America’s sixth largest city is just a hop, skip and a jump away…well a hop, skip and a state’s jump away. Head six hours east and you’ll be in the land of cowboys and cacti. From pristine resorts, inspiring cuisine, spectacular sports venues and more, Phoenix, Arizona offers visitors an array of southwestern culture and has proven to be the perfect destination for a weekend adventure.
Experience luxury within a desert oasis at one of Arizona’s finest resorts, the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa. Voted the number one staycation spot in Arizona in 2014, the resort is the perfect place to relax and indulge, not to mention enjoy some H20 family fun. Nestled at the base of America’s largest urban park and wilderness preserve, make a splash at Arizona Grand Resort’s 7-acre Oasis Water Park. Voted by the Travel Channel as the nation’s Top 10 Water Parks, the park includes a wave pool, a lazy river perfect for those hot summer months, a 25-person hot tub and an 8-story tower complete with three thrilling waterslides.
Escaping to the Oasis is the perfect way to cool off in the desert sun, but after experiencing the private Oasis Cabana offered to resort guests, well it’s icing on an already perfect cake. Complete with your own personal cabana attendant,
Hit the greens on the 18-hole golf course or satisfy your palate at one of the six dining venues at the resort, including a personal favorite of mine, the boot scootin’ Rustler’s Rooste, which sits atop the hill overlooking the gorgeous Phoenix skyline. Put on your boots and get ready for some western food and fun, and don’t forget to greet “Horny the Bull” outside the old mineshaft. Slide on down the tin slide right into the dining room and try some rattlesnake appetizers, fit for the most daring, and feast on mesquite broiled steaks, tantalizing barbecued ribs smothered in only the best sauce. Leave room for the best apple pie on the planet. (www.rustlersrooste.com)
If you’re in town during baseball season, you must visit Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Since it’s opening in 1998, over 17 million fans have enjoyed America’s favorite past time at Chase Field. Located in downtown Phoenix, its signature swimming pool and retractable roof are fan favorites, however the 1,117 calorie Churro Dog, the stadium’s latest creation, has become somewhat a talk of the town. It’s what you get when you tuck a warm cinnamon churro inside a Long John chocolate-glazed doughnut. Topped with frozen yogurt, whip cream, caramel and sauce, it’s as spectacular as it looks. (www.arizonadiamondbacks.com)
Hot air ballooning- if it’s not on the bucket list, you’re missing out. Rise up, up and away and inspire your soul as you float above the Sonoran desert. Come fly with the wind in what is purely a majestic moment. You will be amazed at how serene your ride in the sky will be, giving you a whole new perspective on Phoenix’s immeasurable beauty. Hot Air Expeditions will pick you up at your hotel, transport you to the desert location where you can watch your balloon get ready for flight. As you leave earth, you will have unhindered 360-degree breathtaking views. Upon landing, you will be greeted with a traditional celebration, complete with champagne. It’s a unique experience you mustn’t miss out on, and a definite check off my bucket list. (www.hotairexpeditions.com)
Memories are easily made in what is known as America’s sunniest metropolis. The desert sky lends itself to warmth, beauty and unforgettable sunsets. But don’t just read about it; see for yourself why each year millions flock to the heart of the Sonoran Desert. The spirit of the southwest is certainly alive and worth the visit.
For information about Greater Phoenix, travel ideas and more, visit www.visitphoenix.com.
