique urban More Info the recently expanded Phoenix Art Museum. environment with more than 90 restaurants, Continue with a walk through the brand new Greater Phoenix bars, and markets. Anchored by the Phoenix Convention & Phoenix Children’s Museum, located in the Convention Center which recently completed a Visitors Bureau, historic 1913 Monroe School Building, which $600 million dollar expansion (early 2009) and (602) 254-6500, includes everything from engaging projects the brand new Phoenix CityScape, Downtown visitphoenix.com and exhibits for young children to educating is also home to museums, live theater, and parents and caregivers about child development music events, as well as professional sports at and parenting techniques. A final stop on the US Airways Center and Chase Field.

Located just down the street from the Phoenix Convention “learning is fun” circuit is the nearby Arizona Science Center, the brand new Westin Phoenix Downtown joins Center, where a planetarium, a five-story, giant-screen the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown as a prime destination theater and a slew of permanent and temporary exhibits for meetings. The Sheraton’s 1,000-room property debuted will amuse young and old alike. All of these facilities are in 2008 with over 80,000 square feet of meeting space. available to groups for meetings and events.

Heard Museum

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P hoenix

& CENTRAL Arizona

Downtown Phoenix’s performing arts scene includes the Orpheum Theatre, which inspires awe even before the show begins thanks to elaborate Spanish-colonial-revival architecture outside and a circular staircase and star-sky ceiling inside. For a completely different vibe, there’s the sleek Comerica Theatre, which marries the classic rigging of a Broadway stage house with the pulsating excitement of modern arena technologies.

Elegant statues of nude dancers decorate the palm-studded grounds of the newly renovated Herberger Theatre, signaling that this is a venue for free spiritedness and artistic discovery.

Here, Arizona’s most widely acclaimed professional theater troupe, the Arizona Theater Company, enchants audiences with contemporary and classic productions. The Herberger is also home to several other companies, including Actors Theatre, Center Dance Ensemble, iTheatre Collaborative and Valley Youth Theatre.

Chandeliers constructed of hand-blown Venetian glass and hanging tapestries hand-woven by Mexican artisans greet visitors inside Phoenix Symphony Hall. This magnificent concert hall, which is also known for its Peacock Fountain, has captivated audiences for 55 years. Along with the Orpheum Theatre, Symphony Hall is also where you can see performances by Ballet Arizona.

After a long day of meetings, you might be craving an empty-your-lungs shout-out. Fortunately, a plethora of seasonal sporting venues await to let you indulge. The

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Hot Air Expeditions courtesy of ESPN

NBA’s Phoenix Suns take their aim at the US Airways Center, a home they share with the Phoenix Mercury, who won the WNBA Championship in 2009. The facility took center stage internationally when it hosted the 2009 NBA All-Star game. Spring, summer and early fall is the time to catch the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field, home to the 2011 MLB All Star Game. The retractable roof means the game could be indoors or outdoors, but the stadium’s biggest splash might be its unique swimming pool, situated just beyond the home run fence in right-center field. If

Camelback Mountain

spring’s your thing, in terms of baseball, catch the Oakland A’s and Milwaukee Brewers at home in Phoenix for Cactus League action.

Odds are pretty good that you’ve touched down in Phoenix to experience one of the sunniest, driest climates on earth – and that means outdoor fun – which Phoenix boasts in abundance. Opt for a hot air balloon rides over the beautiful Sonoran Desert. Hot Air Expeditions provides breathtaking vistas and unforgettable memories, and the dry desert winter climate is also the ideal environment for a corporate party outing promising excitement at an entirely new level. Hikers in your group will quickly warm to the trails at Piestewa Peak, where a dazzling view of downtown Phoenix awaits those who ascend to the top. Camelback Mountain (an aptly named local landmark), South Mountain Park, the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and the Papago Buttes are other sterling examples of back-to-nature fun for those looking to hike, bike or walk the desert.

Practically next door to the Papago Buttes are the wide paved walkways of the Phoenix Zoo and of the Desert Botanical Garden, both of which will instill everything anyone ever wanted to know about local flora and fauna.

If you are in town prior to March 31st, make sure you visit the cute and furry Sooki and Kobi, Koalas on loan from the San Diego Zoo. To accommodate their guests, the Zoo had to renovate an existing building, meeting the strict standards demanded by the San Diego Zoo and the Australian Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA). Also make sure to check out the Zoo’s newest (opened November 2009) and largest animal exhibit, Land of the Dragons. Home to two fullgrown Komodo Dragons, the exhibit has multiple viewing areas, a tropical setting, heated rocks next to windows for up-close viewing, and a 7,000-gallon pool for the dragons to swim in. www.AZMeetings. c o m

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P hoenix

& CENTRAL Arizona

S c o t t s d a l e and t he N o rthe ast Vall e y Scottsdale takes pride in its ability to offer a wealth of charm, style and sophistication in the serene Sonoran Desert. Expect world famous dining, one of a kind shopping, a vibrant arts-oriented downtown, celebrated resorts, and championship golf, just minutes from activities such as rock climbing, race car driving, horseback riding, Jeep safaris and balloon flights. The options for entertaining are nearly endless and Scottsdale’s more than 70 hotels and resorts range from five-star luxury to nicely appointed accommodations.

Culture cravers will seek out Taliesin West, architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s one-time winter retreat and Cosanti, the workshop of futurist Paolo Soleri, whose hand-crafted bronze and ceramic wind chimes have long been one of the state’s most distinctive keepsakes. December 2010 More Info marks the dedication of the Scottsdale Convention Paolo Soleri Bridge and Plaza & Visitors Bureau, in Old Town Scottsdale. Built (800) 782-1117 along the Arizona Canal, meetinscottsdale.com this is the first bridge built

by Soleri, though he has designed over 60 bridges in his lifetime. The structure features two steel-clad 64foot pylons that demonstrate the importance of the solar movement and create a shaft of light across the canal.

Scottsdale Public Art recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Currently more than 70 permanent pieces and 30 temporary artworks are located throughout the downtown area, creating an outdoor museum and interactive exhibit. Make sure to see The Doors and Sound Passage on the corner of Camelback and Scottsdale Roads;

Talking Stick Golf Club

step inside for a light and sound experience you won’t find anywhere else.

It’s little wonder why two upscale national magazines recently named Scottsdale as the best city in the U.S. for golf. Serious golfers have long flocked to the 200-plus courses that are sprinkled throughout the Valley of the Sun. Traditional tree-lined “parkland” courses, ninehole “beginners” courses and dramatic “target-style” desert courses all beckon, but for those seeking toprated “trophy” courses, Scottsdale overflows. Start with the TPC Stadium Course, home to the largest crowds in golf when the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open takes place there in early February. The par-3 16th hole, where Tiger Woods scored his famous ace in 1997, is considered the most raucous in golf. The TPC Stadium’s sister course, the Champions, is every bit the challenge of its Tour-worthy sibling.

Rej u venation

Westin Kierland Spa Meditation Room

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Arizona is certainly known for its luxurious spas. You’ve surely heard of the celebrity-laden Canyon Ranch, and seen Miraval on Oprah, but did you know that for more than 100 years people have been traveling to Arizona for the immeasurable health benefits of its warm dry climate. SpaFinder, Inc. recently released their top spa trends for 2011, which mentions an increase in spas wishing to draw groups looking for a unique event experience.

After spending the day sitting in meetings, make a point to check out the spa at your resort or a nearby day spa and experience ingredients drawn from Arizona’s natural environs – juniper, sage and sandalwood combined with desert honey and river rocks make the perfect self-indulgent recipe. Arizona’s warm winters enable spa-goers to sun by outdoor pools in January, and summer off-months offer unheard of discounts and special “cool-down” experiences that will take you away from the heat. Don’t hesitate to indulge yourself in relaxation and luxury.

P hoenix

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Even if golfing is not on your list, the recreational options in Scottsdale are truly endless. Nestled in the lush Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is bordered by the McDowell Mountains and McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which consists of 16,460 acres of protected land. These areas provide the perfect landscape for mountain biking, hiking and backpacking.

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve also offers guided hikes in the area that range from three to more than eight miles in length. Visit their website www.mcdowellsonoran.org for updates on scheduled public hikes, and to download a map with helpful information such as shade areas, restrooms and parking.

If you are interested in honing your athletic skills, a stay at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain may be just what you need. Olympians Misty Hyman and Mike Schneider offer guests a Triathalon Prep Program – a three-day option that teaches the expertise of the swim-bike-run challenge. Make sure to soothe those tired muscles in their world famous spa.

Off-road Jeep and Hummer tours are a wonderful way to enjoy the desert’s Old West history and experience its beautiful flora and fauna. Interpretive guides provide entertaining stories of the Old West (including a tall tale or two!) as well as interesting facts about the plants and animals that make up the desert’s delicate ecosystem. Tour options include gold panning, pistol shooting, Jeep/horseback and Jeep/river rafting combinations, chuckwagon cookouts, and more. For a truly western experience, book a sunrise horseback ride through the McDowell Mountains followed by a hearty cowboy cookout for breakfast. From high in the saddle, you’ll see exotic cactus, rolling desert foothills and crystalline streams. As you explore the pristine, natural habitats, your guide will entertain you with the stories and legends of Arizona’s first cowboys.

InterContinental Montelucia Resort

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Sonoran Jeep Tour

Of course, after all of that activity, the body may need some pampering. Where luxury spa treatments are concerned, Scottsdale is virtually unbeatable. Offering the ultimate in privacy, Agave, the Arizona Spa at the Westin Kierland is located just steps outside the resort and features a quiet lap pool beside a relaxing courtyard and garden.

Agave Spa has 20 treatment rooms, a full-service salon, a movement studio, weight training and cardio studios, as well as cabanas providing guests with private areas for outdoor relaxation and spa therapies.

Also among the elite, the free-standing, 31,000-squarefoot Joya Spa at InterContinental Montelucia Resort channels the raw splendor of Moorish Andalucía Spain with whitewashed walls contrasting vibrant hues of ochre and multi-colored, custom-made Moroccan tiles.

As InterContinental’s first U.S. resort property, the resort features 253 guestrooms and 40 suites, plus 34 privatelyowned luxury villas that are managed by the resort.

TRAVEL + LEISURE recently released its list of 2010 Top 50 Hotels in the U.S. and Canada, with the Intercontinental Montelucia Resort ranking #13. The resort is the highest ranked in the state of Arizona, beating out many standbys.

Scottsdale’s year-round unique events can also be incorporated into your next meeting or incentive program.

Every January, the celebrity-laden classic car shows come to town, among them the nationally televised Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. Then in February, the cars drive away from the WestWorld facility, replaced by horsepower of a different kind – the pageant-filled Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. The City recently approved a $33 million Equidome Project for WestWorld that will double the arena size and add climate-control technology, making events possible year-round. March brings the San Francisco Giants to town for Spring Training baseball. In April, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival draws more than 40,000 visitors looking to enjoy fabulous food, fun, festivities and fabulous weather. For a complete Scottsdale events calendar, visit www.experiencescottsdale.com.

Scottsdale once featured a tag line, “the West’s most Western town.” You can still find western remnants if you

Our Venue. Your Vision. Extraordinary Events.

The Venue Scottsdale’s spacious, multi-level, newly-renovated interior is perfect for corporate events, charity events, social occasions, weddings, and more. Whether elegant, casual, professional or festive; The Venue Scottsdale can accommodate any occasion.

Take the Video Tour at

www.thevenuescottsdale.com Call us to schedule a tour and learn more about this unique event facility

(480) 945-6475

7117 E. 3rd Avenue | Scottsdale, AZ 85251

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know where to look. For fans of the Old West, downtown Scottsdale offers numerous galleries replete with paintings and sculptures, along with a small concentration of western wear stores and a few old-style buildings and hitching posts amid the modern surroundings. North Scottsdale is chock full of tasteful new developments that are nicely integrated into the desert but a few old standbys remain firmly entrenched. Greasewood Flats, Reata Pass and Pinnacle Peak Patio are three restaurants that represent the old guard, that were hewn in the days where paved roads were a rarity. For those who want to plunge into the cowboy way, pay your tuition at Scottsdale’s Arizona Cowboy College, where you’ll learn the tools of the trade at a real-live cattle ranch.

Scottsdale is a shopper’s heaven, and never fails to please when the ‘shop-til-you-drop’ bug hits you. Retail excitement reaches fever pitch in the winter/spring months, when outdoor shopping is a joyous occasion, but whether you’re inside or out, there are countless options to buy ‘til you’re happy. Return visitors likely have fond memories of Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Scottsdale Fashion Square recently unveiled a brand new 100,000-square-foot expansion wing with the addition of Arizona’s first Barneys New York. Kierland offers an ideal blend of indoors and outdoors, as well as a something-foreveryone experience with hotels, luxury loft living, shopping and dining. Just next door the brand new Scottsdale Quarter recently opened and offers Arizona’s first H&M, the flagship Arizona Nike Store, and the unique Oakville Grocery – stop in for specialty cheeses and wines.

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Pinnacle Peak Patio

The legendary Fifth Avenue Shopping District in Downtown Scottsdale serves as a gateway to a worldfamous concentration of boutiques and art galleries that fan out to Main Street and Marshall Way. Downtown itself is a paradise for walkers, with as much to photograph as there is to buy. Don’t miss Bob Park’s Horse Fountain and the stores that surround it. Balmy Thursday evenings, when galleries extend their hours for the Scottsdale ArtWalk, are the most enjoyable way to browse and buy. You can stay in the neighborhood to celebrate your purchases because it’s home to the most eclectic grouping of nightspots in the Valley. Party spots range from Vegas-influenced, A-Lister haunts such as Modern Steak, White House and Revolver (Rihanna recently held her birthday party at this Valley newcomer), to rock-meets-western Saddle Ranch Chop House. More Vegas-style action is available at two Casino Arizona locations in Scottsdale, belonging to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

Casino Arizona is home to Arizona’s newest resort, Talking Stick Resort. Talking Stick features more than 100,000 square feet of meeting space, 497 guestrooms, a gaming floor, entertainment and world-class spa. The resort sits next to the brand new Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – the new Spring Training home to the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.

Looking to kick back? The charming, artsy town of Carefree just north of Scottsdale has an “Easy Street,” and an intersection of “Ho” and “Hum.” Not to be outdone, the rustic town of Cave Creek next door introduced the world to chili beer, consisting of a bottle of tasty brew that also holds a spicy jalapeno pepper. The beauty of Scottsdale and its surrounds is that there’s something for every taste.

Fountain Hills & Fort McDowell

Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum is a ‘not-to-miss’ Although the Town of Fountain Hills and the Fort stop on your journey. Visitors are led through a series of McDowell Yavapai Nation are only a few miles east of exhibits preserving the history of the Lower Verde River Scottsdale, it feels as if they are a world away. The area Valley and the importance of water in the Sonoran Desert.

