Arizona KEY Travel Magazine Digital Edition September 2018

ARIZONA

ARIZONA’S MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

T R AV E L

MA G AZ I NE

Top 9 Reasons

September 2018

A HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

IN AZ

Should Make Your Bucket List

LESS IS MORE:

Vacationing

IN AN ARIZONA

TINY HOUSE KEY Guide to Camping Your Way

ACROSS ARIZONA

WATSON LAKE:

Prescott’s Hidden Oasis www.ArizonaKEY.com

EXPERIENCE MUSIC LIKE NEVER BEFORE

“Whatever you are picturing in your mind, multiply it by 100 and maybe you’ll get a sense of how cool this place is.”

—MIM guest, Facebook

MIM.org

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Open Daily | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 3

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Featuring unique southwestern furniture along with a spectacular selection of Native American Indian Jewelry.

Old Town Scottsdale 480-990-1808 Main St. & Scottsdale Rd. gilbertortegagallery@gmail.com Not affiliated with the Gallup, NM stores.

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Don’t scrap your Native American jewelry & silver, come see us5first.

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We’re here, there and everywhere.

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is the perfect hub for your Arizona adventure. Sedona, Wine Country and Historical sites are within easy reach from our ideal location.

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cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

800.381.7568 | I-17, Exit 289 • Just south of Sedona

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Must be 21 or older to play. Please play responsibly. © Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

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letter from the GOVERNOR OF ARIZONA

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CONTENTS Arizona KEY Magazine | September 2018 | ArizonaKEY.com

on the cover.............................................. pg. 22

TOP 9 REASONS an Arizona Hot Air Balloon

Ride Should Be on Your Bucket List

features ON THE ROAD TO PRESCOTT PHOTO BY JENN AGEMA

events

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8 16 30 53 56 62 64 65 72 75 82 95 96

Governor Doug Ducey’s Letter Editor’s Page: AZ Outdoor Spaces Our Tiny House Experience in AZ On Stage: AZ Performing Arts Sedona’s Top 5 Hikes A Review of Steakhouse 89 Why Are Sedona’s Rocks Red? Pink Jeep Adventure Tours Prescott’s Oasis: Watson Lake Arizona’s Best Campgrounds Stargazing: Arizona’s Night Skies Arizona Fun Facts Concierge Corner

18 25 27 28 52

Scottsdale, Phoenix & Central AZ Sedona, Prescott & N Central AZ Williams, Flagstaff & Northern AZ Tucson & Southern AZ Performing Arts Events Arizona KEYMagazine

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CONTENTS Sedona, Prescott and North Central AZ

Williams, Flagstaff and Northern AZ

54

85

Grand Canyon

Tucson and Southern AZ

66

90 Phoenix, Scottsdale and Central AZ

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The ONLY aquarium in the world where the first exhibit is the restroom.

Ranked #1 in America

azfoothills.com

azfoothills.com

For tickets visitBEST BEST 2018

BEST OF OUR VALLEY 2018

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OF OF OUR OUR OdySeaAquarium.com VALLEY VALLEY 2018

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480.291.8000 9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256 ArizonaKEY.com

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Top 10 Arizona experiences 34 60 76 78 80 88 92

Phoenix, Scottsdale & Central AZ Sedona Glendale Cave Creek & Carefree Prescott Northern Arizona Southern Arizona

city snapshots 36 54 68 86 90

Phoenix, Scottsdale & Central AZ Sedona, Prescott & N Central AZ Grand Canyon Northern AZ Tucson & Southern AZ

maps 44 58 69 70 74 74 91 94

Scottsdale Sedona Grand Canyon Village Metropolitan Phoenix Downtown Phoenix Glendale & West Valley Tucson & Southern Arizona State of Arizona

connect with KEY We’re social! Connect with us on Facebook, Google Plus, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube, and more!

ARIZONA KEY MAGAZINE Publisher & Digital Media Jeff Webbe Editor Serena Webbe

Search Arizona KEY Magazine on your favorite social network.

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ArizonaKEY.com This magazine is authorized by and the trademark KEY and KEY design are licensed

by KEY Magazines Inc. Copyright 2018 by Arizona KEY Magazine, a dba of G2H Media and Publishing, LLC. All Rights Reserved. No portion of this magazine or website may be reproduced without the written consent of Arizona KEY Magazine. Arizona KEY Magazine makes every effort to maintain the accuracy of the information provided in the magazines and website, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes and omissions. Arizona KEY Magazine is affiliated with a growing national network of independently owned visitor guides. Visit KEYmagazine.com for more information.

ARIZONA KEY MAGAZINE • 480.478.0628 • info@ArizonaKEY.com

Please tell our advertisers you saw it in KEY!!

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Business Development Mgr. Dan Davidson Writers Johnny Fenton Kirstin Conlon Photographer / Creative Contributer Jennifer Agema ADVERTISE 877.KEY.2GRO advertise@ArizonaKEY.com

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S��� R���� V������ C����� � N����� A������� A�� G������ Open Tuesday-Friday, 10a-4p, the Visitor Center features entertainment district concierge service, information on the Salt River Indian Community and Native American art.

9120 E. Talking Stick Way, Suite E-10 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 Located in the Pavilions shopping center next to FrontGate 480.362.2700 | TalkingStickArizona.com | Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community | Scottsdale, AZ

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editor’spage: Arizona's Lake &

Campground

Adventures

S

ometimes we make the choice to take the road less traveled.

It often broadens our horizons and stretches out our comfort zone, but it’s nearly always the right choice nonetheless.

In this month’s issue, we explore our ‘outdoorsiest’ travel options. Whether soaring above the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon, squeezing into a tiny house 16

to appreciate our natural surroundings, braving land and lake, or forging our own adventures, Arizona is brimming with wild spaces to discover.

On page 22, you’ll read our 9 point assertion that hot air ballooning should make it on everyone’s bucket list. We sent our travel writer out on assignment to Cottonwood, Arizona to give you a feel for Arizona KEYMagazine

the sensory amplification that occurs by dialing down the size of your living space and stepping out into nature. That article starts on page 30.

We highlight an exciting way to hit the trails of Sedona with Pink Jeep Adventure Tours on page 65. And on page 72, we tell the tale of spending a stormy day on Watson Lake, Prescott’s other-worldly oasis.

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ARIZONA’S OPEN ROAD On the way to Watson Lake in Prescott, AZ Photo by Jenn Agema Finally, don’t miss our musings on ways to appreciate the night sky, or our Guide to the Best Campgrounds in Arizona. However you decide to ‘see’ this gorgeous state, be sure to look from all angles, and consider alternate vantage points, and potentially less populated routes. AZ 17

event calendar Scottsdale, Phoenix & Central AZ

MIM MUSIC THEATER

CONCERTS:

With outstanding acoustics and an up-close-and-personal experience, the MIM Music Theater is the Valley’s premier concert venue. For tickets call 480.478.6000. For a complete schedule of concerts and events, visit MIM.org.

Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino Saturday, September 22 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $33.50 - $43.50 Striking and exciting reinventing of southern Italy’s pizzica musical and dance traditions.

Take a walk on the Wild Side

Boyce Thompson

Arboretum

37615 E. Arboretum Way | Superior, Arizona 85173

(602) 827-3000 arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

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$3 OFF

General Admission

Bobby McFerrin: Circlesongs Tuesday, September 25 and Wednesday, September 26 7:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

Tickets: $48.50 - $68.50 Incredible vocalist who takes the audience on a musical journey into the depths of his soul.

Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino Arizona KEYMagazine

ARIZONA’S MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES LIVE MUSIC ALL MONTH Rusty Spur Saloon (SCOTTSDALE) Enjoy live country and western music daily in a historic building in Old Town Scottsdale that used to be a bank! Walk through the swingin’ doors at the Rusty Spur Saloon for a good time with great music, 480-425-7787.

ALL MONTH Desert Diamond Casino (GLENDALE) A good time is never far away. Desert Diamond West Valley Casino’s shuttle, the Jackpot Express, picks up & drops off at several locations throughout the West Valley.

Located right in the heart of Glendale’s entertainment district. Where jackpots hit close to home. Visit ddcaz. com or 866-DDC-WINS. ALL MONTH HOME: Native People in the Southwest (PHOENIX) Experience the Heard’s most prized masterpieces, sweeping landscapes, poetry and personal recollections

on an unforgettable journey through the Southwest and the vibrant arts and cultures of Native people. Heard Museum, 602-252-8840.

ALL MONTH Awa Tsireh: Pueblo Painter and Metalsmith (PHOENIX) This exhibit explores the paintings and metalworks of San Ildefonso artist Awa Tsireh (Alfonso Roybal). Born at San Ildefonso Pueblo in 1898, Awa Tsireh began his painting career in 1917 and by the early 1920s his work was exhibited nationally. His whimsical silver brooches and large copper and silver trays were decorated with intricate stampwork. Heard Museum, 602-252-8840.

TUESDAY - SUNDAY Canvas of Clay: Hopi Pottery Masterworks from The Allan and Judith Cooke Collection (SCOTTSDALE) Features more than 65 ceramics from one of the finest private collections of Hopi pottery, on exhibit for the first time.

Spanning 6 centuries, this exhibition explores the history and stylistic traditions of the Hopi, who have excelled in the creation of ceramics for generations.

Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, 480-686-9539.

WEDNESDAYS Wine Tasting Cruises (FOUNTAIN HILLS) Enjoy a wine tasting and live music cruising on the Desert Belle!

Call 480-984-2425 and mention “KEY” for special savings! (See Ad Page 47) THURSDAYS The Arizona Blues Project (CAVE CREEK) Enjoy Blues, R&B, Classic Rock, Funk & Soul every Thursday at Harold’s Corral, 8pm-11pm, 480-488-1906.

THURSDAYS Art Walk (SCOTTSDALE) Wander into galleries while strolling around tree-covered courtyards, famed restaurants & more.

Downtown Scottsdale, 7pm–9pm, 800-782-1117.

WORLD-CLASS AMERICAN INDIAN ART 2301 N. CENTRAL AVE. PHOENIX, AZ 85004 602.252.8840 | HEARD.ORG

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event calendar Scottsdale, Phoenix & Central AZ All Month Refik Anadol: Infinity Room Exhibit (SCOTTSDALE) This immersive installation invites visitors to step into a mirrored room that uses light, sound and technology to create a three-dimensional kinetic and architectonic space. Experience Refik Anadol’s Infinity Room exhibit for yourself! Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 480-874-4666, smoca.org September 1 Slumber Under the Sea (SCOTTSDALE) Ever wonder what sharks do after dark? Find out at OdySea Aquarium’s overnight event starting at 6pm on September 1st. Guests learn all about aquarium life at night, get a ‘night walk’ behind the scenes tour, animal ambassador appearances, and hands on activities. Enjoy pizza, popcorn and a movie, and then it’s time to sleep with the fishes! Breakfast and admission the following day are also included.

For participants 8 and older. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult. $99 per person. www.odyseaaquarium.com, (480) 291-8000.

NOW AVAILABLE TO PLAY ON PHD’S!

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See the Rewards Club for full details. You must be at least 21 years old. Knowing your limit is your best bet-get help at (800) 547-6133.

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September 1 - 3 Labor Day Luau (SCOTTSDALE) OdySea Aquarium is bringing a Beach Party to the Desert for a Labor Day Celebration!

Tropical themes, performances, and character appearances create an immersive island experience. Live programs highlight indo-pacific animals and exhibits. And there’s more! Labor Day Luau also includes: Penguin limbo, Meet Moana, Krazy Kinetic Sand and Beach Party Bingo! Activities included with admission. www. odyseaaquarium.com, (480) 291-8000.

September 1 - 4 A Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature (PHOENIX) Explore nature’s puzzles, patterns and mazes. They surround us everywhere, revealing fascinating and surprising clues about this amazing planet. You just have to know where to look for them. A Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature promises to be a great summer experience at the Arizona Science Center, 602-716-2000, azscience.org

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ARIZONA’S MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES September 7 Artlink First Fridays (PHOENIX) Enjoy the spirit and culture of downtown Phoenix as you tour art galleries, venues, and related spaces on a free shuttle starting at the Phoenix Art Museum.

Major stops on each route, 6-10pm, 602-256-7539.

September 8 Children’s Learning and Play Festival (SCOTTSDALE) This unique one day showcase features vendors and speakers with emphasis on education and entertainment. Indoor shows and play areas for all ages and more. Show times: 9am-4pm, FREE admission, parking is $5.

Prizes, giveaways and food for purchase. Bring nonperishable food items for the Vista Del Camino Food Bank.

Takes place at Westworld of Scottsdale. 602-617-4502, azchildrensfestival.com September 14 - 16 Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market (SCOTTSDALE) Shop over 120,000 square feet filled with vintage curators and handmade artisans from across the US. Enjoy music, food trucks and unique shopping. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 480-599-8974, junkinthetrunkvintagemarket. com September 15 Messy Fest (QUEEN CREEK) 8am – 1pm on Saturday, Sept.15th, get messy for a ArizonaKEY.com

great cause. Ideal for kids and kids-at-heart, this outdoor event features all things cluttered, chaotic and untidy!

Massive mud pits designed for jumping into; giant finger-painting; a mashedpotato tug–of–war; and a food fight are a few of the sloppy stops. A human “car wash” zone is available for rinsing off. Proceeds benefit a local children’s charity.

Break free from the ordinary and focus all of your energy on fun. Good messy fun! At Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, 602-341-5724, messyfest.com September 21 - 30 Untamed: Wild Compositions by Frank Gonzales (PHOENIX) This exhibition explores pollinators and natural elements from the Sonoran Desert, playfully arranged in dynamic, fantasyrich compositions. Known for his vivid avian subjects, Gonzales is a classically trained painter with a fresh, contemporary perspective.

Desert Botanical Garden, 480-941-1225, dbg.org September 22 9th Annual Brazilian Day Festival (SCOTTSDALE) The largest, most authentic, and award-winning Brazilian Independence Day Festival in the Valley. This ‘all ages’ Brazilian Festival for the whole family showcases a variety of Brazilian culture, including: Live Brazilian Bands, DJ’s, Dancers,

Capoeira, Jiu-Jitsu, Film, Performances, Shopping, Food and more! Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 480-499-8587, braziliandayarizona.com September 29 Chile Pepper Festival (PHOENIX) This food, music & talent event brings some of the best local restaurateurs and chefs, and highlights the most delicious chile pepper cuisine Phoenix has to offer. Onsite chile roasting, cooking demos, live music, salsa dancing, kids’ activities, a talent show, a Beer Garden AND a gourmet margarita station! Crowning this year’s Chile Pepper Champion will culminate the festivities. $10 admission.

Food & bev available for purchase. Roosevelt Row Arts District, 602-829-5259, chilepepperfest.org EVERY SATURDAY Rock ‘N’ Roll McDonald’s Car Show (SCOTTSDALE) Complete with 50’s era music, this showcase of anywhere from 250–500 cars, and up to 150 motorcycles and choppers, is sure to satisfy collectors, dreamers, and aficionados, alike. The Pavilions at Talking Stick, 4pm-8pm, 480-362-2700.

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Top 9 Reasons

A Hot Air BALLOON RIDE in az Should Make Your Bucket List #1 Get a load of this sunrise... enough said.

#2 You don’t always have to get up early.

Not a fan of getting up at 5:00am? No problem! Hot Air Expeditions offers daily hot air balloon rides in the morning, year-round, and also offers sunset balloon rides seasonally, from November through March. So, if you’re a repeat snooze offender, plan your ballooning excursion for the Fall/Winter months.

#3 Phoenix, AZ has the best ballooning weather.

Phoenix, Arizona is home to the most flyable days per year for hot air balloons in the country!

Why? The Arizona skies provide consistently calm and stable weather conditions, 300+ days of sunshine per year, and boast an abundance of launching/landing locations for hot air balloons.

#4 The best in the biz are here in Arizona.

Hot Air Expeditions is the best there is in ballooning.

This local, woman-owned outfit has been ballooning in Arizona for over 27 years. Their pilots and staff are all friendly and charming, the cuisine that accompanies all flights is delectable, and they have been rated the “Best Balloon Flight in Phoenix” by Fodor’s Travel for 23 consecutive years. We couldn’t agree more!

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Arizona KEYMagazine

W

e are mesmerized every time we catch a glimpse of colorful hot air balloons dotting the Arizona skies.

Their captivating beauty and peacefulness feels almost otherworldly. If you haven’t been on a hot air balloon ride in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona we highly recommend adding this to your list of must-do’s. Why? We’re giving you 9 great reasons to add this to your Arizona Bucket List. #5 It’s completely safe.

Hot air ballooning is one of the oldest forms of flight, and is also one of the safest! When looking for a hot air balloon company to take you up, up and away you will want to make sure the company you choose employs FAA-certified hot air balloon pilots, has the appropriate insurances, has a good safety record, and that their equipment is regularly inspected by an FAA-approved facility. Hot Air Expeditions fits the bill on all of these, but it is important to investigate this regardless of what company you go with and where you choose to take flight.

#6 Views that won’t quit.

On a typical Arizona hot air balloon flight, you can expect to soar anywhere from 2,000-5,000 feet in the air, and let’s just say, the views are absolutely spectacular. The Sonoran Desert and surrounding mountain ranges look even more breathtaking from up in the air, when glancing over the top of a sturdy wicker basket. (continued on page 30)

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#7 Have no fear... it’s pure tranquility.

Afraid of heights? You will do just fine on a hot air balloon ride! Since there is no sense of perspective (like you get when you look down the side of a tall building) it’s hard to tell whether you are 300 feet or 3,000 feet off of the ground. Hot air balloon rides are also very calm and peaceful, almost as if you are simply floating above the ground. Those with motion sickness aren’t usually impacted either, since you are flying with the wind speed and direction, so there is very little or no sense of motion.

#8 The perfect Arizona Photo Op.

Even for those who just carry a smartphone up in the air, it is impossible not to get an Instagram-worthy photo. The beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape and other hot air balloons flying in the area do all the hard work for you! We recommend bringing a selfie stick and/or GoPro to capture some great shots, otherwise, just hold on tight while you grab that selfie up, up and away.

#9 There’s a celebration afterwards.

After conquering the skies, you’ll be treated to gourmet cuisine — including bubbly — to celebrate your once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Upon landing, Hot Air Expeditions serves up mouth-watering fare from the award-winning Vincent’s on Camelback restaurant. Dining right in the heart of the desert, surrounded by nature including majestic saguaro cacti, the post-flight dining experience feels as though you have been transported into a dreamland.

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HOT AIR EXPEDITIONS Check In Location: Deer Valley Airport 702 W. Deer Valley Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85027 (480) 502-6999 www.hotairexpeditions.com

Ready to take flight and check off this Arizona bucket list experience?

For more information and reservations, call (480) 502-6999 or visit their website: www.hotairexpeditions.com. AZ Arizona KEYMagazine

Sedona, Prescott & N Central AZ ALL MONTH Out of Africa Wildlife Park (CAMP VERDE) Experience a completely different view of wildlife where exotic animals from around the world roam in spacious habitats. And with exciting shows like Tiger Splash and Predator Feed, Out of Africa is like nothing you’ve ever seen.

Open daily, 928-567-2840 (See Page 61 for coupon) ALL MONTH Pink Jeep Tours (SEDONA) For the most popular offroad tour into Sedona’s magnificent outback, be sure to book the Broken Arrow Tour. History buffs can explore the mystery and capture history on the Ancient Ruin Tour. For See-Forever Vistas, climb aboard the Scenic Rim Tour!

Experience thrilling drops on the Diamond Gulch Tour.

Call 833-314-7465 to book an amazing dventure!

event calendar

ALL MONTH Live Music at REDs (SEDONA) Acclaimed for its lively and comfortable atmosphere, REDS restaurant at the Sedona Rouge features live evening entertainment daily, 6-9pm, 928-282-5321.

MONDAYS Scientific Vortex Information (SEDONA) M.I.T. Honors Graduate, Pete A. Sanders Jr., teaches attendees how to understand and tap Sedona’s famous Vortexes for enhanced prayer, meditation, mind/ body healing and outside the box creative thinking.

Los Abrigados Resort & Spa, 1pm-2:30pm, $15, call to reserve, 928-203-5353.

TUESDAY - SATURDAY Live Entertainment at Timbers Lounge (PINETOP) Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center features 800 of the newest

slots & poker room and 128 oversized hotel rooms. Enjoy FREE live entertainment Tuesday - Saturday at Timbers Lounge, call 1-800-WAY-UP-HI (800-929-8744).

WEDNESDAYS Wineaux Wednesday Sedona’s Best Sunsets & Wine Tasting features a dozen wines from our wine cellar to taste. A different wine expert each week will answer questions about the day’s wine selections, Happy Hour Tapas menu and live entertainment starts at 6pm. soundbitesgrill.com FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Live Entertainment & Dance at Dragonfly (CAMP VERDE) Cliff Castle Casino Hotel’s Dragonfly Nightclub is the place to enjoy live music, dancing and fun every Friday & Saturday night starting at 9pm, 800-381-SLOT.

TIGER SPLASH AT OUT OF AFRICA WILDLIFE PARK. SEE PAGE 61 FOR SPECIAL OFFER.

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event calendar September 1 Labor Day Reggae Fest 2018 (CAMP VERDE) Cliff Castle Casino brings back the Labor Day Reggae Fest!

5 bands take the Stargazer stage to help you get your party on. Local favorite Kill Babylon Coalition, Maka Roots, the Ras Jahge Band (formerly Uproot), Through the Roots and Black Uhuru!

Admission $25 ($30 at the door) 800.381.SLOT (7568) cliffcastlecasinohotel.com September 1 - 3 Faire on the Square Arts & Crafts Show (PRESCOTT) Enjoy one of the largest arts & crafts shows in the Southwest with goods from over 130 vendors under the cool American Elm trees in historic downtown Prescott. Courthouse Plaza, 928-445-2000, prescott.org September 6 - 8 Northern Gila County Fair (PAYSON) Live music, exhibits, demos, classes, livestock show and auction, flat track racing, talent show, carnival, cornhole and more!

Payson Event Center, www. ngcfair.com, 928-474-5242 September 6 - 9 44th Annual Yavapai Fair (PRESCOTT) Exhibits, carnival, pig racing, food & fun. Tickets are $6 individually, or purchase a Family Pack for 1-4 days for $16-$35. Prescott Frontier Rodeo Grounds. 928-8996056, yavapaifair.com 26

Sedona, Prescott & N Central AZ

September 7, 14, 21 & 28 Fall Friday Flicks (SEDONA) Posse Grounds Park offers the perfect backdrop for families & friends to gather for a family-friendly movie on the lower softball field. Bring a chair/blanket and flashlight.

Movies begin at dusk. FREE. Concessions available to purchase. 7pm-10pm.

928-282-7098.

September 8 2nd Saturday Fusion (SEDONA) Art Fusion: from 1pm-7pm every Second Saturday of the month, visitors can Meet the Artists, shop with local merchants, enjoy food and wine tastings, FREE refreshments and live music along with children’s activities. 928-200-9675 September 8 - 9 Red Rocks Music Festival (SEDONA) ​7:30pm-9:30pm Two hours of music in the red rocks of Sedona.

Admission $28 Students $10. At Sedona Creative Life Center. 602-402-4551.

September 8 & 20 Raptors on the Rails (CLARKDALE) Hop aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad on Sept. 8th to get up close to Sonora, the only bald eagle in the world that regularly enjoys a train ride!

At the depot on Sept. 20th, hear talks on raptors and other critters during FREE presentations. 800-5827245, verdecanyonrr.com.

September 12 - 15 Thunder Valley Rally (COTTONWOOD) Vendors, camping, Miss TVR pin up contest, music, bootlegging poker run and more. $10 weekend pass. Riverfront Park & Old Town Cottonwood, thundervalleyrallyaz.com, 928-639-3200 September 22 Prescott Octoberfest (PRESCOTT) 5pm-10pm. 21 and Up Event. Pre-Sale: $30 for 10 Sample Tickets; Day of Event: $40, Non-Drinkers: $5. Music, Vendors, Brauts, 120 Beers on Tap and Fireworks! Mile High Middle School, 928-499-9646, prescottevents.net September 22 - 23 10th Annual Sedona Wine Fest (SEDONA) 20 AZ wineries, food, music and vendors, with panormic views of Sedona.

11am-5pm. $35 per person in advance or $40 at the door.

FREE for kids and non-tasters.

Posse Ground Park, 928-8620210, sedonawinefest.com September 18 - 31 Ales on Rails (CLARKDALE) Fall is the perfect reason to savor the autumn colors of the Verde Valley and the rich craft beers served at Verde Canyon Railroad’s popular event. Frothy delights start flowing each day at 11am on the depot patio with Oktoberfest-style brews produced by AZ breweries.

The party continues on board (regular ticket required) Verde Canyon Railroad, 800-5827245, verdecanyonrr.com

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Williams, Flagstaff & Northern Az event calendar ALL MONTH Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park (WILLIAMS) Drive into the Arizona wilderness and witness herd and pack life from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle. Walk through Bearizona’s winding paths to enjoy the antics of more animals on exhibit. Jaguar exhibit and restaurant: Canyonlands. 928-6352289. bearizona.com FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Meet an Astronomer at Lowell Observatory (FLAGSTAFF) Meet a Lowell astronomer Friday & Saturday evenings from 7:30-10pm* and take a peek at real-time images of planets, stars, galaxies & other celestial objects to be displayed on a large television screen with the new MallinCam, Call for info: 928-774-3358. *Subject to astronomer availability.

September 1 Steam Saturdays: Train to the Grand Canyon (WILLIAMS) The Grand Canyon Railway celebrates the history of rail travel with several steam-powered excursions each year.

An operational steam locomotive can be a rare sight in the 21st Century, but Grand Canyon Railway keeps two fully-restored vintage steam locomotives in service for these special Fall rides.

928-635-4010 or www. thetrain.com ArizonaKEY.com

September 1 - 3 Coconino County Fair (FLAGSTAFF) The largest event in Northern AZ promises exciting rides, carnival games, live entertainment, great food, livestock tents, and a plethora of exhibits and competitions to browse. Fort Tuthill County Park, 928-679-8000, coconinocountyfair.com September 5 - 8 75th Annual Apache County Fair (ST. JOHNS) Carnival rides, rodeo events, dog shows and an old west shootout provides something for everyone. Apache County Fairgrounds, 928-245-6803, apachecountyfair.org September 9 Wine in the Woods (FLAGSTAFF) Many regional Arizona wineries will convene in one place for you to taste some of their delicious wines. It will be paired with incredible samplings of regional cuisine, among the lush scenery of the Arboretum.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff, 928-774-1442, thearb.org September 14 - 16 Pickin’ in the Pines: Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Festival (FLAGSTAFF) Three days of great bluegrass and acoustic music, dancing, jamming, camping, educational workshops, kids activities, and more.

Among the headliners: the Del McCoury Band, and Della Mae. Fort Tuthill County Park Pepsi Amphitheater, 480-656-9940, pickininthepines.org September 29 Cornucopia Fall Festival (FLAGSTAFF) Carnival rides and games, hay maze, pumpkin patch, pie-eating contest, petting zoo, circus performers, giant kids inflatables world, vendor village, pet friendly dog world, microbrews and more!

Thorpe Park, 928-853-4292, flagcorn.com September 29 The Taco Festival (FLAGSTAFF) A festival dedicated to the best food on the planet! Hilarious entertainment, ice cold margaritas, and an all-inclusive vibe. Fort Tuthill County Park Pepsi Amphitheater, 480-6577333, tacofestivalflagstaff.com ALL MONTH Junior Astronomer (FLAGSTAFF) Akin to the National Park’s “Junior Ranger” program, this is an activity-based program geared towards youth ages 5 and up. For just $3, visitors can complete a series of activities, explore the observatory, and earn an official stellar patch upon completion! At Lowell Observatory, 928-774-3358.

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event calendar

Tucson & Southern Arizona

Biosphere 2 Greenhouse ALL MONTH Old Bisbee Ghost Tour (BISBEE) This tour is the only one of its kind. Your Ghost Host leads you on a walking tour through Old Bisbee’s streets, stairways and alleys after dark on an adventure to learn about the ghosts that haunt this 135 year old town.

NEW family friendly tour starts at 5:30pm! Adults $15, Children (under 12) $13, and Dogs Free! Discount for booking online. www. oldbisbeeghosttour.com.

ALL MONTH Queen Mine Tour (BISBEE) Explore one of the most productive copper mines of the 20th century. Don hats & mining lanterns, ride the mine train deep underground, search for remaining veins of copper, gold and turquoise, and experience the life of a miner. Reservations are suggested. www. queenminetour.com.

520-432-2071.

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ALL MONTH Biosphere 2 Tours (ORACLE) Experience Biosphere 2 for yourself and find out why Time Life Books named it “One of the 50 must-see wonders of the world!” Beneath 6,500 panes of glass lives a rainforest, coastal fog desert, marsh, savannah, milliongallon ocean and much more, 520-838-6200 or visit Biosphere2.org.

September 1 - 3 Showdown in Tombstone (TOMBSTONE) See the world’s best western gunslingers and salloon ladies reenact Old West life. Competition and festivities. Historic Allen Street, 520-457-3434, tombstonevigilantes.com September 1 - 3 Sonoita Labor Day Rodeo (SONOITA) The 103rd annual “Best Little Rodeo in Arizona” has the classic events, plus a

junior rodeo, steak fry, and rodeo dances, set among rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, historic ranch land of Sonoita. Sonoita Fairgrounds, 520-455-5553, sonoitafairgrounds.com September 1 - 3 and 8 - 9 Apple Harvest Celebration (WILCOX) Celebrate the peak of the apple season with several varieties of crispy, delicious, tree-ripened apples! Experience the fun of picking your own apples, or select from already picked apples. “All You Can Eat” pancake breakfast with hot apple topping or cider syrup, 7:30am-10:30am. Applesmoked burger lunches available from 11:30am– 3pm. FREE wagon rides to the orchards. Asian pears also available for picking.

Homemade apple pies and “apple crumb pie ice cream”are musttry! 520.384.2084 or appleannies.com

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Tucson & Southern Arizona

September 8 Bisbee After 5 ArtWalk (BISBEE) This monthly artwalk occurs on the 2nd Saturday of each month in Old Bisbee, AZ. Over 30 galleries, shops, and restaurants stay open late, until 8pm. Artists’ receptions, live entertainment, special promotions, and a free raffle! www.bisbeeafter5.com September 14 Sierra Vista Oktoberfest (SIERRA VISTA) Family fun at Sierra Vista’s largest and best fall festival. The changing leaves on the Huachuca Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop while experiencing a variety of cuisine and live entertainment at Der Biergarten (the Beer Garden).

5-11pm, Veterans Memorial Park, 520-458-7922, sierravistaaz.gov September 15 Born & Brewed Beer Battle (TUCSON) Taste beer from 14 local breweries and vote for your favorites, while enjoying an evening of local food and music on ArizonaKEY.com

the plaza of the historic Hotel Congress, as Tucson brewers compete for judge’s and people’s choice awards.

7-10pm. 520-622-8848, hotelcongress.com September 22 & 29 GLOW! A Nighttime Art Experience (ORACLE) Venture into another world under the moon and stars for a night of illumination and imagination set in the lush, high desert. Experience GLOW!ing artwork and multi-media installations, theatrical performances and live music along five acres of lighted trails. Triangle L Ranch, 520-623-6732, trianglelranch.com

Apple Annie’s Pumpkins & Produce, 520-384-2084, appleannies.com September 27 - 29 Tucson Greek Festival (TUCSON) A one-stop, 3-day celebration of Greek culture and heritage, with dances, plenty of hospitality, food, music, photo booths, raffles, and Greek products in the Greek Bazaar. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Campus 520-888-0505, tucsongreekfest.com

Sept. 22 - 23 and 29 - 30 Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley Oktoberfest (MT LEMMON) Enjoy German beer, authentic Oktoberfest food, live music and dancing, children’s games, and beautiful views with fall color displays in between towering pines and firs high in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Tucson’s favorite escape from the heat. Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley, 520-576-1321 Sept. 22 - 23 and 29 - 30 Annie’s Fall Pumpkin Celebration (WILCOX) Have some old-fashioned family fun picking your own pumpkins and enjoy all things pumpkin: pancakes, bread, pies and more. Plus find your way through AZ’s largest corn maze!

BISBEE

PHOTO BY CHUCK FEIL

September 1 - 16 Arizona Biennial 2018 Art Exhibit (TUCSON) Take in the works of over 70 artists in a variety of media at the oldest-running statewide juried exhibition featuring exclusively Arizona artists. Tucson Museum of Art, 520-624-2333, tucsonmuseumofart.org

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Why Less is So Much More My Tiny House

EXPERIENCE Story and Photos by Jennifer Agema

The Tiny House Movement is a thing. It’s a social philosophy that embraces the concept of living a simpler, downsized life. The freedom that comes with eliminating excess — including excess space — is real.

Day 1 When you’re growing tired of the long hot Arizona days, and the family is running out of things to do and seems a little “too close for

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comfort,” why not take on a tiny house experience, right? Crazy talk. Nevertheless, the opportunity presented itself, so we headed out to our sliver of 200 square feet amongst the trees of Cottonwood, Arizona to start our family-focused bonding adventure!

With rebooting on the brain and after a quick pit stop for some delicious BBQ in Jerome (www.bobbydsbbqjerome.com), we found our tiny house tucked within the Rio Verde RV Resort. Set right along the Verde River, we were greeted by scents of the great outdoors and the crisp smell of cedar inside our home for the night. As soon as I stepped inside, I was instantly hit with nostalgic childhood memories of playing in friend’s tree houses and the days of all-afternoon fort making. It was the perfect kind of closeknit, and was surprisingly bigger than I had expected. I would even go so far as to say Arizona KEYMagazine

it was the size that made me think, ‘I could totally live this way!’…especially if it had A/C and appliances like the one we stayed in!

We immediately claimed our beds (just like being at summer camp back in the day!), put up all of our goodies for our grill-out that night, and headed straight down to the river, which was only steps away. With the recent rainfall, the water was running faster than usual, so we decided to walk along the bank instead of getting our feet wet. On our walk, we waved at a man who casually passed by us in a canoe. We skipped rocks, found small frogs while my daughter climbed trees, and we had fun playing Frisbee in wide-open spaces. The quiet stillness of this place and the occasional cool breeze made time stand still.

When we made it back to our sweet yellow abode, as the sun was going down, we spread out a blanket on our picnic table and painted the river rocks we found so that we could leave ‘gifts’ for future guests. We watched the blue sky turn to dusk as we limited the available Wi-Fi to music-playing only. Keeping with the theme of simple and sweet, dinner time was chicken and tortillas on our tiny house’s grill.

It was all we needed.

Bedtime was in a beautiful slow-motion with the perfect blend of warm showers, reading, and whispered conversations.

It was exactly the reboot we needed! rioverdervpark.com ArizonaKEY.com

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My Tiny House Experience continued...

Day 2

Waking up to the sound of birds and… really nothing else... Ahhhh. It was such a tranquil place we were sad to pack up to leave. We had also found out that this area is a great place for ATV trails, and that the Rio Verde RV Park offers ATV rentals (there’s always next time!) Before we left, we were treated to a tour of the neighboring Eco Learning Center including its yoga and meditation rooms where they offer wellness classes and teach groups about health and well-being, as well as sustainable housing. We discovered that this is where people are taught how to build tiny homes!

special access to a private area on the property. It was a beautifully constructed set of 120 steps up to a lookout point over the Verde River, the entire Cottonwood area, and beyond. This concept came from a book that the Eco Center teaches from called “I’ve Decided to Live 120 Years” by Ilchi Lee, asserting the idea that we have the potential to have a lifespan of 120 years.

We were challenged to walk up to the step that represented our age and pause – to look back and see how far we have come and consider what we have accomplished in our lives so far. But then, and even more importantly, to look up at all the steps still to come, and let them represent the number of experiences in our future should we choose to adopt the same philosophy, and live a healthier, simpler life. www.earthcitizens.org AZ

As part of the visit, we were lucky enough to visit the local farm next door where groups can learn about growing and preparing healthy food… all in an effort to teach people to “GROW // BUILD // HEAL // LEAD” by learning to live off the land, and to ‘live with less.’ It was a wonderful lesson in living simply and responsibly, and taught each of us a little more about where we can lighten our own loads in our daily lives back home.

Our tour ended with picking some fresh plums from the head Farmer’s tree and ArizonaKEY.com

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LOOK WHO’S COMING TO

HOUSE OF COMEDY

SEPTEMBER 20-22

BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT

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BEST OF OUR VALLEY

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ArizonaKEY.com

2018

BEST OF OUR VALLEY 2018

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DEADPOOL 1 & 2 • SILICON VALLEY HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

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T.J. MILLER

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

2018

BEST OF OUR VALLEY 2018

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TOP

10

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Phoenix, Scottsdale & Central AZ 1. MIM – Explore an amazing collection of instruments from every country in the world and from the likes of Elvis, John Lennon, and many more at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. Guests wear wireless headsets to hear the sounds of the instruments as they approach different displays.

480-478-6000.

2. HOT AIR EXPEDITIONS – Embark on an unforgettable journey as you soar over the gorgeous Sonoran desert in a Hot Air Balloon! Daily balloon flights available with Hot Air Expeditions 480-502-6999.

3. RUSTY SPUR SALOON – Enjoy great live country and western music daily in a historic building in Old Town Scottsdale that used to be a bank! Walk through the swingin’ doors at the Rusty Spur Saloon for a good time with great music, 480-425-7787.

4. HALL OF FLAME MUSEUM – America’s largest firefighting museum.

Six indoor air conditioned galleries display over 35,000 square feet of exhibits which 34

8. SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST – This must-see attraction features regularly changing exhibits of Western art, Old West artifacts and historic Native American objects on loan from some of the world’s foremost collectors and institutions, 480-686-9539.

tell the story of firefighting in America and Great Britain.

602-275-3473.

5. TALKING STICK RESORT – a luxurious Four-Diamond Scottsdale Resort where fun is limited only by your imagination. Enjoy Vegas-style entertainment, panoramic views at Orange Sky Restaurant, 36-holes of championship golf, relaxing spa treatments and fabulous live entertainment.

480-850-7777.

6. SHOP TIL YOU DROP – Discover the finest in Native American Art and Jewelry at Gilbert Ortega Gallery - 480990-1808. Looking for unique southwest gift items? Visit Bischoff’s Shades of the West 480-945-3289.

7. STELLAR ADVENTURES – Get ready to explore the unique Sonoran Desert with ATV & UTV adventures, Hummers, 4x4 Jeeps, Shooting, plus Stargazing with Night Vision! Land & Lake 1/2 Day Excursion now available.

Your adventure begins where the pavement ends!

602-402-0584.

9. SCENIC BOAT CRUISES – Enjoy a 90 minute cruise on Saguaro Lake with Desert Belle Cruises - 480-9842425. Explore Canyon Lake with Dolly Steamboat on a 90 minute cruise, Call to book: 480-827-9144.

10. THE PHOENIX ZOO – Home to more than 1,400 animals including more than 30 different endangered or threatened species from around the world.

602-286-3800. AZ

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It has to be Cornelis Hollander....

C O R N E L I S

H O L L A N D E R

J E W E L R Y

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED AWARD WINNING DESIGNS

www.CornelisHollander.com 4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale AZ 85251 480-423-5000 800-677-6821 PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A. CUSTOM DESIGNS AVAILABLE ArizonaKEY.com

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snapshot

Phoenix, Scottsdale & Central AZ

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inter, Spring, Summer or Fall… no matter what time of year you visit the Valley of the Sun, there will be much to see and do. The Sonoran Desert’s natural beauty begins with rugged mountains, Saguaro cactus towering over adventure trails, and pink and orange sunsets you thought you only read about in Western novels.

POPULAR DESTINATIONS INCLUDE: Phoenix – still has real cowboys and rugged mountains.

Projected against this rich backdrop is a panorama of urban sophistication: resorts and spas that drop jaws and soothe souls. Stadiums and arenas worthy of the world’s biggest sports spectacles. Restaurants with inspired cuisine and magnificent patio views. Golf courses that beckon players the year round. Shopping centers as stylish as the fashions they house. 877-225-5749 Scottsdale – By day, our sunny skies and lush desert setting create an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures, championship golf, relaxing spa treatments and upscale shopping. By night, acclaimed chefs, ArtWalks and dozens of wine bars, lounges and performing arts venues await. And, throughout your stay, our resorts and hotels will pamper you with plush accommodations and the exceptional customer service for which Scottsdale is so well known. 480-421-1004 Carefree / Cave Creek – Vast stretches of the wide-open Sonoran Desert, pristine mountain vistas, giant boulder formations, a sparkling lake and towering saguaro cacti are all part of the magical landscape waiting for you. Stroll around and visit our unique shops and galleries, enjoy a great meal, try a sarsaparilla at a real Western saloon or just kick back and watch the sun set. At night, the stars shine so big and bright they seem close enough to touch.

480-488-3381 36

Fountain Hills – You literally can’t miss the World Famous Fountain – the town centerpiece. Nearby galleries and shops feature clothing, art, and fine jewelry including the Arizona Amethyst.

An extensive public art collection, history museum, art festivals and concerts make Fountain Hills/Fort McDowell the Gem of the Valley.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike 50-plus miles of trails or pick from five PGA golf courses. 480-837-1654 Glendale – is home to one of the hottest sports and entertainment districts in the country as well as the world’s top concerts and shows, signature restaurants, nightclubs and shopping. Glendale offers families endless fun thanks to Arizona’s biggest water park, a wildlife zoo and aquarium, a chocolate factory, nearby theaters, museums and more. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish our fairways, tennis courts, hiking trails and nearby regional lake. 623-930-4500 AZ

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• Southwestern Cuisine with a Mexican Twist • Serving 140 premium tequilas • Complimentary homemade flavored tortillas • misted and heated patio • Locally owned and operated

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dining & entertainment

5TH AND WINE IN SCOTTSDALE

Whether you are looking to kick up your heels at an Old Western Saloon, visit a World Famous Cafe or enjoy true southwestern cuisine, the Valley of the Sun has something for everyone to enjoy. Sip on wine while you take in a gorgeous sunset or dance the night away with friends.

HAROLD’S CAVE CREEK CORRAL 6895 East Cave Creek Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331 480-488-1906 • haroldscorral.com Harold’s features the finest Choice hand carved steaks and daily delivered fresh seafood. All the BBQ meats are smoked on premise using mesquite wood to provide a traditional southwest flavor. The wide variety menu features everything from Salads, Steaks, Seafood, Italian & Mexican dishes, to the best Hamburgers in Arizona.

RUSTY SPUR SALOON 7245 East Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-425-7787 • rustyspursaloon.com Scottsdale’s last real cowboy saloon serves up great live country and western music daily. It’s located in a historic building in Old Town Scottsdale that used to be a bank and the walls are decorated with dollar bills, license plates and all kinds of American memorabilia. Lunch served daily from 11 - 4pm.

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 290 Scottsdale, AZ 85253 480.991.5988 • ruthschris.com Get the best steak house experience at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Scottsdale. Their signature 500° sizzling plates and award-winning wine list are the perfect pairing for any occasion. The steak house has magnificent sunset views and a beautiful outside patio and terrace. Call today for an unforgettable dining experience!

VENETO TRATTORIA ITALIANA 6137 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85250 480-948-9928 • venetotrattoria.com Casual and moderately priced, Veneto Trattoria offers light, Northern Italian cuisine with a Venetian accent. Located in Hilton Village, the restaurant is known for its hand-fashioned pastas and gnocchi, and luscious risottos. Menu highlights include Venetian-style squid, calves’ liver and dried salt cod, called baccala. An extensive wine list offers a wide selection of Italian and California wines. Enjoy dining on the patio or inside where the atmosphere let’s you drift off to Italy! Lunch Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm.

Dinner 5-10pm.

More “Must-Try” Restaurants at www. ArizonaKEY.com 38

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shopping In need of some retail therapy?

Then get ready to navigate the most incredible array of upscale boutiques, specialty gift shops, outdoor promenades, outlet centers, luxury jewelers and so much more! Find the latest designer fashions, unique pieces of the southwest to take home, authentic Native American art & jewelry and everything in between.

We promise you will shop ‘til you drop! Remember to keep an eye out for the perfect tote to carry home all your special finds!

ELITE JEWELRY & LOAN 805 N Scottsdale Road Tempe, AZ 85281 480-699-6639 elitejewelryandloan.com This is not your typical pawn shop. Elite Jewelry and Loan is ready to meet all its customers’ jewelry and lending needs by both buying and selling unique and valuable jewelry and collectibles. The impressive array of gorgeous merchandise is a shopper’s dream.

HIGH SOCIETY BOUTIQUE 10805 North 71st Place, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 480-951-2506 highsocietyresale.com Find exceptional women’s clothing and accessories from the finest homes in the Valley! Vast collection of jewelry including one-of-a-kind pieces of sterling silver and set stones from India, Indonesia and Nepal.

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GILBERT ORTEGA GALLERY 3925 N Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-990-1808 Gilbert Ortega is a nationally recognized dealer of Native American Art and Jewelry that has been operating for over 50 years.

Located in Old Town Scottsdale at Main Street & Scottsdale Road.

SPHINX DATE CO. PALM & PANTRY 3039 N Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-941-2261 • sphinxdateranch.com Unique local gift baskets include Arizona grown Medjool dates, dried fruits and gourmet nuts, Arizona wine & beer baskets and other extraordinary gifts.

SAMI FINE JEWELRY 16704 Avenue of the Fountains #100 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 480-837-8168 • samifinejewelry.com Voted One of America’s Top 5 Cool Jewelry Stores, Sami Fine Jewelry is a great place to buy your jewelry! Home to many unique one of kind jewelry designs, Sami’s is know for their style. If your looking for something that will set you apart, you are sure to find it at Sami’s!

THE TOWN DUMP 6820 E Cave Creek Rd Cave Creek, AZ 480-488-9047 • towndump.net It’s difficult to describe the shopping experience at the Town Dump. It’s a wild and crazy store, the self-proclaimed ‘Home of Mafunction Junction’ that has been serving the area for over 30 years. Whatever you’re looking for, and even what you would never think to go in search of, you’ll find at The Town Dump.

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shopping centers & outlet districts

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5TH AVENUE SHOPS 5th Avenue is home to Scottsdale’s famous Bob Park’s Horse Fountain featuring over 35 eateries and 80 specialty shops. 5th Ave & Scottsdale Rd / Scottsdale Map N3 ARIZONA MILLS Features the best names in outlets including Last Call from Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH plus dining and entertainment.

US 60 & I-10 / Tempe ARROWHEAD TOWNE CENTER The Northwest Valley’s premier shopping destination with popular department stores, specialty shops, dining and entertainment.

75th Ave & Bell Rd / Glendale BILTMORE FASHION PARK An open-air, lush garden of shopping and dining with luxurious venues such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Louis Vuitton. 24th St & Camelback Rd / Phoenix

OLD TOWN SHOPS Stroll through the historic streets of Old Town Scottsdale and find Southwestern specialty shops and restaurants such as Shades of the West, Kactus Jock, Rusty Spur Saloon and Gilbert Ortega. SE Corner Scottsdale Rd & Indian School / Scottsdale Map P4 SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE Arizona’s premier luxury shopping destination with the best shops, department stores and restaurants including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s, kate spade, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Juicy Couture.

Camelback Rd & Scottsdale Rd / Scottsdale Map N3 SCOTTSDALE QUARTER Where the vibe of the city meets the serenity of the desert. Unique shopping, dining and entertainment such as Pandora, Apple Store, H&M and and IPic Gold Class Theaters, a premium movie going experience.

SE Corner Scottsdale Rd & Greenway-Hayden Loop / Scottsdale Map J4

CAREFREE SHOPS Stroll along Easy Street and enjoy fine art, gourmet SCOTTSDALE SEVILLE food and one of a kind boutiques. / Scottsdale Intimate and unique shopping and dining Map B4 experience including Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Duxiana and Betteridge Jewelers. Scottsdale Rd EL PEDREGAL SHOPS & DINING AT THE & Indian Bend / Scottsdale Map M4 BOULDERS Moroccan-style paradise nested among rugged foothills and majestic skies features upscale stores SCOTTSDALE WATERFRONT Upscale shopping and dining in an open-air and restaurants, a full-service luxury spa, and a tranquil courtyard. Scottsdale Rd & Carefree Hwy / setting including Sur la Table, Urban Outfitters and P.F. Chang’s. SW Corner Scottsdale Rd & Scottsdale Map C4 Camelback Rd / Scottsdale Map N3 KIERLAND COMMONS WESTGATE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT A sophisticated and eclectic mix of upscale Offering a vibrant outdoor setting with unique shopping, dining and entertainment in an water features, Westgate Entertainment District urban setting. Greenway Pkwy & Scottsdale Rd / delivers an interactive shopping, dining and Scottsdale Map J3 entertainment experience. Loop 101 & Glendale Ave / Glendale ArizonaKEY.com

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attractions When it comes to memorable experiences, Arizona has some of the most memorable ones: scenic lake cruises, one-of-a-kind museums, amazing aquariums and zoos, world-class golf courses, soaring balloon flights and everything in between.

SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST

Reservations: 520-432-2071 www.queenminetour.com 478 Dart Rd., just off Highway 80. Reservations suggested.

THE HALL OF FLAME is America’s

largest firefighting museum. Six indoor air conditioned galleries display over 35,000 square feet of exhibits which tell the story of firefighting in America and Great Britain.

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HotAirExpeditions.com P 480.502.6999// TF 800.831.7610 // Info@HotAirExpeditions.com “Best Ballooning in Phoenix” - Fodor’s Travel

Use promo code AZKEY or mention this ad when booking for $10 off

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WHERE ARIZONA’S BEST FEEL AT HOME

David Olarte 2014 Salsa Dance Champion

Paul Ramirez 3-Time State Champion Auctioneer

Paula Williamson 6-Time National Champion Yodeler

16059-7 CAZ LocalsRule_AzKey_4-75x3-625.indd 1

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101 & McKELLIPS SCOT TSDALE 480.850.7777 CASINOARIZONA.COM Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

10/12/17 12:00 PM

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(928) 421-1288 Unique Guided & Unguided Trips River Tours . Rental Gear . Lake Trips

www.sbsouthwest.com

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the performing arts ARIZONA BROADWAY THEATRE 7701 W Paradise Ln, Peoria AZ 85382 (623) 776-8400 • azbroadway.org Arizona Broadway Theatre’s performance space includes table seating for 470 patrons, and every seat has an unobstructed view of the stage. The menu for the included dinner changes for each show, themed toward the production itself.

PRESENTING: Altar Boyz Through September 16, 2018 Titanic October 12 - November 10, 2018 ASU Gammage 1200 S. Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 965-3434 • asugammage.com ASU Gammage is a world-class arts presenting organization, bringing the best of the performing arts to Arizona. This venue seats 3,023 patrons in elegant continental seating.

PRESENTING: Waitress October 2 - October 7, 2018 ARIZONA THEATRE COMPANY (520) 622 - 2823 in Tucson (602) 256-6995 in Phoenix arizonatheatre.org Arizona’s fully professional ‘state theatre’ has a proud 50-year history performing in Tucson at the Temple of Music and Art; and in Phoenix at the Herberger Theater Center.

PRESENTING: Native Gardens September 8 - September 29, 2018 (Tucson) October 4 - October 21, 2018 (Phoenix)

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BALLET ARIZONA 602.381.1096 • balletaz.org Ballet Arizona is an innovative and provocative professional ballet company that creates, performs, and teaches outstanding classical and contemporary ballet.

PRESENTING: Ballet Under the Stars (FREE Performances at Outdoor Venues) September 12 (Tempe Sports Complex, Tempe) September 13 (Fountain Park, Fountain Hills) September 14 (Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater) September 15 (Steele Indian School Park, Phx) New Moves September 27 - 30, 2018 (Orpheum Theatre) The Sleeping Beauty October 25 - 28, 2018 (Phoenix Symphony Hall) CHILDSPLAY at Tempe Center for the Arts Studio 700 W. Rio Salado, Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 350-2822 • childsplayaz.org Childsplay is a nationally and internationally respected professional theatre company whose chosen audience is children.

PRESENTING: Charlotte’s Web September 2 - October 14, 2018 PHOENIX THEATRE 100 E. McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 254.2151 • phoenixtheatre.com The largest producing regional theatre company in the Valley, Phoenix Theatre offers over 400 performances on multiple stages and thriving education and outreach programs to more than 100,000 audience members a year.

