Arizona Here We Come! 2009

Description:

The Phoenix Art Museum received a multimillion dollar expansion a few years ago, making a great museum even better. This has been Phoenix's main cultural hub since its founding in 1959, and the Museum shows no signs of slowing down, with high-profile exhibitions making a stop here on a regular basis. The impressive permanent collection includes works by Rembrandt, Frida Kahlo, and other art greats. The Museum also regularly hosts special film screenings, lectures, and other cultural events.

Description:

The Heard Museum is one of Phoenix's biggest cultural treasures. Founded by pioneer settlers Dwight and Maie Heard, the couple built a large, Spanish-style building in which to house their growing collection of Native American art. Today, their home is one of the best museums in Phoenix, with galleries filled with textiles, jewelry, paintings, pottery, statuary, kachinas, and other art artifacts representing tribes from across the Americas. The Heard is also a hub of culture events, sponsoring an ongoing film series and hosting numerous Indian art and dance events throughout the year.

Description:

Nestled in the courtyard of the Heard Museum, this cozy cafe features light, regionally inspired salads and sandwiches in a picturesque setting. The cafe is accessible without paying admission to the museum. A trickling fountain and shade trees make this a relaxing and enjoyable place for a leisurely lunch. Food is prepared by the nearby University Club and includes items like the Santa Fe Salad and High Desert Wrap sandwiches.

Description:

These Hohokam Indian ruins represent Phoenix's only national landmark, consisting of an approximately 800-year old platform mound ruin and an excavated ball court. It's fascinating to walk the trail along the ruin, imagining how it was constructed and what kind of lives were lived here. Many visitors overlook this fascinating landmark, which is quite small and can be viewed in an hour or two. The park presents special programming, events, and lectures on a fairly regular basis.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Chinese Cultural Center offers so many great restaurants in one convenient place. Try the Golden Buddha for Saturday Dim Sum and eat until your heart's content!

Description:

Distinctive Asian shops and cuisine are surrounded by a traditional Chinese garden. Visit the upscale Asian supermarket for fresh fish daily. Gardens surrounding the area feature ponds and replicas of statuary and pagodas from cities in China. Restaurants like the Sampan Seafood Restaurant offer a variety of carefully prepared Asian cuisine. These gardens are located just south of Interstate-10 and 44th street, directly across from the Marriott Residence Inn downtown location. Admission is free; call for more information.

Description:

Live out your Old West fantasies at this North Scottsdale attraction, which features horseback riding, stage coach rides, hayrides and cookouts, cowboy entertainment, and just about every other Old West activity you can name. MacDonald's Farm is a favorite with children, although adults will probably also get a kick out of the cowboy songs, stories, and action. This is a popular spot for birthday parties, and with its lush desert backdrop, weddings as well.

Description:

Located on 125 acres adjacent to Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo has been entertaining visitors for a half-century. Four trails lead visitors into habitats replicating such habitats as a tropical rain forest and a African savanna. One of the most popular attractions is The Forest of Uco, which is home to the endangered spectacled bear from South America. On the interactive Discovery Trail, young children learn about small mammals, and even get chance to help milk a cow or groom a horse.

Description:

Located about 45 minutes northeast of downtown Scottsdale, this Indian casino is the oldest in the state, offering slot machines, poker, keno, bingo, and free shuttles from hotels around the Valley. There's also a very attractive resort hotel here.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Our Local Expert Says:

Take one of these 55-minute tours and peer into the history of Sedona with the help of knowledgeable guides with a great sense of humor.

Description:

Known as "the best first thing to do in Sedona," The Sedona Trolley is a great way for visitors to acclimate themselves to the area before taking off on their own. The trolley operators educate passengers on the history of Sedona, cruising past famous landmarks and areas of historical importance. Organized in two 55-minute tours, The Sedona Trolley offers a lot more than great photo opportunities. Trolley operators are very knowledgeable of Sedona and can offer suggestions on anything from hiking trails to restaurants. Tours are $12 for adults and $6 for children and all tours leave from the Uptown Trolley Depot (at the intersection of Uptown and 89A, next to Canyon Breeze).

Description:

Beginning as a community effort to further the arts, the center now includes a school with various classes and exhibitions. Enjoy juried shows from visiting or local guest artists, as well as the annual Sculpture Walk. Plays, too, are featured and are produced by the local professional Oak Creek Theatre Company as well as amateur groups like the Sedona Arts Center Community Theatre. The center is located in uptown Sedona, off Hwy 89A. Shop the gift gallery for works from more than 120 member artists.

Description:

This rock is easily recognized by its stately shape and unusual red color. The object of many visitors' pointed cameras, this rock becomes more than it appears at first glance. Possessing one of four Energy Vortexes in the area, this is a highly popular attraction. Located near the Bell Rock Inn whose rooms offer incredible views, this rock possesses energy of the "active" type, which spirals up, encircling you. Experiment sensing this energy while on the rock by first briskly rubbing your hands together, then hold your palms first upward with arms outstretched, then downward, feeling the invisible forces at work either lifting or pushing down.

Description:

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona's most famous scenic landmarks, a majestic monolith with red spires twisting up toward the sky, perfect for getting postcard-worthy vacation pics that will make your friends back home green with envy. Be warned that getting up close and personal with Cathedral Rock is not a simple endeavor, but it's completely worth the effort for the broad valley views and close encounters with a fascinating lava dike. You'll need to rock climb your way across and over steep, unshaded bald rocks and shallow clefts to get to rock's multilevel ledges and bases. Like all great hikes, challenging but rewarding. To get here from the junction of Routes 89A and 179, take 179 south 3.5 miles to Back-O'Beyond Road, which will be on your right. From there, go less than one mile to the trailhead parking turnout on your left.

Our Local Expert Says:

Take 89A through this beautiful canyon dotted with great spots to fish, camp, hike, and picnic. Don’t forget your camera!

Description:

A trip to Sedona would not be complete without a day spent bumming around Oak Creek Canyon. Traveling from Flagstaff to Sedona, Ponderosa pines give way to Sedona's signature red rocks in this breathtaking canyon. A quick stop at the Oak Creek Canyon Vista Lookout is worth a few wide-angle lens photos before driving down the winding switchbacks. Once the road levels out, most visitors tour the canyon by foot; hiking along Oak Creek, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and gazing at the towering cliffs in all directions.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best brews in Arizona! A good place for a nice sit-down dinner or a bar-stool. Patio always open.

Description:

Oak Creek Brewing Company is a must stop for thirsty travelers interested in drinking local ales. The brewery offers a wide selection of ales, though the Oak Creek Nut Brown and Pale Ale are regional favorites. Don't miss happy hour during the week from 4-7PM and be sure to check out the live music every Friday and Saturday, beginning at 8PM. Located on Yavapai Drive (just west of HWY 179 on 89A), simply look for the large white malt silo branded, "Oak Creek Brewery."

Our Local Expert Says:

Take this 40-minute detour from Sedona and drive right up to the monument. Because it sits high on the cliff, this ancient dwelling is especially beautiful at sunset and sunrise.

Description:

Visit the ruins of a once-prosperous community of the ancient Sinagua. One of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America, the structure boasts five stories and 20 rooms. Inhabited more than 600 years ago, much of the building is still intact. The best time of the year to visit is December and January. Binoculars would be beneficial for a closer view. Walkways are provided and are wheelchair-accessible. Montezuma's Castle and visitor center is located off I-17 at exit 289. Entrance fees are minimal for adults, free for children 16 and under. Allow no less than one hour for your visit.

Description:

Created by underground springs, this limestone sinkhole near Montezuma's Castle was once a large underground cavern. Now a natural well surrounded by Indian cliff dwellings, it is home to plant and animal life found nowhere else in the world. Warm underground springs maintain an unusually stable habitat in the well. Prehistoric farmers utilized this well for crop irrigation. Note that the address given above is for Montezuma's Castle; the well is located northeast of the castle. The 1/3-mile walkway is not recommended for wheelchairs.Admission to the well is free.