Twice a year, the Great Fair and the Fountain Festival of is wreathed by scenic mountains, draped in the unique Arts and Crafts attract hundreds of thousands of art lovers vegetation of the Sonoran Desert and blessed with to the downtown area. Galleries and small shops make it panoramic views offering a wide range of outdoor activities easy for shoppers to find their own art year-round. And, the such as golfing, hiking, biking, bird watching and boating. award-winning Fountain Hills Community Theater is one The white plume of Fountain Hill’s world famous of Arizona’s leading performing arts organizations. fountain – the town took its name from the Lodging options for groups include the landmark – is visible for miles. At its full luxurious Radisson Fort McDowell Resort height of 560 feet, the fountain is higher than More Info and the Inn at Eagle Mountain. Along with the Washington Monument and three times Fountain Hills & Fort the four star resort, Fort McDowell has as high as Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone McDowell Tourism, become widely known for its casino and live Park. It may seem surprising to have such a (480) 837-1654, entertainment.

In addition, they have 36 holes magnificent spout in an arid area, but this visitfhfm.com of golf at the acclaimed We-Ko-Pa Golf Club fountain is a celebration of water where it is and Fort McDowell Adventures, an old west most appreciated – in the middle of the desert. style recreation facility offering horseback Those with a sense of whimsy might check out the burgeoning arts scene in Fountain Hills; sculptures, rides, Jeep rides and other outdoor fun. Located adjacent water features and other works of art adorn the Community to the Inn at Eagle Mountain in the rugged McDowell Center, the Avenue of the Fountains and public places. Mountains, the Scott Miller-designed Eagle Mountain Docent-led art walk tours are available the first Saturday Golf Club dramatically weaves its way through shaded box of the month from November through April and can be canyons and around majestic mountain peaks unique to this arranged for your group by special appointment. The L. scenic corner of the Sonoran desert.

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Tempe With more than 5,000 rooms in Tempe and flexible meeting space, Tempe is the perfect fit for groups from five to 500 people. In addition to the perfect meeting venue, attendees will enjoy an endless array of Tempe services, arts and cultural activities, outdoor adventure, fabulous dining, 330 days of sunshine a year and exciting nightlife.

Tempe is located four short miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Many of Tempe’s hotels offer complimentary airport transportation and some hotels are connected to the airport via METRO light rail. Getting to Tempe is so easy; you will save a great deal on your ground transportation costs.

Tempe features a wide array of properties to meet every need and budget: a mountain top resort, a downtown conference resort, airport hotels, and full- and select-service properties. Tempe is known for unique meeting venues that can More Info captivate the creative side of any Tempe attendee. Planners can choose to Tourism Office, have off-site events at museums, (866) 914-0685, concert halls, the Tempe Center for choosetempe.com the Arts, Tempe Town Lake, The Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, historic sites, City of Tempe parks and the Arizona State University campus.

Additionally, Tempe has world-class venues to accommodate a myriad of sporting events, such as stadiums, gymnasiums, fields, lakes, pools and so much more.

Energy flows from tree-lined Mill Avenue in the center of downtown where some 250 businesses – from charming coffee shops to quaint stores and nightclubs – offer entertainment galore. Sidewalk artists and entertainers frequent the area giving the scene a lively and spontaneous sense of fun and excitement. Tempe Mission Palms is just steps from Mill Avenue and has 303 guestrooms, 30,000 square feet of meeting space and a rooftop pool. Even

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Mill Avenue District

better, they arrange numerous unique afternoon activity packages from high adventure excursions to cultural tours.

Not far from the excitement of Mill Avenue you will find the Fiesta Resort Conference Center. Having recently celebrated their 35th anniversary, the resort has been a prominent fixture in Tempe. The recently opened 25,000-square-foot meeting facility gives the property more ability to cater to the needs of groups of all sizes.

Tempe prides itself on the plethora of arts and cultural offerings available. ASU’s Gammage Auditorium welcomes the public with a selection of art shows, plays, musicals, concerts and speakers. Visitors to Tempe will also enjoy the Tempe Center for the Arts. Funky local bands, awardwinning local theater, blockbuster Broadway productions, comedy shows and contemporary dance companies are all part of Tempe’s arts and cultural scene.

Situated at the north end of Mill Avenue, Tempe Town Lake is a two-mile-long riverbed offering an urban oasis for boating, kayaking, rowing and special events. The banks of Tempe Town Lake are encircled by five miles of trails for running, biking, in-line skating and bicycling. Along Mill Avenue hikers can access ‘A’ Mountain, which has an easy hike to the top and provides panoramic views of Tempe and the Valley of the Sun. Tempe’s special events include: the Tempe Spring and Fall Festivals of the Arts, the Insight Fiesta Bowl Block Party (one of the country’s best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve according to USA Today or just ask one of the more than 150,000 revelers that attend), the exhilarating P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & Half Marathon and the inspiring Ford Ironman Arizona.

Tempe offers professional meeting planners an excellent destination – with options from mountaintop views to a dynamic downtown – there’s a unique meeting venue for every taste and budget. From the younger crowd to the young at heart, Tempe has just what you seek for an interesting, fun and highly successful meeting location.

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M es a As Arizona’s third-largest city, Mesa’s claim to fame nationally has long been its status as the spring training baseball home to the Chicago Cubs, whose passionate fans continually produce record breaking attendance at every game in March. Though the Cubs are a significant part of what makes Mesa stand out, the other 11 months of the year provide just as much excitement. Don’t be surprised to find state-of-the-art celebrityowned restaurants: Toby Keith More Info recently opened his “I Love This Bar & Grill” in Mesa Riverview.

Mesa Convention & Visitors Bureau, This 900-seat restaurant offers (480) 827-4700, larger than life features, including visitmesa.com an 85-foot guitar shaped bar, mechanical bull, stage and dance floor and over 50 televisions.

You may even recognize a face or two in Mesa – many local Mesa businesses have been featured on the FOOD Network, the Discovery Channel and TLC. The Queen Creek Olive Mill has been featured on multiple networks recently – features include the Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs and the FOOD Network’s Best Thing I Ever Ate. As Arizona’s only working Olive Mill, visitors get a real treat when they can tour the production process

Cubs Spring Training

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Queen Creek Olive Mill

and taste different olive oils produced on site. Your group can dine in the olive grove on an olive inspired menu from del Piero.

When it comes to arts and culture, Mesa is like no other city in the Valley – or the Southwest for that matter. Mesa Arts Center is the largest arts and entertainment venue of its kind in the Southwest. It houses four theaters, five art galleries, and 14 art studios. The Center also offers classes including their Claycation series where guests can

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Mesa Arts Center ©Al Payne Photography

learn ceramics and basic pottery. Two other museums are within walking distance of downtown Mesa with the Arizona Museum of Natural History serving as the anchor.

Here, visitors can see some of the biggest dinosaurs that ever lived and understand the natural and cultural history

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of the Southwest. The Arizona Museum for Youth, a fine arts museum for children, features ArtVille, an art-inspired town for curious and creative toddlers.

For meetings in downtown, Mesa Convention Center offers 15,000 square feet of exhibit area and an additional 25,000 square feet of meeting space, comprised of 15 rooms of varying sizes. On-site catering and a state-of-theart theater-style conference center are also available. Part of the Convention Center complex, the Mesa Amphitheatre offers festival seating for 4,200 on curved grass terraces and no seat is further than 175 feet from the stage in this lovely setting. The Amphitheatre consistently ranks at the top of the best outdoor concert venues in the Valley with national touring acts, community programs, arts and cultural events, and theatrical performances.

Mesa is known as an activity-oriented destination; heading east into the rugged slopes of the Superstition Mountains, one encounters the towns of Apache Junction and Gold Canyon. Until you’ve experienced the Superstitions, you’re missing one of Arizona’s wildest rides. Legend has it that hidden in these parts is a rich vein of gold. For more than 150 years, starry-eyed prospectors have hiked up and down the mountains in search of Lost Dutchman’s Mine. What anybody can find, however, are the dazzling kaleidoscopes of wildflowers that blanket the foothills in springtime following healthy winter rains. Now you can experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert by the light of the moon with a guided moonlit hike offered by the Lost Dutchman State Park.

Although Mesa is just 20 minutes from Downtown Phoenix and Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport, Mesa’s own Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport offers meeting planners a convenient alternative. Allegiant Air currently operates here, and other airlines are in negotiations to begin passenger service to cities outside Arizona.

Championships and the Fed Cup! Continue west on the Carefree Highway past Peoria and you’ll find the watery attractions of Lake Pleasant, a top draw, where you can expect to find ample amounts of boating, horseback riding, fishing and water skiing.

Nearby, the Challenger Space Center of Arizona provides all ages an astronomical thrill. Part of an international network, the center allows groups of visitors to simulate a two-and-one-half-hour space mission, varying from a trip to the moon to a visit to a comet.

The center also offers rentals and More Info educational programs for corporate groups.

Glendale If you’re yearning for a slice Convention and of the Old West, Wickenburg Visitors Bureau, (623) 930-4500, delivers. Located an hour’s drive visitglendale.com northwest of Phoenix, Wickenburg is an old mining town with enough modern enticements to snag locals and tourists alike. Check into Wickenburg’s Rancho de los Caballeros Resort and you’re issued your own horse. Of course, his meal plan and yours are very different. In addition to their over 9,000 square feet of meeting space, Rancho de los Caballeros also offers groups customized golf tournaments, Jeep tours, hot air ballooning, and desert ATV tours.

University of Phoenix Stadium

G lend a le a nd the Wes t Vall ey Glendale and the West Valley may have only recently seen a population and building boom, but this area is rich in history, and Glendale recently celebrated its 100th birthday.

Just a short time ago, the towns west of Phoenix were comprised of cotton fields, citrus groves, cattle ranches and an Air Force base. Today, Glendale has a brand new Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and is a dominant force in the West Valley. Thanks to its prime attraction, the University of Phoenix Stadium, home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, the annual Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, the circulating BCS Championship Game and special events, Glendale has emerged as a top event destination.

Adjacent to the big stadium is a smaller sibling, the Jobing.com Arena, which serves as home for the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes, as well as to concerts and ice skating events. Glendale’s newest sports facility, the 13,500-seat baseball spring training site, Camelback Ranch, houses the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. Sports don’t stop in Glendale though. Peoria is home to spring training for the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres.

Goodyear hosts the Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds and Surprise hosts the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers for their spring training.

You can also watch NASCAR events at Phoenix International Raceway in Avondale or come to see the pros at the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex, hostsite for the Cancer Treatment Centers of America Tennis www.AZMeetings . c o m

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Cha n d le r Just east of Mesa, the trellis-covered walkways and colonnades of Historic Downtown Chandler lure people to this unique community with its ever-increasing inventory of unique galleries, charming boutique shops and independent restaurants.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Chandler’s Downtown Square was once a favored haunt of Hollywood luminaries and heads of state, and in 2010 opened its $76 million brand new City Hall Complex.

Developers envisioned a completely pedestrian-friendly environment connecting the City Hall Complex seamlessly with Downtown Chandler. The Complex contains civic offices, an art gallery, and Chandler’s local television station; tours are available for the public. The historic square is home to a variety of award-winning, local restaurants, including an Arizona winery and microbrewery, boutique shops, and entertainment creating a vibrant, eclectic arts and cultural district.

More Info Chandler offers a variety of hotel accommodations, including City of Chandler, (480) 782-3037, Arizona’s original golf resort visitchandler.com (located in downtown Chandler), the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort that first opened in 1912. With its Spanish colonnades, old-world charm and probably the shadiest 18 holes of championship golf west of the Mississippi, it’s been a favorite for over 90 years.

The first Wednesday of each month features an art walk in downtown. Unique annual events include a Jazz Festival, Classic Car & Hot Rod Show, Tumbleweed Tree Lighting event, Ostrich Festival, and a Cinco de Mayo celebration including Chihuahua races.

Have your group rev their engines at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. Meeting attendees

Historic Downtown Chandler

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Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving

can learn to drive like the pros in the largest facility of its kind, featuring over 200 race-prepared vehicles. Instructors give groups the opportunity to experience the track the way the professional drivers do – at speeds beyond your imagination. After a few trips around the track you can utilize the facility’s event space and catering for banquet and meeting needs.

Chandler is home to Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse, named “Best Western Experience” by AZCentral.com and the Arizona Republic, on the Gila River Indian Reservation (bordering Chandler), which dishes out a dose of the Wild West with stunt shows, shootouts, stagecoach rides and sing-alongs. Ranked the 5th largest meeting venue in the Valley of the Sun, and offering 14 different private indoor/outdoor facilities, Rawhide can accommodate groups of any size.

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A cc o mm o d at i o n s

Phoenix-North

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The Buttes, A Marriott Resort 2000 Westcourt Way, Tempe, 85282 602.225.9000 • buttesmarriottresort.com 353 rooms / 40,000 sf meetings

After an eventful day of meetings, your guests will appreciate the comfort of our handsomely furnished guestrooms and Narande Spa. With our flexible meeting space, including a 9,000-sf ballroom, The Buttes, A Marriott Resort is your premier meetings destination.

Comfort Suites Glendale (University of Phoenix Stadium Area) 9824 W. Camelback Road, Glendale, 85305 623.271.9005 comfortsuites.com/hotel/AZ296 gm.az296@choicehotels.com 100 rooms / 4,000 sf meetings

For business, pleasure or just relaxing – this is the perfect choice. Our brand new conference center hotel features 100 guest suites and over 4,000 sf of flexible meeting space. We are just minutes from many popular venues including Camelback Ranch, Westgate City Center, Phoenix International Raceway, Luke Air Force Base and much more! Enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast and stay connected with free high speed wireless and hard-wired Internet access. Complimentary shuttle service within 7 miles. Mention this ad and receive a 10% discount on Meeting Room Rental.

Crowne Plaza® San Marcos Golf Resort One San Marcos Place, Chandler, 85225 480.812.0900 • 800.528.8071 SanMarcosResort.com 249 rooms / 35,000 sf meetings

The Crowne Plaza® San Marcos Golf Resort, since its opening in 1912, has become known for its legendary hospitality and as Arizona’s original golf course! The resort features luxurious guestrooms including 12 Jr. Suites and two Presidential Suites. 35,000 sf of flexible meeting space, three ballrooms, AJ’s Café, 1912 Lounge, Coffee House “we proudly brew Starbucks”, heated swimming pool, spa and tennis courts!

Doubletree Paradise Valley Resort 5401 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 85250 480.947.5400 • 800.222.TREE paradisevalley.doubletree.com 378 rooms / 49,925 sf meetings

Doubletree Paradise Valley Resort is an enclave of towering palms, lush foliage and sparkling fountains just north of historic downtown Scottsdale. In addition to flexible meeting space, the resort features two refreshing pools, lighted tennis courts, a health club, practice putting greens and all rooms provide generous work areas and many amenities.

Embassy Suites Airport at 24th Street 2333 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix, 85016 602.957.1910 • 800.EMBASSY phoenixairport24th.embassysuites.com 182 rooms / 5,000 sf meetings

All-suite hotel centrally located to business districts, museums, theatres, and sports venues. Two and a half miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Offering complimentary cookedto-order breakfast, cocktails nightly, parking and 24-hour airport transportation. Amenities include: restaurant on property with room service available, outdoor heated pool with oversized whirlpool, on-site exercise facility and barbecue grills throughout the grounds.