PRESENTING: West Side Story September 5 - October 14, 2018

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Ballet Arizona

O N S TAG E

FREE PERFORMANCES — BALLET UNDER THE STARS Photo from a past performance of Romeo & Juliet

BALLET ARIZONA Box Office: (602) 381-1096 www.balletaz.org

© Rosalie O’Conner Photography

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ust as the weather cools down, Ballet Arizona brings FREE performances to communities across the Valley each autumn. It is a rare gift for families to have the opportunity to introduce their children to professional ballet.

‘Ballet Under the Stars’ is made even more accessible to entire families by virtue of its unique outdoor setting. Audiences are welcome to bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnics to enjoy the exciting evening performances at parks in Tempe, Fountain Hills, Goodyear and Phoenix.

Each of the outdoor productions requires a stage, lighting, costumes and of course dancers. The expenses incurred by bringing a live ballet production to the parks costs nearly $50,000 for each of the ArizonaKEY.com

four performances. Donations to continue this special tradition can be made at the Ballet’s website: www.balletaz.org.

When you attend one of these special performances you are apt to see aspiring dancers and children freely dancing in the grass. The Class Act program furthers this connection by allowing professional ballet dancers to help student dance classes create choreographed dances that are then performed during the intermissions of ‘Ballet Under the Stars.’

If you find yourself in the Phoenix area during one of these productions, treat yourself to an evening of moonlight, music, warm Arizona breezes and ballet under the stars. AZ 53

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Sedona, Prescott & N. Central AZ

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aried and vibrant aptly describe the north central region. The famous Red Rocks of Sedona. The bar where Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday drank whiskey. The mining town carved on a hillside. With four seasons and something for everyone, this region begs to be seen and will not soon be forgotten.

POPULAR DESTINATIONS INCLUDE: Sedona – Often called “Red Rock Country” Sedona is a four seasons playground for everyone – whether you’re into history & archaeology; arts & culture; power shopping; outdoor sports; or the spiritual & metaphysical, imagine doing all this amid a backdrop of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Indeed, this picturesque city is surrounded by red-rock monoliths named Coffeepot, Cathedral and Thunder Mountain.

At the north end of the city is the stunning Oak Creek Canyon, a breathtaking chasm that is both wild & wonderful. 800-288-7336 Prescott – Just 90 minutes north of Phoenix, “Everybody’s Hometown” is an ideal destination for golfers, outdoor adventure seekers, and western history buffs. From its majestic rock formations at Granite Dells to five area lakes to more than 450 miles of well-groomed hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, Prescott knows no boundaries for exploring the area’s stunning natural beauty. The downtown Courthouse Plaza is Prescott’s historic heart. The plaza is bordered by the famous Whiskey Row, known to have hosted the likes of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday--and still hosts eclectic boutiques, galleries, antique shops, and restaurants.

866-878-2489 Cottonwood & Verde Valley – Located in the “heart” of Arizona, the Verde Valley is ideally situated above the heat of the desert and below the cold of Arizona’s high country. With its state parks, historic sites and enticing attractions, the Verde Valley offers activities for all ages. There is an assortment of hotels, RV Parks, campgrounds and restaurants to choose from, all 54

within close proximity to the parks, attractions, wineries and Old Town Cottonwood. More than 100 species of birds reside at Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Native American history abounds at Tuzigoot National Monument. Scenic beauty and recreational opportunities will thrill the adventurer, and the many fine shops and galleries located in Old Town, Clarkdale, Camp Verde, Sedona, Cornville and Jerome will easily appeal to the shoppers.

928-634-7593 AZ

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55Watson Lake, Prescott, AZ. Photo by Jenn Agema.

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Sedona’s

TOP 5

Hikes

“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity...”—John Muir 1. Bell Rock in the Village of Oak Creek is an easy hike around this famous formation that takes 1-2 hours and is a 4 mile roundtrip.

2. Cathedral Rock in West Sedona is an easy hike that follows Oak Creek to a stunning view that takes 30-40 minutes and is a 1.5 mile roundtrip.

3. Boynton Canyon is an easy hike with heavenly and open canyon spaces that takes 3-4 hours and is a 6.5 mile roundtrip.

A Red Rock Pass is required when on National Forest land. You must display the pass on your windshield or you may receive a citation. Passes can be purchased at the Sedona Visitor Center for a minimal cost.

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4. Devil’s Bridge in West Sedona is a moderate hike that leads to a geographical wonder that takes 1-2 hours and is a 2 mile roundtrip.

5. Bear Mountain is a strenuous hike for the experienced climber with awesome terrain changes and views. Prepare for about 5-6 hours for this 5 mile roundtrip hike.

Happy Trails! AZ

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The Divine is in the Details‌

Reservations : Hotel 928.203.4111 | Toll Free 866.312.4111 2250 West State Route 89A | Sedona, AZ 86336 | SedonaRouge.com ArizonaKEY.com

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Every Week! ww w. f acebook. com /K ey To A r iz o n a

LIVE Weekly Travel Show Every Thursday 11am MST 58

FOLLOW & GET REMINDER for Things To Do | Discounts Events | Giveaways!

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TOP

10

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Sedona 1. PINK JEEP TOURS – Pink Jeep’s Sedona Jeep Tours have thrilled visitors for over 55 years! The Premier Broken Arrow, Ancient Ruin, and Diamondback Gulch tours take you places you may never imagined existed.

833-314-7465.

2. CLIFF CASTLE CASINO HOTEL – The entertainment destination on the way to Sedona is Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. Enjoy fun for the whole family including Bowling, Kid’s Quest, fabulous dining, newly renovated accommodations and of course great slot and table gaming. Voted Arizona’s #1 Casino 18 years in a row! 800-381-SLOT. 3. TLAQUEPAQUE – Tlaquepaque Arts and Craft Village is home to more than 40 shops and galleries and four restaurants, all enclosed in a compound of Spanishstyle buildings. Known as “The Art and Soul of Sedona,” this is a not-to-be-missed Sedona experience!

928-282-4838.

4. OAKCREEK COUNTRY CLUB – Oakcreek Country Club boasts a Robert Trent 60

Jones Sr. and Robert Trent Jones Jr. design. This 18-hole championship golf course is nestled in the majestic Sedona red rocks with views beyond compare.

888-284-1660.

5. OUT OF AFRICA WILDLIFE PARK – Watch exotic animals roam in spacious habitats plus exciting shows like Tiger Splash & Predator Feed. Use Promo code AZKEY18 for special savings.

928-567-2840.

6. SEDONA ROUGE HOTEL & SPA – Unwind in spacious, beautifully appointed guest rooms and hotel suites. Feast upon modern cuisine and delicious comfort foods at REDS Restaurant. Relax and rejuvenate your mind and body at the luxurious Sedona Spa. Call 866-312-4111 today!

7. SEDONA AIR TOURS – The most-trusted and well known helicopter and airplane tour company in Sedona. Take a tour in a jet-powered helicopter to view the fantastic formations of the red rocks of Sedona, or fly to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley,

Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge, Skywalk in an airplane.

888.866.7433. Mention KEY2018 for Special Savings.

8. RED ROCK MAGIC TROLLEY – “Experience the Magic of Sedona” with a whimsical tour from Red Rock Magic Trolley. The Red Rock Magic Trolley tours of Sedona are an easy and fun way to see a whole lot of Sedona. They are a great introduction to the beauty, culture, and sights of this breathtaking and magical town. 928.821.6706 9. SLIDE ROCK STATE PARK – Slide Rock provides a natural water slide that invites everyone to be a kid again.

Shaded by cottonwoods and sycamores along the canyon walls, hikers can explore the trails. 928-282-3034 10. CHAPEL OF THE HOLY CROSS – One of Sedona’s earliest landmarks, the Chapel rises two-hundred feet above ground surface between two red rock formations that accentuate its 90-foot tall cross. Must-see.

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SAVE UP TO $20 OFF $4 OFF Per Person - Limit 5. Valid on general admission only. Must present this coupon, or buy online and save time. Use promo code AZKEY18 when purchasing online. Not valid with any other discounts. Kids 2 and under free.

LOCATED 30 MINUTES SOUTH OF SEDONA, IN THE VERDE VALLEY JUST OFF I-17

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Steakhouse 89 2620 W Hwy. 89A Sedona, AZ 86336 steakhouse89.com (928) 204-2000

RESTAURANT REVIEW: Sedona’s

Steakhouse 89

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his Sedona steakhouse is not to be missed. It’s visible from Sedona’s Highway 89, with its bold, crisp, logo-printed awning beckoning weary travelers in search of a juicy steak.

Once inside, you’ll find the atmosphere pleasant enough. However, some areas have a more upscale décor than others.

The owner, Dieter Lehmann, told us of his plans to renovate the main dining area and include a large circular bar of marble with lighting mounted beneath for a contemporary glow.

W

e dined in a private dining room which was quite elegant. There are actually several private dining areas suitable for various-sized gatherings, including a small outdoor patio (separate from their main patio area in front), as well as a 12-seat dining table inside their wine room. If you enjoy being surrounded by the delectable offerings of wine they stock, then this may be the place for your next event.

The main patio area offers a wonderful space to enjoy Sedona’s beautiful weather.

Our starter was the Chef’s daily empanada.

This crispy delight appears on their Happy Hour menu for just $7. The main course was a tender filet with garlic whipped potatoes, in a red wine reduction. The flavor and tenderness of the wood-fired filet was excellent. We were also given a sampling of shrimp which was lovely, and can be added to your main course if you’re craving a classic surf and turf meal.

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The abundant wine choices at Steakhouse 89 include area locals: Flying Leap, Provisioner, Javalina Leap, and Arizona Stronghold, as well as plenty of California selections and more. The list of specialty cocktails includes an Arizona Mule, a Prickly Pear Pom Cosmo, and a Sweet Home Arizona – all worth checking out for their local flair. The happy hour cocktail and wine list includes several of the local wines as well as a Prickly Pineapple Tini.

To finish off the meal, I had just the right appetite left for a classic dessert. It was sweet satisfaction to crack through the glistening torched-sugar top to the silky crème brulee beneath. This steakhouse leans more to the upscale eatery side than to the downhome ribs side, but we all know that a wood-fired steak in every setting is well worth a visit. For more information and reservations, check out www.steakhouse89.com or call 928-204-2000. AZ Arizona KEYMagazine

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Why Are

Sedona’s Rocks

Red?

The answer to this commonly asked question is... IRON

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he incredible array of colors displayed by Sedona’s famous Red Rocks is a direct result of iron oxide in water seeping into sandstone rock formations. Water carrying dissolved iron oxide drains through the porous sandstone and literally paints quartz grains – you guessed it – red!

Experience the Magic of Sedona

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The Red Rocks vary in origin, color and age. Some were originally sea sediment while others came from blowing sand.

You’ll see bright orange, red and tan rocks. The brightest orange rocks are more than 250 million years old. White and grey rocks are limestone that formed at the bottom of the sea or sandstone that had its red color washed out by water.

You may also stumble across basalt extruded by volcanoes in the past.

Sedona and its famous Red Rocks have been in the making for hundreds of millions of years. There are many ways to enjoy the scenery, just be sure to get out and experience Sedona’s world renowned Red Rocks! And remember, take only memories, leave only footprints. AZ Arizona KEYMagazine

HAVE A

Sedona Adventure

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xplore the world-famous red rocks of Sedona from the open-air, customized passenger area of one of their iconic pink Jeep Wranglers. Rumble over the terrain and visit some of Sedona’s most popular attractions, including Chapel Butte, Chimney Rock, the Sedona vortexes, the Honanki Heritage Site and many others.

With over 14 Sedona tours; each with different sights and stops, but all with the same sense of energy and adventure that only Sedona can bring. Can’t choose?

The Broken Arrow tour is their signature adventure, with a path that is totally exclusive to Pink Jeep Tours!

If you have more time and want something even “grander” then take a Pink Jeep Tours trip at the Grand Canyon. Named by USA Today as the 8th Wonder of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must-see, once-in-

a-lifetime destination and Pink Jeep Tours makes it even more memorable.

With an expert tour guide at the wheel, you’ll be chauffeured to all the best lookouts at this natural wonder including Navajo Point, the Trail of Time and the Desert View Watchtower. With five different tour options, including two sunset tours, you’ll be sure to find an itinerary that fits your schedule.

At either destination, you’ll end your trip blown away by the Pink Jeep Tours difference.

Not only do they have awe-inspiring itineraries and comfortable, state-of-the-art vehicles — they also have the best guides in the business.

To book your Pink Jeep Tour or for more information, call 1.800.873.3662 or visit www.pinkjeeptours.com. AZ

Pink Jeep Tours 1.800.873.3662 or visit www.pinkjeeptours.com

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Grand Canyon The

“The Grand Canyon fills me with awe. It is beyond comparison--beyond description; absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide world .... Let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. Do nothing to mar its grandeur, sublimity and loveliness. You cannot improve on it. But what you can do is to keep it for your children, your children’s children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.” — President Theodore Roosevelt

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ENJOYING THE SOUTH RIM Individual interests, available time, weather, and health considerations can influence your visit to the South Rim. Before heading out, visit www.nps. gov/grca/ to help plan your trip. Once you arrive in the park, talk with the rangers for up-to-theminute information.

Many miles of roads along the rim feature numerous pullouts to enjoy the views. Hermit Road to Hermit Rest is open to private vehicles only from December through February. The free shuttle bus system provides a relaxing way to explore the developed areas of the rim.