Description:

The mission of the Sedona Heritage Museum is to preserve, celebrate, and teach the history of the greater Sedona area from 1876 to the present. The primary museum building was the family home of Walter and Ruth Jordon, with the original one-room building dating back to 1930. Highlights of the Sedona Heritage Museum include a movie room that commemorates nearly 100 feature films made in Sedona, an old-time laundry room, a school room, and a room dedicated to the Schnebly family. The fascinating 3300-square-foot Apple Packing Shed displays Walter Jordan's 46-foot apple grading machine. After you've gotten your fill of Sedona history, head to the gift shop, which features handmade gift items made by local artists.

Our Local Expert Says:

Leave early to see some of the best preserved examples of rock art in the southwest and continue down the trail to Honanki to see even more.

Description:

Palatki, which is Hopi for "red house," is known as one of the most preserved pictograph sites in the area. In addition to this two story cliff dwelling, there is an easy, well-marked trail that will lead visitors to a series of rock alcoves where pictographs were drawn 3,000 to 6,000 years ago. From Sedona, it takes roughly 15 minutes to get to the site and takes about an hour or two to see. From 89A go north on Red Canyon Rd. It will turn into Forest Road 525 (remember this spot if you want to continue down the road to see the Honanki Ruins). Veer right onto Forest Road 595, and then follow the signs to the parking lot. Visitors will need a Red Rocks Pass in order to park, which is available for purchase at the site. Keep in mind that reservations are required (just call ahead) and the site closes every day at 3PM.

Our Local Expert Says:

Continue down the trail beyond the Palatki Ruins to see a bigger set of ruins and even more rock art.

Description:

Succumb to the natural curiosity brought on by the mystery of ancient rock writings and pictographs. Similar to Palatki in terms of style, and history, the ruins at Honanki are larger. While the rock writings and pictographs are inspiring, they are less accessible than those at Palatki. A good pair of binoculars, therefore, would serve visitors well. To get to Honanki, drive beyond the Palatki Ruins, continuing on Forest Road 525 for another 10 miles. Like at Palatki, visitors will need a Red Rocks Pass to park and should call ahead. The site closes daily at 6PM.

Description:

As its name implies, this restaurant concentrates on well-prepared beef and billiards. The dining room has a clubby atmosphere and the billiards room features tournament-sized tables. There is a library lounge where you can sit by the fireplace and enjoy a fine cigar. Custom-aged steaks are served with soup or salad and a one-pound baked potato. Other entree selections included sauteed calamari steak, pork porterhouse and stir-fried prawns and scallops. The wine list includes choices in the range including Los Abrigados Resort & Spa's private label.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Our Local Expert Says:

This town is the most charming in Arizona! Art and craft galleries consume the lower roads while live-music, bikers, and cowboys and girls range toward the top where the old-town venues rise up.

Description:

This historical township is definitely worth a visit. Originally a mining town for about 70 years, this little community survives on the sliding-edge of a hillside. Through the years, many buildings have taken the fall including, at one point, the town jail. Sporting gorgeous views and lovely bed & breakfasts, the quaint storefronts and small town ambiance attract multitudes of artists, writers and tourists. Shops and galleries flourish here, including Nature's Landscapes. If you have time, visit the Mining Museum. Credit cards and hours will vary by merchant.

Our Local Expert Says:

An easy hike into a scenic box canyon and one of the most beloved vortex spots in Sedona. Be patient as you pass Enchantment Resort--it gets better!

