Nobuo at Teeter House will be participating in Arizona Spring Restaurant Week

Through Monday May 27
Arizona Spring Restaurant Week
The holiday weekend is your last chance to indulge your inner foodie without breaking the bank at one of over 100 Greater Phoenix restaurants participating in the Spring Arizona Restaurant Week. Whether you’re looking to try a longtime Valley favorite or a buzzed-about upstart, this is the time to do it when participating restaurants offer a $30 or $40 three-course prix-fixe menu. The most popular joints fill up fast, so make your reservations now.

Thursday May 23 – Sunday May 26
Phoenix Comicon
Let your geek flag fly at downtown’s Phoenix Convention Center at Phoenix Comicon, the premiere pop culture experience of the Southwest. Fans of comics, anime, gaming, TV and film and more will get the chance to meet their favorite authors, writers, artists and actors, including cast members of AMC’s The Walking Dead and Star Trek.

Book a room downtown so you don’t miss a minute of the weekend’s festivities. Some hotels are already sold out, so act fast.

Phoenix Convention Center: 100 N 3rd St, Phoenix, 85004

Friday May 24 – Sunday May 26
Phoenix Caribbean Festival
A taste of the island life comes to the desert at the Phoenix Caribbean Festival. Downtown’s Wesley Bolin Plaza will be the scene for daytime festivities including live entertainment, food, arts and crafts, a kids zone and a kiddies carnival parade on Saturday. Themed parties take place each night of the festival at different spots around the Valley.

Wesley Bolin Plaza: 17th Ave and Adams St, Phoenix, 85007

Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field

Friday May 24 – Monday May 27
Diamondbacks weekend series vs. Padres and Memorial Day doubleheader vs. Rangers
In the words of Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, "It's a great day for a ball game; let's play two!" After a weekend series against division foe San Diego—with a fireworks show after Friday night’s game—D-Backs fans can double their delight with a Memorial Day doubleheader against the Texas Rangers.

Enjoy the day in air-conditioned Chase Field by buying tickets for both games and receive up to $40 in D-Backs Bucks to be used on concessions and merchandise at the park. A D-Backs street festival featuring food trucks, music, tailgate games and more will take place just outside the ballpark between games.

Chase Field: 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, 85004

Saturday May 25 – Sunday May 26
Memorial Day Weekend BBQ & Fireworks Show at Wet ‘n’ Wild water park
There’s more to do this weekend at Glendale’s Wet ‘n’ Wild water park than just relaxing on an inner tube in their Cactus Cooler or holding on for dear life on their Maximum Velocity slides. The park will host a fireworks show Friday and Saturday night—free with admission—and will also host an all-you-can-eat BBQ from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. each night. BBQ meal tickets are just $9.99 plus tax for all Gold Season Pass and Season Pass holders; $9.99 plus tax for ages 3-11; and $11.99 ages 12 and up.

You can also save money and help a good cause this weekend as Wet 'n' Wild will be offering $17 off same-day general admission to any guests who donate a three-pack of men's boxer shorts to their Shorts for Soldiers Donation Drive.

Wet ‘n’ Wild water park: 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale, 85310
General admission: Adults $39, Children $30

Saturday May 25
Night Golf at Palo Verde golf course
Trade your Titleist for a glow ball and hit the links under the stars this Saturday with Night Flight golf at Phoenix’s Palo Verde golf course. The four-person scramble event costs $100 per foursome with each player receiving a goodie bag and the chance to win fun prizes. Put your walking shoes on, though—no golf carts allowed in the dark.

Palo Verde Golf Course: 6215 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, 85015

Peaches at Schnepf Farms

Saturday May 25 – Monday May 27
Peach Festival at Schnepf Farms
Kick off summer with a free festival celebrating one of the season’s quintessential fruits. The second weekend of the Peach Festival at Schnepf Farms features all things peachy with fruit and candy made from the juicy fruit, peach pit spit and pie eating contests, a peachy pancake breakfast served each day from 7:45 a.m. to 2 p.m., hay rides, peach picking and more.

Schnepf Farms: 24810 E Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, 85142

Monday May 27
Memorial Day Observance
The Pioneers’ Cemetery Association and the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department invite the public to join them in honoring the veterans buried in the Pioneer & Military Memorial Park at the 30th annual Memorial Day Observance.
This year's keynote speaker is Marshall Shore, Phoenix's HIPstorian, and other participants include the Buffalo Soldiers of the Arizona Territory, the Knights Templar, and members of Civil War re-enactment organizations.

The program begins promptly at 9 a.m. with seating in the gazebo area adjacent to Smurthwaite House at 1317 W. Jefferson in Phoenix.

Liberty’s Biscuits food truck centers around, you guessed it, the biscuit. But these aren't your grandma’s biscuits – owner Rachel Millard uses her biscuits as vessels for delicious fillings such as fried chicken, sausage gravy, eggs, bacon and even Nutella.

When it comes to comfort food my philosophy is to go big, or go home, so I tried The Liberty which comes with fried chicken, bacon, egg, cheese and gravy.

The Liberty

My fellow dining companions went a little less gluttonous with their orders trying the Porky and the Hey Jack.

Porky

Hey Jack

If you’re a biscuit purist you can always just order a biscuit with butter with your choice of butter or jam.

You can indulge in Liberty’s Biscuits weekly at the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturdays as well as the Gilbert Food Truck Court on Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m. For additional locations follow Liberty’s Biscuits on Twitter and Facebook.

Menu

The food truck craze has exploded in Phoenix with many opportunities to eat from these rolling gourmet “restaurants." We’ve eaten from many of the food trucks throughout Phoenix and wanted to highlight them individually for you. You can find the food trucks on a regular basis at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market  on Wednesday evenings from 5-8 p.m, Fridays from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. At the North Central Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., and the Third Thursday of the Month at the Whole Foods Raintree location from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. There are always many more opportunities that you can find by following your favorite truck individually or by following the Phoenix Street Coalition. Bon Appétit! 

Packages

Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa

Enjoy two-night stay for two in Ocatilla at Arizona Biltmore, a “hotel within a hotel” and dinner for two at the newly reopened signature restaurant Wright’s at the Biltmore.

Guests will enjoy the private Ocatilla pool and the Executive Lounge offering non-stop complimentary pleasures from buffet breakfast to wines by the glass and evening hors d’oeuvres. The resort’s signature restaurant Wright’s skilled chefs take original recipes of classic dishes and refresh them with innovative touches and the latest culinary trends.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess 

This summer, spark a new family tradition at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day, we’ll light up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks show -- sure to delight both children and inner kids alike. Enjoy our three-night Sip, Savor & Splash package and enjoy fireworks, as well as a $50 daily resort dining credit.

Four Season Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Bask in Serenity at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, your private desert hideaway awaits.

Enjoy a two-night stay for two in sumptuous one-bedroom suite accommodations, equipped with a private plunge pool, outdoor garden shower and telescope for stargazing. Enjoy two complimentary appetizers and two signature Troon Traditional Margaritas in Onyx Bar & Lounge. Also included is dinner for two in the new Proof, an American canteen, restaurant.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch

Experience the fun of summer with a two-night/three-day stay in a private lakeside casita featuring a parlor, two bedrooms, a fireplace and a patio deck that overlooks the resort’s waterway and the beauty of the McDowell Mountains. Children 3 to 12 will love a day at Camp Hyatt, while adults can relax and rejuvenate with their choice of massage or facial for two in the world-class Spa Avania. Enjoy dinner for four in SWB, a southwest bistro, topped off with a gondola ride!

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

The kids love the pools and of course the favorite is the Lazy River and you will love the Cabana Colada, don’t miss this one! There are many dining options, simply put - something for everyone.

The summer Family Fling & Swing Package includes a one-night stay and features free meals for kids under 12, free WIFI, $50 resort credit and free golf. It is your fling – do your thing!

Radisson Fort McDowell Resort

Win a two-night stay at AAA Four Diamond Radisson Fort McDowell Resort, along with a breakfast for two at the Ahnala Mesquite Grill. Surrounded by 360-degree mountain views in beautiful north Scottsdale, the Resort is the perfect family-friendly summer destination. It is home to a variety of exceptional restaurants, award-winning golf courses, unique spa services and exciting outdoor adventures, always making for an unforgettable experience.

The Phoenician

Experience the contemporary style and relaxed ambiance of Arizona’s premier resort destination with a two-night stay for two at The Phoenician. Spend an afternoon lounging by one of eight shimmering pools in a private cabana, complemented by two, 50-minute spa treatments. Savor an each evening with an al fresco dinner at Il Terrazzo, or take a bite out of the comfort classics at Relish Burger Bistro. Bliss awaits.

Talking Stick Resort

A toast to the perfect morning with a Royal Sunrise! Create lasting memories this summer with an indulgent weekend getaway. Enjoy a “Royal Sunrise” with one night of luxury accommodations and breakfast for two at T. Cook’s,  where you can choose to enjoy banana-pecan French toast, baked oatmeal brûlée, a Spanish egg-white frittata, or any other of T. Cook's scrumptious breakfast entrées at a table on the terrace or in the cozy dining room.

Enter today! 

Photo courtesy of the Arizona Biltmore

Whether you want to treat Mom for Mother’s Day or you’re just having withdrawals from Downton Abbey, high tea at a Phoenix area resort is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

The Ritz Carlton

Hosted by their very own in-house tea sommelier, Jeffrey Hattrick, afternoon tea at The Ritz Carlton is Wednesday – Saturday at noon and 3 p.m. Three courses are served – finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones, and French pastries.

The Arizona Biltmore

One lump or two? High Tea at the Arizona Biltmore is offered in two seating’s at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Lobby Tea Court every Thursday through Sunday from November through May. You’ll indulge in an exceptional variety of gourmet teas, freshly baked scones, miniature pastries and delectable tea sandwiches.

The Phoenician

In the English tradition, afternoon tea is served daily in the Lobby Tea Court. You’ll feel pampered while being treated to finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and preserves, pastries and a selection of fine blends. Classical music provides a charming backdrop for a relaxing afternoon break. First seating is at 2 p.m. and reservations are required.

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 12th. We've put together a big list of things to do for Mother's Day in Phoenix that will make any mom feel like a queen.

Outdoor

Mother's Day Trail Ride

Go on adventure this Mother's Day with a trail ride at Cave Creek Trail Rides. Horseback riding in Phoenix offers great views of  the surrounding desert. Cave Creek Trail Rides’ cowboys and cowgirls will introduce you to the mining history of Cave Creek, Arizona and unique flora and fauna while on the back of a gentle mountain horse. Mothers will receive 50% off and a flower at the end of the ride.

Details: Cave Creek Trail Rides, 37019 N. 32nd St., Cave Creek. Admission: $43 - $93. Friday, May 10th – Sunday May 12th. 623-742-6700

Teas

Mother's Tea at the Hackett House

Treat your mom to a Mother's Day Tea at the Hackett House in downtown Tempe. The lavish "full teas" include their famous scones, an assortment of savories and sweets, tea served in fine china cups and on fresh-pressed linens. Register in advance to save a seat for you and your mom.

Details: Hackett House Tea, 95 W. 4th St., Tempe.  Saturday, May 11th 2:00pm – 4:00pm. 480-350-8181

Mother's Tea at the English Rose Tea Room

The English Rose Tea Room is offering a Mother's Day Tea from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mother's Day. The last seating is a 4 p.m. The wonderful six course meal features: creamy mushroom and brie soup, salad with mixed berries and candied pecans, a trio of sandwiches, many tasty deserts to choose from, and a mother's floral tea. Reservations are required.

Details: English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St. #103, Carefree.  Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. $52. 480-488-4812

Brunch

Wrigley Mansion

Dine with mom on the veranda overlooking the Phoenix skyline on an array of fine cheeses, fruits, cold salads and desserts. Explore the mansion, which is rich in history and ambiance and offers gorgeous 360-degree views of the Valley. Early reservations recommended; space is limited.

Details: Wrigley Mansion, 2501 E. Telewa Trail, Phoenix. Adults $75, Children $37.50. Sunday, May 12th. Seating times at 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. 602-553-7395

Hilton Phoenix/Mesa

Celebrate Mom’s special day in the Hilton Phoenix/Mesa Atrium. Each mother will receive a free rose upon arrival. Kids 5 and under will eat for free with the purchase of two adult brunches. Reservations recommended.

Details: Hilton Phoenix/Mesa, 1011 W. Holmes Ave., Mesa.  Sunday, May 12th. 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. $34.95. 480-833-5555

The Arizona Golf Resort and Conference Center

Enjoy a fabulous Mother's Day brunch buffet with a wide array of fine foods. Featuring a display of international and domestic cheeses, an array of market fresh fruit and berries, antipasto display, all-you-can-eat shrimp and crab claws, made- to- order omelet station and eggs benedict, grilled salmon with caviar, spiral sliced ham with pineapple glaze, an assortment of desserts, and so much more. Contact the hotel front desk for additional details and reservations.

