Phoenix, Arizona
Where to Stay and What to Do
Phoenix, Arizona Video Page
Phoenix Top Places to Visit - These are the spots you got to see.... Where to Stay in Phoenix - The Really Nice Resorts San Tan Flat 
This is a great place to bring the family or a date or to just hang out. It consists of a restaurant, bar, game room and large public area with a concert stage ringed by fire pits. In the evenings, the bands hit the stage - and as you'd expect, the music is mostly country and perfect for doing the two-step. Open during the day, the place truly comes alive at night as the locals swarm the place and the fire pits explode with flames (the wood is free) and smell of cooking marshmallows. Adults can sip a cocktail or beer, have a wonderful dinner in the restaurant. If you prefer, you can get your meal to go and then eat on one of the tables outside, watching the band, the crowd and the fire pits. On the weekends, this place is packed. Its a definite in-spot that you have to experience. There is no cover to get in - you do have to pay for your food, drinks and marshmallows.
Papago Park
a. Galvin Pkwy and Van Buren St
(602)256-3220
http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/papago.html
 More than 1,200-acres of desert hills and rugged mountains feature a golf course, museums, picnic areas, fishing lagoons (urban fishing license required), hiking trails and the famous peek-through Hole-in-the-Rock landmark.
 While you are there, you can climb to the top of the hill and play in the big caves. Kids love it. Another interesting thing to do at Papago is to check out the Pyramid. Its not a Mayan relic, its the final resting spot of the first governor of Arizona and his family. Visitors to Papago Park can make it a day excursion by visiting the nearby Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, or shops on Mill Ave.  While in Pagago Park, be sure to visit the special Dale Chihuly exhibit at the Desert Botanical Garden running through the end of May. "Chihuly: The Nature of Glass" includes amazing glass sculptures throughout the Garden.
For a special treat, visit the Garden in the evening, or enjoy the special Thursday evening "Spiked" events where you can mix and mingle while admiring the sculptures. Photo courtesy Judy Baliman
Old Apache Trail Tour - Superstition Wilderness  The Apache Trail's famous Circle Route begins and ends in Apache Junction, Arizona. This 120 mile scenic route is America's oldest roadway and Arizona’s first Historic Highway. The Apache Trail received that honor on February 25th, 1987. In fact, the Apache Trail has the distinction of being the only recognized Historic and Scenic Highway in Arizona.
The Apache Trail scenic tour will take you through deserts, mountains, by cliff dwellings, along lake shores, through old mining towns and through beautifully eroded canyons.
Tortilla Flat  Tortilla Flat is an authentic remnant of an old west town, nestled in the midst of the Tonto National Forest, Superstition Mountain Range. As well as being home for six adventurous people, Tortilla Flat has a charm that has surpassed time.
Tortilla Flat started out as a stage stop in 1904 and neither fire nor flood has been able to remove this historic stop along the Historic Apache Trail. Mosey down the boardwalk and visit the Superstition Saloon. Real saddles serve as bar stools where you can enjoy a cold brew or sarsaparilla. The unique wallpaper is really dollar bills from visitors world wide.
Canyon Lake Less than an hour drive from Phoenix at an elevation of 1,660 feet lies the unspoiled beauty of Canyon Lake. Here, you'll revel in a playground with more than 28 miles of cactus-dotted shoreline, explore wondrous rock formations, discover peaceful private coves and spot countless species of birds, Big Horn sheep, deer, and javelina roaming freely through the landscape. You can waterski, jet ski, or wind sail with over 950 surface acres of sparkling waters to run. Tuck into a secluded cove and fish for bass, trout, and many other kinds of fish, or take a leisurely cruise and marvel at the scenery. Idyllic year-round weather makes Canyon Lake, Arizona a great destination for all watersports and camping enthusiasts. Watch their TV Commercial: 56K (881Kb) Cable (1.86Mb) | 
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 While you are at Canyon Lake, you might want to take a cruise aboard the Dolly Steamboat. The Dolly Steamboat is a replica of a classic American sternwheeler. Cruises take passengers to secluded inner waterways accessible only by boat. The captain will share history of the Apache Trail and Canyon Lake, the flora and fauna of the lower Sonoran Desert, and the legend and lore of the Superstition Mountains and the Lost Dutchman's Gold. The Dolly operates year-round and is available for a variety of open cruises.
Goldfield Ghost Town  On the way out to Tortilla Flat and Canyon Lake, don't forget to drop in on the Goldfield Ghost Town. Yes its a tourist trap, but it pretty darn interesting. You can visit the old west - Take a walk down Main Street, explore the many shops and historic buildings. Eat some home made ice cream and visit the bordello. Tour the historic Mammoth Gold Mine and visit the Goldfield Museum. Pan for gold then take a ride on Arizona's only narrow gauge train.