Description:

For many visitors who come to Sedona to experience first-hand the dream-like, red rock landscape of this Southwestern destination, hiking Boynton Canyon Trail ranks high on the list of things to do. Boynton Canyon is one of the most popular box canyons in the Southwest, earning Sedona dozens of glossy travel magazine spreads over the years. The easily accessible, 2.5 mile trail into the canyon lies just southwest of town, starting at the same trailhead as another popular hike, Deadman's Pass Trail. Boynton Canyon trail, which leads you by groves of fragrant oak, juniper, and pine trees, meanders over dry washes, skirts the edges of the Enchantment Resort, and then descends toward the sandy bottoms of the red sandstone canyon. The prehistoric ruins of the Sinagua people are said to be hidden high in the canyon cliffs. More recently, Boynton Canyon has earned the reputation as a prime vortex zone, beckoning travelers looking to soak up the high desert energy from Sedona's so-called energy vortexes.

Our Local Expert Says:

The gem of Enchantment Resort. Glass walls and a large patio looking out onto the red rocks of Boynton Canyon make every seat the best in the house.

Description:

Award-winning Chef Paul McCabe presents sensational Southwestern cuisine and 180-degree panaromic views Enchantment Resort's elegant dining venue. Start your day with the breakfast buffet or lunch or sup on one of the Chef's terrific signature creations like the Rack of Colorado Lamb with a Dijon Pistachio Crust or Jalapeño Coulis; Blackened Ahi with a Wasabi Lime Sauce. The Jazz Brunch turns every Sunday into a celebration.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Our Local Expert Says:

Local favorite where people-watching, quick service, big portions, and eclectic art meet.

Description:

If you want to eat where the locals eat, head straight to The Coffee Pot, a down-home breakfast and lunch diner that is famous for its breakfasts and notably generous large servings. Named for the imposing coffee pot-shaped rock formation located behind the restaurant, the "home of the famous 101 omelettes" also happens to serve up a mean lunch platter. Choose from a large selection of sandwiches, salads, and Mexican specialties. The Coffee Pot has been a local Sedona landmark for decades, and recently expanded a bit with an outdoor patio and kids menu. There is also a gift shop stocked with knick-knacks.

Description:

Hundreds of animals from around the world are the star attraction at this outdoor wildlife park, located 30 minutes south of Sedona. Safaris, tours, observations, live demonstrations, and wildlife shows are just some of the daily activities you'll find at Out of Africa, where visitors get up close and personal with lions, tigers, a jaguar, leopards, wolves, hyenas, rhinoceros, camel, ostrich, black bear, zebra, tortoise, wildebeest, and exotic birds. Take the African Bush Safari Tour, watch animals leap for their lunch during the Predator Feed tour, or see the world's largest Anacondas, Pythons, and Boas during the Giant Snake Show. This is one of Arizona's finest zoos and wildlife parks, not to be missed when you're in this part of the state.

Description:

This 286-acre state park preserves many of the famous monoliths and formations that have made Sedona's "Red Rock Country" famous around the world. The park has plenty of meandering trails through the high desert landscape of manzanita bushes, pinyons, and juniper trees. If you're looking for a secluded entry point to Oak Creek, come early in the morning and enjoy the solitude. The park does not permit camping, but there several tables and ramadas for day picnics. Other amenities include a visitor's center and classroom and theater that host regular presentations from park rangers and guest speakers.

Our Local Expert Says:

An uptown favorite for its location and consistently good food.

Description:

Healthy, fresh Mexican food gives your taste buds something to sing about at this scenic uptown restaurant in Sedona. The large, comfortable patio provides some of the best canyon vistas you'll find at at any restaurant in town, and the carefully prepared food adds to a great dining experience. Smoky salsa and an extensive tequila list make this a good place for a long lunch or leisurely dinner. Oaxaca owner Carla Butler is a registered dietitian who does not use lard or cholesterol-rich oils in the dishes, making this a health-conscious foodie's dream come true, and the gluten-free menu items provide choices for those with food sensitivities and allergies.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Description:

The King's Ransom Quality Inn's' restaurant specializes in antibiotic-and-hormone-free beef for a meal of some of the purest protein available. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in a relaxing, casual atmosphere. Breakfast specialties include Eggs Benedict, Belgian Waffles and Blueberry Pancakes. At lunch, a full menu of soups, salads, sandwiches and Mexican dishes are reasonably priced. Dinners feature daily chef specials like grilled salmon in dill cream sauce and baked ham with a brandy raisin sauce. Full bar service is available.

