Arizona Vacation Blog

Flagstaff Arizona Attractions: Ancient Pueblos to Volcanoes

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 23:44:41 GMT

Flagstaff Arizona attractions offer everything from museums and art galleries to hiking and skiing. Tour ancient Indian ruins, hike to a volcano or just window shop through historic downtown Flagstaff

Flagstaff Arizona Travel Guide: Northern Arizona's Land of Fire is Cool Getaway

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 23:43:46 GMT

Flagstaff Arizona travel makes a perfect year round vacation. This Arizona mountain town has a historic downtown, art galleries, museums, Indian ruins, volcanoes and trails for hiking and skiing.

Flagstaff Lodging: Small but Scenic Mountain Town has Variety of Places to Stay

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 05:19:05 GMT

Flagstaff lodging has all of the typical hotels and motels. But it also has interesting historic hotels, charming bed & breakfasts and cabins tucked into forest. Here's an overview plus tips.

Discover Arizona's Birding Hot Spots during the Southwest Wings Festival

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 05:13:00 GMT

The southeastern Arizona town of Sierra Vista, Arizona sits at the foot of the Huachuca Mountains.

Birders come to southeastern Arizona from around the world to see the elegant trogon (Photo: iStockphoto)

It's famous among birders for being so close to many of the Arizona's birding hot spots including Ramsey Canyon, Miller Canyon, Garden Canyon and Carr Canyon. Sierra Vista makes a great home base for those looking for Arizona bird specialties such as the zone-tailed hawk, painted redstart, violet-crowned hummingbird, rose-throated becard, and that holy grail of birds - the elegant trogon. Southeastern Arizona isn't just famous for birds, however. The region is well-known for its amazing biodiversity, which includes many species of butterflies, dragonflies and other insects, reptiles, mammals and almost 1,000 species of plants. For a superb introduction to southeastern Arizona birds, birding and nature, you can't do much better than the Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival, running August 6-10, 2008, at the Windemere Hotel and Conference Center. This 5-day birding extravaganza features wide variety of activities for every level of interest from budding naturalists to expert birders. Workshops range from learning wildlife photography techniques and how to build a nestbox to identifying dragonflies and observing hummingbird banding. Lecture topics will include the study of wild felines in northern Mexico, a presentation about a local burrowing owl relocation project and the ecology of coatis in southeastern Arizona. The most popular event - the field trips - will take you to some of the best birding locales in southeastern Arizona including Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains, Ramsey Canyon in the Huachuca Mountains, the San Pedro River and the Patagonia-Sonoita Preserve. This year's keynote speaker is naturalist Rick Wright, principle of Aimophila Adventures, director of WINGS birding tours and former editor of Winging It magazine. Whether you're new to birding or are a lifelong "lifelister," the Southwest Birding and Nature Festival will open your eyes to the wonders of southeastern Arizona.

For a complete calendar of events and prices:

Explore the Culture of the Dine

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:46:11 GMT

The Navajo people - or the Dine ("the People"), as they refer to themselves - have the largest reservation in the United States.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is tucked away in the pines north of downtown Flagstaff

Their nation covers 27,000 square miles on the Colorado Plateau and extends across three states - Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. It's a beautiful, rugged land of dramatically eroded canyons, forested mountains and vast high desert. Many people have gotten a glimpse into Navajo culture through the wonderful and popular mystery novels of author Tony Hillerman. To get to know more about them and of the Navajo "Beauty Way" philosophy of living in harmony with the world, head to the 59th annual Navajo Festival of Arts and Culture, August 2-3. This popular festival at Flagstaff's Museum of Northern Arizona hosts over 75 Navajo artists, storytellers and cultural interpreters from some of the many Navajo clans. This year's festival highlights the famous Navajo Code Talkers, who devised an unbreakable code in the Navajo language during World War II. Their work was instrumental in helping to win the war. See exhibits and lectures on this fascinating subject. The Navajo Festival will also spotlight the fine art of Navajo weaving. Navajo weavers are famous the world over for their beautiful wool rugs. You'll be able to see rug weaving demonstrations, see an exhibit of Navajo textiles and learn more about one of the most famous of the Navajo arts and crafts. Other Navajo Festival highlights include:

Navajo music from Flagstaff's Dine rock trio Blackfire
Navajo singer/songwriter Clarence Clearwater who sings traditional songs in Navajo and contemporary songs in English aboard the Grand Canyon Railway.
the Pollen Trail Dancers, a traditional children's dance group from Joseph City, will perform dances and an educational fashion show that illustrates the changes in Navajo clothing from ancient to modern times.