You'll also get to witness an old west gun fight performed by the famous Goldfield Gunfighters
Mesa Market Swap Meet  - If you are looking for a good spot to pick up some souvenirs, Indian jewelry, local artwork or just like browsing for deals and unique items, make sure you pay a visit to the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet. It consists of four long buildings, aligned parallel to each other, packed with stalls and small shops selling a cornucopia of items and goods - some are seasonal, some are there for a day and gone.
Located in the beautiful desert area of Mesa , Arizona just off of East 60 at exit 193, (Signal Butte exit on Baseline Road ) there you will see acres and acres to fun and excitement. The Mesa Market Place Swap Meet is a 55 acres facility filled with over 1600 booths all under one covered roof! Mister system for summer cooling with plenty of breezeways to enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather. The Market features 6 snack bars and one restaurant with plenty of seating so you can enjoy the entertainment of the day while eating one of your favorite dishes featured at the Market.
Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa
Known throughout the world as the "Jewel of the Desert," the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa provides a restful oasis of 39 acres covered with lush gardens, glistening swimming pools, and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture. Set in the heart of Phoenix, the Arizona Biltmore has been a favorite of celebrities and U.S. presidents throughout its colorful history.
The distinctive influence of Frank Lloyd Wright is evidenced in the interior design of the resort's 734 guest accommodations. Mission-style furnishings and textiles in desert palettes of beige, sand and ivory dress the rooms. 1930s style lamps bring a western flair to the decor while reinforcing the period in which the hotel was built. The spacious rooms feature well-stocked mini-bars, a working desk with two chairs, two telephones equipped with voice-mail and speed dialing; marble baths and double sinks, hairdryers, make-up mirror and scale.
Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa
2400 East Missouri
Phoenix, Arizona 85016
Front Desk: (602) 955 – 6600 www.arizonabiltmore.com
 The grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel - from YouTube
The grounds at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel and Cottages Phoenix, Arizona, 1927. A collaborative effort of Frank Lloyd Wright and architect Albert McArthur 
Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa - An exotic journey - The Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa is nestled on 39 acres at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. It is one of the most exotic resorts one may have ever been to. It has several guest accommodations including one- and two-bedroom villas, eight swimming pools, seven tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, and a European spa, salon, and fitness center. With its scenic beauty & amazing architecture, the resort is very well deservedly referred to as 'The Jewel of the Desert'
The Phoenician
The Phoenician is known for its lavish décor and breath-taking surroundings – plus the caring, exceptional service you would expect at a fine private club. Unparalleled elegance is artfully expressed through out the resort from beautifully appointed accommodations, including an $8 million dollar art collection, to the most stunning golf course in the Southwest, to their gilded lobby which commands one of the best views of the Valley of the Sun. At every turn the Phoenician magically combines the elements of nature, landscaping, architecture and fine art into a striking. Masterpiece. The Phoenician has over 650 rooms, as well as, eight world-class dining facilities.
Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, the 250-acre Phoenician offers two exquisite experiences – a 583-room AAA Five Diamond resort hotel and an exclusive Five Diamond boutique hotel, The Canyon Suites -- at one magnificent destination. The property features elegant, residential-style accommodations, distinctive and tantalizing cuisine across a variety of restaurants, 27 holes of championship golf, 11 lighted tennis courts, The Centre for Well-Being spa complex, an activity program for all ages and interests and numerous boutique shops. Its exclusive $25 million art collection is featured in a self-guided audio tour, complimentary to guests. In addition to these offerings, the stylish 60-room Canyon Suites provides more intimate surroundings and enhanced services, creating an atmosphere of uncompromising comfort.
The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
www.thephoenician.com
 The Phoenician
Known as the valley of the sun Phoenix Arizona is home to some of the richest colors and textures in the great American South West, nuzzle at the west of the camel back mountain is a luxurious oasis for relaxation, celebration and rejuvenation. The Phoenician is the crown jewel of the sonorant desert
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa
The resort is located in the Sonoran Desert on an expanse of rugged Arizona landscape where the ancient vistas, mountains and roaming wild horses remain untouched. A unique blend of two cultures, the resort offers the quiet serenity created by Native American tribes who found haven here. This destination resort includes two 18-hole Troon-managed golf courses, the Aji Spa, a 17,500 square foot spa with 17 treatment rooms, the Koli Equestrian Center for riding lessons, trail rides and outdoor events, and is also equipped with tennis courts and jogging trails.
