This year we celebrate 30 years in Sedona and my first restaurant Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano. My mantra is, “when you cook with love you feed the soul.” That same love of family and passion for quality continues to inspire everthing we create today.
SEDONA, AZ
DAHL & DI LUCA * BUTTERFLY BURGER
CUCINA RUSTICA * PISA LISA * MARIPOSA
RENE PALOMINO Prickly Pear, 68.5” x 42.5”
Enveyed Chair, 27” x 36” x 35”
MARILYN EVANS Woven Baskets
The Power of Three: A Designer’s Secret to Visual Harmony
To tie your room together, repeat your accent color in three places. Choose from art, pillows, lamps, accessories, area rugs, furniture or wallpaper. In this example, blue serves as our unifying element. Amy Lay’s “Blue Wing” horse painting establishes the palette. The fluffy blue Tibetan lamb’s wool pillow adds a touch of color to the linen and leather laced club chair. Anchoring the setting is a multi-blue Gabbeh area rug. Have fun playing with color in your home!
PUBLISHER
Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR
Joseph J. Airdo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Meaghan Mitchell
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Joseph J. Airdo
Francine Coles
Amanda Christmann
Shannon Severson PHOTOGRAPHERS
Francine Coles
Loralei Lazurek
ADVERTISING SALES
Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271 cindi@imagesaz.com
From the Publisher
Photography by Loralei Lazurek
As summer’s golden moments continue to unfold across our breathtaking state, this special collector’s edition of Images Arizona completes our seasonal exploration of Arizona’s remarkable destinations. Building upon our June–July issue, we continue our journey through the extraordinary tapestry of experiences that make Arizona a treasure trove for travelers and locals alike.
Arizona reveals its wonders in layers — each visit, each adventure, each detour uncovers something previously unseen. In this companion guide, we venture further into the heart of what makes our state truly special, highlighting different perspectives and undiscovered corners that even longtime residents might have missed.
These pages celebrate the diversity of experiences waiting just beyond the familiar — from tucked-away cultural festivals to family-owned establishments with generations of stories to tell, from adventure outfitters who open doors to inaccessible terrain to artisans preserving traditions unique to our Southwestern heritage.
What makes the Arizona experience so exceptional isn’t just our stunning vistas or perfect weather — it’s the characters you’ll meet along the way, the unexpected moments of connection, and the stories that linger long after you’ve returned home. We’ve sought to capture that intangible quality throughout this guide, focusing on experiences that offer both authenticity and a genuine sense of discovery.
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416
Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221
shelly@imagesaz.com imagesarizona.com
Together with our June-July issue, we’ve created a comprehensive reference collection worth preserving on your bookshelf for years to come. These two issues are designed to be returned to again and again — whether you’re planning weekend getaways, entertaining out-of-town guests or seeking fresh inspiration for exploring the place we call home. We hope you’ll keep these guides handy, their pages marked with your own discoveries and memories added to those we’ve shared.
After all, the joy of exploration isn’t limited by season but by curiosity alone!
Happy adventuring,
Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona
Cecil Touchon, PDP1426CT24 - Fusion Series, Acrylic Over Paper on Canvas, 36” by 36”
Beverley Wolter, Ambient Fractures II, Acrylic, plaster, water based dyes and gilding on wood panel. 48” by 60”
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
As the Valley begins its seasonal shift, Arizona’s diverse regions celebrate with festivals and events that showcase the state’s authentic character beyond the desert. From historic mining towns to mountain retreats, these late-season gatherings prove that Arizona’s adventure season extends through the last weekend of September.