Embassy Suites Biltmore 2630 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 85016 602.955.3992 • 800.EMBASSY phoenixbiltmore.embassysuites.com 232 rooms / 10,000 sf meetings

Featuring a fresh new look, multi-million-dollar renovation on all guestrooms and public space, offering a true southwestern experience. Nestled in the city’s prestigious Biltmore area, a vibrant center of business, sophisticated shops, outstanding restaurants and exciting entertainment.

Cascading waterfalls and Koi pools add to the enjoyment of our daily complimentary cooked-toorder breakfast and evening beverage reception. Adjacent to the Arizona Biltmore Country Club offering world-class golf on two championship courses.

Embassy Suites Phoenix-North 2577 W. Greenway Road, Phoenix, 85023 602.375.4098 phoenixnorth.embassysuites.com phxno_ds@hilton.com 314 rooms / 20,000 sf meetings

Centrally located in the Valley of the Sun and within minutes of Downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale and Peoria. Featuring 314 two-room suites, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and managers reception daily. Enjoy our heated pool, hot tub, Cabaña Bar, fitness center, tennis and more! Dine in Lafitte’s Restaurant and relax in the Lobby Lounge. With over 20,000 sf of conference facilities let us host your next conference, meeting or special event. Our professional sales and catering team will detail your entire event from start to finish.

Embassy Suites Phoenix-Scottsdale 4415 E. Paradise Village Pkwy., Phoenix, 85032 602.765.5800 embassysuites.com 270 rooms / 14,000 sf meetings

Embassy Suites at Stonecreek Golf Course is the only all-suite hotel nestled around this awardwinning golf course. Hotel offers complimentary full cooked-to-order breakfast, evening manager’s reception and a balcony off every guest suite to enjoy Arizona’s spectacular sunsets and sunrises.

Tatum’s restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service. Shuttle service, pool, spa, business center, fitness center and meeting facilities also available.

Embassy Suites Tempe 4400 S. Rural Road, Tempe, 85282 480.897.7444 embassysuitestempe.com 224 rooms / 13,000 sf meetings

The ONLY all-suite/full-service property in Tempe also features resort-style courtyards. Complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and evening manager’s reception are offered daily. Complimentary 24-hour business center, fitness center and airport transportation. Located just two miles from ASU and downtown Tempe. Six championship golf courses within five miles. Nearby shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Over 10,000 sf of meeting space to accommodate up to 300 people.

Fiesta Resort Conference Center 2100 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, 85282 800.528.6481 • 480.967.1441 FiestaResortcc.com info@fiestaresortcc.com 270 rooms / 30,000 sf meetings

For 35 years we have set the standard for meetings in Tempe. We offer 30,000 sf of multi-purpose indoor/outdoor spaces and 100MB bandwidth high-speed Internet for super-fast connections.

Only ten minutes from Arizona State University and linked to the downtown business district via the nearby light rail system. Amenities include heated pool/whirlpool, day spa, fitness center, business center, full-service restaurant/lounge and complimentary airport transportation. Discover exceptional services and our warm southwest hospitality.

Gainey Suites Hotel 7300 E. Gainey Suites Drive, Scottsdale 85258 800.970.4666 • 480.922.6969 gaineysuiteshotel.com 162 rooms / 8,300 sf meetings

Ranked #1 in Scottsdale on TripAdvisor.com, Gainey Suites Hotel is an intimate, upscale alternative to the large resorts...and a terrific value for small meetings. Stylishly remodeled suites feature the plush Gainey Suite Dreams Bed, elegant marble baths, and free WiFi & HDTV. Guests enjoy a full complimentary breakfast buffet and evening reception with appetizers, beer & wine daily. Groups appreciate two well-appointed boardrooms, a three-section ballroom, and unique indoor and outdoor venues for conference dining.

Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix/Gilbert 3265 S. Market St., Gilbert, 85297 480.543.150 phoenixgilbertsuites.hamptoninn.com 98 rooms / 800 sf meetings

Once called the “Hay Capital of the World” Gilbert has undergone a radical transformation in the recent years to become one of the fastest growing communities in the nation. The “New” Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix/Gilbert is located just miles from downtown Gilbert, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, Mercy Medical Hospital, shopping, restaurants and much more. Our promise to you is friendly service, clean rooms, comfortable surroundings. That’s our guarantee… That’s 100% Hampton! Complimentary hot breakfast, high speed Internet, and van shuttle service within 5 miles of our hotel. Earn Hilton HHonors Points & Miles® with each travel to Hampton Inn & Suites Gilbert!

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HOTEL PHOENIX CITY CENTER

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Hampton Inn – Phoenix/Midtown 160 W. Catalina Drive, Phoenix, 85013 602.200.0990 • 800.HAMPTON hamptoninn.com/hi/phoenix-midtown 99 rooms / 800 sf meetings

The Hampton Inn-Phoenix/Midtown offers that great central location. Located in the heart of Phoenix’s Central Corridor of financial and government offices. Spacious guestrooms are equipped with all the comforts for an enjoyable stay. Free wireless high-speed Internet throughout the hotel.

Meeting space to accommodate up to 50 classroom-style. Free breakfast buffet with hot items included in room rates.

Hilton Phoenix/Chandler 2929 W. Frye Road, Chandler, 85224 480.899.7400 • 800.HILTONS phoenixchandler.hilton.com 197 rooms / 8,000 sf meetings

In the heart of Chandler’s high-tech district, the Hilton Phoenix Chandler opened in February 2009, and has become “the” place to be in the East Valley. With a full-service restaurant and bar, featuring a lively happy hour, the hotel also features a Starbucks Café and a poolside bar and grill. Adjacent to Chandler Fashion Center, and minutes to downtown Chandler, the hotel is an ideal location for meetings and special events.

Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas 6333 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 85250 480.948.7750 scottsdaleresort.hilton.com 233 rooms / 44,894 sf meetings

Nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas is surrounded by spectacular golf, world-class shopping, and endless entertainment options. Relax in the luxury of 45 new lavishly appointed two-bedroom villas featuring full kitchens and private patios. The resort boasts beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, spa and fitness center. Dining options include the Blue Fire Grille and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.

Hilton Suites Phoenix 10 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix, 85012 602.222.1111 • 800.HILTONS phoenixsuites.hilton.com 226 rooms / 2,200 sf meetings

Breathtaking views, luxurious suites, tropical atrium and an optimal location. The Hilton Suites is located in the heart of the central business district and near Phoenix’s most popular cultural, entertainment and sports venues. Light rail access adjacent to hotel, at the Thomas and Central station. A clean, safe, easy and “can’t get lost” transport system, which connects our guests to all of the Downtown, Central Phoenix and Tempe hot spots.

Hotel Valley Ho 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale, 85251 480.248.2000 • 866.882.4484 hotelvalleyho.com 230 rooms / 12,500 sf meetings

Downtown Scottsdale’s resort features posh, playful rooms and suites, fab fare at ZuZu and Trader Vic’s, and VH Spa for Vitality and Health. Various size boardrooms blend mid-century style with digital convenience for special gatherings, conferences, executive retreats and board meetings.

Outdoor venues are ideal for catered events and teambuilding activities as well as casual meetings.

Dramatic design graces the Hotel Valley Ho ballrooms, and the rooftop terrace is the city’s most dramatic location.

Hyatt Place Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, and Gilbert 888.492.8847 hyattplace.com

Hyatt Place is perfect for small corporate and executive meetings, training classes and more. At Hyatt Place, we’ve designed a different kind of hotel to help you bring people together in fresh ways. Our meeting packages provide convenience, flexibility and savings to your events. Guests enjoy spacious guestrooms featuring the plush Hyatt Grand Bed™, a 42” HD TV, work desk and free Wi-Fi. Room rates include continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, 24-hour business center and fitness room usage. Avoid hidden charges when booking your meeting at Hyatt Place. We never charge service fees, resulting in a savings value of 18-23%.

Inn at Eagle Mountain 9800 N. Summer Hill Blvd., Fountain Hills, 85268 800.922.8083 innateaglemountain.com 42 rooms / 3,005 sf meetings

An ideal location for guests seeking the exclusivity and value of a smaller boutique property with the guest amenities of a resort. This very private, extremely beautiful site creates an attractive sanctuary with soothing, satisfying influences. Meeting rooms for groups of 10-50 with the new Overlook Pavilion for up to 150. Amenities: breakfast, lunch, and private catering from the Grille at Eagle Mountain, near golf, shopping, spas, and outdoor adventures.

InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa 4949 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, 85253 480.627.3150 icmontelucia.com 293 rooms / 27,000 sf meetings

Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain and reminiscent of a small European village, InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa will take your next meeting to a new level. Flexible, idyllic meeting and event space evoke the mystery and passion of the Old World while serving every modern meeting need. Montelucia is located in the heart of Scottsdale and just eight miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The breathtaking beauty and soul-stirring surroundings of the resort will ensure perfect moments for meeting and event attendees.

Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort 7677 N. 16th St., Phoenix, 85020 602.997.2626 • 800.685.0550 pointehilton.com 563 rooms / 48,000 sf meetings

Meeting professionals enjoy a myriad of options. Our complete business center meets the varied needs of meeting planners and event staff, along with state-of-the-art audio-visual teleconferencing equipment, DS3 Internet capability and Wi-Fi available in select areas. Why not take your group outdoors under the Western skies for playful themed events at Tombstone, our cowboy town, followed by a festive dinner celebration on the Squaw Peak Patio? Our sports pool is ideal for water games.

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort 11111 N. 7th St., Phoenix, 85020 602.866.7500 • 800.685.0550 pointehilton.com 584 rooms / 85,000 sf meetings

The tremendous versatility and scope of our meeting facilities set the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort apart from other resorts. The opportunities for successful meetings here are endless. The meeting and outdoor garden function space have been designed specifically for conventions and events. DS3 Internet capability and Wi-Fi available in select areas. Whether your meetings are for 20 or 1,500, our nationally recognized team of meeting professionals devote themselves to making your event a triumph.

Radisson Hotel Phoenix City Center 3600 N. 2nd Ave., Phoenix, 85013 602.604.4900 • 800.333.3333 radissonphoenix.com 160 rooms / 5,000 sf meetings

The Radisson Hotel Phoenix City Center is located in the heart of the medical, financial, business, and art district of Phoenix and only a few minutes from the Sky Harbor International Airport. The hotel showcases indoor meeting space as well as a 250-seat garden amphitheater.

Rancho de los Caballeros 1551 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, 85390 800.684.5030 • sunc.com 80 rooms / 8,500 sf meetings

Instead of casinos, beaches or snow, plan an uncommon Western retreat at Rancho de los Caballeros. Situated on 20,000 acres of lush Sonoran desert, The Ranch offers a variety of activities – award-winning golf, horseback riding, trap & skeet, nature hikes, desert cookouts and a full-service spa – for a memorable team experience. The Ranch offers over 8,500 sf of meeting space. With 80 distinctive casitas, Rancho de los Caballeros can exclusively accommodate your group.

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Scottsdale Luxury Suites 480.419.6975 • 888.990.1326 luxurysuites.com info@luxurysuites.com

Scottsdale and Phoenix – Arizona hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, golf lodging, and accommodations. Corporate housing in furnished apartments, condominiums, and homes. Business and group travel, relocation, and real estate services.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 5700 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, 85253 480.948.2100 • 800.245.2051 sanctuaryaz.com 105 rooms / 7,000 sf meetings

Situated on 53 breathtaking acres of lush desert, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain clings to its namesake mountain overlooking Paradise Valley. For upscale meetings and private events, Sanctuary offers flexible indoor and outdoor space, while ensuring privacy for each group. Enjoy striking mountain and spa casitas with wireless Internet access, award-winning cuisine at elements restaurant, and spacious private estate homes on the mountainside above the resort. Sanctuary Spa features Asian-inspired treatments and group wellness programs.

San Tan Elegante Conference Center & Legado Hotel 1800 S. South San Tan Village Pkwy., Gilbert, 85295 480.809.4100 • 888.MyLegado santanlegado.com 121 rooms / 14,752 sf meetings

Located 25 miles southeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, six miles west of PhoenixMesa Gateway Airport, this full-service boutique hotel is rich in color and design with luxury guestroom and suite accommodations complete with wireless access. The Ballroom has a thirtyfoot grand barrel arch, with accent windows and grand chandeliers, and ornate double doors that open into a beautifully appointed foyer. An outdoor Veranda Patio is beautifully appointed with a fireplace and water fountains to further enhance all types of social events and receptions.

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel 340 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, 85004 602.262.2500 Sheraton.com/PhoenixDowntown 1,000 rooms / 80,000 sf meetings

With more than 100,000 sf of flexible function space, the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel is the area’s premier meeting and event venue. The cornerstone of Phoenix’s downtown renewal, the hotel is surrounded by exceptional shopping, entertainment and nightlife. Guests will get a great night’s sleep with each guestroom featuring the ultra-comfortable Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. Dining is available in District American Kitchen and Wine Bar, featuring a casually chic urban atmosphere.

Additional amenities include The Link Cafe, on-site FedEx Office, outdoor pool and whirlpool, Sheraton Fitness Programmed by Core Performance, 24-hour room service and much more.

Sleep Inn Phoenix Airport 2621 S. 47th Place, Phoenix, 85034 480.967.7100 airportsleepinn.com 105 rooms

Newly-renovated with contemporary décor and convenient to all parts of the Valley of the Sun. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is only 4 minutes away. We have 24-hour free shuttle service to the Airport and METRO light rail for easy access to the entire valley, free deluxe hot continental breakfast, free high speed Internet throughout the hotel, a business center with free copy and fax service, Managers receptions every weeknight. Free high speed Internet in rooms (some are hard-wired for security), local calls, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffee-makers, walk-in showers with double shower heads, study desks with reading lamps, many other extras. Laundry facilities on site, heated pool and spa. Free bus parking on site.

Talking Stick Resort 9800 E. Indian Bend Road Socttsdale, 85256 866.877.9897 talkingstickresort.com 497 rooms / 100,000 sf meetings

Talking Stick Resort offers the luxuries of a resort, while providing guests with an array of options for unmatched entertainment. Along with 497 deluxe rooms and suites, visitors experience exceptional guest service and enjoy upscale amenities such as, a rejuvenating open-air spa; eight world-class restaurants; 10 lounges including a 650-seat showroom; 36 holes of championship golf; a lively gaming floor; two pools and more than 100,000 sf of conference space.

Tempe Mission Palms Hotel 60 E. Fifth St., Tempe 85281 480.894.1400 • 800.547.8705 missionpalms.com 303 rooms / 30,000 sf meetings

The Tempe Mission Palms Hotel, located in the heart of Downtown Tempe offers newly renovated deluxe guestrooms and suites and a warm inviting courtyard and rooftop pool. Just steps from our front door is Mill Avenue – featuring over 170 distinctive stores, galleries, restaurants and entertainment venues.

