Great Architecture of the Southwest

Description:

You will enjoy gourmet "New American" cuisine at the historic Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa. Dining in The Wine Cellar is a memorable culinary experience. Elegant furnishings combine with top-notch service to make this a premier Valley restaurant. An innovative menu includes global offerings, painstakingly prepared by the restaurant's Chef de Cuisine and his staff. Highlights include Pancetta-Wrapped Ostrich, Maine Lobster Bouilli (with scallops and mussels in lobster essence), and "Aussie" Lamb Loin with Parmesan white bean puree, wilted arugula and mushroom ragout. The wine list is exceptional.

Description:

Hotels don't come much more posh than this. The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa has defined classic desert city elegance since it first opened its doors in 1929. The hotel's high reputation is confirmed by its notable pedigree--it was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright associate Albert Chase McArthur. The lobby literally dazzles with stained glass skylights, and intimate sitting alcoves throughout lend a relaxed air to the stately entrance. The 120 rooms are spacious and decorated with gracious Mission-style furniture. Perhaps even more spacious and graceful are the hotel grounds, which occupy 39 acres of walkways, colorful flower displays, and decorative stone fountains. This is one of the priciest places to stay in Phoenix, but if you're looking for a truly luxurious experience at one of the city's most historic resorts, you can't do much better than this.

Description:

This church, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1950, is constructed from stone. Built during 1971-1977, this structure is a remarkable example of texture and materials - a trademark of Mr. Wright. Other famous Wright designs are open for touring at Taliesin West. Drive down the scenic Central Avenue while in the area, and view stately homes. Join Senior Pastor Derek Lauer and the congregation here while in town. Services are held Saturday evenings at 4:45p and 6:30p and Sunday mornings at 8:45a and 10:30a.

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.

Description:

Located in the stylish new Sedona Rouge hotel, Red's has an ambiance all its own. The interior design's red motif complements the red-jacketed wait staff, who attend your every need. The bar, though inviting, is not the main hot spot as most tend to favor the oversized leather couches and arm chairs of the adjacent lounge area. The contemporary American menu caters specifically to Chef Kyle Evans' strengths, contemporary comfort foods; the Mac & Cheese Skillet with Vermont Aged Cheddar elevates this childhood staple to a new level. Though a bit too trendy for some, it's prices are reasonable and the food does not disappoint.

Description:

Set in West Sedona, this Spanish-Mediterranean, boutique-style hotel and spa is 3 miles from the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village; on-site amenities include a fine-dining restaurant. All guestrooms offer beds with pillowtop mattresses and duvets of goose down/feathers. Other amenities include 32-inch LCD TVs. The hotel also features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and spa tub; full-service health spa, and fitness equipment.

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:

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:

The first restaurant to open in Tlaquepaque shopping and gallery village combines Mexican, Southwestern and Native American influences. Voted Sedona's best Mexican restaurant for 16 years running it is a favorite to enjoy a house special Margarita Magnifica. Spanish-style furnishings, arched doorways and brightly colored tableware afford a festive feel. Burritos, enchiladas, tacos, tostadas and quesadillas make up the majority of the menu. Navajo Pizzas (similar to fry bread), Chiles Rellenos (stuffed chiles) and Chimichangas are also worth a try.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of Sedona's poshest spas receives high marks for its experienced staff, eclectic service menu, and remarkably scenic location at Boynton Canyon.

Description:

This popular destination spa, located at Sedona's posh Enchantment Resort, combines traditional Native American healing philosophy with the dramatic red sandstone backdrop of Sedona's popular Boynton Canyon. The comprehensive services menu includes aqua work, massage, natural skin care treatments, Ayurvedic therapy, treatments for couples and mothers-to-be, yoga, fitness, dance, and art classes. Mii Amo has received accolades as one of the best spas in the country by numerous travel magazines, making this one of Sedona's favorite stopping points for serious spa-goers looking for superb service and amenities.

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:

Set in West Sedona, this Spanish-Mediterranean, boutique-style hotel and spa is 3 miles from the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village; on-site amenities include a fine-dining restaurant. All guestrooms offer beds with pillowtop mattresses and duvets of goose down/feathers. Other amenities include 32-inch LCD TVs. The hotel also features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and spa tub; full-service health spa, and fitness equipment.