There will also be native food demonstrations, an ethnobotanical walk, discussions of Navajo philosophy and linguistics, wool processing, dyeing and weaving demonstrations and an artists' marketplace where you can buy authentic Navajo arts and crafts. For tickets prices, times and details:

Need a Hotel in Arizona: Try a Historic or Boutique Hotel

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:57:43 GMT

If you're looking for a hotel in Arizona, you won't have any trouble finding one. All of the major hotel chains are here. But for something different, book a room at a historic or boutique hotel.

Vacation Rentals in Arizona: Get More Lodging for Your Buck

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:01:19 GMT

Vacation rentals in Arizona can be a great lodging option. With a little price comparison, you'll find that Arizona vacation rentals can be more cost-effective than staying at resort or hotel.

Sedona Arizona Restaurants Guide: Find a Great Sedona Dining Spot

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:01:16 GMT

Dining in Sedona? Sedona Arizona restaurants have everything from fine French and Mexican food to pizza and farm style breakfasts. Check out our Sedona restaurant guide to help you decide where to eat

The 121st Annual Prescott Frontier Days and World's Oldest Rodeo

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 04:58:04 GMT

Today, Prescott Arizona is known as a great summer getaway for desert dwellers looking to escape the summer heat, and as a popular retirement choice for its mild, four-season climate.

Bull riding is one of the most challenging of rodeo events

But did you know that Prescott Arizona was once the Arizona Territorial capital and the birthplace of professional rodeo? Back in its Old West heyday - in 1888 to be exact - some enterprising Prescott businessmen decided that the capital needed a flashier 4th of July event that would bring in the local cowboys and ranch hands to spend their dollars in town. So, they came up with a July Fourth cowboy contest that would have the best riders in the area competing for a small cash prize, bragging rights and - ultimately - spending their money at Prescott's bars along Whiskey Row. Just 121 years later that early business promotion has morphed into the Prescott Frontier Days and World's Oldest Rodeo as well as spawning countless professional rodeos the world over. Beginning on June 30, come to Frontier Days and get a taste of Prescott's Old West past. Just stroll the streets and you'll see honest-to-goodness real cowboys bedecked in cowboy garb of Stetson hats, Wrangler jeans and even hand-tooled leather chaps. Keep an eye out among these crowds for members of the Wrangler Pro Rodeo Tour. Grab a partner and kick up your heels at the Rodeo Dance, held on July 3 at 8pm. Don't miss the Kiwanis Kiddie Parade the next morning, on July 4 at 8:30am. Children 12 years and younger dress up in their finest Western duds like cowboy and caballero outfits and patriotic dress. They'll be accompanied by colorfully costumed pets. Stake out a spot early in the historic Courthouse Plaza for the Prescott Frontier Days Parade, on July 5 at 9:00am. Thousands of people come to watch what is the second largest parade in Arizona after the Fiesta Bowl Parade. You'll see a mix of beaded and fringed cowgirls on their equally decorated horses, school marching bands, floats and the Prescott Regulars and their Shady Ladies in 1800s cowboy garb and saloon girl dress. Of all the Prescott Frontier Days events, the World's Oldest Rodeo is the biggest. Theres a competition every night during Frontier Days week. Male and female pro rodeo riders come from all over to compete in saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, team roping and bull riding. The serious competition is broken up by specialty acts including Troy "the Wild Child" Terwill's rodeo cowboy comedy act and the Kiesner Family Wild West Review. For those looking for something a little less exhilarating, there's the Prescott Frontier Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show, held July 4-6 in Courthouse Plaza. For a schedule of events:

Red Rock State Park Sedona: Wildlife and Views Abound in the Sedona Desert

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 21:26:00 GMT

Red Rock State Park Sedona make a great outdoor day trip for its wildlife, scenic red rock views and sparkling Oak Creek. See kingfishers and butterflies, take a Sedona hike or just have a picnic.