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa
5594 West Wild Horse Pass Boulevard,
Phoenix, AZ 85226
Front Desk: (602) 225 – 0100 www.WildHorsePassResort.com
Reservations toll free: 888-218-8989
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa
Designed around the theme “Treasuring the Essence of Arizona,” The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa opened in November 2002. Throughout its hallways, courtyards, and other public areas, Arizona’s colorful history is brought to life paying tribute to the people, landscape and events that shaped the state's cultural heritage. The AAA Four Diamond resort provides 735 spacious guestrooms -- all featuring Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed and Bath.
When it’s time to relax, guests can enjoy a Troon experience on 27 holes of championship golf at the The Kierland Golf Club, float down the resort’s 900-foot flowing river, zoom down its 110-foot waterfall-shadowed slide or play tennis. Guests can also take in a day of indulgences at the full-service spa, Agave, The Arizona Spa, which is set within its own secluded pool and garden courtyard and draws on the healing cultures of Arizona to offer an element of cultural diversity in everything from massage to aromatherapy to skin treatments. Dining options abound with eight food and beverage facilities.
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa
6902 East Greenway Parkway
Scottsdale, Arizona 85254
Front Desk: (480) 624 – 1000 http://www.kierlandresort.com/kierland.html
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
In the cooling foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Four Seasons offers a truly handcrafted desert resort experience. Spacious casitas open to astonishing scenery. Heartbeat-skipping views garnish imaginative Southwestern fare. Celebrated Troon North golf is at your door. The spa is a refuge of head-to-toe pampering. Intuitive service adds freedom to every moment. The Resort’s 25 casita buildings blend into the surrounding desert landscape. Each of the 210 guest rooms and suites includes a spacious private terrace or balcony to take advantage of the dramatic views.
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
10600 E. Crescent Moon Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona 85262
Front Desk : (480) 515 – 5700 www.FourSeasons.com/Scottsdale
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch
The beauty of the majestic McDowell Mountains, palm trees, cacti, wildflowers, Frank Lloyd Wright inspired architecture, and the spirit of native peoples combine to create the comfortable Southwestern elegance of the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch. Enjoy the many recreational amenities this desert oasis has to offer including a 2˝ acre "water playground", three-story waterslide, sand beach, 27 holes of championship golf at the award-winning Gainey Ranch Golf Club, four tennis courts, miles of jogging and bicycle trails, Spa Avania, the Native American Learning Center, Camp Hyatt Kachina for children ages 3-5 and 6-12, an international art collection, and four distinctly different restaurants.
7500 East Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
www.scottsdale.hyatt.com
Intercontinental Montelucia Resort
The Valley’s newest luxury resort brings the essence of Southern Spain to Scottsdale. The resort is reminiscent of a European town square, with arching entryways, splashing fountains and floral walkways. This extraordinary resort houses 293 guest rooms including 38 suites and two presidential suites. Rooms feature authentic hand-crafted architectural details, all with private terraces and breathtaking views. There are five pools and multiple dining venues throughout the 30 acre property. Find true escape at Joya, the 31,000 square-foot destination spa featuring the region’s only authentic Hammam, where guests can find joy and de-stress in one-of-kind treatments or while enjoying Arizona’s 300-plus days of sunshine at Joya’s rooftop pool. The resort is just minutes from a thriving fashion district, shopping, nightlife, restaurants, golf courses and international airports – all nestled at the foot of picturesque Camelback Mountain.
www.montelucia.com
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Heard Museum
a. 2301 N. Central Ave.; Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 252-8848 Fax (602) 252-9757
http://www.heard.org/
 The internationally acclaimed Heard Museum is one of the best places to experience the myriad cultures and art of Native Americans of the Southwest. With a commanding presence on Central Avenue in downtown Phoenix, the museum hosts nearly 250,000 visitors a year and " provides Indian artists with a wonderful home that will excite and inspire visitors from around the world." according to Arizona Highways, October 1999. The museum's 10 spacious exhibit galleries and beautiful outdoor courtyards feature outstanding traditional and contemporary Native American art.
Don't forget to visit the Heard Museum's Gift Shop. Large and spacious with a wonderful assortment of products, it is an outstanding store to buy authentic Indian art, jewelry, clothing and other items and gifts. If you need to get a "real" souvenir, this is the place to go.
Taliesin West
a. 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd.; Scottsdale, AZ 85261
(480) 860-2700 Fax (480) 451-8989
http://www.franklloydwright.org/
Built as Frank Lloyd Wright’s personal home and architectural studio on 600 acres of rugged desert, Taliesin West offers a broad range of daily tours and is available for pre-arranged group tours, as well as corporate functions. The famed architect, considered by leading critics to be the greatest architect of the 20th century, spent winters at the camp until his death in 1959. During 2004, nearly 126,000 people visited the campus, making it one of the most-visited historical homes in the country and one of Scottsdale’s primary tourist draws.
South Mountain Preserve
a. 10919 S. Central Ave.; Phoenix, AZ 85042-8302;
602-495-0222
http://phoenix.gov/parks/hikesoth.html
At over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve often is referred to as the largest municipal park in the country. With so much space it’s no wonder that thousands of tourists and locals visit the park each year. The area boasts 51 miles of primary trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking for all ability levels skills. See flora and fauna distinct to the Sonoran Desert, or drive to the top for breathe-taking views of the Greater Phoenix skyline
Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium
a. 1200 South Forest Avenue; Tempe, AZ 85287-0105
(480) 965-5062; Fax (480) 965-595
http://www.asugammage.com/
Considered to be the last public commission of renowned architect Floyd Lloyd Wright, Gammage Auditorium opened its doors to the public in 1964. The auditorium seats a total of 3,017 people on its main floor, grand tier and balcony. Visitors to Gammage can find more than hit Broadway Musicals during their next trip, the facility is adapted for grand opera, dramatic productions, solo productions, organ recitals and university lectures.
Phoenix Art Museum
a. 1625 N. Central Ave.; Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 257-1880 Fax (602) 253-8662
http://www.phxart.org/
Phoenix Art Museum's Collection includes over 17,000 artworks in American, Asian, contemporary, European, Latin American, and Western American art, plus fashion design and the Thorne Miniature Rooms of historic interiors. The Museum also features an interactive "child-friendly, please touch!" gallery called ArtWorks. You can learn about the Collection through video presentation in the Museum's Orientation Theater. You may also create your own tour by using the audio guide. The Museum encompasses over 160,000 square feet, and approximately 1,000 works from the Collection are on view at any one time.
Desert Botanical Garden
a. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway; Phoenix, AZ 85008
(480) 941-1225 Fax (480) 481-8124
http://www.dbg.org/
The Desert Botanical Garden offers the world’s finest collection of arid-land plants from deserts of the world in a unique outdoor setting. The Garden has more than 50,000 desert plants on display throughout five thematic trails that illustrate topics such as conservation, desert living, plants and people of the Sonoran Desert and desert wildflowers. Visit the Garden and enjoy specialized tours, special events, seasonal exhibits, concerts, family activities, an outdoor café and the Garden’s gift and plant shop.
University of Phoenix Stadium
a. 1 Cardinals Drive; Glendale, AZ 85305
(623) 308-2640; Fax (623) 225-7269
http://www.universityofphoenixstadium.com
The University of Phoenix Stadium that was designed by world-renowned architect Peter Eisenman opened in Aug. 2006 and will host Super Bowl XLII on Feb. 3 2008. The unique facility features the only U.S. playing surface that is capable of being completely removed from the actual stadium. This multi-purpose venue is unlike any in the world, as it features a retractable roof as well as a shading mechanism that will allow a predetermined amount of light to enter the stadium, while still providing shade. Along with great NFL football in the fall, visitors to the Greater Phoenix can also enjoy concerts, trade shows and other sporting events at the facility.
Chase Field
a. 401 E. Jefferson St.; Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 462-6440; Fax (602) 462-6404
http://www.maricopa.gov/stadiumdistrict/
Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks MLB team is configured to host various sporting events including baseball football, soccer and basketball. Other events that have enjoyed success in the facility are concerts, motor sports, trade shows, exhibits, band pageants, religious gatherings and running/walking events. The sports facility is also one of Phoenix's premier locations to host events. Throughout the year visitors can enjoy baseball games and other events in the ballpark that seats more than 48,000 patrons, or dine at the Friday’s Front Row overlooking Left Field, open 363 days yearly.
Pueblo Grande Museum
a. 4619 E. Washington St.; Phoenix, AZ 85034
(877) 706-4408 | (602) 495-0901 Fax (602) 495-5645
http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/pueblo.html
Experience a prehistoric Hohokam ruin and full-sized replicated dwellings. Pueblo Grande Museum is located at a 1,500 year-old Hohokam village ruins in modern day Phoenix. For more than 76 years the museum has been dedicated to the study and interpretation of the Hohokam culture. On the 100-acre park grounds, visitors explore the ruin of an 800 year-old platform mound possibly used by the Hohokam for ceremonies or as an administrative center. An excavated ball court, and to full-scale reproductions of prehistoric Hohokam homes can be viewed along the ruin trail. The site also includes some of the last remaining intact Hohokam irrigation canals. ==================================================================== |
