Make a splash in a Phoenix pool
Palm trees, sunshine, sparkling pools and margaritas – Phoenix has all the ingredients you need for a relaxing getaway. Our recommendation is to kick back and enjoy some of the more unique pools that our resorts have to offer – grab your flip flops and sunglasses and choose which resort pool suits you.
Photo courtesy of the Arizona Biltmore
For pampered poolside fun the Paradise Pool at the Arizona Biltmore has an exciting 92-foot waterslide, in-water bar and dining and poolside games. You can also enjoy a movie at the Splash Movies event while floating in your own personal inter tube.
Photo courtesy of The Phoenician Resort
Built for the debut of the resort in 1988, the centerpiece of The Phoenician’s eight-pool complex is the relaxation pool, elegantly tiled by hand in Mother of Pearl and surrounded by vibrant and shady cabanas.
Photo courtesy of the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak
Hole-in-the-Wall River Ranch at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak offers four acres of cascading waterfalls, secluded waterways, three swimming pools, and a lazy river for tubing. Perfect for families, as the resort offers children’s and family oriented poolside activities.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
Situated between north-facing views of Paradise Valley and Mummy Mountain, and south-facing views of Camelback Mountain, the infinity edged pool at the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain is perfect for gazing out at the breathtaking Sonoran sunsets.
Photo courtesy of the Arizona Grand Resort
Voted as one of the top ten water parks in the U.S., the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa’s Oasis Water Park will entertain the entire family.
Photo courtesy of The Buttes Resort
The Butte’s pool is one of the Southwest’s largest free-form swimming pools (the length of a football field) built on a natural mountainside. Kids and adults alike will also enjoy the thrilling 150 foot water slide.
The four-acre pool complex at JW Marriott Desert Ridge has been voted the “Number 1 Pool” in Phoenix by Phoenix Magazine for its meandering 1,600-linear-foot lazy river and 89-foot waterslide. The resorts Wildfire pool is topped by a glowing fire at night and the Sidewinder pool takes inspiration from some of Arizona’s scaly residents.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch
Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch
This resort boasts a 2.5-acre “water playground” complete with 10 pools. Pools for two, a lap pool, sand beach pool, water volleyball and basketball pools, adult only pool and an aqueduct that crosses over six pools thundering down into a five foot-wide rushing waterfall called the “Big Gun.” There’s also a Grecian water temple that houses a Jacuzzi-style spa that seats 25-30 people and is surrounded by four cold plunges.
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Incorporating the beauty of the surrounding desert, the pool area at the Four Seasons offers sweeping views of the valley below. The resort keeps guests lounging poolside comfortable with complimentary amenities such as chilled fruit kebabs and cooling mint-scented towels.
- Photo courtesy of The Spa at Camelback Inn
Voted “best spa” by readers of Phoenix Magazine, the uniquely Southwestern spa’s outdoor lap pool offers stunning sunset views over Camelback Mountain. The pool is heated in the winter for year-round enjoyment.
The large, martini olive-shaped pool is located in the center of the hotel and has been named one of the “World’s Coolest Pools” by Travel + Leisure, a distinction held by only fifteen other pools around the globe.
Photo courtesy of The Boulders
Carefully placed within the midst of this desert hideaway, The Boulder’s swimming pool blends seamlessly with the surrounding desert landscape with a cascading waterfall from a prehistoric boulder formation as a backdrop. Pool guests are likely to see chuckwallas and colorful lizards native to the Southwest, who warm themselves on the gigantic granite boulders in the surrounding area.
Photo courtesy of W Scottsdale
Take a dip in the W Scottsdale’s signature WET pool, with its high-tech chillers that keep water temperatures crisp when the desert heats up. Swimmers can relax poolside under umbrellas, enjoy underwater tunes while swimming and wave hello to arriving guests below through four giant portholes at the bottom of the pool.
Phoenix Music Events – March
Our marketing intern, Marcos, has a passion for all the fun events that happen around Phoenix. He put together the blog post below that features musical events happening in March in Phoenix. Thanks, Marcos!
Greater Phoenix has a number of concerts for all to enjoy, from famous award-winning musicians to local artists. Take a listen to what Phoenix has to offer, dance and smile to the wonderful sounds of music and musical theater!
Gerry Cullity’s – Alice in Wonderland
Enjoy Gerry Cullity's original music and lyrics of this original adaptation. Join the adventures of young Alice as she explores a zany wonderland in this children's classic by Lewis Carroll. On an idle afternoon, by chance, following a White Rabbit who disappears into its burrow, Alice herself stumbles into the rabbit hole and soon is immersed in a colorfully and exciting Wonderland. Whimsical songs and discoveries surround her as she encounters a crew of madcap characters including the Queen of Hearts and, yes, an army of playing cards
Details: Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Admission: $15.00 adults, $12.00 children, March 23rd, 24th, 25th, Hours: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Matinee on Saturdays, Sundays at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (480) 483-1664
Afternoon Concert series at Civic Space Park
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is bringing live music to the downtown lunch scene with the Civic Space Lunchtime Concert Series. Every Wednesday on the parks outside amphitheater stage, the concerts are free to the public and will feature outstanding performing and visual arts.
Details: Civic Space Park in Downtown Phoenix, 424 N. Central Ave, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Wednesday’s, March 21st and 28th, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Live Music at Desert Ridge Marketplace
Come out to the Desert Ridge Marketplace and enjoy live performances from local musicians every Friday and Saturday night near the District Stage and AMC Fountain Area. Each week different performers will showcase their music for you to enjoy.
Details: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Friday’s and Saturday’s, March 23rd - 24th, and March 30th - 31st,. 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
World Celebration – Avant Garden
Join DJ Miguel Ivery in celebrating world cultures through dance followed by the dynamic world music of traveler. Dubbed the “Valley’s mixmaster maestro of bossa nova baselines and jazzy globetrotting jams” by the Phoenix New Times, DJ Miguel Ivery lays down unique world beats enhanced by traditional dance performances from around the world. Traveler returns to the Desert Botanical Garden with their captivating multi-ethnic fusion of music. Featuring unique instruments from around the globe and entrancing gypsy violin,
Details: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Members: $12.00; General Public: $18.00, Thursday, March 22nd, Hours: 6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m., (480) 941-1225
Cubano Be, Cobano Bop: Poncho Sanchez and Latin Jazz Band featuring Terence Blanchard
Two Grammy Award-winning jazz legends share the stage in one sizzling concert. Trumpeter Terence Blanchard joins with percussionist Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band in a red-hot tribute to the Afro-Cuban jazz pioneered by the Original Conga King Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie, whose 1947 concert at Carnegie Hall forever changed the face of American music.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. Admission: $29.00 - $39.00, Friday, March 23rd, 8:00 p.m. (480) 499-8587
Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series - Pete Pancrazi
Pete Pancrazi blends original compositions and Latin Jazz to create a unique and inviting atmosphere. One of the most notable artists in Phoenix, this master of Bossa Nova will create the perfect ambiance for a relaxing evening
Details: Desert Botanical Garden in the Ullman Terrace, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Member: $15.00; General Public: $21.00; Children: $8.00 and all children under 3 are free, Friday, March 23rd, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (480) 481-8124
Native Trails, presented by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and produced by the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, will debut its tenth season of free noontime festivals dedicated to exploring the rich and varied cultures of Native America. There sensory journey to the First Nations of Arizona and North America. Musical performances using traditional instruments such as flutes, gourds and drums will delight your ears. A variety of colorful dances ranging from inter-tribal pow wow dances to the excitement and energy of the hoop dance will amaze your eyes. And the rhythmic drumbeat in your chest as you join the performers for a traditional round dance will energize your spirit.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts - Outdoors at the Scottsdale Civic Center Park 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. Admission: Free, Thursday’s and Sundays, March 22nd, 24th, 29th, 31st, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., (480) 499-8587
Glendale Folk and Heritage Festival
A celebration of folk music, history and culture; from over 150 performers featuring everything from folk and bluegrass music to cowboy poetry and storytelling on six performance venues, including an Arizona Centennial venue. Workshop’s by accomplished musician that will teach you to play Saws and Spoons to Finger-style guitar. The park will have the Blacksmith on site to give demonstrations and there will be tours of the main house. In this park setting there are live chickens and peacocks on the grounds, so plan to bring the family and make a day of it.
Details: Sahuaro Ranch Historical Area, 9802 N 59th Avenue, Glendale. Admission: Free, Saturday and Sunday, March 24th – 25th, 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Highland High School and Arizona State University will present its 3rd Annual Highland Jazz Festival. Grammy Award winning saxophonist Joe Lovano and world renowned trombone performer John Fedchock will headline the weekend of Jazz education. The Jazz Festival will span the entire southwest reaching over 1,800 students, music educators, and general public throughout Arizona, Southern California, Texas, Nevada and New Mexico.
Details: Highland High School Auditorium, 4301 East Guadalupe Road. Admission: $20.00, Thursday – Saturday, March 29th – 31st. (480) 813-0051 ext. 4421
Cactus League Spring Training Guide
Batter up! Cactus League Spring Training is here. We’ve put together the ultimate spring training guide of where to eat and drink before or after the game, where to park, what you can bring in to each ballpark and more below.
Don’t forget to check out our Cactus League Spring Training page on our website for places to stay, a map of all the ballparks, and special spring training packages.
General Information
• Wear sunscreen! This is the first time in months that our skin has seen the daylight. Put on your sunscreen before you head out and bring more to apply during the game.
• Lawn seats can get hot, fast. Make sure to drink plenty of water and bring a hat and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring cash. Many of the concession stands will take a credit card, but you’ll pay extra. There are ATMs at most stadiums, but you’ll get charged a fee to use them.
• Get your tickets early. Popular teams will sell out fast so plan ahead.
• Rules about outside food and drink vary by stadium. Check the stadium website or call before you go to see what is/is not allowed.
Phoenix Municipal Stadium (5999 East Van Buren Street, Phoenix)
Team: Oakland A’s
Places to Eat Nearby
America’s Taco Shop (735 E. University Drive, Tempe)
Bison Witches Bar & Deli (21 E. 6th Street #146, Tempe)
Cornish Pasty Co. (960 W. University Suite 103, Tempe )
Draw 10 Bar & Grill (5444 E. Washington Street, Phoenix)
Essence Bakery Café (825 W. University Drive, Tempe)
Four Peaks Brewing Company (1340 E. 8th Street, Tempe)
Green Restaurant (2240 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe)
Monti’s La Casa Vieja Restaurant (1 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe)
Pete’s Fish & Chips (1017 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe)
Spinato’s Pizza (227 S. Smith Road, Tempe)
The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse (5009 E. Washington, Phoenix)
Additional Info
• You can bring small soft coolers (no bigger than a backpack) and non-alcoholic beverages in a plastic, factory-sealed bottle. No glass bottles or alcohol is allowed.
• Parking is $5 per car.
• Make a day of it and go hiking in Papago Park, visit the Desert Botanical Garden or the Phoenix Zoo.
Maryvale Baseball Park (3600 N. 51st Avenue, Phoenix)
Team: Milwaukee Brewers
Places to Eat Nearby
Coffee and Tea Express (5835 W. Palmaire Avenue, Glendale)
Durants (2611 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix)
El New Yorican (2714 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix)
Fu-Fu Cuisine (3633 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix)
Kiss the Cook (4915 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale)
Original Hamburger Works (2801 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix)
Papa Ed’s Ice Cream (7146-B N. 58th Avenue, Glendale)
Pete’s Fish & Chips (5516 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale)
Pizza a Metro (2336 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix)
Additional Info
• The Brewers are the only Cactus League team to give away player bobbleheads before games. Dolls will be giving out on March 5, 8, 21, and 26.
• Get an autograph during batting practive along the right field line or when players exit the game.
• You can get a grilled Klement’s hot dog from Milwaukee.
• Parking is $6.
Salt River Fields (7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale)
Teams: Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies
Places to Eat Nearby
America’s Taco Shop (9261 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale)
Andreoli Italian Grocer & Deli (8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale)
Blue Burrito Grille ( 7318 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Buzzberry Coffee ‘n Smoothies (5959 N. Granite Reef Road, Scottsdale)
Café ZuZu (6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
El Chorro ( 5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley)
Four Peaks Brewing Company (15745 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale)
Lox Stock and Bagel (7353 N. Via Paseo Del Sur, Scottsdale )
Rancho Pinot Grill (6208 N. Scottsdale Road, Paradise Valley)
Rita’s Kitchen (5402 E. Lincoln Drive)
Spinato’s Pizzeria (11108 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Sweet Republic Ice Cream (9160 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Terroir Wine Pub (7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Uncorked Wine Bar (16427 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Village Coffee Roastery (8120 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale)
Wildflower Bread Company (15640 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale OR 7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Additional Info
• Best places for autographs are on the front-row seats at either left or right field near the bull pens. Go 40 minutes prior to a game or until the end of batting practice to catch your favorite players.
• A Wiffle Ball court for children is on the right field of the main stadium.
• Check out a bird’s eye view of the games or the McDowell Mountains from observation towers throughout the campus.
Peoria Sports Complex (16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria)
Teams: Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres
Places to Eat Nearby
3rd Place Neighborhood Grill ( 15814 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria) *Local gourmet food trucks will be in the parking lot of 3rd Place Neighborhood Grill for spring training! Check the schedule here.
Blu Burger Grille (9828 W. Northern Avenue, Peoria)
Carolina’s (9030 W. Peoria Avenue, Peoria)
Cucina Tagliani Italian Kitchen (8349 W. Bell Road, Peoria)
Kabuski Sushi & Grill (8378 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria)
Mercer’s (9720 W. Peoria Avenue, Peoria)
The Moon Saloon ( 16554 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria)
Yogurtime (16055 N. Arrowhead Fountain Circle, Peoria)
Additional Info
• Factory sealed, plastic water bottles with non-carbonated, colorless water, juice boxes, baby food, formula, and small bags with food are allowed.
• Parking is $5 for cars $10 for RVs.
• Every Monday families can take advantage of the Family Four Pack deal that includes four seats, hot dogs and sodas for $30 (four lawn tickets are $24).
• Hot dogs are $2 on Wednesdays and Sundays games have activities for kids.
• Scout your favorite player at Autograph Alley, a tunnel that leads players into the field near the right-field corner.
Camelback Ranch Stadium (10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix)
Teams: Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers
Places to Eat Nearby
Baja Loco Mesquite Grill & Cantina (5134 N. 95th Avenue, Glendale)
G’s Food (103 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix)
Ground Control Coffee & Wine Bar (14140 W. Indian School Road, Goodyear)
Mama Gina’s (9380 W. Westgate Boulevard, Glendale)
Saddle Ranch Chop House ( 9375 W. Coyotes Boulevard, Glendale)
Tailgaters Sports Grill & Il Primo Pizza (5110 N. Dystart Road, Litchfield Park)
Thai Orchid Garden (12725 W. Indian School Road, Avondale)
Additional Information
• Players’ autographs may be obtained before the game on the outfield side of both dugouts. Autograph seekers must return to their seats 30 minutes before gametime.
• Lawn chairs and lawn umbrellas are not permitted.
• Small, soft-sided coolers are permitted as well as one unopened bottle of water per person and food items in small, clear plastic bags.
• On March 10, 17 and 23, Camelback Ranch will feature fireworks and $1 hot dogs. Postgame on those dates, kids can run the bases.
Goodyear Ballpark (1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear)
Teams: Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds
Places to Eat Nearby
Augie’s Sports Grill (15605 W. Roosevelt Street, Suite 101, Goodyear)
Flavors of Louisiana (13025 W. Ranch Santa Fe Boulevard, Avondale)
Ivy League Dogs (15605 W. Roosevelt Street, Goodyear)
Native New Yorker (530 N. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear)
Majerle’s Sports Grill (13375 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear)
Taste of Italy Pizza ( 3810 South Estrella Parkway, Goodyear)
TJ’s Homestyle Restaurant (310 N. Dysart Road, Avondale)
Wildflower Bread Company (1360 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear)
Additional Information
• Collect autographs from Indians or Reds players before the game on March 3, 7, 12, 14 (1:05pm game only), 19, 26 and 28. Tickets for the autograph session will be distributed prior to gates opening, for the session shortly after the gates open.
• March 12 and 18 bring your gloves to play catch in the outfield after the game. Soft toss baseballs will be provided.
• Fan Appreciation Day is March 30th. Autographed team memorabilia and other items will be given away each inning.
• Factory sealed, plastic water bottles with non-carbonated, colorless water, juice boxes, baby food, formula, and small bags with food are allowed.
• Parking is $5.
• This ballpark features Midwest-specialty fried-bologna sandwiches, and Cleveland and Cincinnati-style hot dogs.
• Families can take advantage of the McDonald’s Family Fun Pack, which costs $44 and includes four tickets, four Extra Value Meals and access to an exclusive autograph session before the game. The package is offered March 5, 13, 18, 19 and 27.
• In Ohio, chili tops spaghetti, potatoes, salads and fries. Cincinnati fans will be delighted to see Skyline Chili at Goodyear Ballpark and for Cleveland fans there’s Bertman Ballpark Mustard.
• Every game hosts a free kids zone, featuring inflatable bounce houses and a Wiffle Ball field.
• Adults can watch the game in the all-inclusive Right Field Pavillion – a fully shaded area with club seating, a buffet, wait staff and an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks, $30.
HoHoKam Stadium (1235 N. Center Street, Mesa)
Team: Chicago Cubs
Places to Eat Nearby
Contigo Peru (1245 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa)
Crackers & Co. Café (535 W. Iron Avenue, Mesa)
Diamond’s Sports Grille (161 N. Centennial Way, Mesa)
Inside The Bungalow Café (48 N. Robson, Mesa)
Los Dos Molinos (260 W. Alma School Road, Mesa)
Lo Fi Coffee (105 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Nunthaporn’s Thai Cuisine (17 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Queen’s Pizzeria & Café (125 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Sun Devil Liquors (235 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa)
T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery (1660 S. Alama School Road, Mesa)
Urban Picnic (218 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Additional Info
• This stadium does not allow coolers, umbrellas, food, beverages or large bags. You can bring a blanket, one 32-ounce bottle of water, baby food or a stroller.
• Parking is $6 per car. (Tip: Arrive two hours before game time for best parking.)
• Watch the game in the shade behind first base – it’s also the best place to get autographs after 11am.
Surprise Stadium (15930 N. Bullard Avenue, Phoenix)
Teams: Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers
Places to Eat Nearby
Amuse Bouche (17058 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Babbo Italian Eatery (15609 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Big Buddha Restaurant (16572 W. Greenway Road, Surprise)
The Brookside II Bar and Grill (15170 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Fresh Wasabi Sushi & Grill (13732 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Hole ‘n One (13573 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West)
Irish Wolfhoud Pub (16811 N. Litchfield Road, Surprise)
Lucky’s Pizza (15508 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Vogue Bistro (15411 W. Waddell Road, Surprise)
Additional Info
• For $30 adults can sit in the Home Run Party Tent in right centerfield. This fully shaded area seats 300 and has cable TVs sets to show NCAA March Madness basketball games. Your ticket also includes your own seat, access to the catered all-you-can-eat buffet and a drink voucher.
• Most of the concessions here are cash only.