Details: The Arizona Golf Resort and Conference Center, 425 S. Power Rd., Mesa.  Sunday, May 12th. 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $32.95. 480-832-3202

The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton Phoenix will be honoring Moms with a scrumptious Mother's Day Brunch. Enjoy a selection of classic brunch items such as an omelet station, pancakes and waffles along with specialty choices such as; prime rib, and a shrimp and oyster bar. Complimentary  champagne is offered to each adult. Bring the family together for this exceptional dining experience complete with live music entertainment. Reservations recommended.

Details: The Ritz-Carlton Phoenix, 2401 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix.  Adults $70, Children 3-12 $35. Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 602-468-0700

The Wigwam

Celebrate Mother's Day with brunch at the Wigwam complete with all your favorites and more. Reservations are recommended.

Details: The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. Adults $38, Children 4-12 $20, Children under 4 free. Sunday, May 12th 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 623-935-3811

The Farm at South Mountain

Treat Mom to an elegant brunch in The Farm at South Mountain's famous pecan grove this Mother's Day. Enjoy the luscious pecan french toast, sweet potato salad, coconut cupcakes, and more that will wow her palate. Rated as a "Top 10 Great Places for a Leisurely Holiday Brunch" by USA Today, you will surely impress her this year. Reservations are required.

Details: The Farm at South Mountain, 6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix. Adults $50, Children 8-12 $17, Children 2-7 $8, Children under 2 free. Sunday, May 12th. 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 602-243-9081

Café ZuZu

Come celebrate Mother's Day at Café ZuZu. Order a la carte off the regular menu or choose one of the specials of the day! Brunch will be served inside and on the shaded patio. Build your own custom drink at the Bloody Mary Bar for just $5, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Details: Café ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale.  Sunday, May 12th. 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 480-421-7997

Doubletree by Hilton Phoenix/Gilbert

The Mother's Day brunch menu includes an omelet bar, a waffle bar, plenty of seafood, a carving station, and so much more! Reservations are recommended.

Details: Doubletree by Hilton Phoenix/Gilbert, 1800 S. SanTan Village Pkwy., Gilbert. Adults $38, Children 4-12 $18. Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 480-809-4100

District American Kitchen and Wine Bar

Treat mom to a memorable and delicious Mother’s Day brunch at District American Kitchen and Wine Bar. The menu features endless champagne along with traditional favorites inspired by Mom’s homemade recipes that includes local ingredients and herbs from the restaurant’s garden. Each Mom will be presented with a beautiful rose. You can also create your very own bloody Mary at The Bloody Mary Bar with ingredients like pickled celery, Arizona spices and seasonal condiments for an additional $5.

Details: District American Kitchen and Wine Bar, 320 N. 3rd St., Phoenix.  Adults $32, Children 4-12 $16, Children 3 and under free. Sunday, May 12th 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 602-817-5400

Eddie’s House

Enjoy a delicious Mother's Day brunch which includes a buffet, cereal bar, made-to-order omelet bar, all your breakfast favorites, desserts, and more! Reservations recommended.

Details: Eddie’s House, 7042 E. Indian School Rd., Scottsdale. Adults $49, Children 3-9 $19, Children under 3 free. Sunday, May 12th 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 480-946-1622

Il Terrazzo

The Il Terrazzo  Mother’s Day Brunch offers Skuna Bay Salmon, garlic lemon marinated lamb chops, slow roasted New York Roast, sushi and raw bar, an array of breakfast delights, pastas, salads, antipasti and bakery and dessert selections. Reservations are required.

Details: Il Terrazzo at the Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale.  Adults $79, Children 3-12 $39.50. Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 480-423-2530

Sassi

Mother's Day brunch is an annual tradition at Sassi, served from a lavish buffet including breakfast items and pastries, fresh fruit, artisan salume and cheeses, pasta, entrees and carved meats. Enjoy brunch on the covered patios or in one of Sassi's comfortable dining rooms.

Details: Sassi, 10455 E. Pinnacle Peak Pkwy., Scottsdale. Adults $50, Children 4-12 $25. Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 480-502-9095

El Chorro

The brunch menu features a carving station, a choice of entrees, a variety of salads, a full breakfast station, and a selection of desserts. As part of the El Chorro tradition, the special holiday menu will include the famous sticky buns, handcrafted bread and butter, coffee and tea.

For mothers who enjoy sleeping in, the restaurant will also serve a dynamic prix fixe dinner menu from 5 p.m. to close featuring appeasing offerings such as tomato and watermelon gazpacho, jumbo shrimp Cobb salad and strawberry shortcake for $39 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Details: El Chorro, 5550 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley. Brunch, Adults $52, Children 3-12 $16, Children under 3 are free. Dinner, $39 per person. Sunday, May 12th. 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – close. 480-948-5170

Palette at Phoenix Art Museum

Join Palette at Phoenix Art Museum for a special Mother's Day prix-fixe brunch featuring asparagus, mascarpone and parmesan tart with grilled summer squashes, Arizona merlot braised osso bucco with local carrots and griddled polenta, organic lemon grilled half chicken with whipped potatoes, sautéed baby vegetables, and more. Menu features vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Reservations required.

Details: Palette at Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave, Phoenix.  Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. 602-257-2191

Beckett’s Table

Enjoy a menu full of delightful dishes created with local ingredients will be available for guests looking to treat their mothers. Moms can take a break from the kitchen with a choice of house smoked brisket, Nutella crepes and giant sticky buns that will pair perfectly with creatively crafted cocktails such as Miss Katie's Pimms Cup, Mornin' Sunshine and the Basin City Breakfast.

Details: Beckett’s Table, 3717 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix.  Sunday, May 12th. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 602-954-1700

T. Cook’s

Brunch begins with a starter buffet filled with seasonal delights including fresh fruit, assorted salad, pickled vegetables, seafood bar, meats and cheeses and more. Next comes a wide selection of entrees and brunch concludes with a dessert buffet ranging from chocolate layer cake, to lavender and vanilla panna cotta, to caramel and tiramisu martinis.

Details: T. Cook’s Restaurant, 5200 East Camelback Rd., Phoenix.  Sunday, May 12th. 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 602-808-0766

Palmera Room

The brunch buffet offers a dynamic dining experience with a variety of stations to tantalize guests' taste buds. Stations include: brunch buffet, carving stations, soup and salad station, omelet station, waffle and crepe station, sides and a dessert buffet. Standouts include the salmon wellington stuffed with spinach and mushroom, lightly curried cauliflower soup, build-your-own omelets, and customizable waffles and crepes with all the fix-ins, including homemade berry compote, whipped cream and honey butter.

Details: Palmera Room at Royal Palms Resort, 5200 East Camelback Rd., Phoenix.  Sunday, May 12th 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 602-808-0766

LON’s at the Hermosa

LON's at the Hermosa will be helping sons and daughters across the Valley show appreciation to their mother dearest by hosting a four-course Mother's Day brunch. Mothers will be presented with a flower on behalf of LON's and will be able to enjoy a day of rest and relaxation while indulging in a delicious three-course meal - either inside or alfresco - prepared by Executive Chef Jeremy Pacheco and the LON's culinary team, which will include delicious starters, lavish entrees, and amazing desserts.

Details: LON’s at the Hermosa, 5532 North Palo Cristi Rd., Paradise Valley.  Adults $77, Children 5-12 $15. Sunday, May 12th. 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 602 955-8614

More Mother's Day events and specials

Sit back, close your eyes, and pretend you are enjoying this margarita while taking in the beautiful view at El Chorro in Phoenix.

El Chorro Margarita

1 1/2 ounces Casadors Repo Tequila
1 3/4 ounces fresh lime juice
1 3/4 ounces triple sec and sprite

Shake and serve in a 12 oz bucket glass with a short straw and lemon wedge.

Photo courtesy of The Arizona Biltmore Resort

Resort: Arizona Biltmore 

Golf Course: Arizona Biltmore Country Club – The Links & The Adobe Courses

The Arizona Biltmore Country Club boasts 36 challenging holes and a pair of premier resort courses: The Adobe and The Links. Built in 1928 and restored in 2004, The Adobe offers wide fairways and classic cross bunkers. The Links is defined by rolling fairways, desert ravines and five pristine lakes that call for bold shots and demanding accuracy. Equipment rental and professional golf instruction are available.

Specials: Check with the golf course for special summer rates. Guests of the Arizona Biltmore get preferred tee times.

Photo courtesy of Arizona Golf Resort and Conference Center

Resort: Arizona Golf Resort and Conference Center 

Golf Course: Arizona Golf Resort Golf Course

Arizona Golf Resort’s PGA-rated championship course is known for having some of the most picturesque and challenging par three holes in Arizona. The lush fairways are lined with massive cottonwood and eucalyptus trees. You’ll also find serene lake settings, mature vegetation and gently sloping greens. With a slope of 120 and a rating of 70.8, the 6,542-yard, par-71 course offers a test for all skill levels.

Specials: Steak and Golf (a round of golf with cart fee, plus a steak dinner in Annabelle’s Restaurant or Anna’s Grill), $39-$59.

Stay and Play (overnight accommodations in a traditional room, a round of golf with cart fee, and breakfast for two in Annabelle’s Restaurant), $79-$159.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and TPC Scottsdale

Resort: The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Golf Course: TPC Scottsdale

Home of the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open, the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale has hosted some of contemporary golf’s greatest moments since opening in 1986. During the 51 weeks of the year when the Stadium Course isn’t hosting the pros, recreational golfers can test their skills on the same pristine fairways. Rivaling its famous sister course in beauty and playability, the Champions Course meanders between natural ravines and through picturesque foothills. A quartet of challenging finishing holes promises to leave even the best players with goose bumps.

Specials: Summer pricing on the Champions Course, Monday through Friday; play for $35 plus tax, and $49 plus tax on Saturday and Sunday. Includes greens fee, cart fee, and unlimited golf for the day. (Rates valid on the Champions Course only, from June 3 through Sept. 8. See www.tpc.com/summer for additional details.)

Photo courtesy of Sheraton at Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa

Resort: Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort 

Golf Course: Whirlwind Golf Course

Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass features a 36-hole public facility located on the Gila River Indian Community. The Devil’s Claw and Cattail courses, both designed by Gary Panks, provide golfers with a straightforward and enjoyable challenge. Settled in the basin between Phoenix’s famous South Mountain and the Estrella Mountains to the west, Whirlwind lives up to its name with swirling winds nearly every afternoon that put shot-making ability to the ultimate test. In the distance, clouds of dust can often be seen, kicked up by wild horses that roam the land surrounding the course.

Specials: “Swings N Things” special includes 18 holes on Cattail or Devil’s Claw, lunch in the Sivlik Grill and a dozen premium golf balls. (Please call or visit www.whirlwindgolf.com for availability and pricing.)

Photo courtesy of The Boulders, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Resort: The Boulders, A Waldorf Astoria Resort 

Golf Course: The Boulders Club 

The Boulders Club, nestled in the high Sonoran Desert north of Phoenix and Scottsdale, features two championship golf courses, both designed by Jay Morrish. The courses, known for their rugged beauty, are among the most demanding in the Southwest. The North Course is a 6,811-yard, par-72 track featuring spectacular views of Black Mountain. (Wildlife is often visible during play.) The par-71, 6,726-yard South Course features holes tucked amid boulders, including two iconic rock formations, “Boulder Pile” and “Rosie’s Rock”.

Specials: Cool Summer Golf Package. Enjoy a round of golf and lunch. After 9 a.m. Sunday-Thursday, $62; after 10 a.m. Friday and Saturday, $72. This special runs from May 27-Sept. 12.

Photo courtesy of The Phoenician

Resort: The Phoenician 

Golf Course: The Phoenician Golf Course 

The Phoenician’s 27-hole golf course is grouped into three distinctive (and aptly named) nines – the Oasis, the Desert and the Canyon – so golfers can play several 18-hole combinations in the pristine desert at the base of Camelback Mountain.

Specials: Daily unlimited golf for each guest on either of our championship courses (valid for stays through Dec. 31, 2013). Rates start at $269 for one person, $299 for two. When you reserve your stay, please ask for rate plan GOLFPKG.

Photo courtesy of The Wigwam

Resort: The Wigwam 

Golf Course: Wigwam Golf Club

The Wigwam Golf Club features three courses: The Gold, The Patriot and The Heritage.The Gold Course was created in 1964 to rival another of Robert Trent Jones’ courses, the famed South Course at Firestone Country Club. At more than 7,430 yards, this long, winding par-72 course will challenge even the finest of golfers. The Patriot, also a Jones creation, has been described as the “great contradiction” in that it behaves so very differently from front to backside. Golfers must negotiate a number of perilous bunkers, thirsty ponds and challenging dog-leg fairways. The Heritage is nearly 6,900 yards and plays alongside an abundance of natural water features and lush trees. The par-72 layout has generous fairways and greens, but its finishing stretch is as tough as any.

Specials: Tee It Up Package. Play 54 holes of championship golf. Tee off on The Heritage Course, followed by The Patriot Course, then take your shot on the final 18 on “Arizona’s Monster,” the Gold Course. This package Includes a one night of Adobe Fairway accommodations, breakfast at Red’s Bar & Grill, and unlimited same-day consecutive play golf. (Offer subject to availability. Blackout dates and restrictions may apply. Use promo code TEEITUP to book.)

You've probably heard of Camelback Mountain, but there are plenty of other trails in Greater Phoenix that are perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Here's a list of a few of our staff members' favorite hiking trails in the metro area.

Nature Trail at Piestawa Peak

Don't mistake this hike for a nature stroll. Even though it's located in the middle of the city, it can be a little rugged. This is a great hike for learning about the desert, thanks to the informational plaques placed along the trail.

The trailhead is located at the Apache picnic area at the end of the entrance road in Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area. Paved parking, drinking water and restrooms are available. This hike is about 1.5 miles.

Fat Man's Pass

Located within the 17,000 acres of desert in South Mountain Park, Fat Man's Pass is a great hike for families. This trail gets its name from the 20-foot-long passage between smooth granite boulders that are only a foot apart in some places. (Claustrophobes, don't worry: You can go around the boulders if you want.)

This hike begins at the Buena Vista Lookout, which is approximately 6.5 miles from the park entrance. Follow road signs along Summit Road to the "Buena Vista/Hidden Valley Lookout". The parking area for this trailhead has limited spaces and is usually full during peak seasons. The trail, which is initially paved, provides direct access to the National Trail. At that junction, head east on the National Trail. You'll reach Fat Man's Pass in about 1.8 miles.

Sunrise Trail at McDowell Mountains

When you reach the high point of this hike, you'll likely forget that you're on the edge of the sixth-largest city in the U.S. The Sunrise Trail is located McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a 21,400-acre desert jewel in the northeast Valley. This isn't an easy hike, but it pays off in the end with sweeping views of the desert floor.

The Sunrise Access Area is located at 144th Street and Via Linda. There is an upper parking lot and a lower parking lot. The one-way trek to Sunrise Peak is a little less than 2 miles; from there you can turn around or hike another 3 miles or so to Lost Dog Overlook.

Coach Whip to Sunrise Pass

This dog-friendly hike is located within Thunderbird Conservation Park, a 1,185-acre park in the Hedgepeth Hills. From the top you'll look down on homes and golf courses with views of mountains to the north. This is also a great trail to run.

This trail originates at the 67th Avenue parking lot at Patrick Lane and intersects with the Sunrise Trail on the west side of the park. The distance varies from 2 to 5 miles depending on your return route; there are several options for looping back to the trailhead.

Hieroglyphics Trail in the Superstitions

This is easy hike to ancient petroglyphs that resemble Egyptian hieroglyphics. Start at the Hieroglyphic Canyon Trailhead in the southwest corner of the Superstition Wilderness Area. You'll soon reach a spring where clear water pools in the rocks. In the stone cliffs next to these pools are several petroglyphs carved by the Hohokam.

To reach the Hieroglyphic Canyon Trailhead, take U.S. 60 to Kings Ranch Road, between mile markers 202 and 203, and turn north. Proceed 2.8 miles, then turn east on Baseline Road. This round-trip hike is about 2 miles.

For these trails and more consult our Phoenix hiking map, and to arrange a guided hike check out these outfitters and tour companies.

The most edible week in Arizona is almost here.  Explore Arizona’s best restaurants at amazing prices May 18 - 27 during Spring Arizona Restaurant Week. The Greater Phoenix area is fast becoming a foodie destination, so this is a great opportunity to see what the buzz is all about at an affordable price. Reservations will fill up fast for the most popular restaurants so make your reservations today!

Which restaurants are you most excited to try during Arizona Restaurant Week?

Cinco de Mayo will be here before you know it. Enjoy this variation on the classic margarita from Relish Burger Bistro at The Phoenician.

Watermelon Agave Margarita

2 oz. Tequila (we recommend a reposado such as Siete Leguas or Anjeo such as Tonala)

1 – 1 ½ oz. agave nectar

Fresh muddled watermelon

Squeeze of lime