AUG. 7–9: ARIZONA COWBOY POETS GATHERING
The 37th annual Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering transforms Prescott into the epicenter of Western literary tradition, where authentic cowboy culture meets artistic expression. This three-day celebration features more than 40 cowboy poets and musicians who preserve the heritage of the American West through storytelling, music, and verse that captures the essence of ranch life and frontier spirit. Evening performances showcase headliners like Gary & Jean Prescott, Yvonne Hollenbeck, and The Cowboy Way trio, while daytime sessions offer intimate venues for emerging and established artists to share their craft. The gathering maintains its commitment to “working cowboy” culture, featuring performers who live the lifestyle they celebrate through poetry and song. See website for ticket prices and schedule. Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center at Yavapai College, 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott. azcowboypoets.org
PhotobyBill Semplice
Photo by Robin Frenette
AUG. 8–10
BISBEE PIRATE WEEKEND
The historic mining town of Bisbee transforms into a swashbuckling seaside port as the annual Pirate Weekend brings maritime mayhem to Arizona’s desert mountains. Now sailing under the Pirates of the Sky Islands flagship, this beloved three-day festival fills the Victorian-era streets with costumed buccaneers, treasure hunts and nautical entertainment that would make Blackbeard himself proud. Local businesses embrace the pirate theme with special offerings, while visitors explore Bisbee’s unique shops, galleries and restaurants between adventures. The event showcases the town’s quirky character and artistic spirit, creating an immersive experience that celebrates both maritime lore and Bisbee’s rich mining heritage. Free. See website for schedule and participating venues. bisbeepirateweekend.com
AUG. 14–16
PAYSON PRO RODEO
The world’s oldest continuous rodeo returns to Payson’s high country, where championship bull riding meets timehonored Western tradition in Arizona’s cool mountain air. This storied event has been captivating audiences since its inception, earning its distinguished title through decades of uninterrupted competition at the Payson Event Center. Professional cowboys compete in classic rodeo events while families enjoy mutton bustin’, live music and authentic Western entertainment that transforms the entire town into a celebration of cowboy culture. The weekend features a traditional parade, local food vendors and the kind of genuine Western atmosphere that can only be found in Arizona’s rim country. See website for ticket prices and schedule. Payson Event Center, 1400 S. Beeline Highway, Payson. paysonprorodeo.com
PhotobyTerry Woods
AUG. 16: MOTHER ROAD CLASSIC ROUTE 66 CAR SHOW
Flagstaff’s tree-lined streets adjacent to City Hall and Wheeler Park transform into a rolling museum of American automotive history, as the Mother Road Classic celebrates the centennial approach of legendary Route 66. The charity car show features meticulously maintained classics spanning from 1900 antiques to modern muscle cars, with categories including hot rods, rat rods, European imports, and the coveted “Spirit of the Mother Road” award. Beyond the gleaming chrome and restored interiors, the event embodies community spirit, with over $8,000 raised in 2024 for local Flagstaff charities that directly benefit residents. Car enthusiasts can explore everything from stock prewar vehicles to contemporary tuners, while families enjoy the historic downtown setting that perfectly complements the nostalgic atmosphere. Free. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Wheeler Park, 212 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff. route66carclub.org
AUG. 27-31: PRESCOTT PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL
Yavapai College's Prescott Art Gallery celebrates the intersection of natural beauty and artistic vision as 19 accomplished artists capture Prescott's pine forests, highland lakes and historic downtown architecture in real time. The sixth annual event transforms the practice of outdoor painting into public performance, inviting spectators to witness the creative process as familiar landscapes take shape on canvas through each artist's unique interpretation. Featured participants include 2024 Best of Show winner Cindy Carrillo alongside artists from Arizona and California who demonstrate various techniques and styles throughout the week. The festival celebrates plein air painting as both an artistic practice and spectator experience, allowing visitors to engage with artists while discovering new perspectives on Prescott's scenic beauty. Free. See website for schedule and locations. ycvisualarts.com
AUG. 30–31: SHOWDOWN IN TOMBSTONE
Labor Day weekend arrives with authentic Western drama in America’s most notorious frontier town, where the Tombstone Vigilantes orchestrate the annual Showdown in Tombstone. This meticulously crafted event transforms Allen Street into an 1880s theater, featuring worldclass reenactors who bring the Old West to life through gunfight skits, period fashion shows and interactive entertainment. Visitors can experience the notorious Vigilante Hanging Tree, participate in authentic raffles and witness the precision of professional performers who have mastered the art of historical recreation. The event showcases Tombstone’s legendary status as “The Town Too Tough to Die,” offering an immersive journey into the Wild West that balances education with entertainment. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tombstone Historic District, Tombstone. showdownintombstone.com