The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa 6902 E. Greenway Pkwy., Scottsdale, 85254 480.624.1000 • kierlandresort.com 732 rooms / 200,000 sf meetings

In the heart of “new” Scottsdale, all newly enhanced guestrooms feature Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed©. Utilize flexible function space, including three ballrooms and a variety of outdoor meeting space to choose from. Endless amenities capture the essence of Arizona for all to enjoy from Scottish bagpipes at sunset to an Adventure water-park and lazy river, 27 holes of championship golf, full-service spa and eight award-winning food and beverage outlets. Adjacent to upscale retail and dining at Kierland Commons and the Scottsdale Quarter.

The Westin Phoenix Downtown 333 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 85004 602.429.3500 InfoWestinPhoenixDowntown@westin.com westin.com

The 3,000 sf Copper Ballroom, offering panoramic views of Phoenix, can be adapted for meetings, presentations, conferences, receptions and dining events. The ballroom can be divided and includes a spacious 1,900 sf pre-function area. The Lapis Pool Terrace will offer a unique setting for an outdoor event. Meeting rooms, located on the 11th and 12th floors, offer convenience and flexibility. The Westin Phoenix Downtown will offer venues for meetings, banquets, private receptions and social events of varying sizes.

Windemere Hotel and Conference Center 5750 E. Main St., Mesa, 85205 480.985.3600 • 800.888.3561 resortmesa.com 114 rooms / 12,000 sf meetings

The Windemere Hotel and Conference Center, in East Mesa, is a perfect setting for corporate groups of any size. We have 114 large, comfortable sleeping rooms with an oasis-style heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi open 24-hours a day, lush tropical courtyards and beautiful patio areas are available for any social event from corporate cocktail parties to family reunions. Our Conference Center has 12,000 sf of functional meeting space. We are just minutes from golfing, Arizona lakes, and Westcor Shopping Centers.

Xona Resort Suites of Scottsdale 7677 E. Princess Blvd., Scottsdale, 85255 888.222.1059 xonaresort.com 431 rooms / 8,596 sf meetings

Located in Scottsdale and set in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Xona Resort Suites is at the center of it all for business meetings and events. With meeting space for groups up to 200, Xona offers the ideal setting for retreats and meetings. Follow up your event with plenty of fun activities including swimming, golf, shopping, dining or simply unwinding by one of our four pools. X marks the spot at Xona Resort Suites.

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DININ G Alexi’s Grill and Catering 355 N. Central Ave., Ste. 120, Phoenix, 85012 602.279.0982 • alexisgrillphx.com

Alexi’s Grill specializes in Northern Italian Continental Cuisine. Using only the freshest and finest ingredients, Alexi’s is the perfect choice for your event, corporate wine tasting, or holiday party. Catering options include Italian, Greek and Mexican Cuisine options. Beautiful patio and dining room catering options available accommodating up to 120 people. Off-site catering available for any size group (minimum 20 people).

Aunt Chiladas 7330 N. Dreamy Draw Drive, Phoenix, 85020 602.944.1286 catering@auntchiladas.com auntchiladas.com

Nestled in the shadow of the Squaw Peak Mountain, Aunt Chilada’s is truly an historic landmark with personality all its own. Constructed in the 1890’s from desert stone and railroad ties, the original building served as a supply depot and general store for the mercury miners passing through the dreamy draw. Today, it not only carries on that century old tradition of heartfelt Southwestern hospitality, but also dishes out the finest Mexican food this side of the border. The meeting and banquet facilities are as unique as her colorful past accommodating up to 650. Inside, select from four distinctive settings including our hand carved fountain or stone fireplace or relax on one of our three patios which include Bocce ball and our famous Palapa bar.

Whether it is a corporate meeting, or a group of friends, your guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere and quality of service.

Avanti Restaurant of Distinction 2728 E. Thomas Road Phoenix, 85016 602-956-0900 • Avanti-AZ.com

Celebrating 37 years as an Arizona Tradition. Favorite dishes include: traditional Ossobucco and Cioppino, as well as fresh seafood and daily hand-crafted pasta and desserts (don’t miss the Tiramisu). Avanti holds numerous awards and accolades from esteemed publications and organizations like Gourmet Magazine’s “Top Table Award”, Mobil Travel Guide, Zagat-Survey and the James Beard Foundation. Private dining rooms, banquet facilities and catering are offered. Avanti has a history of hosting parties from 10 to 10,000. We can provide cuisines from all cultures, and set the room to match the mood. Let our world renowned chefs and staff take the stress out of your planning. Call today to speak with an event coordinator, or visit our website for more details.

Cork 4991 S. Alma School Road, #1 Chandler, 85248 480.883.3773 corkrestaurant.com

With comfortable contemporary décor, a recipient of the 2010 AAA Four Diamond Award and a Wine Spectator Award-winning wine list with over 350 selections, Cork offers New American Cuisine with French influences. Local press accolades include 4.5 stars from AZ Republic food critic, Howard Seftel and New Times Best of Phoenix “Best Small Plates”. Multi-course tasting menu experience; Sunday Brunch from 10am - 2pm with bottomless mimosas & bellinis; Happy Hour 4 - 6:30pm features $4 glasses of wine, Champagne cocktails, selected specialty cocktails and additional food menu; ½-priced wine night on Tuesday (any bottle under $120). Private dining room seats 10 people with audio-visual capabilities; Available for private functions, such as buy-outs or luncheons and small catering functions. Independent establishment owned by local couple, Robert & Danielle Morris, both formerly of LON’s at the Hermosa.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Scottsdale, DC Ranch, Chandler, and Peoria FlemingsSteakhouse.com

The nationally acclaimed Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders – with a unique wine list known as the “Fleming’s 100” that features 100 wines served by the glass. Fleming’s is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including Wine Enthusiast’s annual Awards of Distinction and Wine Spectator’s annual Awards of Excellence.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria – 6 Valley Locations Banquets & Catering 480.874.8209 events@grimaldispizzeria.com grimaldispizzeria.com

With Frank Sinatra crooning in the background and the tantalizing aromas of over 100 years of pizzamaking tradition in the air, Grimaldi’s combines classic pizzeria charm with a modern, stylish, loft-like atmosphere. Grimaldi’s offers a full Italian menu, private serving staff, and no room rates. Let our professional staff make your next event effortless and unforgettable! To book one of our private rooms or place a catering order call 480.874.8209.

Old Town Tortilla Factory 6910 E. Main St. Scottsdale, 85251 480.945.4567 oldtowntortillafactory.com

Built from a historic 75-year-old adobe home in the charming art district of Scottsdale, Old Town Tortilla Factory captures timeless charm and a distinct atmosphere that exemplifies the essence of the Southwest.

A firewater patio – along with a world-renowned tequila bar, which offers 100 premium tequilas – lends itself to being the perfect place to accommodate your large party needs. Offering Southwest cuisine with Sonoran influences starring house-made tortillas, seductive salsas and sauces, and specialties. During the winter months, patio heaters keep the patio at spring-like temperatures. During the summer months the patio is cooled with a state-of-the-art mist system.

Pinnacle Peak Patio 10426 E. Jomax Road, Scottsdale, 85262 480.585.1599 • 800.635.9466 pppatio.com

Serving groups since 1957. Old West atmosphere is the perfect venue for off-property nights. Choose from private patios with desert views or private indoor dining rooms (seating 30-3,000). Menus feature awardwinning mesquite broiled steaks, chicken and ribs with all the cowboy fixin’s. Entertainment from bands to casinos available.

Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 85226 480.502.5600 • rawhide.com

Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse has earned an award-winning reputation as Arizona’s family steakhouse. The menu celebrates the spirit and hospitality of its Western roots through traditional cooking and true hungry-cowboy portions. Enjoy mouth watering BBQ Baby Back Ribs, The Gunslinger’s Filet Mignon, The Cattle Baron Ribeye and the Trail Boss BBQ Combination served up to live music and line dancing in our Steakhouse & Saloon.

Ruffino Italian Cuisine 4902 E. Warner Road, Phoenix, 85044 480.893.8544 • ruffinoaz.com

Ruffino Italian Cuisine is an upscale Italian restaurant in Ahwatukee, recognized for delivering great food and unique, world-class service. Recently remodeled, the restaurant is open Mon.-Fri. at 11am, Saturday and Sunday at 4pm. Enjoy lunch, happy hour, dinner and dancing, plus live entertainment five days per week.

Ruffino also offers a semi-private dining area, perfect for rehearsal dinners, showers, corporate events, and other gatherings with family and friends. 480.893.8544 or www.RuffinoAZ.com.

Rustler’s Rooste 8383 S. 48th St., Phoenix, 85044 602.431.6407 • 602.431.6473 rustlersrooste.com

If you want an authentic Arizona location for your next roundup, look no further than Rustler’s Rooste.

Only the Rooste can accommodate 30 to 1,500 guests in a spectacular mountaintop setting. Whether you choose a scenic outdoor patio, the spacious Crystal Barn (complete with a stage and dance floor), or the novel Branding Iron Room, you’ll find the Rooste offers a big helping of western hospitality and an eye for detail.

1974 - 2008

WESTERN TOWN AND STEAKHOUSE

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GOLF Rancho Mañana Golf Club 5734 E. Rancho Mañana Blvd., Cave Creek, 85331 480.488.0398 ranchomanana.com

Rancho Mañana Golf Club, located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert in historic Cave Creek, Ariz., just minutes from Scottsdale and Phoenix, features an 18-hole, par 70, championship course with dramatic elevation changes, unspoiled desert terrain, and spectacular views. Rooms and meeting space are available on-site – excellent for executive retreats or intimate sales meetings. Tee times are available by phone or online.

VENUES

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Arizona Renaissance Festival 12601 E. Hwy. 60, Apache Junction, 85118 520.463.2600 • royalfaires.com/arizona

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a medieval amusement park, a 12-stage theater, a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament and a feast – all rolled into one non-stop, day-long family adventure! You do not need a passport to time travel – Huzzah!

Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Gate 3, Chandler, 85226 480.961.0143 • 800.842.7223 Bondurant.com

Experience the thrill of High Performance Driving! From driving Corvettes, Hot Laps with Pro-drivers, to 50MPH go karts, Bondurant is an experience no one will forget! Group programs can include meetings and fully catered meals in the Bondurant Museum as part of an action-packed driving and racing event.

EXPERIENCE for groups of any size. Call today.

Commemorative Air Force Arizona Wing Aviation Museum 2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa, 85215 480.924.1940 azcaf.org

Surround your guests with vintage aircraft and aviation exhibits at your next corporate event, reception, reunion, fundraiser, wedding or prom. View beautiful Red Mountain while dining or dancing under the wing of a WWII bomber. Outside caterers and live entertainment are welcome. The museum accommodates up to 1,440 guests indoors, with additional space outdoors. Museum docents are available. Easily accessible from Scottsdale and central Phoenix.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, 85259 480.860.2700 ext. 494/495 franklloydwright.org

Taliesin West was built by Frank Lloyd Wright and his apprentices in the 1930s and was constantly expanded and modified by the architect until his death in 1959. Wright and his apprentices literally created Taliesin West out of the desert by gathering rocks from the desert floor and sand from the washes to keep the design in balance with the surrounding environment. The site, considered one of the Wright’s greatest masterpieces, was designed to serve as Wright’s personal home, studio and architectural laboratory. Taliesin West is particularly suited for hosting weddings/receptions, rehearsal dinners, exclusive corporate dinners/receptions and small daytime meetings. Daily guided public tours may be custom-designed for groups. Visit franklloydwright.com for gifts, books and a listing of events.

Heard Museum 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 85004 602.251.0230 heard.org

Immerse guests in the authentic Southwest at the historic Heard Museum of Native Cultures and Art. Spanish colonial-style architecture provides an exquisite setting perfect for day and evening events.

Enjoy indoor venues and outdoor courtyards, complimentary guided tours and distinctive gifts at the Heard Museum Shop, all at a convenient downtown location minutes from the airport, convention center and hotels. Let our expert planners help you create a distinctive and memorable experience like no other.

Madison Event Center 441 W. Madison St., Phoenix, 85003 602.258.1189 Para Espanol: 602.315.6442 madisoneventcenter.com MadisonEventCenter@gmail.com

On the edge of the Entertainment District, in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, is the location of Madison Event Center. This renovated 1920s historic building has over 9,200 sf of indoor space and 6,500 sf of outdoor space. Inside is a blank canvas for meeting and event planners with a wide imagination specializing in corporate, association and social events. We are closely located to the Phoenix Convention Center, major sporting facilities and Phoenix’s most popular downtown hotels. If you are looking for something different, please contact us at 602.258.1189 to receive information on our rates and date availability. Se habla Espanol.

Mesa Convention Center 201 N. Center St., Mesa, 85201 480.644.2178 mesaconventioncenter.com

What can we do for you? At Mesa Convention Center, our goal is your satisfaction. Full-service meeting and event facility offering 15 meeting rooms and excellent flexibility. On-site catering, audio-visual, and more. Find out why we’re called “the East Valley’s best kept secret!”

The Phoenix Zoo 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, 85008 602.273.1341 phoenixzoo.org

The Phoenix Zoo, nestled on 125 acres within Papago Park, is surrounded by lush flora and dramatic desert and water views. The Stone House Pavilion and 16 designated outdoor sites, some a short distance from exotic animals, are fun and unique for weddings and receptions, corporate business meetings, company picnics, school proms, holiday parties, teambuilding and more. The Phoenix Zoo is centrally located to Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale. For more information visit phoenixzoo.org.

Queen Creek Olive Mill 25062 S. Meridian, Queen Creek, 85142 480.888.9290 queencreekolivemill.com Cytetmeyer@queencreekolivemill.com

The Queen Creek Olive Mill that makes AZ’s only EVOO. We are an agri-tourism destination for small and large organizations, looking for a unique venue for group functions. We offer on-site catering, a unique shopping experience, tours of our facility, and can tailor an event to suit your needs.

Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 85226 480.502.5600 rawhide.com

Just minutes from Sky Harbor, Rawhide is the perfect location for meeting and events. Offering 14 distinct private facilities, Rawhide is considered the 5th largest venue for meeting and exhibit space.

Whether you need space for 10 or 10,000, Rawhide has the perfect space for you. Enjoy the town and all that Rawhide has to offer, from the world renowned Steakhouse & Saloon, to our unique shops and a variety of attractions. We look forward to welcoming your group to our 1880s western frontier town.

The Venue Scottsdale 7117 E. 3rd Ave., Scottsdale, 85251 480.945.6475 • thevenuescottsdale.com

Our Venue. Your Vision. Extraordinary Events. The Venue Scottsdale’s spacious, multi-level, newlyrenovated interior is perfect for corporate events, charity events, social occasions, weddings, and more.

Whether elegant, casual, professional or festive, The Venue Scottsdale can accommodate any occasion.