Grab Your Flashlight and Explore the Night during Desert Botanical Garden Flashlight Tours

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 04:37:52 GMT

A walk in the desert on a summer evening can be a magical experience.

The waxy, white flowers of night-blooming cereus cactus are pollinated by bats

After the extreme heat of the day, the desert comes alive as twilight falls and the air finally cools. But, if you're worried about just what you might encounter during a desert night, sign up for one of the Desert Botanical Gardens Flashlight Tours. All you need is a pair of comfy walking shoes and a flashlight to explore the safe and easy walking paths in Phoenix's Desert Botanical Garden. You'll see the magnificent, pearlescent flowers of the night-blooming cereus cactus and the soaring flight of nighthawks as they hunt for an insect meal on the wing. You may even hear the calls of toads and owls. The Desert Botanical Garden Flashlight Tours are quite popular, so be sure to make reservations in advance. The Flashlight Tours are free with admission to the garden and are scheduled for Thursday and Saturday evenings in June, July and August. For additional details:

Ride to the Top of Arizona at Flagstaff's Arizona Snowbowl

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:55:00 GMT

What's the view like from some of the highest spots in Arizona?

The Arizona Snowbowl Skyride

You don't have to be a mountain climber to find out. Just grab a seat on the Arizona Snowbowl's scenic Skyride, open now through mid-October. The Arizona Snowbowl, north of Flagstaff, is better known as a popular Arizona winter skiing destination. But every summer, the Snowbowl uses its skilift to carry sightseers up to 11,500 feet on the west ridge of Agassiz Peak an extinct volcano in the San Francisco Mountains. This is the highest elevation you can get to without hiking. To reach to the highest point in Arizona, you'd have to hike the strenuous trail to the top of Mount Humphreys, which is right across the valley and tops out at 12,643 feet. Once you reach the top of the skilift - after a leisurely 25-minute ride - you'll be amazed by the spectacular view of the vast San Francisco Peaks volcanic field. Look south and you'll see downtown Flagstaff. Turn north and you can see all the way to the Grand Canyon. When you've had your fill of views, explore one of the Coconino National Forest's beautiful hiking trails. The Arizona Snowbowl is on the edge of the 18,960 acre Kachina Peaks Wilderness, a prime spot to see high mountain meadows and summer wildflowers. Or, chat with a Forest Service Interpretative Ranger about the unique plants, animals and geology of this high elevation ecosystem. If you go in the fall, you'll be treated to some great autumn leaf color as the leaves of the many aspen trees turn brilliant shades of gold. The Arizona Snowbowl also offers lodging and a restaurant. For Arizona Snowbowl Skyride summer hours and ticket prices:

Waila the Night Away in Tucson, Arizona

Mon, 26 May 2008 21:35:36 GMT

This Saturday, May 31, 2008, Tucson hosts one of our favorite annual Arizona festivals - the Waila Festival. What is waila? It is the social dance music of the Tohono O'odham Indian tribe, whose vast 3-million acre reservation stretches across a beautiful expanse of cactus-dotted desert and mountains just west of Tucson and all the way south to the Mexican border. Waila is derived from "baile," the Spanish word for dance. Waila music encompasses a range of European style tunes including mazurkas, cumbias, chotes (schottische) and wailas (polka). When missionaries and settlers arrived in southern Arizona in the 1800s, they brought European instruments and music with them. The Tohono O'odham adapted this bouncy dance music, creating their own distinctive and lively musical style. Members of a waila band typically perform on accordions, electric, six-string and bass guitars, alto saxophones and drums. Waila music has an unmistakable sound with an infectious rhythm. Think of a polka tune and ramp up the beat. The term waila can refer to the music, a social dance or a party. Traditionally, waila dances start at sundown and stretch long into the night until about sunup. These fiestas are usually held for celebrating saints' days, birthdays, weddings and graduations. Wailas are community-wide events with everyone pitching in to prepare the feast. So, what will you see at the 20th annual Waila Festival? Several Tohono O'odham bands performing waila music and lots of dancing. Don't be surprised to see the senior tribal members get the dancing started by being first on the dance floor, demonstrating the basic steps. You don't have to be a member of the tribe to dance. Everyone can participate. Don't be shy - grab yourself a partner and dance the night away. If waila music doesn't inspire you to get up and dance, nothing will! One you work up an appetite, head over to the food booths to try traditional Tohono O'odham foods such as tepary beans, frybread, roasted 60-day corn soup, and squash. Be sure to try the cholla buds, which are from the native cholla cactus - they taste like a cross between string beans and okra and are delicious. Just two tablespoons of cooked cholla buds contains as much calcium as an eight-ounce glass of milk. The Waila Festival is sponsored by the Arizona Historical Society and is a great introduction to the Tohono O'odham tribe. It is also one of the few Native American cultural events that allows participation by non-tribal members. This is a special festival and one you wont forget. The Waila Festival is held at the University of Arizonas Bear Down Field from 5 pm - 11 pm. Waila Festival admission and parking are free. For directions and additional details:

Scottsdale Waterfront: Shop and Dine along the Desert's Sophisticated Riverfront

Wed, 07 May 2008 04:46:46 GMT

The Scottsdale Waterfront has re-energized downtown Scottsdale, transforming a canal into an chic retail and dining destination. Shop at high fashion boutiques or have a gourmet meal by the water.

Downtown Scottsdale: Western Kitsch, Art and Nightlife Make for a Vibrant Center

Wed, 07 May 2008 04:45:08 GMT

Downtown Scottsdale has had a facelift with new hotels, a waterfront and nightclub scene. But, you can still get your Southwest fix in downtown's unique art, antiques and entertainment districts.

Women Break Through the Leather Ceiling at Cowgirl Up! Art Show

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:45:56 GMT

Think western art and famous artists such as Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, Lon Megargee and Howard Terpning might come to mind. There are, however, plenty of talented female Western artists too. Now, they are getting long overdue exposure at the 3rd annual Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West Invitational Exhibition and Sale at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum in Wickenburg, Arizona, about 35 miles northwest of Phoenix. Although women have long been creating western-themed works of art including cowboys, horses, Native Americans and landscapes, their work has not received the recognition or commanded the high prices of their male counterparts in the elite and all- male Cowboy Artists of America. This inability to break through to the big time is known as the "leather ceiling" in the Western art world, which is part of the larger bias towards women in art that has lasted into the 21st century. The Cowgirl show tries to remedy this imbalance. Cowgirl Up! presents over 200 paintings, sculptures and drawings by 57 women Western artists. The show features artists including Donna Howell Sickles, Jan Mapes, Linda Carter Holman, Roseta Santiago and Deborah Copenhaver Fellows. The exhibition encompasses a wide variety of western art styles from traditional cowboy paintings to Western themes presented in a more contemporary way. And while the show was created to spotlight the work of women western artists, the show also hopes to help break down the traditional art bias against western imagery in art in general. No matter your gender or your artistic bent, Cowgirl Up! is one of the "must see" art shows in Arizona. Cant make it this year? Mark your calendar for next years show and visit the Desert Caballeros Museum anyway, which is one of the best western museums in the country. Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West runs through May 4, 2008. For details:

Bird in Southeastern Arizona Hot Spot During Fiesta de las Aves

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:13:29 GMT

If you're an avid birder, you probably know that southeastern Arizona is one of the top birding hotspots in the United States.

A great horned owl

Birders and nature lovers come from all over the world to see both migratory and resident species like the elegant trogon, broad-billed hummingbird and zone-tailed hawk. This week you can learn more about southeastern Arizonas rare and unique birds at the 8th annual Fiesta de las Aves ("Festival of the Birds") International Migration Celebration running April 27 through May 3, 2008. Fiesta de las Aves is organized by the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory, a non-profit dedicated to the conservation of birds and other wildlife and their habitats in southeastern Arizona and northwestern Mexico. Like the migrating birds it celebrates, the Fiesta de las Aves is a roaming event with activities happening in some of the best birding locations in Cochise and Santa Cruz counties such as the Chiricahua and Huachuca Mountains, the San Pedro River, Patagonia and even across the border in northern Sonora. Activities include the Cave Creek Canyon Owl Prowl, the Patagonia Lake Bird Walk, Hummingbird Banding and an overnight trip south of the border to Sonora, Mexicos Ranch El Aribabi. The Fiesta de las Aves helps kick off the nationwide celebration of the 15th annual International Migratory Bird Day on May 10, 2008, sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For registration forms and a schedule of activities:

It's Fiesta Time at Tucson's Most Colorful Musical Event

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 04:35:30 GMT

It may be called a conference but Tucsons annual La Frontera Tucson International Mariachi Conference is anything but a dull business meeting. This amazing and colorful festival gives young Mariachi students a chance to study with some of the best Mariachi performers in the world and gives all of us a chance to see some top caliber musicians in action. For those who aren't familiar, Mariachi music is one of the signature music forms of Mexico. This bright, joyous music bursts with passion and makes even the most rhythmically challenged toe tap to its infectious melodies. Mariachi groups are generally comprised of trumpets, violins, a guitarrn (looks like a giant guitar on steroids) and a vihuela (a small guitar with 5 strings and a rounded back). Band members dress in the traditional silver-studded and embroidered charro-style outfits: a short jacket and trousers (or long skirts for women) and broad-brimmed sombreros. All week long, Mariachi students attend special workshops with the professional musicians. But you dont have to be a Mariachi student to participate. There are several great public events that feature Mariachi bands and baile folklorico dancers: Thursday evening (4/24): The Participant Showcase at the Tucson Convention Center (TCC) Arena - where students show off what they've learned. Here's where you can look for future mariachi stars. Friday evening (4/25): The Espectacular Concert at the TCC Arena - the conferences big extravaganza features some of the finest Mariachi groups in the world. This years headliner is Lucero. She is a multi-talented singer and actress who has recorded 19 albums and appeared in numerous Mexican telenovelas. Shell be performing along with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitln , Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano and Mariachi Los Arrieros. Saturday morning (4/26 at 9am): The Mariachi Mass in St. Augustine Cathedral a traditional Catholic Mass, officiated by the bishop and featuring Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. Saturday all day (4/26): Food City Fiesta de Garibaldi, at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park, is a wonderful outdoor festival that recreates the sights and sounds of colorful Garibaldi Plaza in Mexico City. For just a $5 entrance fee, you'll see dozens of Mariachi bands and folklrico dancers perform on two stages. Bring your own lawn chair or relax on the grass. There are also arts and crafts booths and vendors selling Mexican food specialties such as carne asada, grilled corn and horchata. Proceeds go to benefit the childrens services at La Frontera Center, a behavioral health agency supporting children and families in southern Arizona. For event times, directions and ticket prices:

Go Birdy the Verde at the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 05:19:31 GMT

The Verde Valley, tucked between Sedona and Prescott, is one of Arizonas best nature spots with historic sites and prime birding habitat. The 8th annual Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival is one of the best ways to get to know this scenic area better. This half-week event is held at Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood and runs this year from April 22 to April 27. A scenic stretch of the 180-mile Verde River flows right through the park. Its an important river because it is one of the last free-flowing desert rivers in the Southwest. The river and surrounding habitat supports a rich assemblage of wildlife including river otters, beavers, southwestern bald eagles and southwestern willow flycatchers. Although the Verde River is the park's centerpiece, the truly special feature is the Fremont Cottonwood/Gooding willow riparian gallery forest along the river's banks. This is one of five remaining stands in Arizona and one of less than 20 such habitats in the world.

The Verde River flows through Deadhorse Ranch State Park

Its a habitat where life along the river changes seasonally as different groups of migrating birds and other animals arrive and depart the area. The Verde Valley Birding Festival celebrates this and other Verde Valley area birding gems with tours to local birding hotspots including:

Page Springs
Tavasci Marsh
Oak Creek Canyon
and surrounding habitats of Prescott and Flagstaff.

Depending on your luck, you might see birds such as vermilion flycatchers, black hawk, vesper sparrow, Yuma clapper rail, pine siskin and ash-throated flycatcher. This years festival theme is Cultivating Habitat with filed trips that include stops at local farms and wineries that use growing techniques that conserve resources and help protect the environment. In addition to birding trips, other Verde Valley Birding Festival events include:

seminars and classes such as birding basics, butterflies for birders, wildlife photography and landscaping for wildlife.
a visit to the Willow Brook Organic Farm
ecology walk at Tuzigoot National Monument site of an ancient Native American pueblo
a trip to the Flagstaff volcanic fields
an all day trip to Grand Canyon National Park to see California Condors including lunch at historic El Tovar Hotel
Family Fun Day on Saturday, April 26 where kids can get an introduction to birding, learn about black-footed ferrets and chat with a professional beekeeper.