• You can bring food in clear, sealed plastic bags and one liter plastic water bottle per person. Juice boxes, baby food and formula are also allowed.
Tempe Diablo Stadium (2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe)
Team: Angels
Places to Eat Nearby
The Center Bistro (21 E. 6th Street, Tempe)
Dhaba India Plaza (1874 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe)
Essence Bakery Café (825 W. University Drive, Tempe)
Four Peaks Brewing Company ( 1340 E. 8th Street, Tempe)
House of Tricks (114 E. 7th Street, Tempe)
Los Dos Molinos (8646 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix)
Morning Glory Café (6016 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix)
Rustler’s Rooste (8383 S. 48th Street, Phoenix)
Spinato’s Pizza (227 S. Smith Road, Tempe)
Texas BBQ House (5037 S. 24th Street, Phoenix)
Yucca Tap Room (29 W. Southern Avenue, Tempe)
Additional Info
• Get autographs from players near the walking fence in the west parking lot between the stadium and practice fields or in the stadium on the right-field line near the team’s locker room.
• For $40 you can sit in the shade in the upper pavilion on right field, which includes an all-you-can-eat food ticket.
• You may bring backpacks, soft-sided coolers, homemade sandwiches, cut fruit, chips and one sealed bottle of water per person.
• Tempe Diablo Stadium is offering a free shuttle from the Tempe Marketplace and Mill Avenue in front of Potions and Lotions on 5th Street/Mill and by the Thirsty Lion at Tempe Marketplace every 20-30 minutes from 11a-6p on game days.
• Parking is $5
Scottsdale Stadium (7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale)
Team: San Francisco Giants
Places to Eat Nearby
5th and Wine (7051 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Arcadia Farms (7025 E. 1st Avenue, Scottsdale)
Atlas Bistro (2515 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Baratin (7121 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Big Earl’s BBQ (7213 E. First Avenue, Scottsdale)
Bravo Bistro (4327 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Café Forte Bistro (7032 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
The Cider Mill (7240 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
Citizen Public House (7111 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Cowboy Ciao (7133 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale)
Daily Dose Old Town Bar & Grill (4020 Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Echo Coffee (2902 N. 68th Street, Scottsdale)
Lee’s Cream Liqueur (7137 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale)
Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles (2765 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Orange Table (7373 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale)
Petite Maison (7616 E. Shoeman Lane, Scottsdale)
POSH Improvisational Cuisine ( 7167 E. Rancho Vista Drive, Scottsdale)
Su Vino Winery (7035 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
Additional Info
• Salty Senorita offers a shuttle to and from its Old Town location to Scottsdale Stadium.
• This stadium carries beer from San Francisco’s Anchor Brewing Company and garlic fries, a fan favorite at the Giant’s home stadium.
• You can bring towels and blankets to sit on in the grass, but lawn chairs are not allowed.
• Get an autograph by getting to the game early and hang out along the rail behind the first-base line near the Giants dugout.
• Parking is free, but very limited. Catch a trolley to the stadium by parking at Loloma Station at Fashion Square Mall (next to Nordstrom), or along Fifth Avenue.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Phoenix
Mardi Gras is Tuesday, February 21st. Here’s the low down on what to do to celebrate Mardi Gras in Phoenix.
King’s Cake is ubiquitous in celebrating Mardi Gras. Get a King’s Cake in Phoenix at Karsh’s Bakery, La Tolteca, and Flavor’s of Louisiana Restaurant. Although not King’s Cake, Urban Cookies will have Mardi Gras themed cupcakes and the Baker-Wee will have Paczki available for order.
Saturday, February 18th from 4pm – 2am, celebrate the spirit of Mardi Gras at the Downtown Phoenix Mardi Gras Celebration with hundreds of revelers wearing masks and other occasion-appropriate regalia. Take part in the celebration with a parade, festival and bar crawl.
Phoenix also has several Cajun restaurants to choose from that will have various specials and celebrations for Mardi Gras.
Not a Cajun restaurant, but we can’t make a Mardi Gras list without including New Orleans Sno Ball. Also not a Cajun restaurant, but Switch Wine Restaurant & Wine Bar will have $3 hurricanes all week and voodoo jambalaya gallette for $7.95 all month.
If you don’t want to go out for Mardi Gras, stop by The Meat Shop from 2/16 – 2/22 for Andouille and Cajun Sausage for only $4.99/lb and make your own jambalaya at home.
Laissez les bon temps roulez!
Arizona Best Fest
This weekend the Arizona Centennial Commission and 2012 Foundation hosts its premier Signature Event – Arizona Best Fest Phoenix, Saturday, February 11, noon-10pm; and Sunday, February 12, noon-6pm. There will be a FREE street extravaganza of mainstage headliners, educational traveling museums, cultural villages, a Western town — even the climactic destination of the Arizona Centennial Motorcycle Ride – along with an Arizona storytellers theater, Arizona wines and craft beers, Arizona 100 art show, family fun zone and much more — all brought to residents and visitors alike, by a bevy of proud private sponsors and donors.
The “best of Arizona” celebration overtakes the Arizona State Capitol complex and its streets from 10th Avenue on the east to 17th Avenue on the west, traversing along Washington Street, aka “Centennial Way,” and rounding the bend from 17th Avenue onto Jefferson.
Cooper Dome Main Stage Schedule - A Showcase of Arizona Entertainment
Saturday, February 11th
12:30pm Marshall Trimble
1pm Dolan Ellis
1:45pm Rex Allen Jr.
2:45pm Dennis Rowland & the Extreme Decibel Big Band
5:30pm ‘Salute to Arizona’ with Governor Janice K. Brewer & Dierks Bentley (Celebrate Arizona Centennial Official Mascot Copper Chopper completing its 17-month tour; plus HOME Official Song of the Centennial Commission, plus Premier Cultural Performances from Villages and Western Town)
6:30pm Jerry Riopelle
7:45pm Michelle Branch
9pm Gin Blossoms
10pm Fireworks
10:15pm Arizona Best Fest Phoenix Closes
Sunday, February 12th
Noon Arizona Cultural Performance Showcase
1pm Ronstadt Family Traditions
2pm Rex Allen Jr.
3pm Esteban
4:30pm Copper Chopper Final Drawing- 4:30 pm
4:45pm George Benson
6pm Arizona Best Fest Phoenix Closes- 6 pm
Educational Pavilions, Cultural Villages, Western Town and Sports Zone
Arizona Best Fest attempts to bring the ‘best of Arizona’ through a series of educational pavilions featuring the Stevie & Karl Eller Arizona History Pavilion; a Military History Pavilion; the University of Arizona Science & Future Pavilion; the Resolution Copper Natural Resources Pavilion; an APS Renewable Energy display; the Shamrock Farms Family Fun Zone; the Giant American Indian Village; the ARSARCO Hispanic Village with Zumba and traditional equestrian dancers; the Discount Tire Western Town with gunfights, saloons, cowboy gear, and re-enactments; an Arizona Cardinals/Arizona Diamondbacks/Phoenix Suns Sports Pavilionand even a rich verbal history of the Arizona Experience in The Arizona Republic Arizona Storytellers Theater.
Arizona food, wine, fine art and craft beer
What Arizona event is complete without a showcase of wineries presented by the Arizona Wine Growers Association; craft beers by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild and the AZ 100 Fine Arts show.
Parking
Guests are encouraged to take the Light Rail and connect with city buses to the east main entrance of Arizona Best Fest Phoenix, at 10th Avenue and Washington. Additional buses are planned from the Light Rail station to the east entrance.
Arizona Centennial Ride and Copper Chopper Drawing
The Signature Event of the Arizona Centennial Commission on Saturday, February 11, 2pm, sponsored by Law Tigers, is a historical motorcycle tour, already pre-registered with 750 enthusiasts and begins at Mesa Riverview where participants are expected to gather for registration 11am – 2pm. Participants must register in advance.