Take the Video Tour at www.thevenuescottsdale.com

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tucson & southern Arizona

Tucson and Southern Arizona have it all – wildlife, history, arts and culture, food, shopping and a chance to experience the old west.

Located in a region known as the Sonoran Desert, natural desert vegetation coexists alongside emerald fairways, and rolling hills give way to rugged mountains and charming communities. Visitors enjoy hiking and horseback area’s many fine golf courses designed by some of the world’s top golfers.

Southern Arizona is a bird-watcher’s heaven and everyone is astounded by the Sonoran Desert blooms.

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Aravaipa Canyon Preserve

riding among towering saguaro cactuses, or teeing off on one of the

Petroglyphs at Saguaro National Park

Sabino Canyon

San Xavier del Bac Mission

Downtown Tucson

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Tucson As one of the oldest, continually inhabited areas in North America, Tucson is the authentic Southwestern destination and is notably the sunniest city in the U.S. (350 days of sunshine per year). With mile after mile of pristine desert, cactus like nowhere else on Earth, spectacular mountains in every direction, raw surroundings, challenging high-desert golf, a diverse culinary scene, historic cowboy culture, Spanish, Mexican and Native-American heritage, and exciting attractions – Tucson doesn’t disappoint.

Tucson International Airport makes the area easily accessible with eight different airlines offering daily departures to 15 non-stop destinations, and was recently selected to be one of the first airports in the country allowing travelers to book flights on Southwest’s first international Tucson Presidio District Among Tucson’s stellar full-service resorts is the Westin service to Mexico.

The Tucson Convention Center is located in historic La Paloma Resort & Spa, which enjoys a superb, Santa downtown Tucson – your delegates can walk to any of several Catalina Mountains location, attractive dining and hotels, shops, and many restaurants located a few blocks cocktailing options and the beautiful 27-hole Jack Nicklausdesigned golf course, recently awarded the from the Center. With 205,000 square feet of 2011 Golfweek’s Best Courses distinction. meeting space, the Tucson Convention Center More Info Five swimming pools, including a free-form has the size and flexibility to accommodate pool with swim-up bar will refresh on a warm almost any type of meeting, convention, trade Metropolitan day, but for the ultimate in family fun, don’t Tucson CVB, show, or banquet event you may be planning.

(888) 2-TUCSON, miss the 177-foot Slidewinder, the Southwest’s The Old Pueblo’s (as Tucson is nicknamed visittucson.org longest resort waterslide. Groups will relish the due to the adobe-walled Tucson Presidio) organically derived, hydrating Olive Oil Body rich history in hospitality is illuminated in its Glow available at the resort’s Elizabeth Arden many marvelous properties. Resorts and hotels are located close to the region’s natural parks, as well as Red Door Spa. Another excellent choice, the Hilton Tucson El cosmopolitan amenities such as fine dining, arts, and shopping. Whether your group chooses one of the full- Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort is a Forbes Travel service resort properties with golf and spa, or a historic Guide Three Star and AAA Four Diamond, full-service inn close to downtown, or a guest ranch that assigns you destination golf resort nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains on 500 acres of high Sonoran a room and horse, Tucson lodging options are boundless.

Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa

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Desert. Recently awarded the American Hotel & Lodging Association “Stars of the Industry” award, the largest golf resort in Southern Arizona was recognized by industry peers and colleagues. Two championship 18-hole layouts are situated at the Golf Club, while a superb 9-hole track plays around the resort further up the mountainside.

In November 2011, Casino del Sol’s expansion to 215 rooms and suites with more than 65,000 square feet of function space will be available for groups looking for a place to stay and play. Currently Casino Del Sol, Southern Arizona’s premier entertainment and gaming destination, offers nearly 1000 slot machines, live blackjack, poker and bingo. There are six restaurants and three bars, live entertainment Thursday-Saturday nights and world-class entertainment at AVA Amphitheater.

Tucson’s meeting choices span past luxury resorts; some of Tucson’s most unique and beautiful venues can be found at the city’s best-known attractions. One of the region’s top attractions is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a fabulous living garden and cage-less zoo. It covers the entire Sonoran environment in one you-have-to-see-it-to-believeit space. Over 1,200 different desert plants thrive in six different habitats, with a hummingbird aviary, mountain lions, ocelots, and Mexican wolves thrown in for good measure. Definitely check out the new Running Wild exhibit which takes place in the Warden Oasis Theater and features

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native animals scurrying across the stage, while birds circle overhead demonstrating the natural movements of animals in their habitats. Group events can take advantage of the 270-seat Warden Oasis Theater for their event as well.

The contemporary, versatile Baldwin Education Building accommodates up to 200 guests for receptions, meetings and formal dinners, and features a spectacular view of the surrounding desert mountains through a glass panel wall that opens up to an outdoor balcony.

Museums are popular venues in Tucson. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum, the Arizona State Museum is the largest and oldest anthropological museum in the Southwest, created by the Arizona Territorial Legislature in 1893. Its permanent collection includes several hundreds of thousands of artifacts – Navajo textiles, Mexican folk masks, basketry, Seri materials – some dating back 13,000 years. In addition to its expansive permanent collection, the museum stages temporary exhibits.

At the University of Arizona Museum of Art, see paintings by 15th century Spanish master Fernando Gallego, Jackson Pollack, Georgia O’Keefe and Wassily Kandinsky. If your taste runs more to fine art photography than fine art, continue along the Museum Neighborhood to the collection at the Center for Creative Photography. The collection here includes the archives of over 50 photographers, including Ansel Adams, Lola Alvarez Bravo, Richard Avedon, Louise Dahl-Wolfe, W. Eugene Smith, and Edward Weston, among others. There’s also the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is still building its permanent collection, but mounts six to eight temporary exhibitions a year featuring the work of artists from around the world. Before going, be sure to pick up the Tucson Attractions Passport and receive twofor-one passes and discounts at this and over 40 other Tucson and Southern Arizona attractions.

El Tour de Tucson

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Native American Dancer - MTCVB

All this history, education, and culture will undoubtedly need to be refueled with fabulous food. Many of the 3,000-some restaurants in Tucson are local establishments where owners and chefs have created signature blends of Southwestern cuisine. The menus often trace back to the owner’s origins, perhaps to Latin America or Spain, or to Native American roots or the interior or the coastal regions of Mexico. (Tucson proper boasts more than 150 Mexican restaurants.)

From outdoor cowboy cookout venues to white tablecloth gourmet dining – Tucson’s choices for groups are unlimited.

The hotels and resorts offer a full range of menu items from classic American fare to innovative Southwestern dishes.

At Westin La Paloma, Janos’ exterior and interior décor is every bit as elegant as its food is inspired. Opened in 1983 by James Beard award-winning Janos Wilder and wife Rebecca, this restaurant has served cuisine highlighting

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local ingredients. Just recently Wilder opened the brand new Downtown Kitchen and Cocktails. In addition to live music and modern American cuisine, the restaurant has also partnered with the Etherton Gallery to feature art as pleasing to your eyes as the food is to your palette.

Eat as much as you like, there’s no shortage of places to walk, ride, or golf off the calories. For in-your-face encounters with the giant Saguaro cactus, head east or west, to Saguaro National Park. The park consists of two districts, one on either side of the city, but both possess an imposing array of these natural wonders, with their needle-dotted arms extended skyward. They appear quite welcoming – just don’t touch. Saguaro National Park, home to approximately 1.3 million of the state’s signature plant, sandwiches the city.

Northeast of Tucson at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area has miles of trails for hiking and biking. Try experiencing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert from the basket of a hot air balloon.

Southern Arizona Balloon Excursions specializes in taking small and large groups over the stunning Tucson and Catalina mountains. Make sure your camera’s memory card has lots of room.

Speaking of “hitting it”, Tucson’s mild climate and outstanding courses make this city a favorite golf destination. Take your best shot on a challenging desert golf course, or enjoy a more traditional links-style layout.

The Ritz- Carlton Golf Club at Dove Mountain is the home of the World Golf Championships – Accenture Match Play

Sunset over Saguaro National Park

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Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Resort

Championship. The world’s top 64 golfers will try to etch their names in the history book of this exciting tournament held each February, and Tucson’s climate lets you stand in their shoes throughout the year. Golfers seeking valueoriented courses have multiple options in Tucson as well, including an excellent collection of municipal tracks, such as Randolph Park, Silverbell, Fred Enke and El Rio, which dates back to the 1930s.

Sc enic Byway Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway – 28.0 miles Tanque Verde Road east from Tucson to the Catalina Highway.

At the Forest Service boundary it becomes Hitchcock Highway and climbs to the top of Mt. Lemmon.

Mt. Lemmon

One of the most scenic drives in southeast Arizona, this is the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range. Here you’ll

have access to a fascinating land of great vistas, outlandish rockscapes, cool mountain forests and deep canyons spilling out onto broad deserts. Because the road starts in the Lower Sonoran vegetative life zone and climbs to the high forests of the Canadian zone, it offers the biological equivalent of driving from the deserts of Mexico to the forests of Canada in a short stretch of 27 miles.

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S o u t h e r n Arizon a Not far from the developed city of Tucson lie lush tracts of saguaro-studded hills, riparian canyons where streambeds run full in the spring and cottonwood trees turn in the fall, and cool mountain peaks flourish with ponderosa pines and wintertime snow. Brilliant nighttime skies captivate both romantics and serious stargazers in Southern Arizona.

Stargazers will thrive at Kitt Peak National Observatory that tops a 6,882-foot summit 55 miles southwest of Tucson.

On the Tohono O’odham Reservation, Kitt Peak has the largest collection of optical telescopes in the world; it has 24 of them plus two radio telescopes pointed towards the heavens. Eight astronomical research institutions do work here. Each night, three scopes are dedicated to the public’s use. Although most wanna-be astronomers are content with several hours of guided gazing, a lucky few members of the public can participate in an all-night “advanced” stargazing program, which includes overnight accommodations, three meals, and learning to take astronomical data, peering through the telescopes, and taking home 10-12 images from the evening. For the shorter session, expect to see nebulae, star clusters, galaxies, and planets before heading back down the mountain around 9 p.m.

After experiencing outer space, head for inner space at Kartchner Caverns State Park, nine miles south of Benson.

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Kartchner Caverns State Park

The Caverns are a limestone cave over 50,000 years in the making – and still being made – Kartchner opened to the public as a state park in 1999 and is the only living cave in the world open to visitors. More than 25 years of planning, including seven years of actual construction, have resulted in a visitor experience that protects the cavern’s fragile ecosystem. The number of daily visitors is limited to ensure that the park will continue to thrive and evolve. This means that reservations should be made well in advance of your trip date. The park recently began offering its “Big Room Tour,” which shows spectacular formations and gives visitors a chance to stand where the discoverers first entered the cave.

Another of the region’s most unusual lures is Biosphere 2.

The 3-acre glass terrarium structure was built as an airtight

living lab to see how folks might function in space and to examine how life itself might evolve. No longer a sealed facility, it was taken over by the University of Arizona in 2007. This three+ acre mini-earth is complete with rainforest, ocean, savannah, desert, wetland, and agricultural areas.

Biosphere’s experienced staff can help coordinate catering from off-site vendors, since the secluded campus does not house restaurant facilities. Audio/visual and technical support are available, and private or specialized Biosphere tours can be arranged.

Try to plan your event around one of Southern Arizona’s wine country festivals. As the state’s first wine region, Southern Arizona wineries have been acclaimed in the Wall Street Journal and The Wine Advocate. They’ve also been served to Washington dignitaries at Sandra Day O’Connor’s retirement. The Mountain Empire’s 3rd Annual Wine, Dine and Unwind Festival includes live music, a car show, artists’ demonstrations and a film festival. In Wilcox, enjoy up to 10 Arizona Wine Growers Association member wines at the Wilcox Wine Country Spring Festival. If you aren’t able to make one of the wine festivals, explore the area on horseback anytime with the wine tour offered by Arizona Horseback Experience.

From the wine region head to Bisbee, a mile-high city located in the Mule Mountains of Southern Arizona. Get a feel for this mining town by taking the Queen Mine Tour, where you’ll venture underground to experience the daily life of a miner. Have lunch at Dot’s Diner in the Shady Dell, where personality is the daily special (closed in June and July). Take time to visit the Bisbee Mining Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate that was once the corporate headquarters of the Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Company. Bisbee’s storied past is recorded, reflected and retold in this museum like no other. Also enjoy Bisbee’s many art galleries and eclectic shops. Stay at Arizona’s oldest continuously running hotel, the Copper Queen Hotel, and don’t forget to visit Brewery Gulch, an area once know for

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Copper Queen Hotel

its notorious saloons and brothels, which offers a variety of restaurants and bars.

Southern Arizona’s small towns offer diverse and illuminating history and heritage. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, 45 miles south of Tucson, showcases its Spanish presidio past in a museum, underground archaeology display, trailhead and assorted outbuildings.

Modern-day Tubac teems with art galleries, working studios, gift shops, a culinary school and dining establishments, all in close proximity, making for a delightful day of one-stop browsing and shopping. “Where art and history meet” is the town’s slogan and it certainly deserves its reputation as a hip, happening, historic smaller town with half of the businesses in town as art galleries of some sort.

Just 12.5 miles south of Tubac, the AAA Four Diamond Esplendor Resort at Rio Rico overlooks the Santa Cruz River Valley with panoramic views. Other features include a Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed golf course, stables, Olympic size pool and award-winning cuisine. From here, it’s an easy drive to the twin border cities of Nogales, Arizona, and Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, where hundreds of curio shops offer plenty of opportunities for bargain hunting, especially for leather, jewelry, and terra cotta pottery.

The area’s fascinating history lies in the mystique of the Wild West. Much of the story was written in the mining towns and ranches of the Arizona frontier. Of the roughand-tumble towns that sprang up during the rush for mineral wealth after Arizona was proclaimed a territory, Tombstone was by far the most notorious. Once considerably larger than Tucson, Tombstone is quiet these days, but visitors can watch re-enactments of the gunfights that used to break out along Allen Street. The best known of them took place at the OK Corral, now a popular tourist attraction, as is Boothill, the town’s once-busy boneyard.

Tombstone’s Historic Rose Tree – the world’s largest rose tree, as confirmed by the folks at the Guiness Book, will be blooming this year for the 125th time. This historic rose tree, a Lady Banks variety, now covers more than 8,000 square feet and warrants a yearly festival every April when she blooms. Cuttings of the tree are available in the gift shop.

Whether you like your days action-packed or leisurely, you’ll find it easy to plan your meeting in Southern Arizona. www.AZMeetings. c o m

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Tu bac a n d t h e Southern Arizon a Wi ne Country and restaurants line the small street blocks, making for a full day of easy walking and browsing.

From Tubac, it’s a V-shaped, 50-mile drive south to the Mexican border town of Nogales, then northeast to Sonoita, the heart of Arizona’s wine-producing region. Ten miles east of Sonoita is Elgin and together the towns offer up a half-dozen flourishing wineries. Callaghan Vineyards is considered tops in town. There’s nothing quite like a wine tasting on a crisp fall afternoon – just take it easy if you’re driving back to Tucson.

Callaghan Vineyards, Elgin

You won’t need to show your passport when you leave Tucson on I-19 for the 45-mile trip south to Tubac, but you might feel like an international traveler, as road signs are marked only in kilometers. Our destination is Tubac, a thriving artists colony and the oldest European settlement in Arizona, where the Spanish built a presidio in 1752. Today’s population numbers between 1,000 and 1,500 and it would seem at first glance that every citizen in town is involved in the arts. More than 90 galleries, working studios, gift shops

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San Xavier del Bac Mission

A ccommodations Esplendor Resort at Rio Rico a Heritage Hotel & Resort 1069 Camino Caralampi, Rio Rico, 85648 520.281.1901 • 800.288.4746 esplendor-resort.com 180 rooms / 56,000 sf meetings

Esplendor Resort is a hacienda-style hotel reflective of the American-Western culture located in southern Arizona just 50 miles south of Tucson. The hotel offeres over 56,000 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space and an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed championship golf course.

Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort 10000 N. Oracle Road, Tucson, 85737 520.544.5000 • 800.325.8131 hiltonelconquistador.com/rfp 428 rooms / 100,000 sf meetings

Distinct…Natural…Inspiring! Offering 500 acres of colorful high Sonoran Desert terrain nestled in the picturesque foothills of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. Our surroundings and hospitable staff will maximize productivity, motivate positive and creative thinking and provide a memorable meeting environment allowing your attendees to feel focused, refreshed and energized. By providing expansive indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, diverse activities and exceptional networking opportunities, we’ve created a warm and inviting atmosphere that ensures successful events.

Hotel Tucson @ Tucson Convention Center 475 N. Granada Ave., Tucson, 85701 520.622.3000 hoteltucsoncitycenter.com 267 rooms / 10,000 sf meetings

Hotel Tucson @ Tucson Convention Center on over 9 acres boasts over 10,000 sf of spacious and flexible meeting and ballroom space and three courtyards. Our ballroom is equipped with antique Waterford crystal chandeliers, 30-foot ceilings, a built-in dance floor and stage. Our space is perfect for any conference, convention, wedding, quinceanera or family gathering. We offer our own in-house catering with a wide variety of menu options and prices to make your event a special and memorable occasion.

Hyatt Place Tucson Airport 6885 S. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, 85756 520.295.0405 • 888.492.8847 hyattplace.com

Hyatt Place is perfect for small corporate and executive meetings, training classes and more. At Hyatt Place, we’ve designed a different kind of hotel to help you bring people together in fresh ways. Our meeting packages provide convenience, flexibility and savings to your events. Guests enjoy spacious guestrooms featuring the plush Hyatt Grand Bed™, a 42” HD TV, work desk and free Wi-Fi. Room rates include continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, 24-hour business center and fitness room usage. Avoid hidden charges when booking your meeting at Hyatt Place. We never charge service fees, resulting in a savings value of 18-23%.

Casino Del Sol I-19, Exit Valencia West, 6 miles Tucson, 85757 520.838.6698 • 800.344.9435 mark.scheller@solcasinos.com solcasinos.com 215 rooms / 65,000 sf meetings

Welcome to the Casino Del Sol Resort, Spa, Conference Center, Amphitheater, scheduled for opening 11/11/11.

The Pascua Yaqui Tribes newest addition to the already highly successful Casino and outdoor Entertainment Venue. The high rise resort will re-set the standards of affordable luxury accommodations in Southern Arizona. With 15 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, over 65,000 sf of indoor/outdoor function space, highlighted by the resorts 18,000 sf grand ballroom. Included will be a fine dining steakhouse, international buffet, elegant lobby lounge, destination spa and fitness facilities, themed pool and covered parking for 1,500.

Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa 3800 E. Sunrise Drive Tucson, 85718 • 520.742.6000 westinlapalomaresort.com 487 rooms / 64,000 sf meetings

Plan unparalleled possibilities when you choose the Four Diamond premier meeting resort of the Southwest.

Rated #1 Westin in the world for meeting planner satisfaction for the past five of six years, this remarkable haven is completely full-service, beginning with an impeccably-trained staff – skilled in anticipating the needs of discriminating travelers and corporate parties – whether it’s a group of two or 2,000. Combined with worldclass accommodations and spectacular setting, this site inspires an event that is memorable and caters to your group’s specific needs.

DINING Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 6360 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, 85718 520.529.5017 • FlemingsSteakhouse.com

The nationally acclaimed Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders – with a unique wine list known as the “Fleming’s 100” that features 100 wines served by the glass. Fleming’s is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including Wine Enthusiast’s annual Awards of Distinction and Wine Spectator’s annual Awards of Excellence. www.AZMeetings. c o m

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Grand Canyon National Park

Hiking in Flagstaff

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Verde Canyon Railroad

NORTHERN

Red Rock State Park

Arizona

Northern Arizona is enchanting, captivating, and home to the most scenic and the most famous places on the planet. The Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, the Colorado River, Canyon de Chelly and the Petrified Forest are all here. Hence, outdoor recreation is a trademark of the region, but this stunning oasis of canyons, mountains, lakes and forests is also home to growing communities of artists and growing calendars of events throughout the year.

This region offers four seasons of recreation and entertainment as close as 90 minutes from the big city. A short drive north of Phoenix and the Sonoran Desert, visitors are quickly immersed in the cool, pine-scented forests to hike, bike and ride their way on

Historic Victorian Home in Pres

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tree-shaded trails around mountain lakes. www.AZMeetings. c o m

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G ra n d Ca nyon It only takes one look to understand why the Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Located entirely in northwestern Arizona, the Canyon, nearly two billion years in the making, incised by the Colorado River, is immense, averaging 4,000 feet deep for its entire 277 miles. Nestled within are numerous side canyons abundant with greenery, wildlife, waterfalls, raging rapids and calm, glassy pools.

More Info Standing at Skeleton Point Grand Canyon Chamber three-some miles down the & Visitors Bureau, South Kaibab Trail, gawping (888) 472-2696, grandcanyonchamber.com out and up at the craggy, no-signs-of-civilization-here North Rim and down at the outburst of green fertility along the banks of the Colorado leaves visitor’s speechless. Even if you snap some National Geographic-worthy photos and are able to temporarily channel Longfellow’s poeticism when recounting the episode to friends, you’ll only be part-way there.

There are numerous spots along both rims from which to gape at the grandiosity. At the South Rim we recommend the Yavapai Observation Station and, if you want to kill two birds with one stone, the El Tovar dining room. On the more isolated, only-open-in-summer North Rim, go for the Cape Royal Scenic Drive. Even better is to become part of the scenery by descending into the Canyon. It’s really a shame fewer than one percent of the five million annual visitors do it.

Rafting the Colorado River

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Havasu Falls

For overnight stays, meeting planners may choose from several hotels within the park including the Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim where the views are incredible from this higher vista. An excellent option just a few miles south of the Canyon. Tusayan offers a wide variety of guest rooms and meeting venues, including the Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn which also offers the most meeting space.

F lags taff Flagstaff’s cool mountain air, unique university town feel, smart sophistication and rich history, combined with the snow-capped San Francisco Peaks, vast trails for hiking, biking and skiing, give meeting planners a something-foreveryone option. It’s a toss up whether Flagstaff is best known for being the home of Northern Arizona University, More Info the Lowell Observatory, and the Museum of Northern Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau, Arizona; a former hot spot (928) 779-7611, along Route 66 and a current flagstaffarizona.org mountain biking Mecca; or for having more hometown microbreweries per capita than any other town of 60,000 (Beaver Street Brewery, Mogollon Brewing Company and Flagstaff Brewing Company).

Scientists, educators, mountain climbers, skiers, artists, and historians call Flagstaff home and are eager to share the plethora of opportunities available.

Experience a different kind of cool on Route 66. The “Mother Road” has long-since been replaced by Interstate 40, but it remains one of Flagstaff’s main drags and a great way to step back in time. Interstate 40 converges with Interstate 17 at Flagstaff – Phoenix is a scenic two-hour drive south on Interstate 17. US Airways offers daily flights to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Flagstaff. And, the historic downtown train station in the heart of Flagstaff is an active Amtrak facility with twicedaily arrivals. While in town take advantage of the Flagstaff Urban Trails System. This 33-mile interconnecting trail

Mountain Biking Flagstaff

system makes neighborhoods, schools, museums and city buildings accessible through hiking, biking, jogging and even skiing.

Flagstaff’s lodging facilities include approximately 5,000 guest rooms and many of the hotels offer a variety of meeting and conference space. Little America Hotel’s 247 guestrooms and 10,000 square feet of meeting space come with a fitness center, pool, spa, restaurant and gift shop all nestled in 500 acres of ponderosa pine forest. Just minutes from Historic Downtown Flagstaff, elegant comfort and ambience are exemplified by Radisson Woodlands Hotel’s gorgeous lobby, richly adorned with Italian marble and granite details, where hand-carved teakwood art reflects the glow of an inviting, wood-burning fireplace. Mormon Lake Lodge, just south of Flagstaff offers meeting planners lodging, dining, horseback riding, and skiing set in a western atmosphere.

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WOODLANDS HOTEL

Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn 74 Highway 64, Grand Canyon, 86023 928.638.2681 • 800.622.6966 grandcanyonsquire.com 250 rooms / 4,744 sf meetings

The Canyon’s only resort hotel and conference center. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon just moments away from all the conveniences you expect. Let our team help you make your meeting or event not just a success, but a treasured memory. Our amenities include sauna, Jacuzzi, outdoor seasonal pool, bowling, fun center, lounge & sports bar, restaurants, gift shop, concierge desk and more.

Grand Canyon Lodge Grand Canyon, North Rim 877.386.4383 Travel-Forever.com/11azme 218 rooms / 2,200 sf meetings

Experience views of the canyon from a higher vantage, with seemingly unlimited vistas.

Enjoy incredible sunrises and sunsets from the Lodge balcony’s rocking chairs or just relax and enjoy the solitude. Featuring in-park lodging and dining with access by hiking or mule rides into the canyon.

Little America Hotel 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff, 86004 928.779.7921 • 800.713.1643 littleamerica.com/flagstaff 247 rooms / 10,000 sf meetings

Little America Hotel is Northern Arizona’s premier destination for your conference, meeting or wedding with versatile indoor and outdoor spaces. Nestled on 500 acres of ponderosa pine forest and featuring 247 graciously appointed oversized guestrooms, restaurant and lounge, fitness center, pool and spa, gift shop, two miles of beautiful hiking trails, and over 10,000 sf of newly remodeled banquet space including the brand new 2,400-square-foot Flagstaff room.

Mormon Lake Lodge 1991 S. Mormon Lake Road, Mormon Lake, 86038 928.354.2227 Travel-Forever.com/11azme 53 cabins / 6,000 sf meetings

Retreat to 300 acres of cool Ponderosa pines within the Coconino National Forest. Mormon Lake Lodge offers cozy cabins, flexible meeting space, famed open-pit Steakhouse and live music in an 1880’s-style Saloon. Explore miles of trails by horseback, mountain bike, ATV, cross country skis or snowmobile rentals. Year round events.

Radisson Woodlands Hotel Flagstaff 1175 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, 86001 928.773.8888 flagstaffwoodlandshotel.com 183 rooms / 6,000 sf meetings

Recently renovated hotel with spacious sleeping rooms including 15 parlor suites. Flexible meeting space with theme function capabilities in both menu and decoration. Great location for outdoor teambuilding events. Two excellent on-site restaurants, room service, lounge, fitness center, dry sauna, indoor whirlpool, business center and free high speed Internet.

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Se d o na Sedona’s beauty and luxury can be captured hiking the famous red rocks, feeling the mysticism of a vortex, shopping the acclaimed art galleries, or taking in one of the nationally distinguished resorts or restaurants. Sedona sits on the high desert surrounded by the 1.8-million-acre Coconino National Forest and under the southwestern rim of the Colorado Plateau which forms the towering vistas – named Coffeepot, Cathedral, Bell and Snoopy for the resemblance to their namesakes – surrounding this unique community 110 miles north of Phoenix. At an elevation of 4,500 feet and protected by the Plateau, the area enjoys four mild, sunshine-filled seasons and clean air, with average high temperatures in the mid70s and lows in the mid-40s.

More Info Not only has Sedona inspired Hollywood: there are Sedona Oak Creek Canyon more artists per capita here Chamber of Commerce, (928) 204-1123, than anywhere else in the visitsedona.com country. Raku pottery, handhammered wind chimes, fine jewelry, juniper furniture, oil paintings, bronze sculpture – they’re all imagined, made, and sold here. To check out these galleries head to Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. Actually, art galleries

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Sedona Red Rocks

are everywhere in Sedona, but at Tlaquepaque – it’s all conveniently, and very charmingly, close. Modeled on a Mexican Village, you’ll want to spend the better part of a day wandering its maze of pedestrian paths and too-quaint alleys and restaurants.

For art of another sort – say that created by none other than Mother Nature – head for Oak Creek Canyon. Hike the Eagle’s Nest Trail in Red Rock State Park. Channel your inner child sliding down slippery rock sluices (one 30 feet long) at Slide Rock State Park. Gawp at towering walls and absurdly abrupt abysses – preferably from the safety of an open air Jeep tour, courtesy of Pink Jeep Tours. Entertaining and informative guides captain tours for all levels of adventure including rugged terrain, stone pinnacles, sandstone arches, famous movie locations and the archaeological ruins. They offer customized special events to meet the needs of your group.

Meeting planners have more than 40,000 square feet of meeting space, and some 3,000 hotel rooms available to choose from. Sedona offers a range of choices, from moderately priced national brand hotels to luxurious world renowned spa resorts such as Enchantment Resort in scenic and secluded Boynton Canyon. Enchantment’s meetings spaces take full advantage of its distinctive setting.

Golf is part of nearly every community in the state and Sedona is no exception. Tee it up at the Sedona Golf Resort just steps from Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. Greeting you as you enter town, the Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa is the perfect jumping off point for your Sedona adventure.

Situated near beautiful Oak Creek Canyon, the newly renovated Poco Diablo Resort with its nine-hole golf course as well as tennis courts, is another great option.

V e r d e Va l ley Though the Verde Valley is as pleasant as its name suggests, perhaps the powers that be should rename this region Variety Valley. Located in the ‘heart’ of Arizona, the Verde Valley is ideally situated above the heat of the desert and below the cold of Arizona’s high country. Surrounded by the red rocks of Sedona, Mingus Mountain elevating to 8,000’ to the west, and the Mogollon Rim stretching north and east, its low elevation of 3,300’ and moderate climate is enjoyed year-round.

With its state parks, historic sites and enticing attractions, More Info the Verde Valley offers activities Cottonwood Chamber for all. There are an assortment of Commerce, of hotels, bed & breakfasts, (928) 634-7593, RV Parks, campgrounds and visitcottonwoodaz.org, restaurants to choose from.

More than 100 species of birds reside at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

Ancient civilizations, with their unique history and cultures, are here to explore. Native American history abounds at Tuzigoot National Monument. Approximately 800 years ago, this Sinagua pueblo was home to the Native American population once inhabiting this area. The site is comprised of 42 acres, including hiking trails (one wheelchair accessible) and a complete museum. Visitors

Verde Canyon Railroad

can actually walk through the various rooms of the pueblo to view this ancient civilization. Images, etched in stone, help tell the tale of daily life. Nearby, Montezuma Castle National Monument, an ancient cliff dwelling dating to 1150 A.D., towers above the valley.

The Verde Canyon Railroad, a diesel-powered excursion train snakes 41 miles through the Sycamore Canyon and Verde Canyon wilderness areas; remote regions inaccessible by car. The train runs parallel to the Verde River, home to bald and golden eagles, great white egrets, and blue herons.

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Deer, pronghorn antelope and Javelina also roam the banks.

Passengers see ancient Sinaguan Indian ruins and historic mining structures. The four-hour trip creates the perfect environment for any group event.

Make sure to stop by Jerome, which overlooks the Verde Valley. During mining’s heyday, Jerome was the thirdlargest city in Arizona and a raucous, bawdy, frontier copper mining town. Nicknamed “The City in the Sky,” for its perch on the side of Cleopatra Hill, Jerome’s enclave of cute shops and galleries is a magnet for tourists today.

Its population went from 15,000 in its heyday to a “ghost town” of under 50 people, to its role today, as a center for the arts with unique shops, galleries, wineries, tasting rooms, dining and lodging. The Jerome Mine Museum on Main Street brings to life the challenges and triumphs achieved during the booming mining era. This scenic view of the entire Verde Valley offers wonderful photographic opportunities.

Nearby, the town of Cottonwood is the commercial hub of the Verde Valley and is home to a number of antique shops, fine restaurants, art galleries, wineries and festivals throughout the year. Historic Old Town Cottonwood has shops, galleries, wine tasting rooms and restaurants lining Main Street and provides the backdrop for this quaint and colorful historic district. The unique Cottonwood Jail stands guard at the top of Main Street.

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Jerome

For a self-guided Riparian Gallery Forest Tour, pick up a brochure at the Jail Trail trailhead located behind the Old Town Jail. The trail is part of the Verde River Greenway, a unit of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Early birders may get a glimpse at the many birds that live and migrate through the area, as well as more common animals such as deer, raccoon, coyote, beaver and Javelina.

For a unique western experience in Cottonwood, the Blazin’ M Ranch recently reopened after six weeks of renovations. Now so much more than a chuckwagon dinner and wild west show, the Ranch offers brand new venues, a museum, an updated western town and a brand new menu.

Storyboards located throughout the town link visitors’ present and past and cowboys entertain throughout.

Watson Lake courtesy of the City of Prescott

Prescott Prescott’s town square would inspire Norman Rockwell.

The Whiskey Row saloons are serious about their swinging doors and frosty glasses. The trendy boutiques rival those in the biggest of cities. And the food, well, it will brand your soul.

Prescott was founded in 1864 and soon thereafter, when Arizona became an official territory, was named the territorial capital. For much of the rest of the century, it remained the most important, as well as the richest, city in the state. These are not the only top rankings Prescott holds that appeal to a vast array of visitors.

Prescott’s Courthouse Square was named one of the top ten public places by the American Planning Association; named one of Sunset Magazine’s “Dream Cities”; and for the outdoor enthusiast, Prescott was named one of the “Top Trail Towns” by Trail Runner Magazine. The town square is surrounded by eclectic art galleries, delicious restaurants and quaint shops. On the west side of the square you will find Whiskey Row, where you can find bars and saloons dating back to the 1800s and can even sit at the same bar that served Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp.

The bustling art scene in Prescott prompted writer and former art critic for the Arizona Republic John Villani to include Prescott in the book “The 100 Best Art Towns in America: A Guide to Galleries, Museums, Festivals, Lodging and Dining.” The book is a personal travelogue of cultural tourism, highlighting 100 communities around the U.S. that have a strong artistic underpinning. Be sure to include the numerous historic buildings Prescott has to offer in your art tour. Built in 1891 and on the National Registry

of Historic Buildings, the beautiful Sacred Heart Church building is home to the Prescott Fine Arts Association, and the Historic Elks Opera House has recently been restored to its original 1905 grandeur. Both facilities are a great option for your group event.

Prescott’s wide range of accommodations includes some 50 hotels with over 27,000 square feet of meeting space and over 1,400 rooms (more than 1,800 if you include Prescott Valley). Comfort Suites in Prescott Valley is a brand new all-suite property offering panoramic views and close proximity to many golf courses. One of northern Arizona’s largest conference facilities and arguably having the best views is the Prescott Resort and Conference Center.

Perched atop a small mountain, the resort features a brand new restaurant, Icha Maajoh.

Located just two blocks from Courthouse Square in the More Info historic Whiskey Row district in City of Prescott downtown Prescott, Springhill Tourism Department, Suites’ stylish suites are smartly (928) 777-1100, designed for working, relaxing visit-prescott.com and sleeping, plus have great extras like free Wi-Fi and a desk with ergonomic chair. Residence Inn by Marriott is located just off Highway 69 at the Prescott Gateway Mall, and offers upscale studio, one- and two-bedroom suites and 1,700 square feet of conference space, making this one of Prescott’s finest hotels.

For those seeking outdoor activities, the 1.25-millionacre Prescott National Forest offers some 20 recreational facilities just a few minutes from the Courthouse Square, and is a favorite for rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and fishing. The Forest has 450 miles of maintained trails in the tall ponderosa pines.

Five lakes are within a 15-minute drive from downtown.

Area lakes offer fishing and boating with canoe and boat rentals available at Lynx Lake south of town, and Granite Basin Lake to the northwest, offers camping and fishing.

Watson Lake and Willow Springs Reservoir, both inside the city limits, are surrounded by beautiful rock formations, referred to as Granite Dells.

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NORTHERN Arizona

Pay s o n The pretty tourist town of Payson is just two hours east of Prescott or a short, scenic, 90-minute drive north of Phoenix.

Located in the largest continuous stand of ponderosa pine in the world, this town offers all four seasons and guests enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing and many other outdoor activities.

The towering pines that permeate the town give the air its freshness, and the atmosphere above town is considered one of only three pure-air ozone belts in the world.

Ideal for small meetings, Payson offers almost 500 hotel rooms and meeting facilities for groups of up to 200. The year round events and activities Payson offers are a huge draw to More Info this small town. Fiddlers from Payson Tourism, throughout the state compete in (928) 474-5242, the June Bug Blues Festival, the paysonrimcountry.com Strawberry and Apple Festivals, and for the state championship title at the Old Time Fiddlers Contest. Payson takes great pride in its Western heritage, presenting the “World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo,” which attracts top Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitors in August. In all, Payson hosts five rodeos, including the spring PRCA. Just outside of Payson, in the midst of the forest, is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. The bridge has been in

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the making for thousands of years and is the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. Standing 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel above Pine Creek, it provides visitors with a short hiking trail leading under the bridge past green ferns and red monkey flowers.

Located within the Tonto National Forest is the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile-long limestone ridge that rises 2,000 feet in elevation north of Payson, extending from Flagstaff to Eastern Arizona. Wildlife such as elk and deer can be seen from any location along the rim and during winter, crosscountry skiers head for the rim. If downhill skiing is your desire, Sunrise Park Resort, located just a short distance from Payson, is a renowned ski area with a variety of yearround amenities. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino offers luxurious hotel rooms, great meeting space and exciting casino games.

The resort can accommodate groups of up to 300.

A ccommodations Comfort Suites Prescott Valley 2001 N. Crownpointe Drive Prescott Valley, 86314 928.771.2100 comfortsuites.com/hotel/az299 100 rooms / 1,179 sf meetings

Envelop yourself with the best panoramic views in the Prescott area. This brand new all-suite property features a state-of-the-art meeting room with the capacity for up to 100 people, heated pool and hot tub and close proximity to many outstanding golf courses.

Enchantment Resort 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona, 86336 480.264.3000 enchantmentresort.com/meetings-groups/ 218 rooms / 13,000 sf meetings

Just two hours north of Phoenix, Enchantment Resort in scenic Boynton Canyon is a one-ofa-kind property…with versatile new meeting space including two new Junior Ballrooms and an amazing Executive Boardroom, all graced by floor-to-ceiling windows. Along with the biggest ballroom in Sedona, Enchantment also features beautiful outdoor venues that take advantage of the fabulous year-round climate. This distinctive, breathtaking setting in the red rock country makes every group meeting event part of a unique destination experience.

Hilton Sedona Resort and Spa 90 Ridge Trail Drive, Sedona, 86351 928.284.4040 • 877.273.3762 hiltonsedonaresort.com 219 rooms / 25,500 sf meetings

Sedona’s only full-service golf and spa resort offers more than 25,500 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Relax in the spaciousness of one of our 219 exquisitely appointed suites and deluxe guestrooms. Private patios or balconies offer panoramic views of golf, surrounding canyons and plateaus. The resort is located ninety minutes north of Phoenix and two hours south of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Highway 87 at Mile Marker 251, Payson, 85547 928.474.6044 • 800.777.PLAY 777play.com 40 rooms / 11,424 sf meetings

A breathtaking destination in Arizona. With picturesque views of the Mogollon and Mazatzal Mountain Ranges we invite you to experience the tranquility of Payson, AZ. Whether you are hosting a corporate event, a wedding, or a retreat, we have what you are looking for. With our personal event consultants you can be assured every detail will be taken care of for you and your guests.

Prescott Resort and Conference Center 1500 Highway 69, Prescott, 86301 928.776.1666 • 800.967.4637 prescottresort.com 160 rooms / 16,000 sf meetings

The Prescott Resort and Conference Center is one of Northern Arizona’s largest conference facilities with high-speed Internet throughout the resort. The newly remodeled luxury guestrooms and suites offer spectacular mountaintop views and feature queen or king beds, HD LCD TV, refrigerator, microwave and coffee makers. Amenities: BRAND NEW Icha Maajoh Restaurant, Eagle’s Nest Lounge, Urban Grind & Gallery serving Starbucks Coffee, fitness center, casino, salon and spa.

Poco Diablo Resort 1752 State Route 179, Sedona, 86336 928.282.7333 • 877.282.5755 PocoDiablo.com 137 rooms / 8,500 sf meetings

Poco Diablo Resort is the perfect location for all your conference needs with 8,500 sf of meeting space. Located in the heart of Sedona’s Red Rocks, with eight acres of lush landscaping, full-service dining (indoor & outdoor patio dining), lounge, tennis, massage, concierge, walking trails and more. The perfect choice for meetings, retreats, weddings and social events. Call or go to our website for more information.

Residence Inn by Marriott 3599 Lee Circle, Prescott, 86301 928.775.2232 marriott.com/prcri 93 rooms / 1,700 sf meetings

Prescott’s newest all-suite Marriott hotel. Located just off Highway 69 at the Prescott Gateway Mall, the Residence Inn offers upscale studio, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens suitable for long-term stays. An outdoor pool, large outdoor patio area with fireplaces, business center, exercise facility, evening social events and conference space makes this one of Prescott’s finest corporate and relocation choices.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott 200 E. Sheldon St., Prescott, 86301 928.776.0998 marriott.com/prcsh 105 rooms / 900 sf meetings

Downtown Prescott’s Marriott hotel, offering studio and one-bedroom fireplace suites, complimentary breakfast and free wireless Internet. With meeting space and a comfortable business library for breakfast, this is a perfect downtown location for small meetings and training seminars. Meeting planners can earn Marriott Rewards for their company for booking group rooms and meeting space through our unique program, Marriott’s Rewarding Events.

A ctivities and A ttractions Blazin’ M Ranch Wild West Adventure 1875 Mabery Ranch Road, Cottonwood, 86326 877.674.3855 blazinm.com

There’s a new frontier waiting for you at the Blazin’ M Ranch. Amble into the western town’s mercantile, candy shop, museum and Copper Spur Saloon. Perfect your lasso toss from a mechanical horse and drop banditos at the shooting gallery. Pan for gold and explore a genuine Yavapai Apache camp. Bring your appetite to the Chuckwagon dinner for flame-cooked chicken, baby-back ribs and all the fixings. You’ll be wild about our west.

Pink Jeep Tours 204 N. Highway 89A, Sedona, 86336 928.282.5000 • 800.873.3662 pinkjeep.com groups@pinkjeep.com

Since 1960, Pink Jeep Tours has been providing the most talked-about off-road adventures in the Southwest. Have a group that wants to do something unique and fun? Ask about Pink Jeep Tours special events. We offer Western barbecues, picnic lunches, company outings with teambuilding activities and much more.

Verde Canyon Railroad 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, 86324 877.674.3835 verdecanyonrr.com

Rumble through the heart of Arizona’s canyon country aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. “Arizona’s longest running nature show” twists through a wilderness area that shelters bald eagles, deer, Javelina, wild burros and countless other animals. Vintage cars provide first-class comfort while the world outside the panoramic window transports your imagination to somewhere wild and untamed. Every season presents a new reason to ride. It’s not the destination; it’s the journey.

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NORTHERN Arizona

T h e C o l o rado Ri ver an d A r i z o na’s La kes Arizona can thank the mighty Colorado River for countless stunning locales and bringing the beauty of water to the desert. Not only is the Colorado to thank for the immenseness of the Grand Canyon, but numerous dams on the river have created some of the most pristine lakefront property in the Southwest.

The feat of engineering that is the Hoover Dam, the second highest dam in the U.S., is responsible for some of the most notable of these lakes. Built between 1931 and 1936 in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, the Hoover Dam, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1985, today gives tours to nearly one million people every year.

Lake Mead, the 110-mile long lake-in-the-middle-of-theMojave created by the Hoover Dam, was so unique as to require the federal government to come up with an entirely new designation: Lake Mead was named the country’s first National Recreation Area in 1964. The Lake Mead NRA also includes 67-mile-long Lake Mojave, created when David Dam went up. Launch at the Hoover Dam and take your group on a float down the Colorado River with Black Canyon/Willow Beach Adventures for a memorable day with knowledgeable tour guides and breathtaking scenery, or rent houseboats and watercraft at Temple Bar Marina.

Another National Recreation Area is Lake More Info Powell. Located on the Arizona/ Utah border, this Yuma Convention is the second-largest manand Visitor’s Bureau, made lake in the country 928.376.0100, visityuma.com with nearly 100 side canyons flowing into it. The most Navajo Tourism, popular activities on Lake 928.871.6436, discovernavajo.com Powell are houseboating, jet skiing, swimming, Page Lake Powell Tourism fishing, and kayaking and Bureau, 888.261.7243, canoeing, although there pagelakepowelltourism.org is also scuba diving and snorkeling.