To register for birding tours, directions, and details:

Sabino Canyon Road Reconstruction Resumes

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 19:52:00 GMT

Although Tucson's much-loved Sabino Canyon has been re-opened since the severe 2006 monsoon thunderstorm that caused major rockslides and flash flooding, the Forest Service still has much repair work to do. As of Tuesday, March 29, 2008, the Forest Service closed the paved Upper Sabino Canyon Road beginning at Shuttle Stop #2, about 1.4 miles into the canyon just below Bridge #1. Paving crews will be repairing the damage in this area through April 14, 2008. Beginning April 15, Phase 3 of the Forest Services road repair plan will start and continue until July 15. While the paved road will be closed during this time, all other parts of the canyon will be open including the hiking trails, access to Sabino Creek and Lower Sabino Canyon. The Forest Service will re-open portions of the road incrementally as they complete repairs. If you're planning on riding the Sabino Canyon shuttle, note that it will only be traveling to Shuttle Stop #2 and to Lower Sabino Canyon for some time.

The Sabino Canyon Shuttle at the base of Upper Sabino Canyon Road

As repairs are completed, the road will be re-opened to Shuttle Stop #4 (at Mile Marker #2) and the shuttle will resume travel to that stop. The Forest Service will also be repairing the restroom area at Rattlesnake picnic area, which was destroyed in the flood, starting in late summer. For more information on the Sabino Canyon Road closure, call the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center at (520) 749-8700. To learn more about the 2006 Sabino Canyon flood, see our Sabino Canyon Flood page. Havent been to the canyon? Read our Sabino Canyon page for info on trails, plants and animals of the canyon and more.

Get Your Art Fix at Downtown Phoenix's First Fridays Art Walk

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 05:14:33 GMT

Although Scottsdale often gets all the press when it comes to art, Phoenix also has its own happening art scene and the best way to discover it is to do the art walk. The monthly Artlink First Fridays art walk gives art lovers a chance to tour over 100 art venues in downtown Phoenix. This is the largest monthly art walk in the U.S. Artlink is a non-profit, all-volunteer arts organization run by artists. Start your art exploration by hopping abroad one of the four shuttle bus routes that leave every 20 minutes from the Phoenix Public Library at McDowell and Central. Make sure to go inside the library first to pick up a free brochure that lists all the member galleries, their locations and the shuttle bus routes. Because Phoenix art galleries are spread out, each shuttle bus route takes you to a different art scene area. Artlink First Fridays is a great chance to meet the artists, see them at work in their studios and hobnob with fellow art enthusiasts. The Phoenix Artlink runs from 6pm to 10pm on the first Friday of each month. For more details about Phoenix Artlink:

Pizzeria Bianco review: Foodies Flock to Little Restaurant with Big Reputation

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:59:08 GMT

Pizzeria Bianco in downtown Phoenix is a mecca for pizza lovers, who'll wait 2 hours to get a table. Chef Chris Bianco makes every pizza himself which is why the place is small and there's no takeout.

Westward Look Resort Gets Spiffed Up

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:11:31 GMT

The Westward Look Resort, set on 80 scenic desert acres in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains above the city of Tucson, has long been a popular lodging.

