WHERE TO STAY:
The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa owes its distinctive look to Frank Lloyd Wright, a consulting architect on the property when it was constructed in 1929. Since then, it has become the spot where the well-to-do get their R&R. The grounds are so beautiful that they’ve even been known to inspire genius—Irving Berlin wrote “White Christmas” at the Biltmore while basking poolside in the sizzling Arizona sun (2400 E. Missouri Ave., 800-950-2575, www.arizona biltmore.com). For more cozy than colossal, try The Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley. Located about half an hour outside of Phoenix, the Hermosa was hand-built by cowboy artist Lon Megargee in the 1930s to serve as his home and studio. Today, the community of 35 guest cottages and villas embodies Southwestern charm while offering inviting amenities. Enjoy scenic surroundings (and incredible American cuisine) from on-site restaurant LON’s outdoor patio. The charming outdoor fireplace is sure to keep you warm on cool desert nights (5532 N. Palo Cristi Rd., 800-241-1210, www.hermosainn.com).
Located in the Historical District, neighborhood favorite My Florist Café offers fresh salads and delicious sandwiches served on freshly baked bread from the next-door Willo factory. The “simple but chic” atmosphere makes for an upscale, yet inexpensive, lunch or a swanky, late-night bite—the kitchen stays open until midnight (534 W. McDowell Rd., 602-254-0333, www.myfloristcafe.com). When there’s business to be done over dinner, book a table at T. Cook’s, voted the no. 1 restaurant in Phoenix by Zagat’s. The Royal Palms Resort and Spa’s eatery is renowned for its elegant décor and Executive Chef Lee Hillson’s fire-roasted Mediterranean cuisine (5200 E. Camelback Rd., 866-579-3636). If you’ve got several hours to kill, put your name in at Pizzeria Bianco—there’s sure to be a long wait—and grab a drink at owner Chris Bianco’s beer and wine bar next door. Once you’re seated, you’ll be treated to authentic Italian-style, thin-crust, wood-fired pizza made from the finest ingredients (623 E. Adams St., 602-258-8300, www.pizzeriabianco.com). If you’re in the nearby Scottsdale area and looking for a bite, stop by Mosaic. The modern, oasis-style setting combined with the delectable, wide-ranging menu makes for an enjoyable evening for all the senses. Meatlovers will love chef/owner Deborah Knight’s fresh game platters, while herbivores go more for the vegetable samplers or tofu dishes (10600 E. Jomax Rd., Scottsdale, 480-563-9600, www.mosaic-restaurant.com). Inside the understated exterior of Medizona—also in Scottsdale—lies a famished foodie’s dream. Chef Konstantin Mescheryakoz mixes Mediterranean and Southwestern flavors (the name Medizona is a hybrid of Mediterranean and Arizona), making hungry patrons happy with dishes like roasted lamb with moussaka tart (7217 E. 4th Ave., Scottsdale, 480-947-9500, www.medizonarestaurant.com).
In an area so rich with history, you’d be remiss to skip town without learning about the Southwest’s native cultures. The Heard Museum is the best place to start. Displaying an extensive collection of Native American art, jewelry, and cultural objects, the museum was elected a Point of Pride by Phoenix residents. Like what you see? Check out the museum’s gift shop where you can find authentic American Indian pottery, paintings, katsina dolls, and more (Main location: 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-252-8848, www.heard.org). Just as Phoenix’s historical influences are unique to the Southwest, the landscape is distinctive as well. Get in touch with nature at the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see 4,000 different species of beautiful, arid-land plants across 50 sprawling acres. The garden is also home to 139 rare, threatened, or endangered plant species (1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., 480-941-1225, www.dbg.org). If you’re feeling lucky, take your chances at Casino Arizona. In addition to 1,500 slot machines, 50 poker tables, and live blackjack, this adult playground plays host to shows and concerts, like Jerry Jeff Walker, who’s in town this month (524 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale, 480-850-7777, www.casinoaz.com).