(Antelope Point Marinas rent a variety of watercrafts.) Camping is allowed anywhere – isolated side canyons are prime spots – and although there are no designated hiking trails along the lake, it is possible to walk most of the shoreline. One of its main attractions, Rainbow Bridge, a natural bridge tall enough and wide enough for the U.S. Capitol Dome to sit beneath it, is either an hours-long hike or a comfortable two-hour boat ride. Outfitters in Page rent mountain bikes you can take onto the NRA’s backcountry roads. You can also book tours of the dam that impressively controls all Lake Powell’s water, the 710-foot tall Glen Canyon Dam. In Page, Antelope Canyon Tours takes you through the slot canyon with a Navajo Guide.

The Colorado River forms the border of Arizona and California. Here, Lake Havasu is home to the world’s largest

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Antelope Canyon

antique, the London Bridge, which was moved here brick by brick from its original home spanning the Thames.

Lake Havasu has 400-some miles of coastline and marinas renting everything from jet skis to houseboats. The city offers several venues with meeting space to accommodate groups up to 1,000 people. Some 25 hotels and resort properties provide a full range of resort accommodations, with over 2,500 rooms, offering everything from economy to full-service amenities. The London Bridge Resort & Convention Center offers over 10,000 square feet of meeting space and a unique lakefront option for meeting planners.

Yuma is nestled alongside the banks of the Colorado River just south of Lake Havasu and conveniently located equi-distant to Arizona, California and Mexico. Easily accessible via US Airways from Phoenix, United Express from Los Angeles, or Interstate 8, Yuma has a variety of activities and attractions for its visitors. Soothing water tours, 14 lush golf courses, a diverse selection of restaurants and shopping boutiques, natural wildlife observation areas and breathtaking scenery are but a few reasons that over 425,000 visitors annually enjoy Yuma’s hospitality. Recently paving the way for the agri-tourism business, Yuma allows meeting attendees to get hands-on and creative with a variety of activities accenting the area’s rich farming history.

In fact, Yuma is third in the nation for vegetable production.

A ccommodations London Bridge Resort 1477 Queens Bay, Lake Havasu City, 86403 928.855.0888 • 800.238.8808 londonbridgeresort.com 122 rooms / 12,000 sf meetings

Provides a compelling alternative to larger, convention-oriented hotels. Intimate boardroom, private lounges, meeting rooms and outdoor function areas throughout and beautiful patios, lawn and garden locales. Add to the mix exquisite catering, professional staff, and the possibilities begin to emerge. Whatever the event, the London Bridge Resort and Convention Center is the connoisseur’s choice for small to large-sized engagements.

A ctivities and A ttractions Antelope Canyon Tours 22 S. Lake Powell Blvd., Page, 86040 928.645.9102 • 866.645.9102 antelopecanyon.com

A tour to this awe-inspiring sculpture set in stone is a must for amateur and professional photographers. Come with our Navajo guides to see Mother Nature’s work of art.

Antelope Point Marina Navajo Route 22B, Page, 86040 877.787.5253 Travel-Forever.com/11azme

Discover over 92 major canyons and the majestic Rainbow Bridge National Monument aboard a houseboat. Soak up the solitude – or run on waves for hours with watercraft rentals of your choice. Not to mention its unsurpassed guest services and amenities. Your houseboat awaits.

Black Canyon/ Willow Beach River Adventures Lake Mead 800.455.3490 Travel-Forever.com/11azme

Spend an inspirational afternoon aboard a smooth-water rafting tour. Launch at the base of magnificent Hoover Dam. Knowledgeable tour guides. Float 12 miles down the Colorado River. Enjoy extraordinary scenery and wildlife viewing. Relax and enjoy the breathtaking journey amidst nature’s wonders. Just 30 minutes from Las Vegas.

Temple Bar Resort & Marina 1 Main St., Temple Bar Marina, Lake Mead, 86443 877.787.5253 Travel-Forever.com/11azme

Known for its namesake massive rock formation and its 20-mile-long unobstructed water-ski runs, it’s ideal for renting houseboats and watercrafts of your choice. Relax and soak up the solitude – or run on waves for hours – or try your luck fishing.

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T o u r s & TRA NSP ORTATION

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ALL ABOARD AMERICA! 480.222.6940 • 800.848.4728 allaboardamerica.com lesleigh@allaboardamerica.com

ALL ABOARD AMERICA!, family-owned since 1936, prides itself on superior customer service and professionalism. We are Arizona’s largest tour and charter company. Our fleet consists of fullyequipped late-model mini, full size, sleeper, executive, and entertainer coaches. ALL ABOARD AMERICA! your gateway to the scenic Southwest, Mexico, and North America. Proud recipient of the 2006 IMG Operator of the Year Award and 2005 UMA Motorcoach Industry Achievement Award.

Arizona Outback Adventures 480.945.2881 • 866.455.1601 aoa-adventures.com theadventureteam.net

We offer exciting and educational half-day and full-day guided adventures throughout the Sonoran Desert including: hiking, mountain biking, road biking, kayaking and teambuilding events.

We also offer bicycle rentals with free delivery and have 300+ bikes in our fleet ranging from comfort hybrid bikes to high performance road and mountain bikes. Multi-day trips throughout the Southwest including our private Basecamp in the Grand Canyon are available as well.

Individuals and groups are welcome.

ARIZONA SHUTTLE 520.795.6771 • 800.888.2749 arizonashuttle.com

ARIZONA SHUTTLE provides easy and cost-effective shuttle transportation to/from Tucson, Flagstaff and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. We are the leading shared-ride airport shuttle service in Tucson and Northern Arizona. ARIZONA SHUTTLE also provides charter service to/from Tucson, Flagstaff or Phoenix Sky Harbor airport to regional sights. Our charter service provides transportation for convention groups, corporate retreats, business seminars, family reunions, public and private functions, alumni gatherings, and so much more. Visit our website at ArizonaShuttle.com or contact us at 1.800.888.2749 for all your transportation service needs.

AZ Segway Scottsdale 480.991.3666 azsegway.com

NEW! Segway Tours in Scottsdale and Sedona. Our Segways are a blast to ride and now you can ride too in Scottsdale and Sedona. Our premier tour is at Fort McDowell Adventures on our Off Road Segways. Tours are also available out the front door of your hotel as well as on the Scottsdale bike path. Teambuilding? You bet, Segway Races are a blast! Check out all our activities on line at www.ADVOUTWEST.com.

Coach America 602.437.3484 • 800.777.3484 coachamerica.com april.saloman@coachamerica.com

Coach America continues as the leader in providing safe transportation across North America.

All vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, restrooms and the most modern media players available. One call does it all, we can move your group to and from anywhere in the contiguous United States. When it comes to your ground transportation needs, your carrier should be the least of your worries.

Desert Rose Limousines, Inc. Phoenix and Scottsdale 480.502.0570 • 623.780.0159 602.256.7200 • 800.716.8660 desertroselimousines.com

A new standard for service excellence, “always on time.” Personalized service is our specialty, featuring new state-of-the-art limousines, sedans, 15-passenger vans, 12- and 14-passenger excursion limousines, mini buses and buses. We specialize in airport transportation, special occasions, meetings, conventions, and weddings for small and large groups. Desert Rose Limousines is dedicated to making your occasion a memorable and enjoyable experience.

DETOURS 480.633.9013 • 866.438.6877 detoursaz.com

DETOURS offers guided tours of the entire Southwest, with departures from the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. DETOURS’ custom vans carry only 10 guests in leather captains chairs for the most comfortable ride and a personalized tour experience. Unique itineraries and exclusive tours have made us a favored tour partner with the area’s top resort properties. Half or full-day tours to multi-day and custom options available.

Hot Air Expeditions 480.502.6999 • 800.831.7610 hotairexpeditions.com

The Sonoran Desert is one of the foremost hot air ballooning areas in the entire world. Be sure to let your group experience why! Flights are daily at sunrise year-round. Included are roundtrip hotel transfers, one-hour flight, post-flight champagne ceremony, catered breakfast and commemorative flight certificate. Fully insured, FAA certified and uniformed. Rated #1 hot air ballooning company in Arizona by Fodor’s Travel for the past 15 years! Groups are our specialty since 1990. We look forward to seeing you in the air! Visit us on Facebook and Twitter.

Stargazing for Everyone, LLC 623.979.1393 stargazingforeveryone.com

Wow your audience with a real out of this world experience. Bring the universe to your next party, corporate conference or meeting. Let our Professional Stargazers guide you through the night sky, viewing the wonders of the universe through powerful GPS-computer assisted telescopes. We bring the universe to you!

Southern Arizona Balloon Excursions 520.624.3599 • 888.624.3599 tucsoncomefly.com

Join us in an irresistible opportunity for pleasure and adventure in a Hot Air Balloon Ride. Enjoy the view of the spectacular Catalina and Tucson Mountain ranges from the basket of a beautiful hot air balloon. While floating gently over the Sonoran landscape, you will rejoice in the most elegant form of flight. Landings are celebrated with a champagne brunch, and each person receives a first flight certificate and pictures. Flight duration is approximately one hour. Our flight starts at sunrise, our Pilots are FFA Certified Commercial Pilots, and our pilots and Company have perfect safety records. Call for reservations.

Stellar Adventures 602.402.0584 stellaradventures.com

Tame the rugged desert landscape on a H1 Hummer, M1009 Blazer/Jeep or guided/rental ATV tour – all powered by Bio-Diesel! Test your marksmanship with the Stellar Shooting Experience or try our Night-Vision and Stargazing Tours. Teambuilding, catering and bar-service are also available. Serving the Valley of the Sun since 1997.

CON V ENTION SERVICES 5-0 Productions 480.219.6486 5-0productions.com

We aren’t just about equipment – we are about people, we are about service and we are about quality.

5-0 Productions will partner with you in surpassing your needs by providing equipment, technical labor and project management for your business and corporate events. 5-0 Productions – Quality Corporate Audio Visual.

Arizona Gifts, LLC 602.441.5611 • 800.424.0870 info@arizonagifts.com ArizonaGifts.com

As one of the largest Southwestern gift companies in the U.S., we specialize in unique Arizona and Southwestern gifts for corporate and meeting planners. Some of our customized gifts include: in-room gift baskets and gift bags available with your logo on food labels, sandstone coasters, glass Rising Phoenix and glass cactus awards, business card holders and many other office gifts. Mini promotional items and quantity discounts available.

AV Dimensions Inc. 877.507.1444 avdimensions.com

AV Dimensions is a full-service AV provider with extensive experience in trade shows and events. We provide ideal technology solutions for engaging presentations through a commitment to excellence and dedication to client success. We utilize a variety of display solutions including Christie MicroTiles, Seamless Plasma, LED, Projection, Plasma and Flat Panel. At AV Dimensions, we do more than simply fill orders, we provide expert guidance and support from concept to completion.

Party People Rentals & Sales 10290 N. 90th St., #5A, Scottsdale, 85258, 480.998.1088 5240 N. 7th St., Phoenix, 85014, 602.264.0062 PartyPeopleRentals.com

Party People has everything you’ll need to purchase or rent for your next event. Let our knowledgeable customer service representatives help you create a most memorable occasion. We deliver to the entire Valley. Site checks and theme planning. Call for our free brochure. Two locations to serve you.

Starz Entertainment 480.830.1308 • 877.357.8279 starzentertainment.net

Starz Entertainment is one of the most honored and respected DJ, MC and Event Production companies in Arizona. Starz offers, all types of DJ services, teambuilding, game show, karaoke, trivia… you name it! Over 8,000 events in Arizona and never a BBB complaint with an A+ accredited rating. Starz employees receive the most comprehensive DJ and MC training and customers get the best in online event planning tools. Work with a certified, insured, and professional company on your next event.

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A DV ERTISERS INDEX Forever Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Fountain Hills Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 35 Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Gainey Suites Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Glendale CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 41 Greater Phoenix CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 27 Grand Canyon Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Grimaldi’s Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 51 Hampton Inn-Phoenix/Midtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Heard Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Hilton Phoenix/Chandler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Hilton Suites Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 65 Hot Air Expeditions, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29, 78 Hotel Tucson @ Tucson Convention Center . 57, 65 Hotel Valley Ho . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Hyatt Place Phoenix North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 46 Hyatt Place Phoenix/Gilbert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 46 Hyatt Place Scottsdale/Old Town . . . . . . . . . . 33, 46 Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 46 Hyatt Place Tucson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 65 Inn at Eagle Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 46 Little America Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 London Bridge Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Madison Event Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 53 Mazatzal Hotel and Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Mesa Convention Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 53 Mesa CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 39 Mormon Lake Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Old Town Tortilla Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 51 Party People Rentals & Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53, 79 Phoenix Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37, 52 Pink Jeep Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70, 75 Pinnacle Peak Patio Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Poco Diablo Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Pointe Hilton Resorts - Squaw Peak . . . . . . . . . 46, 49 Pointe Hilton Resorts - Tapatio Cliffs . . . . . . . 46, 49 Prescott Resort and Conference Center . . . . . . . . 75 Queen Creek Olive Mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 52 Radisson Hotel Phoenix/City Center . . . . . . . . . . 46 Radisson Woodlands Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Rancho de Los Caballeros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 49 Rancho Mañana Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 52 Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43, 50, 52 Residence Inn by Marriott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ruffino Italian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 51 Rustler’s Rooste Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 San Tan Elegante and Legado Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Scottsdale CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 31 Scottsdale Hilton Resort & Villas . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 47 Scottsdale Luxury Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Sheraton Phoenix Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28, 48 Casino del Sol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59, 65 Southern Arizona Balloon Excursions . . . . . . . . . . 78 SpringHill Suites by Marriott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Stargazing for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Starz Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Stellar Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Talking Stick Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 48 Tempe Tourism Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 37 Tempe Mission Palms Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Temple Bar Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 The Buttes, A Marriott Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 The Venue Scottsdale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 52 Verde Canyon Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72, 75 Westin Kierland Resort . . . . . Inside Front Cover, 48 Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 57, 65 Westin Phoenix Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29, 48 Windemere Hotel and Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40, 48 Xona Resort Suites . . . . . . . . . 48, Inside Back Cover Yuma Visitor’s Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 77

Glen Canyon

5-0 Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Alexi’s Grill & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 All Aboard America! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Antelope Canyon Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Antelope Point Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Arizona Gifts, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Arizona Outback Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Arizona Renaissance Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 53 Arizona Shuttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Aunt Chilada’s @ Squaw Peak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 AV Dimensions, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Avanti Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 AZ Segway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn . . . . . . . . 69 Black Canyon/Willow Beach River Adventures . 77 Blazin M Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71, 75 Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43, 52 City of Prescott Tourism Department . . . . . . . . 15, 73 Coach America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Comfort Suites Glendale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Comfort Suites Prescott Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Commemorative Air Force Arizona Wing Aviation Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 52 Cork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort . . . . . . 44, 45 Desert Rose Limousines, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 DETOURS of Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Doubletree Paradise Valley Resort . . . . . . . . . 44, 47 Embassy Suites Airport at 24th Street . . . . . . . . . 44 Embassy Suites Biltmore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Embassy Suites Paradise Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Embassy Suites Phoenix North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Embassy Suites Tempe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Enchantment Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Esplendor Resort at Rio Rico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62, 65 Fiesta Resort Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 45 Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 65, Back Cover