Elevations along the rim vary from 6650 feet (2030 m) at Hermits Rest to more than 7400 feet (2260 m) at Desert View near the East Entrance.

Summer temperatures are pleasant along the rim, but increase rapidly as you descend into the canyon. Low humidity makes for big temperature differences between day and night. The low humidity and high elevation also means that it is important to drink water frequently.

The Rim Trail winds along the rim for more than 13 miles (21 km), much of it paved and suitable for visitors in wheelchairs. The Greenway, a broad, paved pathway for hikers, bicyclists, and wheelchairs, leads two miles (3 km) from Grand Canyon Visitor Center to Grand Canyon Village. A separate segment heads east from Hermits Rest along the rim. The Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails descend steeply into the canyon.

Afternoon thundershowers are common in July, August, and early September. Windy conditions prevail in April and May. Snow may fall as early as November. Winter snowstorms continue into March. Rangers present programs—walks, talks, and evening presentations—throughout the year.

All activities are free.

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VISITOR CENTERS: The Grand Canyon Visitor Center near Mather Point is the largest of several visitor centers and makes a perfect first stop. All are open every day of the year; hours vary seasonally.

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snapshot

Grand Canyon

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ne of the natural wonders of the world.

The mighty Colorado River. Painted deserts. What more could you ask for?

The Grannd Canyon invites you to indulge your sense of adventure and wonder. Hike it, drive it, ski it, fly over it, float down it – just be sure to get here and immerse yourself in it.

The canyon is a spectacular experience at any time of year. Whatever the season... spring, summer, fall, winter... each brings an intimate mood to the splendor of the Grand Canyon that will make your first visit very special. Savor the delicate fragrance of spring wildflowers as you stroll along the Canyon Rim. Enjoy a fresh summer breeze rich with the scent of pine following a brief afternoon thundershower. Discover color that only nature can create in the fall flowers and canyon oaks as they prepare for the coming winter season. See winter clouds hanging heavy over the Canyon after a fresh snow, lifting like a theatre curtain to reveal nature’s newest spectacle. In every season the Grand Canyon is a spectacular vision. 928-638-2901 GrandCanyonCVB.org AZ Plan Your Trip to the Grand Canyon

pare values in a er of products sold ow each category’s .

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STARTING CITY

MILES TO SOUTH RIM

Flagstaff

75 miles

Phoenix

218 miles

Lake Powell

147 miles

Kingman

175 miles

Grand Canyon North Rim

217 miles

Sedona

150 miles

Tucson

334 miles

Williams

50 miles

Monument Valley

182 miles

Petrified Forest

199 miles

Lake Havasu City

288 miles

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map

Grand Canyon Yavapai Geology Museum On Yavapai Point. Displays explain the geology and formation of the canyon.

Memorable views unfold from the picture windows and nearby overlooks.

Verkamp’s Visitor Center East of El Tovar Hotel. Housed in the former Verkamp’s Curios, displays tell the story of the South Rim community.

Tusayan Museum 3 miles west of the East Entrance. Exhibits provide a glimpse of the rich Native American cultures, both past and present. A short trail circles an 800-year-old ancestral Puebloan village.

Desert View Visitor Center Near the East Entrance.

Explore how this magnificent landscape has inspired artists, writers, musicians, and conservationists.

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Canyon Plaza Resort grandcanyonplaza.com (800) 995-2521 Grand Hotel grandcanyongrandhotel.com (888) 634-7263 Holiday Inn Express grandcanyon.hiexpress.com (888) 473-2269 Red Feather Lodge redfeatherlodge.com (866) 561-2425 President Theodore Roosevelt said the Grand Canyon is the one sight every American should see. Whether you drive to it, fly over it, ride a mule into it, hike it, take a train to it or float it - just be sure to SEE IT. You’ve made it this far.

Find out why the Grand Canyon is a wonder of the world that everyone should experience.

OUTSIDE THE PARK – TUSAYAN, AZ Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn www.grandcanyonsquire.com (800) 622-6966

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Bright El Angel Tovar Kolb Lodge S EN TRA Grand Canyon Yavapai NC Studio E Visitor Center Lodge Maswik C EN VILLAGE T Lodge Chase Bank LOOP DR US Post Office 64 MARKET PLAZA DR Groceries/Deli/Gifts North County Mather Health Center Campground

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LODGING IN THE PARK An authorized concessioner provides a variety of lodging options within the park.

Reservations should be made well in advance as facilities tend to be full for much of the year. Prices vary from approximately $70.00 to more than $400.00. Located at the bottom of Grand Canyon, Phantom Ranch offers overnight lodging in dormitories or individual cabins. Advanced reservations are required. Contact Xanterra Parks and Resorts, www. grandcanyonlodges.com, (888) 297-2757.

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K A Y A K I N G

on Watson Lake P R E S C O T T, A R I Z O N A

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had visited the beautiful area of Watson Lake in Prescott a few times before, but always admired it from up top, while navigating the rock formations on the outskirts of the lake. This time, we wanted to see it from the bottom-up! We found out that you could rent kayaks and paddleboards lakeside by the hour. With a storm looming in the

distance, we took our chances – and we began our relaxing exploration. With each swish of the paddle it brought us closer to the unique granite boulders, some of which are right in the middle of the lake. It was neat to look around and see so many people visiting the area and absorbing its beauty both high and low, land and ‘sea,’ from every level.

Fun Fact: Watson Lake is one of two reservoirs at the Granite Dells, in Prescott, Arizona, that was formed in the early 1900s when the Chino Valley Irrigation District built a dam on Granite Creek. The City of Prescott bought the reservoir and surrounding land in 1997 to preserve it as recreational land. Local rock climbers use the granite cliffs above and adjacent to the lake for top-roping and lead climbing. The lake is also the home of TriCity Prep Rowing Crew, a local high school team and the only rowing team in Northern Arizona.

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My family decided to go to a higher spot with our camera and see if they could capture me on the lake as a tiny speck. I was able to wave to them as I heard them shouting, and I could see them, although they were dwarfed by the looming boulders. What a great change in perspective. As I made my way across the lake and around the formations, the dark clouds started to roll in. With a flash of light the crack of thunder I sudenly felt the motivation to increase my speed and row like a bona fide athlete! It was a fun challenge to try and beat the rain to shore and make it to the car in time.

As our kayaking adventure came to an end, it ‘sparked’ the idea (perhaps it was the bolt of lightning in the distance?) of visiting the main square in downtown Prescott just 15 minutes up the road.

My daughter reminded me that it was National Ice Cream Day and of course I said we needed a photo – so now we were on an Instagram-worthy mission… we headed immediately to the Treat Center on Whiskey Row! We enjoyed our cold scoops, snapped some colorful photos, and closed out our day with a final ‘post’. AZ www.prescottoutdoors.com www.treatcenter.com

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Story and Photos by Jennifer Agema

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Downtown Phoenix & Glendale

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KEY Guide to Best Campgrounds

by Kirstin Conlon

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rizona’s reputation for boundless desert terrain doesn’t exactly cultivate thoughts of most typical camping trips! After all, the collective camping ideal involves relaxing in the shade of sprawling pine trees in a mountainous setting, with squirrels scampering about, ample hiking trails, plenty of wildlife, and a peaceful lake or stream to fish amd swim nearby.

Surprisingly, wandering this great state reveals that Arizona actually has ALL of that! Whether you have a sentiment for the saguaros in southern Arizona or a passion for ponderosa pines in the northern parts, Arizonans (and Arizona visitors from near and far) enjoy some of the most picturesque campgrounds in the country. The best part is… you can access them year-round!

To ensure that your next Arizona campout is an amazing adventure, we’ve taken the time to list our favorites! The list is quite long, mind you, so we’ve divided it into segments that we can share over several issues. If you’re just visiting for a short time and/or need the information at lightning speed, we’ve made it easy. Simply scan the code to download the full guide to 38 of our top AZ camping picks from around the state. Starter List on page 79.

ACCESS YOUR FB MESSENGER SCANNER:

1.

OPEN FB MESSENGER.

2.

3.

OPEN THE PRESS & HOLD CENTER CAMERA. OF YOUR SCREEN.

4.

SCAN THE GRAPHIC.

Free admission for kids 17 and under!

21 N. Frontier St., Wickenburg , AZ 928-684-2272 | westernmuseum.org Image © Wayne Norton

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TOP

10

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Glendale / West Valley 1. DESERT DIAMOND WEST VALLEY CASINO Desert Diamond Casino combines 35,000 square feet of unrivaled gaming excitement with the electric, action-packed atmosphere of Glendale’s entertainment district. With over 1,000 of Arizona’s hottest games to choose from, you’re guaranteed to feel a rush!

DDCAZ.com/west-valley 2. WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO, AQUARIUM & SAFARI PARK Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals! Take in the breathtaking aquarium with 85 exhibits and the all new 15-acre Safari Park. See ad page 75 for special offer.

623-935-9453.

3. WESTGATE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Offering a vibrant outdoor setting with unique water features, Westgate Entertainment District delivers an interactive shopping, dining and entertainment experience. Conveniently located in Glendale, just East of the Loop 101 on Glendale Avenue. 623-385-7502.

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4. WIGWAM RESORT Beloved by generations, this Arizona landmark and Historic Hotel couples historic charm with a truly modern sense of adventure. Enjoy legendary golf, superb spa, distinctive cuisine, 623-935-3811.

5. BLAST OFF WITH SOME FAMILY FUN – Children, and grown-ups, alike, can enjoy simulated space missions, interact with real NASA astronauts and learn all about the wonders of the cosmos at the Challenger Space Center.

480-488-1906.

6. STROLL IN THE GARDENS 1,000 cactus, trees and shrubs await you desert style, where you’ll enjoy a self-guided tour at Xeriscape Botanical Garden. Don’t forget to stop by the library to check out a listening wand, so you may learn the names of the foliage.

623-930-3596.

7. FOR THE “CHOCOHOLIC” IN ALL OF US – The Cerreta Candy Company has been making candy by hand for over 40 years. Enjoy a guided tour at 10 a.m. and

1 p.m. Monday thru Friday and a non-guided video tour anytime. 623-930-9000.

8. BOOTS AND BIKES The 19,840 acres of Estrella Mountain desert and mountains became the first regional park in the Maricopa County Park System in 1954, and once you hike or bike in it, you’ll understand why.

623-932-3811.

9. PACK A ROMANTIC PICNIC LUNCH The crown jewel of Glendale’s park system, Sahuaro Ranch Park offers users both a recreational and historic experience. This park is unique with it’s historic ranch buildings and wonderful flora.

623-930-4200.

10. LAKE PLEASANT REGIONAL PARK One of the most scenic water recreation areas in the “Valley of the Sun”, the park offers many activities, such as camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Turn off your mobile phone and unleash some family fun!

602-372-7460. AZ

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Enjoy the new 8 acre addition to our

20 new species, including 3 new Rhinos!

Zoo, aquarium and safari park with 6,000 animals, 8 shows daily, tons of rides, a thousand thrills and a million smiles. All in One Day!

Arizona’s Ultimate, Year-Round Family Fun Destination.

Arizona’s Largest Collection of Exotic Animals.

Northern Ave. and the 303 Freeway 623-935-WILD(9453) • WildlifeWorld.com

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MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Cave Creek & Carefree 1. HAROLD’S CAVE CREEK CORRAL – Harold’s Corral is THE place in Cave Creek for good food, great music and a dang’ good time. Hitch yer hat, hang yer hoss and kick back to enjoy some good times eatin’, drinkin’ and dancin’. 480-4881906.

2. CAREFREE DESERT GARDENS – The gardens weave their way along Carefree’s Easy Street among features that include the Carefree Sundial, the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, a waterfall, art and sculptures, plus numerous shops and restaurants. Open daily during daylight hours. Enjoy Free WiFi provided by the Town of Carefree.

3. THE TOWN DUMP There is no way to describe the Town Dump in Cave Creek, except to say that it’s one of

the most unique shopping experiences you will have in AZ. 480-488-9047.

4. AFTERNOON TEA ANYONE? – The English Rose Tea Room in Carefree offers an extensive menu of authentic foods served with loose leaf teas in a truly unique and authentic Victorian atmosphere.

480-488-4812.

5. HISTORIC SPANISH VILLAGE – Located in the heart of Downtown Carefree along whimsical Ho Hum road, this is one of the first buildings constructed in Carefree and remains a cultural and art hub.

6. RANCHO MANANA GOLF CLUB – Voted one of Arizona’s most scenic golf courses. Book your tee time at this par-70 championship course nestled in the heart of the Sonoran desert in Cave Creek, 480-488-0398.

7. WILD HOLLY GALLERY Strolling along Easy Street in downtown Carefree, this gem beckons shoppers to

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come a bit closer. The steel kinetic wind sculpture turning in the breeze captures the attention of arts and culture aficionados the world over. 480-595-8757.

8. CAVE CREEK MUSEUM Started in 1968 by a small group of volunteers, the Museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek/ Carefree foothills area through education, research and interpretive exhibits.

480-488-2764.

9. BARTLETT LAKE Located just 20 miles east of Carefree, visitors can drive to Bartlett Lake for a variety of recreational opportunities, including shoreline camping in Arizona’s natural desert terrain. 480-595-3300.

10. FRONTIER TOWN Wooden boardwalks lead to many fun and wonderful gift shops, surrounded by antiques, wagons and western artifacts. One of the last old west towns in Arizona, full of history and folklore passed down over the years. AZ

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Arizona KEY Campground Guide continued from page 75...