The Ride to the Arizona State Capitol rolls out at 2pm, led by Phoenix native and “Ride” Honorary Chairman Dierks Bentley, along with official mascot of the Arizona Centennial, the Copper Chopper which will ceremonially complete its 18-month tour to every corner of the state raising high levels of awareness and enthusiasm during the Countdown of the Arizona Centennial, and will be driven by its renowned designer and Arizona resident Paul Yaffe.
The Arizona Copper Chopper will be given away in a final drawing Sunday, February 12 at 4:30pm. To enter the bonus drawing at Arizona Best Fest, one must enter at the Arizona Copper Chopper display on Saturday, February 11the from noon until 8pm.
Gov. Janice K. Brewer will greet the top 48 riders in the Arizona Centennial Ride (48 being significant because Arizona is the 48th state admitted to the Union) at 17th Avenue in front of the Capitol itself, welcoming Bentley, and providing official closure to the Arizona Centennial Copper Chopper Tour, which she christened for its maiden statewide outing in October 2010 at the Arizona State Fair. The majority of riders will park their choppers along Jefferson, resulting in massive rows of diverse and colorful motorcycles for Best Fest visitors to review and admire as well.
Surrounding Sites
As Arizona’s Capitol complex becomes the destination for Arizona Centennial weekend, two stops are a must in the surrounding neighborhood:
Pioneer & Military Memorial Park Cemetery
This historic site is open during Best Fest, at 14th Ave. and Jefferson. See the graves of such pioneers as Jacob Waltz of the famed Lost Dutchman mine, Darell “Lord” Duppa, credited with naming the villages of Phoenix and Tempe, Tom Graham, the last man killed in Arizona’s Pleasant Valley War, the first and many of the earliest Maricopa County Sheriffs, and many more of our pioneers. Also tour Smurthwaite House Museum built in 1897 and home to memorabilia and antiques of local Arizona Territory pioneer families. FREE.
Arizona Capitol Museum & Museum Store
Open Arizona Best Fest weekend Saturday & Sunday February 11th and 12th from noon – 3pm, and on 100th Statehood Day, 9am-4pm. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, construction began in 1899 when Arizona was still a territory to serve as the capitol building. It was dedicated in 1901, 11 years before statehood. Today the building serves as the Arizona Capitol Museum and continues as part of a multi-site capitol complex. The stunning USS Arizona silver service is on display; all four floors will be open to the public, including the 3rd floor House Chamber of the museum which was the site of the 1910 Arizona Constitutional Convention. Walk the halls of those who framed the state’s constitution.
Tillamook Taco Week : February 11-18
Tacos from Vitamin T
The Tillamook Loaf Love Tour has partnered with four Phoenix restaurants for a Tillamook Taco Week. Each restaurant is offering a unique taco special featuring Tillamook Cheese.
Participating Phoenix restaurants:
Taco Week Special: From Chef Holly Arguello comes “The Arizonan” – A homemade taco shell with local Chorizo, Green Onion Salsa, Natural braised chicken thigh meat and Tillamook Pepper Jack Cheese. Served with Arroz Gondules and Cuban Black Beans. ($10)
Taco Week Special: “Griddled Fish Taco with Slaw” – Created by Chef/Owner Shantal Chase, this taco is served with Tomato Arbol Chile Sauce and Tillamook Pepper Jack Cheese. Steak and chicken options will be available. (3 tacos for $8)
Taco Week Special: Local chef Aaron May will serve the “viTamin T quesoTilla Taco” – Made with a blend of Tillamook Medium Cheddar and Tillamook Monterey Jack cheeses. ($2 per taco or 3 for $5)
Taco Week Special: Chef Gabriela Quevedo presents “Braised Beef Tillamook Tacos” – Two corn tortillas filled with braised beef, sautéed onions, red and green peppers and Tillamook Medium Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Tortillas are topped with melted Tillamook Cheese and served with rice and pinto beans. ($12.95)
Click here for a complete schedule of the Loaf Love Tour in the Phoenix area.