DURING THE DAY
Within the desert oasis of Scottsdale lies a bustling city filled with activities to entice every member of the family. Golfers and non-golfers alike can indulge in the many spas that occupy Scottsdale and the neighboring metropolis of Phoenix. In fact, the Scottsdale area has the highest concentration of spas in the United States, according to Spa Finder magazine. Members can indulge in relaxing treatments from the spas at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, Golden Door, The Phoenician, The Boulders Resort and The Sanctuary Spa, among many others.

For those active individuals who’d like to explore the area’s culture and arts, Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert is packed with sites to discover and enjoy. One of the most unique landmarks is Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece Taliesin West, Wright’s personal residence and architectural school, which visitors can tour seven days a week. Scottsdale ArtWalk, a year-round open gallery tour, ideal for those seeking a special piece of art, is offered every Thursday night from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. The renowned Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Phoenix Art Museum present international installations from a wide range of artistic themes. Shoppers may rejoice as well, as the region provides some of the best shopping in the country. Kierland Commons is an outdoor shopping center featuring the finest and most unique boutiques and stores. One of the larger malls in the Southwest, Scottsdale Fashion Square, features several well-known department stores and luxury chains.

Entertaining the kids is easy, as the greater Scottsdale area provides adventures from amusement parks to hot air balloon rides and much more. The nearby Phoenix Zoo houses more than 1,200 animals, including many endangered species and a petting zoo. Crackerjax is Arizona’s largest family fun and sports park, spreading over more than 27 acres and featuring miniature golf, rides and bumper boats. The historic town of Rawhide brings the Wild West to life, where kids will love panning for gold and visiting the museum.

IN THE EVENING
Scottsdale has long been a destination for the best regional and international cuisine. Many fine restaurants that serve a range of genres lie in close proximity to The Marker’s Weiskopf Residence at The Rocks. Italian lovers may enjoy Sassi, serving food inspired by Southern Italy, while those meat and potatoes-lovers can experience some of the best cuts of steak at Acacia at Four Seasons, Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille or Mastro’s Steakhouse. For a more casual atmosphere, local favorites such as the Cowboy Brewery, San Felipe Cantina and Three Tomatoes & A Mozzarella provide dining options the whole family can enjoy.

When the sun sets, the city’s nightlife starts heating up with everything from jazz bars to dance clubs at your fingertips. Learn to country dance at Handlebar-J Saloon, enjoy the swanky J|bar in the James Hotel, listen to local jazz while enjoying the finest wine at Kazim wine bar or hit downtown’s Axis/Radius for a night of high-energy music and dancing.