The main building and pool at the Westward Look Resort

A spa, nature trails, flower-filled gardens, three pools, horseback riding and a wonderful gourmet restaurant, The Gold Room, offer plenty of amenities right on-site. Now that the Westward Look Resort has begun a $10 million renovation, this historic property should only get better. The first phase of renovations includes a complete upgrading of the guest rooms, lobby area and the resorts ballrooms, which are primarily used for conferences. Westward Look Resort plans to keep the propertys historic, old Southwest atmosphere while giving the resort more modern luxuries. All of the Westward Looks 244 suite-sized guest rooms will be remodeled and upgraded with new furniture and amenities including 42-inch HD plasma TVs, Melitta coffeemakers, cotton waffle-weave spa robes and custom made Sealy Posturpedic pillow- top mattress beds called Dream Catcher by Westward Look Resort. Every bathroom will also be completely remodeled and 200 of the guest bathrooms will have their tubs replaced by walk-in showers. The main lobby will be renovated to resemble the look of the original resort with hardwood floors and new furniture. There will also be a new Starbucks Coffee station with bistro seating that will serve pastries, light lunches and late-night snacks in addition to the traditional coffee and beverages. Westward Look Resort will remain open during the renovations, which are expected to be completed by the end of Spring 2008. Some rooms will be closed off to help guests avoid the noise of the remodeling. So, if you are planning on staying there during this time, make sure to inquire about availability and location well in advance when booking your room. Phase Two of the renovations are still in the planning stages. Click here to see our most recent review of the Westward Look Resort and photos.

Spring Training in AZ: March is the Return of Arizona Spring Training

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:14:46 GMT

Spring training in AZ is the highlight of the busy March tourist season when 12 baseball teams come to Arizona to warm up for the regular season. See the players up close in intimate stadiums.

Arizona Spring Training Tips

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:10:05 GMT

If you're coming for Arizona spring training in March, you'll need some tips to make your visit easier. Find out about lodging, parking, getting tickets and the weather.

Arizona Spring Training Baseball Locations and Teams

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:08:06 GMT

Arizona spring training baseball offers you a chance to see 12 teams play in 9 different stadiums. Check out our list to find out which teams play where and tips on the Arizona spring training sites.

Sabino Canyon Flood: Flash Floods Bring Destruction and Renewal to Desert Oasis

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:58:09 GMT

The Sabino Canyon flood of July 2006 was a once in a lifetime event. Though damage was extensive, don't let that keep you from visiting this scenic Tucson desert park; perfect for hiking and biking.

The Boulders Resort Arizona Resort Review: Resort Goes All-Organic

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 23:27:37 GMT

The Boulders Resort Arizona is a luxury property north of Scottsdale. It will soon be the first all-organic resort in the U.S. It's also worth a visit for its scenic desert setting, spa and golf.

Driving to Arizona: Arizona Driving Directions from its Border States

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 22:28:45 GMT

Driving to Arizona? How you get there depends on where you're coming from and how much time you have. Check out our Arizona driving directions and driving maps to Arizona to help you plan your trip.

Nevada to Arizona Driving Directions

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:42:17 GMT

Driving from Nevada to Arizona? Highway 93 is the most popular route. See our Arizona driving directions, maps and tips for driving Highway 93.

Tucson Gemshow Tips: Get the Most From the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 22:38:45 GMT

Be prepared with these Tucson Gemshow tips. The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show is huge, so you'll need to know prices, shuttles and which shows to see.

Tucson AZ Gem Show: See the World's Largest Collection of Gem and Mineral Shows

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 00:45:10 GMT

The Tucson AZ Gem Show is world famous and is the largest event of its kind anywhere. See or buy rare dinosaur fossils, colorful minerals, meteorites, beads,exquisite gems and jewelry.

Aji Spa Review: Native American Spa is Tranquil Sanctuary in the Desert

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 17:58:12 GMT

The serene Aji Spa is part of the Gila River Indian Community's Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort. This Phoenix spa is the place to experience Native American-inspired treatments in a desert setting.

Grill at Hacienda del Sol: Fine Dining in a Southwestern Setting

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 04:40:40 GMT

The Grill at Hacienda del Sol is one of Tucson's best restaurants. Diners keep coming back for its Southwestern atmosphere, good service and fine food. It's a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

Bizarre Dinosaur is Star of Flagstaff Museums New Exhibit

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 04:50:54 GMT

If Edward Scissorhands had been a dinosaur he might have looked something like the strange and impressive therizinosaur the star of Flagstaffs Museum of Northern Arizonas newest exhibit: Therizinosaur Mystery of the Sickle-Claw Dinosaur. The exhibit is a milestone for American paleontology. Not only is this the first time the therizinosaur has been on display in North America, this skeleton was discovered right next door in southern Utah, near the town of Big Water. This therizinosaur was found by Museum of Northern Arizona curator of vertebrate paleontology David Gillette and his research team and is the most complete skeleton known for this ancient species. The discovery was a big paleontological surprise as this dinosaur and its relatives had previously only been found in Asia.