SEPT. 12–14: PICKIN’ IN THE PINES BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Flagstaff’s towering ponderosa pines provide the perfect backdrop for this beloved three-day acoustic music celebration, where world-class bluegrass artists perform under Arizona’s mountain skies. The 19th annual festival features an impressive lineup including the Dan Tyminski Band, Sierra Hull, and Peter Rowan with the Sam Grisman Project, delivering everything from traditional mountain music to contemporary acoustic innovations. Beyond the main stage performances, the festival offers intimate workshops, a Friday night community dance, and a band competition that showcases emerging talent. The outdoor venue creates an authentic mountain festival atmosphere where audiences spread blankets on the natural amphitheater lawn, surrounded by the cool pine forest that makes Flagstaff a summer refuge. See website for ticket prices and schedule. Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff. pickininthepines.org
Photoby
Johnny Silvercloud
PhotobyDale O'Dell
Photoby Robin Frenette
Additional Adventures
Arizona’s late-season calendar extends to these compelling celebrations in communities statewide:
• Prescott Gem & Mineral Show (Aug. 1–3): More than 75 vendors showcase gems, minerals and fossils with interactive experiences like live geode cutting and gold panning. $5. Friday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Findlay Toyota Center, 3201 N. Main St., Prescott Valley. prescottgemmineral.org
• Arizona State Chili Championship (Aug. 2–3): The 53rd annual state championship brings together serious chili cooks for two days of competition and public tasting. $10 tasting kits. Saturday 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Thorpe Park, 245 N. Thorpe Road, Flagstaff. azchili.com
• Hopi Arts & Cultural Festival (Aug. 23-24): The 14th annual festival brings together authentic Native American artistry and traditional social dances. Features Indigenous artists presenting pottery, weaving and contemporary interpretations of ancestral techniques. Free. Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Flagstaff Mall, 4650 U.S. 89, Flagstaff. hopifestival.com
• Flagstaff Music Festival (Sept. 20): Heritage Square hosts local bands including Black Lemon and Summit Dub Squad in this community celebration. Free. 1–10 p.m. Heritage Square, 22 E. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff. flagstaffmusicfestival.com
• Prescott Indian Art Market (Sept. 20–21): More than 80 juried Native American artists present authentic artwork from pottery to weaving at Arizona’s most prestigious Indigenous arts celebration. $10. Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., Prescott. sharlothallmuseum.org
• Red Rock History Roundup (Sept. 24-27): The Sedona Heritage Museum offers guided luxury coach tours through Oak Creek Canyon's historic sites. Visits include pioneer homesteads, the 1893 Red Rock Cemetery and ruins of Arizona's first commercial winery. $85. 2-5 p.m. sedonamuseum.org
Community
THROUGH AUG. 3
'COMPANY’
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre presents this musical about a confirmed bachelor contemplating his unmarried state on his 35th birthday. See website for ticket prices and showtimes. Mainstage at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. desertstages.org
THROUGH AUG. 16
'HEAVEN CAN WAIT’
Don Bluth Front Row Theatre presents this romantic fantasy about a prizefighter who refuses to accept his premature arrival in the afterlife. $36+; discounts available for seniors, students, military and youth. See website for showtimes. Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. 480314-0841; donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com
THROUGH AUG. 24
'WILD INSPIRATION’
Phoenix Zoo’s Wild Side Gallery presents a special group juried exhibition featuring original artwork by zoo staff, volunteers and partners. The show highlights the creativity and
AUG. 9
SPOTLIGHT ON MARIACHI
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
The Musical Instrument Museum presents an afternoon of mariachi featuring an interactive dance workshop and curator conversation with Grammy-winning ensemble Mariachi Los Camperos. The program includes a baile folklórico workshop with Ballet Folklórico Quetzalli-AZ and a musical conversation exploring the group’s influence on modern mariachi tradition over their 64-year history. $20; youth discounts available. 1-3 p.m. The Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
passion of the zoo community through more than 60 two-dimensional and three-dimensional works. All artwork is available for sale, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the nonprofit Phoenix Zoo. 8–11 a.m. Thursday–Sunday. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. phoenixzoo.org
THROUGH SEPT. 14
'INFINITE’
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents an immersive environment featuring hundreds of illuminated spheres with light and sound by British collective Squidsoup and Arizonabased Lunar Calendar. $13+; discounts available for students, seniors and veterans; free for those 18 and younger. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
THROUGH SEPT. 14
'LIFE ON MARS’
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents new works by artists Erika Lynne Hanson and Steven J. Yazzie. The exhibition features textile, sculpture, ceramic, painting, video and photography. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans.
SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
THROUGH SEPT. 14
'SUBURBAN PARADISE’
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents Michael Afsa’s first museum exhibition featuring sculptures and photography exploring Southwestern architecture and landscapes. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
THROUGH SEPT. 21 VISIONS '25
Scottsdale Arts presents its annual showcase of works by advanced high school art students from six Valley schools. The exhibition highlights skill, creativity and the impact of mentorship by professional artists, featuring a range of painting, multimedia and sculpture inspired by the yearlong Visions program. Free. Center Space gallery, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleartslearning.org
THROUGH SEPT. 28
'MY FAVORITE WILD THING!’