Description:

Designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright student, Marguerite Brunswig Staude, the chapel was built in 1956 and rises 200 feet from the ground between two large red rock formations. One of the most distinctive features is a 90-foot cross, which can be seen from the ground along State Route 179. A massive stained glass window turns the chapel's interior into a kaleidoscope of color at certain times of the day. No services are held here, but it provides an ideal setting for spiritual reflection and prayer as well as incredible views of the Red Rocks. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

Description:

Experience the Grand Canyon from its most peaceful perspective: the North Rim. Perched atop Bright Angel Point and well hidden from the summer crowds, the Grand Canyon Lodge offers motel rooms and rustic efficiency cabins for the ultimate escape. Rooms and cabins include private baths. Cabins include sitting areas. The main lodge features a dining room where guests enjoy home-cooked meals and conversation in front of enormous picture windows with panoramic canyon views. Lodging is available May 15th through October 15th.

Description:

Experience the Grand Canyon from its most peaceful perspective: the North Rim. Perched atop Bright Angel Point and well hidden from the summer crowds, the Grand Canyon Lodge offers motel rooms and rustic efficiency cabins for the ultimate escape. Rooms and cabins include private baths. Cabins include sitting areas. The main lodge features a dining room where guests enjoy home-cooked meals and conversation in front of enormous picture windows with panoramic canyon views. Lodging is available May 15th through October 15th.

Description:

While the Canyon is evidence of layers and layers of natural history, the Village, an assortment of buildings deemed National Historic Landmarks, make up its Historical District. Together, they demonstrate man's interaction with the natural wonder for the last 100 years. Architect Mary Colter designed almost half of the buildings included in the district. Those include Hopi House, Bright Angel Lodge, and Lookout Studio. Other buildings included in the district are the Santa Fe Railway Station, El Tovar Hotel, Bucky O'Neil's Cabin, Kolb Studio and Red Horse Station.

Description:

You will feel like you are supping at a European hunting lodge at this fine dining venue. But make your dinner reservations early; these are the area's hardest-to-get tables. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily, year-round. Hotel guests may make reservations up to 90 days in advance, non-guests up to 30 days in advance. Full bar service is offered.

Our Local Expert Says:

Exhilarating 18 mile, downhill bike ride to Wupatki. Need to have shuttle system unless you also want to climb up. Or, take the short Lava Flow trail and pay attention, not only to the immediate landscape, but the surrounding area. Try to imagine what it was like when this baby exploded, snuffing out every living thing within a 5-mile radius.

Description:

Between 1040 and 1100, this volcano exploded, powerfully affecting the lives of local peoples and forever altering the landscape of the surrounding area. Today you can drive right up to the site, where shinny black molten rock covers this area, as if it erupted just yesterday. Take the Lava Flow trail to see the life slowly returning to this rugged landscape. The fee is $5. Take U.S 89 north for 12 miles, turn right on the Sunset Crater/Wupatki Loop road and continue 2 miles (3km) to the visitor center. This loop road makes it convenient to see the nearby Wupatki Ruins on the same day.

Description:

This restaurant is furnished with locally blown light fixtures, stylish bar and seating area plush with red cushions. The sushi and other offerings are creative, as are the specialty drinks. Rich healthy food and a lively urban atmosphere.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Riordans were the owners of lumber company early on in Flagstaff history. Learn about family history and see living conditions of them and their in-house help. Mansion built at the time when Flagstaff was a timber industry town.

Description:

Get a glimpse of Flagstaff's logging town past with a visit to Riordan State Historic Park, located near the Northern Arizona University campus. Lumber baron brothers Michael and Timothy Riordan built the mansion in 1904, which was designed by Charles Whittlesley, also famous for building the El Tovar Hotel at the Grand Canyon. The 13,300 square foot mansion contains 40 rooms of log-and-stone, many of which are furnished with Gustav Stickley furniture, known as the father of the American Arts and Crafts design movement. One of the most whimsical objects you'll see in the house are the "Paul Bunyan" shoes--a two-foot long pair of boots that Timothy Riordan built in his workshop. Everything in the mansion is original, making this a goldmine for history buffs everywhere.

Our Local Expert Says:

On a clear night in the winter, stargazing through this magnificent telescope with make your jaw drop. Part way up Mars hill, look for a small vista on the right where all of Flagstaff can be seen below.

Description:

Lowell Observatory, located atop Mars Hill Road just outside of downtown Flagstaff, is one of the leading astronomical research facilities in the United States, and one of the city's true must-see attractions. The observatory offers a compelling glimpse to universe--even bored teenagers will be amazed by what they see on the other side of the telescope. Day visitors are treated to guided tours, multimedia exhibits, and a viewing of the Sun with a specially equipped telescope. But the real action starts at dusk, when (weather permitting) the staff opens up the telescopes for viewings of Jupiter, the Moon, star clusters, and other incredible celestial sights. Rain or shine, visitors are also invited to experience the Observatory's interactive presentations at their portable planetarium, and tours of the Universe inside the 3-D movie theatre. If you happen to be looking for a great place to take a date, the Observatory, which is surrounded by walking trails and great views of the dark skies over Flagstaff, is surprisingly romantic.