Description:

This open-air shopping center is modeled after a picturesque Mexican village and named after the artisan suburb outside Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. In Sedona, Tlaquepaque happens to be one of the top tourist attractions in town, drawing a steady stream of visitors to the sprawling, hacienda-like structure lined with cobblestone and decorated with whimsical statuary and fountains. You'll find dozens of high-end galleries, jewelry stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a small chapel. The stucco walls are covered over with crawling vines and flower pots are tucked into every corner and decorative terrace. Undoubtedly one of the more romantic shopping centers in town, Tlaquepaque is also a working artisan community where you may catch a glimpse of artists at work.

Description:

Stake out a little piece of Southwestern artistry from the galleries here at Mountain Trails. Choose from historical or contemporary pieces including paintings, sculpture and photographs. More than 50 artists are represented in two galleries at the beautiful Tlaquepaque. Featured items include limited edition bronzes by Scott Rogers and paintings by the popular Steven Lang, as well as the intricately detailed watercolors from Lisa Danielle.

Description:

In the courtyard at Tlaquepaque's arts and crafts village resides a small chapel for small ceremonies. Regular services are not held in this non-denominational facility. Contained within are pews which hold 36 and an altar backdropped by a painting by local artist Eileen Conn. Reservations can be made.

Description:

Master craftsman have lovingly provided outstanding art pieces on display in this fine gallery. Find unique shapes, fun designs and dramatic color treatments in handmade glass sculptures, accessories and ornamental wearable art. Guadalupe glass with its wonderful contrasting colors and textures is featured along with many others. Blake Street Glass is another focus exhibit, offering rich colors and novel designs, which capture the imagination of the beholder. Located in the lovely Tlaquepaque.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Description:

Sister to the popular Judi's Restaurant, here you will find hearty, stick-to-your-ribs breakfasts, barbecue and Mexican fare. The mascots are cartoon characters-Yosemite Sam and the Tasmanian Devil-and give a lighthearted touch to the atmosphere. Try the Sampler Platter, which includes salad, bread and two tasty side dishes. The restaurant is open for three meals a day. Beer and wine are served. Leave room for Judi's famous homemade desserts!

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.

Our Local Expert Says:

Exquisite food and wine but make sure you're patient because beauty and deliciousness takes time.

Description:

The sumptuous dining room--all white linen and polished silverware--is located creekside at the ritzy L'Auberge de Sedona resort property. This is one of the most formal, elegant, and scenic dining rooms in town, and it's easy to see why it's a favorite spot for special dinners, romantic dates, and Valentine's Day. Chef David Schmidt has crafted a menu that fuses contemporary and classic American cuisine with a strong French influence. For can't miss house favorites, choose the filet mignon with mushroom risotto or the spinach and leek chicken crepes. With a wine cellar brimming with over 1,200 bottles, this is a perfect spot to enjoy a four-course wine-paired tasting menu.

Description:

When visiting Sedona, why stay in a motel room equipped with a TV and perhaps a coffeemaker, when you can have all that Sedona Pines Resort offers for about the same price? This family resort nestled among the world-renowned Red Rocks on the western edge of Sedona. Individual cottages - one story only (no overhead noise) using a superbly constructed and quiet modular design. Each cottage surrounded by beautiful landscaping complete with peaceful fountains and other water features. Units are air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen with microwave/convection oven, telephone, TV, VCR, dishwasher, whirlpool bath and CD/stereo system. The resort offers the largest heated pool in the Sedona area, 2 spas, fitness room, free 18 hole miniature golf, sportscourt and wonderful restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Most area features are just a short drive from the Pines and many tour companies will pick you up at the resort.