The Museum of Northern Arizona

Even more surprising to the scientists was the fact that this terrestrial dinosaur was unearthed in a surprising location - the deposits of a former ocean. Dinosaur fossils are generally found in the sediments laid down by ancient lakes and rivers. The therizinosaur was a giant at 13 feet tall and weighing over 1 ton. Its most distinctive feature was its huge flattened and sickle-shaped claws on each "hand." It was also feathered unlike its possible relative the Tyrannosaurus rex. This particular individual lived over 93 million years ago during the Cretaceous Period. This was the heyday of the reptiles when T. rex walked the earth, plesiosaurs swam the seas and giant pterosaurs flapped overhead. The Therizinosaur Mystery of the Sickle-Claw Dinosaur exhibit displays the bones just as the paleontologists found them. Theres also a robosaur an animated replica of the therizinosaur which shows you how it moved. Other displays discuss theories on the creatures diet and habits as well as vivid artists dioramas depicting the dinosaurs life. The exhibit opened on September 16 and runs through March 29, 2009. For Museum of Northern Arizona details:

Arizona Photo Radar: Smile! You May Be on Photo Radar Camera

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 22:08:07 GMT

In a hurry to get somewhere in the Grand Canyon state? If you're driving, be on the lookout for Arizona photo radar. Several cities and one section of freeway now have photo radar cameras

Sedona Travel Tips

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 01:08:49 GMT

Make your Sedona travel planning easier with our Sedona travel tips. Find out the best time to go, what to pack and why you need a Red Rock Pass.

Arizona Vacation SiteSearch

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 21:52:05 GMT

We've packed a lot of tips and info into one site. Use the Arizona Vacation SiteSearch to find what you need to know before you go.

Arizona Open Range: Cattle Have Right of Way, On or Off the Road

Sat, 02 Jun 2007 20:22:11 GMT

Think there's no Old West anymore? The Arizona open range law might change your mind. By law, livestock comes first, so hit a cow and it's your fault.

Walk Over the Grand Canyon's Rim Not For Faint of Heart

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 04:59:49 GMT

Have you ever wished you could soar over the Grand Canyon like the ravens and condors do? Thanks to the Hualapai tribe, you can get a little feel for what it might be like. The Grand Canyon Skywalk opens to the public on Wednesday, March 28, 2007. This U-shaped glass walkway peeks out 70 feet over the Grand Canyons edge, seeming to float on air. Visitors first don protective booties over their shoes to protect the 2.8 inch thick glass and then step out onto the walkways 10-foot wide glass panels. Four feet, six-inch high glass walls enclose the sides. Look down and theres nothing but air between you and the canyon floor almost 4,000 feet below. The monumental structure is at Grand Canyon West on the Hualapai Reservation in Northwestern Arizona, roughly 70 miles northeast of Kingman. While it only costs $25 to walk on the Skywalk, you must purchase a package of activities to do so. The cheapest package is $49.95. Add on the $25 Skywalk ticket and that brings the price per adult to $74.95. Kids under 12 get a 25 discount. Packages include an all-you-can-eat buffet, entrance to the Indian Village with replicas of various Native American traditional dwellings and a Western-themed town. More expensive packages include horseback rides, Hummer tours, helicopter rides into the Canyon and pontoon boat rides on the Colorado River. Reservations must be made in advance for these add-on attractions. By the end of 2008, the Hualapai tribe plans to add a tri-level, 6,000-square feet visitor center with a gourmet restaurant, museum, theater, gift shop and VIP lounge. If you plan to visit soon, the site is spartan by most tourist standards. Also, be prepared to drive on mostly unpaved roads on the roughly 1-hour drive to Grand Canyon West. Passenger vehicles can make it but drive carefully and expect a lot of washboard effect. Amateur geographers are sure to notice the Grand Canyon Skywalk is actually on a side canyon and does not overlook the Grand Canyon proper. Shutterbugs take note that personal cameras (and other items such as cell phones) are not allowed on the Skywalk for fear of dropping and damage to the glass. Check out the Grand Canyon West web site for video on the making of the Skywalk and package details: