Scottsdale, Phoenix & Flagstaff

Scottsdale

Scottsdale is located in the lush Sonoran Desert, in close proximity to Phoenix to the east. Scottsdale is the premier vacation destination offering convenient access to an international airport. Scottsdale is known for its world-class resorts and hotels, more than 200 championship golf courses, luxurious spas, and mouth-watering restaurants that include both award-winning eateries and off-the-beaten-track gems. In addition, Scottsdale is home to an internationally renowned arts and cultural scene that boasts more than 125 art galleries, museums and art-themed special events. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, visitors can enjoy shopping, outdoor events and festivals, and a multitude of outdoor adventures and activities like hot air balloon rides, off-road desert tours, horseback riding, rafting, hiking and more. Scottsdale also offers a free year-round trolley to help you explore the different downtown districts, which include Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale Waterfront, SouthBridge, Fifth Avenue, Scottsdale Arts District, Old Town and the Entertainment District

Phoenix

Phoenix is the fifth-largest city United States, a bustling metropolis that beckons recreational adventurers, discerning golfers, and connoisseurs of culture and cuisine. Phoenix is also the heart of the American Southwest, where the local history is a testament to puebloans, cowboys and miners, and the desert landscape is defined by rugged mountains, red rock and the kind of cactus most people see only in cartoons. Sunshine is to Phoenix what fog is to London, so it's the perfect setting for patio dining, mountain walks, hot-air balloon tours or just lounging next to a resort swimming pool. The metropolitan area is also home to America's newest light-rail system, renowned museums dedicated to Native American art and culture, and one of the nation's most celebrated spa scenes. Shopping? The spectrum spans Southwest jewellery and decor to-die-for designer fashion, often showcased in open-air malls. Golf? The Scottish may have invented the sport, but Phoenicians are ever perfecting it with beautiful desert-style courses that are playable year round. And, last but certainly not least, Phoenix is the gateway to one of the world's Seven Natural Wonders: the Grand Canyon. This breathtaking landmark is only a 3.5-hour drive from the city centre, and plenty of scenic stops lie in between.

Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF, THE IDEAL BASE FOR EXPLORING THE TREASURES OF NORTHERN ARIZONA AND THE GRAND CANYON. Surrounded by natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, some of the West's most beautiful country surrounds Flagstaff, from the Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks (12,633 feet/3,851 meters) to the Red Rocks of Sedona to the rugged deserts of neighbouring Native American nations. Grand Canyon National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument, and Meteor Crater are all within easy driving distance, as are many more archaeological treasures and attractions.

But that's not all. With over 200 restaurants, a variety of outstanding accommodations, world-class attractions, and colorful nightspots our small-town charm gives big town excitement. When in Flagstaff, don't miss the Arboretum, presenting the nation's primary collection of Southwestern high country wildflowers. Or gaze into the universe at Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered and Apollo Astronauts mapped their landing site on the moon. History buffs will enjoy visiting Riordan Mansion and a walk or drive on historic Route 66.Visitors to the Flagstaff area are often surprised to find some of the most beautiful scenery in the Southwest in and around Flagstaff, with lush woodlands, majestic mountains, and string of National Parks and Monuments that showcase the areas interesting geologic features and ancient Native ruins.Flagstaff is an easy 2-hour drive north of Phoenix or 4 hours Southeast from Las Vegas and just 1.5 hour scenic drive from Grand Canyon National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park

Listed as one of the natural wonders of the world and listed by BBC and others as one of the worlds must see destinations, Grand Canyon winds through Northern Arizona for a distance of 277 miles. The deepest portion (6,000 ft) and the widest (over 18 miles) section are located within the boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park. Magnificent views exist from along the rim trail and at numerous stops along the road. Many hardy visitors do take multi day hiking trips to the bottom, though even just taking a short walk below the rim will give the visitor an amazing experience. The South rim portion of the park is open year round.