Multimedia Shows

Computer-generated imagery meets the exciting music of Mannheim Steamroller in our 30-minute widescreen show Heavy Astronomy: Marvels...

Description:

Located in the Hotel Monte Vista, the always classy Rendezvous is a Coffee Bar by day, A Martini Bar by night. The inviting and romantic atmosphere will charm you with it's superior service and ambience.

Description:

The Little America Hotel in Flagstaff has two major claims to fame: it's the largest hotel in town, and one of a handful of hotels offering room service. So, it should go without saying that if you're looking for a comfortable stay with all the modern amenities, the Little America Flagstaff awaits with open arms. One of the biggest selling points of this popular resort hotel is the location: surrounded by 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine trees, Little America Flagstaff makes for an inviting and serene Northern Arizona escape, light years away from the business and train noise of downtown Flagstaff. On the flipside, guests looking for a warm and cozy stay may find this huge hotel property a bit impersonal. Large, comfortable rooms are decorated with French provincial-style furnishings, and the property features walking trails, an in-house restaurant, deli, Southwestern gift shop, and courtesy van service to the airport or Amtrak station.

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:

Crowning a desert hilltop is an ancient pueblo. From a roof top a child scans the desert landscape for the arrival of traders, which are due any day now. What riches will they bring? What stories will they tell? Will all of them return? From the top of the Tuzigoot Pueblo it is easy to imagine such an important moment.

Tuzigoot is an ancient village or pueblo built by a culture known as the Sinagua. The pueblo consisted of 110 rooms including second and third story structures. The first buildings were built around A.D. 1000. The Sinagua were agriculturalists with trade connections that spanned hundreds of miles. The people left the area around 1400. The site is currently comprised of 42 acres.

Tuzigoot National Monument has much to offer. The visitor center is a small, old-style museum with many artifacts on display. It is one of the few museums interpreting ancient Sinaguan culture in Arizona. The Ruins trail loops around the pueblo and allows visitors to closely view the structures.

Two trails are found at Tuzigoot-The Ruins Loop trail and the Tavasci Marsh Overlook trail. Both trails are a quarter of a mile in length. Pets must be on a leash to use any of the trails in the monument....

Our Local Expert Says:

An experiment in community and sustainable living. Locals live as conscientiously and creatively as they can.

Description:

A prototype for future world cities, this facility embodies the theory of arcology, the merging of architecture with ecology. Conceived by artist Paolo Soleri, this style of architecture creates a system where the living and the structure work together as organs do in a highly evolved being. Since 1970, this community has been striving to become the prototype for future pedestrian-oriented urban environments. Located 65 miles north of Phoenix off Interstate-17; exit 262 east following the signs. There is an onsite restaurant, gallery and free tours ($6 donation is suggested) are available for visitors every hour from 10a-4p.

Description:

Hotels don't come much more posh than this. The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa has defined classic desert city elegance since it first opened its doors in 1929. The hotel's high reputation is confirmed by its notable pedigree--it was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright associate Albert Chase McArthur. The lobby literally dazzles with stained glass skylights, and intimate sitting alcoves throughout lend a relaxed air to the stately entrance. The 120 rooms are spacious and decorated with gracious Mission-style furniture. Perhaps even more spacious and graceful are the hotel grounds, which occupy 39 acres of walkways, colorful flower displays, and decorative stone fountains. This is one of the priciest places to stay in Phoenix, but if you're looking for a truly luxurious experience at one of the city's most historic resorts, you can't do much better than this.

Description:

Located about eight miles southeast of Flagstaff off I-40, Walnut Canyon National Monument offers a fascinating peek into the lives of the people anthropologists have named the Sinagua ("without water"). A strenuous, one-mile walk on the Island Trail gives you a front-row glimpse to the 700-year old cliff dwellings where the Sinagua lived and left their mark. Peer into the past as you take in the 25 cliff dwellings along the trail. You can see more dwellings across the canyon. Even if you are not transfixed by the mystery of the people who built this cliffside pueblo, the lush canyon is the perfect high desert backdrop for your Northern Arizona adventure. The canyon is a valuable habitat for many species of plants and animals, and a gorgeous backdrop for photographers of all stripes.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located in a finely architectured square of art galleries. Quiet and inspiring.

Description:

Within the picturesque Tlaquepaque Village, this upscale eatery is perfect for celebrating special occasions and impressing visitors. The elegant cuisine is prepared under the direction of Executive Chef Walter Paulson and is served with the utmost attention to detail. The signature dish is the Colorado Rack of Lamb ala René for two, carved tableside. The wine list is exceptional. Note that personal checks are not accepted.

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.