KICK UP YOUR HEELS. More great events are just around the corner.

Join us out Wickenburg way!

9/15/18

19th Annual High Desert Golf Classic

10/6/18

Red Sparks German-American Day Festival

10/13/18

24th Annual Fly-In & Classic Car Show

11/9-11/11/18

39th Annual Wickenburg Bluegrass Festival

12/7-12/8/18

12/14/18

23rd Annual Christmas Parade of Lights

2/8-2/10/19

71st Annual Gold Rush Days & Rodeo

4/6/19

4th Annual Literacy Festival

4/13/19

4th Annual Vintage Marketplace

5/5/19

17th Annual Out 30th Annual Cowboy Wickenburg Way Christmas Poetry Street Dance & Gathering Food Truck Festival

(928) 684-0977 VISITWICKENBURG.COM

facebook.com/WickenburgAZ Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Clear Creek Campground (CAMP VERDE) Just outside the small, but entertaining town of Camp Verde, along the banks of serene Clear Creek, sits this cozy campground where campers can fish, wade, and watch wildlife under the generous shade of the cottonwood trees. Pick your pleasures because there’s a lot to do in the nearby town of Camp Verde, including Cliff Castle Casino, Out of Africa Wildlife Park, or Montezuma’s Castle. Tent and RV accessible. Open year-round, first come, first served, $18/night. 877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov Catalina State Park (TUCSON) Catalina State Park earns its popularity due to its flourishing desert gardens, canyons, streams, and striking display of the Santa Catalina Mountains located in the Coronado National Forrest. The park is loaded with 5,000 saguaros and desert plants that invite wildlife from near and far. With over 150 bird species in the area, birding is a favorite activity at this park. If time permits, plan a visit to a world-record-setting, artificial ecological system experiment known as Biosphere 2. Although the project was not as successful as desired, the remaining compound is truly something to behold. The state park offers tent and RV sites with full hookups. Open year-round.

Reservations required at $30/night. 877-697-2757 or www.azstateparks.com/catalina Lost Dutchman State Park (APACHE JUNCTION) The first “desert” campground we fell in love with!

Just below the towering Superstition Mountains is this meticulously kept campground with sprawling campsites, a ton of hiking trails, and quail families galore that are quite entertaining to watch. Legend has it, still waiting to be found, is a mine full of gold. The story kept our kids on the lookout the entire time we were there! Within a mile, you will find plenty to do with the kids at Goldfield Mine Ghost Town and Superstition Mountains Museum.

Take a scenic drive just 10 minutes up the road to go for a swim or fish at Canyon Lake. You can even hop aboard the Dolly Steamboat for a scenic nature cruise. Tent and RV sites available with full hookups.

Showers onsite. Open year-round. Reservations required at $20+/night. 480-982-4485 or www. azstateparks.com/reserve/lost-dutchman/camping/

Photo: © Craig W. Cutler Fine Art

See page 75 to download the full camping guide ArizonaKEY.com

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MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Prescott 1. WHISKEY ROW Whiskey Row is a vibrant center of activity in downtown Prescott, and while the number of saloons has decreased greatly from a century ago, you’ll be at no loss to find a great place to eat, to view exemplary works of art, or to simply cool your heels and peoplewatch.

2. SHARLOT HALL MUSEUM Prescott is home of the restored territorial Governor’s Mansion built in 1864. The Museum features seven historic buildings, compelling exhibits and beautiful gardens, which serve as the setting for numerous public festivals.

928-445-3122.

3. HASSAYAMPA INN A must for savvy travelers searching for a relaxing respite from life’s hustle and bustle. Yesteryear’s charm combines with today’s modern amenities to make the Hassayampa Inn a haven for sophisticated guests seeking a sense of pampered well-being. 928-778-9434.

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4. PRESCOTT STATION Globally inspired cuisine that offers a little something for everyone. Conveniently located in the heart of Prescott just a short walk from the historic downtown Courthouse Square.

928-778-0133.

5. CITY OF PRESCOTT LAKES – With kayak, canoe and bicycle rental at all three lakes via Prescott Outdoors, you’ll have no problem planning your outdoor escape to enjoy all the natural bounty that Northern Arizona has to offer. 928-925-1410.

6. HERITAGE PARK ZOOLOGICAL SANCTUARY A non-profit wildlife sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation and protection of native and exotic animals.

Open year round, the sanctuary provides a source of recreation, education and entertainment for all ages.

877-778-6008.

7. ANTELOPE HILLS GOLF COURSE – Features 36 holes of championship golf in the beautiful mountains of northern Arizona. At

an elevation of 5,000 ft., the two courses sport bent grass greens and bluegrass.928-777-1888.

8. THE SMOKI MUSEUM This treasure documents early Native American history of regional tribes through a variety of basketry, pottery, weavings and many other artifacts. A must-see when in Prescott. 928-445-1230.

9. HIKING IN PRESCOTT Don’t miss the MileHigh Trail System in and around Prescott containing approximately 28 miles of beautiful trails, including Rails-to-Trails projects along the former Santa Fe Railroad, the Prescott Circle Trail System, and the Greenways Trails System.

10. ANTIQUE ROW Browse and shop in the relaxed, friendly atmosphere where specialty boutiques and interesting galleries offer shoppers a delightful diversion. This historic city has long been known as one of the West’s best places to shop for antiques. AZ

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Just 90 minutes north of Phoenix, Prescott is surrounded by over one million acres of National Forest, 450 miles of trails, and four lakes. Find out why Prescott is known for true west, real adventure in a cool setting.

866.878.2489 ArizonaKEY.com

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Your STARGAZING TOOL KIT

By Alex Carel

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ith dark sky coalitions, mountain elevations, and ordinances against light pollution in many northern regions, Arizona is a treasure trove of stargazing opportunities. Long held as ideal stomping grounds for astronomers and hobbyists alike, various parts of the Grand Canyon state offer a celestial perspective unlike anywhere else in the country.

The Oak Creek and Grand Canyon villages, Sedona, and Flagstaff are often included in conversations of amateur and professional stargazers alike. When the International Dark-Sky Association was founded (an organization committed to preventing light pollution and educating the public on night sky conservation), they named Flagstaff as the world’s first IDA-approved dark sky community.

All this to say, Arizona is full-to-the-brim with sky-watching destinations that will leave you stunned and inspired.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the most incredible stargazing destinations for your astronomical consideration, and some of the start-up equipment you’ll need to take in the full grandeur of these awe-inspiring dark skies. Without further ado, here are the top stargazing locations in Arizona:

1) Flagstaff - For more than 125 years, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff has been dedicated to the study of astronomy. Known for its discovery of Pluto, evidence of the expanding universe, measurements of the properties and motion of stars, and thoughtful consideration of the cosmos, Lowell Observatory is one of the nation’s most notable astronomical locations. Couple this with Flagstaff’s elevation, dark sky community status, and general appreciation for the night sky, and it’s easy to see how Flagstaff made the very top of our list.

2) Sedona - Doubling as a great tourist daytime destination and verified dark sky community, nearby Sedona’s clear, dry nights (over 300 nights per year) make it an ideal stop for stargazing.

Host to one of the most renown star gazing tours, featuring a personalized tour of the night sky by astronomy professionals, Sedona’s red rocks offer a fantastic foundation for sky-watching.

3) Grand Canyon - Another powerhouse stargazing stop, the Grand Canyon offers the onetwo punch of being a daytime wonder of the world and epic nighttime dreamscape. The 12th national park to earn the “dark sky” distinction, the Grand Canyon hosts yearly eight-day “star parties” in which high-powered telescopes are set up and free astronomy programs are offered.

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my part, I know nothing “withForany certainty, but the sight

”

of the stars makes me dream. ~ Vincent Van Gogh

4) Southern Arizona (near Tucson) - The northern regions are not the only stargazing oases; the southern regions of Arizona include a number of stargazing standouts: H In 1984, the Vatican moved its astronomical operations to Mount Graham International Observatory. The facility is run by Jesuit priests in the mountains northeast of Tucson.

H Arizona Sky Village is a remote town in the southern part of the state fully-committed to dark nights, going so far as to black out windows and attach observatory domes to homes.

H Kitt Peak National Observatory in Tucson is home to the world’s most diverse collection of telescopes intended for “nighttime optical and infrared astronomy” alongside the study of the sun.

H Mount Lemmon SkyCenter is home to the largest dedicated public telescope in the country With programs running year-round on a nightly basis, SkyCenter is one of Tucson’s best stargazing destinations.

Now that you know the where, let’s talk about the how. Journeyman astronomers will rattle off a laundry list of equipment you need to fully experience the night sky, but we’ve boiled it down to just the necessaries for your first few excursions.

For sight, night sky navigation, logistics, and comfort, we recommend the following basic kit: H A telescope (naturally) Alternative to a telescope : Friendly to more budget-conscious star explorers, binoculars have a number of applications and functions well if a telescope falls a bit out of range.

H Stellarscope H Folding Camp Table to keep your tools safe, dry, and accessible H Observation chair for comfort H A Redlight flashlight to help keep your eyes adjusted to the dark H Power supply for electronics such as your phone for stargazing apps, etc.

With an appreciation for our constellations and a desire for adventure, you’ll find yourself at home with our beautiful Southwestern skies. AZ ArizonaKEY.com

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DESERT BELLE & STELLAR ADVENTURES TEAM UP FOR LAND AND LAKE EXCURSION

S

tellar Adventures and Desert Belle Cruises have collaborated and now offer a half-day excursion that will offer you an up-close-and-personal look at the Sonoran Desert, followed by an unforgettable cruise on the waters of Saguaro Lake.

Your excursion begins with Stellar Adventures taking you into Arizona’s breathtaking Sonoran Desert in their signature H1 Hummer for a one hour, high-energy off-road excursion that will leave you breathless! During your desert tour, your guide will point out unique flora and fauna, including bobcats and birds of prey.

The Four Peaks mountain range and Superstition Mountains To book this excursion, hold some of the highest peaks in Arizona, and will serve as the please call: majestic backdrop of your desert tour. Your guide will regale (602) 402-0584 you with the history of the area and some of the legends of the stellaradventures.com Sonoran Desert that add to the mystique of the setting, including desertbelle.com tales of the ancient cultures that inhabited this region.

After your desert excursion, you’ll step aboard the Desert Belle, a two-level boat that seats more than 140 passengers, for an unforgettable cruise on the waters of Saguaro Lake. During this 1.5-hour ride, be sure to keep your eyes open for the wild horses and bighorn sheep that roam the craggy mountains surrounding the lake, and stop to admire the panoramic views of the cliffs that come right up to the water’s edge. In addition to its two stories which allow for guests’ space and comfort, the Desert Belle also boasts an air-conditioned interior and an onboard concession stand that stocks soft drinks, beer, and wine.

So, are you ready for a truly unique Arizona Land and Lake adventure? Then call today to book your excursion and get ready for an experience of a lifetime! AZ 84

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ROUTE 66

BEARIZONA

OUTDOOR RECREATION GRAND CANYON RAILWAY

ExperienceWilliams.com (928) 635-4061

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Northern AZ

N

orthern Arizona offers a substantial climate change (the good kind) from lower elevations in the Valley.

The noticeable difference averages about 25 degrees, and is a welcome change at any time of year.

POPULAR DESTINATIONS INCLUDE: Williams – While today’s visitors can experience the modern amenities seen in most tourist destinations, they are also invited to personally share in the history and nostalgia of this mountain community. Founded in the late 1800’s by ranchers, railroaders, and lumber men, remnants of those early days are still visible in the buildings, streets, and neighborhoods of modern-day Williams. Saloons, bordellos, and shops have been brought back to life and visitors can now stroll the brick sidewalks of the historic district, enjoying the sights and sounds of times now nearly gone. experiencewilliams.com, 928-635-4061 Flagstaff – Surrounded by natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff offers dozens of inns, a multitude of hotel and motel accommodations, conference and meeting venues, more than 200 restaurants, numerous night spots, and a variety of cultural, historic and scientific attractions.

Visitors from all over the world are attracted to the clean mountain air, year-round outdoor recreation opportunities, historic downtown charm and our Western legacy of pioneer ranchers, railroad builders and lumbermen.

800-956-6123 or flagstaffarizona.org AZ 86

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30 minutes west of Flagstaff!

I-40 Exit 165 in Williams, AZ AT THE

GATEWAY TO THE

GRAND CANYON FIND US ON

www.bearizona.com | 928-635-2289 ArizonaKEY.com

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MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Northern Arizona 1. BEARIZONA – This Wildlife Park in Williams allows visitors to drive into the wilderness and witness herd and pack life from the safety and comfort of a private vehicle. From adorable bear cubs to High Country Raptors, this is a must do adventure! 928-635-2289.

2. GRAND CANYON WEST SKYWALK – The Skywalk, managed by the Hualapai Tribe, is a glass, horseshoeshaped bridge extending guests 70 feet past the canyon edge and providing an unparalleled view of this natural wonder. Tours also include other points of interest and unique canyon views. 928-769-2636.

3. LOWELL OBSERVATORY Peer through the telescope that Percival Lowell used to sketch Mars or the telescope that helped Clyde Tombaugh discover Pluto. Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff offers guided tours, telescope viewings and more. 928-7743358. See Ad Page 89 for Savings.

4. PINK JEEP GRAND CANYON TOURS – Treat yourself to the ultimate 88 88

guided tour experience and leave the driving to PINK! Your Pink Jeep Tour guide will give you a fun, informative, and focused tour that will ensure that you see the best viewpoints in the Grand Canyon. 833-314-7465 5. GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM – 12 miles wide. One mile deep. Hike the Bright Angel trail, shop for Native American jewelry, enjoy a hot cocoa at El Tovar, and float the Colorado River. Whether you are seeking adventure or solitude, The South Rim at the Grand Canyon has it all.

928-638-7888.

6. MUSEUM OF NORTHERN ARIZONA – Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, the 200 acre campus includes an exhibit building, research labs, and state of the art collections facilities for more than five million Native American artifacts, natural science specimens, and fine art pieces. 928-774-5213.

7. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC VISITOR CENTER – Located at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, watch the famous IMAX movie! Then enjoy one

of the new Pink Jeep Grand Canyon Tours - a must do adventure! 928-638-2468 (Visitor Center) 833-3147465 (Pink Jeep) 8. METEOR CRATER Visit the world’s best preserved meteorite impact site at Meteor Crater just minutes from Interstate 40 near Winslow. The Visitor center offers guided tours, an Interactive Discovery Center, Gift Shop, Theater and more.

800-289-5898.

9. GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE 66 – Whether it is through preservation of the still existing historic buildings and vintage signs, or the cruising experience overall, we love to be connected to our love of the road. Visit Williams, Flagstaff, Winslow and Kingman for a trip back in time.

10. STEP BACK IN TIME The Petrified Forest has plant and animal fossils going back over 200 million years. Some petrified logs found in the park measure over 190 feet!

928-524-6228. AZ

Magazine ArizonaKEY KEYMagazine Arizona

ry Telescope

cove Renovated Pluto Dis

NOW OPEN!

TOURS | TELESCOPE VIEWING INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS | OPEN YEAR-ROUND

www.lowell.edu | (928) 774-3358 | Flagstaff, AZ

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Tucson and Southern AZ

W

ith its towering saguaros standing guard, Southern Arizona is an impressive region filled with wonders of nature, steeped in history, and rich in culture.

You can tour a Spanish Colonial mission and explore stunning caves. You can shop for antiques and dine in style. You can stay at world-class resorts and play golf amid splendorous landscapes.

POPULAR DESTINATIONS INCLUDE:

BISBEE – located 90 miles southeast of Tucson, Bisbee sends visitors back to a time when the Wild West was blossoming. Famous for the historic Copper Queen Mine, strolling the sidewalks of this southwestern gem lets you relish in art galleries, gourmet restaurants, coffee houses and antique shops. A visit to the wonderfully restored Victorian neighborhoods set on the hillsides will transport you to Europe. discoverbisbee.com, 520-432-3554 TOMBSTONE – founded in 1877, the “Town too Tough to Die” is home to the infamous gunfight at OK Corral. Step back in time and enjoy its notorious streets lined with saloons, restaurants, shops and stores. Take in a reenactment of the bitter fight between the Earps and the Clantons. Visit Tombstone and walk where heroes and villains of the old west lived, worked and fought.

888-457-3929

breakfasts. Other highlights include the Art Colony of Tubac, the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, and the Santa Cruz River – a favorite for birdwatchers.

520-398-2704 TUCSON – Boasting over 350 days of sunshine, Tucson is a mecca for outdoor adventure and golf. The city also contains an extensive arts community, world-class accommodations and spas, and a growing culinary and nightlife scene. You’ll want to take in major events such as the Tucson Culinary Festival, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show and the Accenture Match Play Championships. Home to the University of Arizona, Tucson will keep you entertained.

800-638-8350 AZ

TUBAC – notably cooler than Phoenix and Tucson, this centuries-old town lies adjacent to the Coronado National Forest.

Tubac features a variety of locally owner restaurants and comfortable bed and 90

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Tucson and Southern Arizona

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map

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MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES

Southern Arizona 1. EXPLORE BISBEE Located 90 miles southeast of Tucson, Bisbee’s extraordinarily well-preserved downtown draws visitors from around the world who appreciate its historic architecture, it’s welcoming, creative spirit and its cool climate. 520-432-3554 discoverbisbee.com 2. Kartchner Caverns Experience a stunning limestone cave during a memorable 1½ hour guided tour of the State Park. You’ll find museum exhibits, a gift shop, and the Discovery Center. There are also campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas and a hummingbird garden.

520-586-2283 azstateparks.com/kartchner/ 3. Biosphere 2 - U of A Time Life Books named it “One of the 50 must-see wonders of the world!” Tours take you inside the world’s largest living research center dedicated to exploring future life on our planet. Beneath 6,500 panes of glass lives a rainforest, savannah, milliongallon ocean and much more. 520-838-6200 or visit Biosphere2.org 92 92

4. Tumacácori National Historical Park The park protects three Spanish colonial mission ruins: Tumacácori, Guevavi, and Calabazas. Located at exit 29 off of Interstate 19. Open daily.

520-398-2341 www.nps.gov/tuma/ 5. TUCSON ADVENTURES What better way to view the gorgeous landscape of Southern Arizona than from a Hot Air Balloon! Bring your camera for incredible photos.

After your magic carpet ride enjoy a champagne toast!

FAA Certified Pilots & Hot Air Balloons. 1-800-742-2556 tucsonadventures.com 6. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Experience the majesty of the Sonoran Desert at this fusion: zoo, botanic garden, natural history museum and art gallery nestled in the Tucson Mountains adjacent to Saguaro National Park (West).

Enjoy 21 scenic acres and live animal presentations. 520883-2701 desertmuseum.org 7. Mission San Xavier del Bac - A National Historic Landmark, this “White Dove of the Desert” is filled with

marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. Located 9 miles south of downtown Tucson. 520-294-2624 www.sanxaviermission.org 8. Pima Air & Space Museum Tour one of the largest air and space museums in the world. See more than 300 aircraft and spacecraft including many of the most historically significant and technically advanced craft ever produced.

520-574-0462 pimaair.org 9. Colossal Cave Explore this ancient crystal cave on the National Register of Historic Places. See beautiful formations while your guide shares the Cave’s history, legends and geology.

520-647-7275 colossalcave.com 10. O.K. Corral Tombstone Tour the world’s most famous gunfight site at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, “the town too tough to die.” Walk where Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Virgil and Morgan Earp fought the Clantons and McLaurys.

Reenacted daily at 2pm 520-457-3456 okcorral.com AZ

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“Frommer’s’ Best Places to Go in 2018” Come be inspired in Bisbee.

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ARIZONA FUN FACTS 1.

Two of the most beautiful waterfalls are located in Arizona — Grand Falls and Havasu Falls.

2.

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and the only one located in the U.S.

3.

Arizona is one of the only two states that does not observe Daylight Savings time (Hawaii is the other)

4.

Arizona has 18 national monuments, more than any other state in the U.S.

5.

Phoenix is one of the few U.S. cities with franchises in all four major professional sports leagues: Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Arizona Cardinals (NFL) and Arizona Coyotes (NHL).

6.

Arizona is home to the world’s largest rose bush. Planted in Tombstone in 1885, the giant rose bush has a 12-foot circumference trunk and covers an area of 9,000 square feet.

7.

Pluto was discovered from the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona in 1930 by Clyde Tombaugh.

8.

Arizona has 3,928 mountain peaks and summits — more mountains than any one of the other Mountain States (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming).

9.

There are six lakes within a 75-minute drive of Phoenix. The two largest manmade lakes in the U.S. are Lake Mead and Lake Powell — both located in Arizona.

10. In area, Arizona is the sixth largest state in the United States (behind Alaska, Texas, California, Montana and New Mexico).

11. The bola tie is the official state neckwear.

12. Petrified wood is the official state fossil and most petrified wood comes from the Petrified Forest in Arizona.

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13. Arizona was the 48th state, and the last of the continental states to join the union. Although President Taft was willing to grant statehood on February 12th, it was Lincoln’s birthday.

Since February 13th was considered bad luck, Arizona had to wait until February 14th, 1912 to become a state, and therefore became known as the “Valentine State.”

14. When England’s famous London Bridge was replaced in the 1960s, the original was purchased, dismantled, shipped stone by stone and reconstructed in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where it still stands today.

15. According to legend, Phoenix gets its name from Cambridge-educated pioneer Darrell Duppa, who saw the ruins and prehistoric canals of the Hohokam and believed another civilization would rise from the ashes.

16. The only place in the country where mail is delivered by mule is the village of Supai, located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

17. The Four Corners is the only location in the United States where four states (Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah) intersect at one point. At the Four Corners, a person can be in four states at the same time by placing one limb in each of the four states.

18. The legendary 1881 Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in the Arizona Territory town of Tombstone is considered the most famous shootout in the American Old West, and lasted only 30 seconds.

19. Arizona’s Sonoran Desert is the only place on earth where the iconic saguaro cactus grows. The saguaro cactus blossom is the official state flower.

20. More copper is mined in Arizona than all the other states combined.

21. Located in Fountain Hills is a fountain believed to be the tallest in the world.

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corner

AZ Visitors Ask The Expert

BY JOHNNY FENTON, M.A. CONCIERGE, OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT

Q. Downtime in the evenings? Business travelers, visiting university parents, etc. ask: What’s on your short list for things to do… places to go at night?

A

nswer: The Southwest, as experienced in Arizona, can put a special memory burn on sunsets and star-dazzled nights, while serving as an envoy into p.m. diversions from the a.m.’s complicated demands.

NORTHERN ARIZONA

A recent article in USA Today echoed with evidence of what many of our East Coast visitors have expressed informally: “Most people living east of the Mississippi River will never see the Milky Way in all its sparkling glory. [Further], people living in New York City can live their entire lives seeing fewer than a dozen of our brightest stars and planets!” And at our northern border the Grand Canyon is one of the last remaining sanctuaries for spectacular night skies along with many of our national parks. The International Dark Skies Association has given the Grand Canyon provisional status in this organization devoted to the containment of light pollution for aesthetic purposes, scientific study and preservation of our ecosystem. (It is on track for a full designation in 2019, the 100th anniversary of the Grand Canyon National Park.) Park rangers offer star parties (through September 4) and night sky walks, cemetery tours and talks throughout the year in the evenings. Check at Visitor Centers for locations and times. You can view the current week’s schedule for the South Rim at https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/sr-programs.htm

CENTRAL ARIZONA

Join Ballet Arizona for its successful long-running “Ballet Under the Stars.” The dramatic shows featuring vignettes from classical masterworks to exciting choreographed forays onto contemporary horizons are free and offered in the evenings of September 12-15 in parks around the Greater Phoenix area, including Tempe Sports Complex (9/12), Fountain 96

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Park in Fountain Hills (9/13), Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater in Goodyear (9/14) and Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix (9/15). Thousands of onlookers bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to watch the evening al fresco shows. www.balletaz. org. If off-the-wall and off-the-cuff sounds like fun, then on Walk-in Wednesdays at the Tempe Center for the Arts you can be notably entertained by the region’s Best Open Mic Night from 5 to 10 p.m. where musicians and spoken word poets are given the chance to shine on stage. Happy Hours at The Edge near the Tempe Town Lake are a hot gathering spot featuring free live music, great food and cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere Fridays and Saturdays, and for those fascinated with “Monster Stories” throughout popular culture, an exhibition of monster memorabilia and hands-on workshops for all ages are featured under this title in the 3,500 square-foot TCA Gallery beginning September 14th. www.tempecenterforthearts.com

SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Look no further than Tucson’s campus of The University of Arizona to satisfy your yen for culture. Home to showcases of all the student talent in the fine arts including the symphony, the theatre, the ballet and the opera, it also houses venues for professional nationnal and international touring companies. Broadway in Tucson’s 2018-2019 series presented in collaboration with UA Presents on campus at Centennial Hall begins with the Tony-Award Winning classic Les Misérables based on Victor Hugo’s historical 1862 novel set in Paris, September 4-9 Ticket prices $35-$158 www.broadwayintucson.com. For stargazers, enlightenment central on the University of Arizona Campus is the Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium where the 16-inch telescope is focused live on the stars that blanket the night skies over the Southwest United States from 7-10 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays ($16 for adults-$12 for students, children, veterans). Tour one of the Top 10 Mineral Museums in the U.S. downstairs at the Planetarium showcasing Arizona minerals including, turquoise, malachite, azurite and wulfenite, Arizona’s state mineral. www.flandrau.org. Or toast an Arizona Sunset after driving through Tucson’s horse country on the eastside past the mesquite corrals of the historic Tanque Verde Guest Ranch nestled in the Rincon Mountain foothills. A working cattle ranch in the 1880’s—a Hollywood favorite and famed dude ranch since the 1920s, it serves up unique entertainment Ms. Johnny Fenton, a 38-year resident after Friday Night Suppers from 6 to 8 p.m. giving of Arizona, is past President of the guests a window into Western history as told Southern Arizona Concierge Network, by archivist Arlo Ogden in “Tales of the Tanque member of the National Concierge Association, and Les Clefs d’Or, U.S.A. Verde” www.tanqueverderanch.com AZ ArizonaKEY.com

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Pink Jeep Tours Most Trusted Adventure Tours in the Southwest 100

Sedona and Grand Canyon • pinkjeeptours.com • 833-314-7465 Arizona KEYMagazine