Phoenix Zoo’s Savanna Gallery features original works by children of Phoenix Zoo staff, volunteers and partners. Through drawings, paintings and mixed-media pieces, these young artists share their favorite animals and what makes them special. The heartwarming exhibit celebrates wildlife through a child’s eyes, expressing the next generation’s passion for conservation and the natural world. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. phoenixzoo.org
AUG. 1–10
ARIZONA CHEFS WEEK
The Arizona Restaurant Association presents this inaugural dining event featuring three-course, prix-fixe menus ($55 or $66 per person) at participating restaurants. Designed to boost business during the slow summer season, the event highlights Arizona’s independent chefs creating exclusive, innovative menus with seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. See website for participating restaurants. azrestaurant.org
AUG. 6–31
'LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL: A NEW ORLEANS GUMBO’
The Phoenix Theatre Company presents the world premiere of this musical journey through the vibrant culture of New Orleans. $59+. See website for showtimes. Hormel Theatre at The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
AUG. 15–16
NIGHT TRIP FESTIVAL ARIZONA
Insomniac presents this tech house and house music festival at WestWorld of Scottsdale featuring artists including Cloonee, Dombresky, Jackie Hollander, Matroda, Walker & Royce, Kieran San Jose and Cade Solito. The two-day desert festival offers VIP amenities including expedited entry, premier viewing areas, exclusive credentials and dedicated bars for guests 21+. See website for ticket prices and schedule. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. insomniac.com
Community
AUG.
16
'ANNIE GET YOUR GUN’ SHOWCASE
Musical Theatre Alliance of Arizona presents a spirited, orchestra-led presentation of Irving Berlin’s classic musical with minimal staging and maximum heart. This one-night-only performance brings together singers and instrumentalists from across Arizona to reimagine the Golden Age favorite through a contemporary lens. The showcase format focuses on music, characters and story without sets, costumes or choreography, creating a unique concert-storytelling experience. $40; discounts available for students and educators. 7 p.m. All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. theatricallyaz.org
AUG. 29–30
ARIZONA BLACK RODEO
The Black Rodeo USA Association presents this family-friendly event featuring bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, ranch bronc riding, ladies steer undecorating, ladies barrel racing, team roping, pony express, junior barrel racing and mutton
SEPT. 12–14
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
JUNK IN THE TRUNK VINTAGE MARKET
Arizona’s favorite vintage market returns to WestWorld with more than 160 handpicked vendors from across the country. The three-day event features antique furniture, vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, architectural salvage and whimsical decor spanning more than 120,000 square feet. Attendees can enjoy live music, local food trucks and a community atmosphere. $10+. See website for hours. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com
bustin’ for children. The action-packed rodeo includes a grand entry parade highlighting Black cowboy and cowgirl history, live DJ music, and competition for prize money and bragging rights. $30+. Tony Nelson Equestrian Center Equidome, WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 602688-9906; azblackrodeo.com
AUG. 30–SEPT. 1
EXPERIENCE INDIA
The Musical Instrument Museum celebrates the rich musical traditions of India through interactive workshops and live performances featuring handson activities with traditional Indian instruments, educational exhibits, and demonstrations of classical and folk music techniques. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
SEPT. 5–OCT. 17
'CRAZY FOR YOU’
Don Bluth Front Row Theatre presents this Tony Award-winning musical featuring Gershwin classics. $36+; discounts available for seniors,
students, military and youth. See website for showtimes. Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. 480-314-0841; donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com
SEPT. 12–28
'THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO THOMAS JEFFERSON, CHARLES DICKENS AND COUNT LEO TOLSTOY: DISCORD’
The Theatre Artists Studio presents Scott Carter’s clever comedy examining what happens when great men of history are forced to repeat it. A Founding Father, a Victorian novelist and a Russian revolutionary find themselves trapped together in a sealed room in the afterlife, beginning a battle of blistering wits in this intellectual comedy. See website for ticket prices and showtimes. The Theatre Artists Studio, 12406 N. Paradise Village Parkway East, Scottsdale. theatreartistsstudio.org
SEPT. 13–14
CELEBRATE GUITARS
The Musical Instrument Museum presents this celebration of guitar music featuring workshops, demonstrations and
performances showcasing various guitar traditions and styles. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
SEPT. 13–OCT. 31
PUMPKIN FEST AT THE PRINCESS
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess presents its celebration of autumnal enchantment featuring three themed areas: Pumpkin Patch with swing rides, gem mining and vintage farm trucks; Jack-O’-Lantern Lawn with animatronics and fire pits; and Cider Orchard with hay maze and roller coaster. The event includes fall dining specials, plus seasonal bites and cider-inspired treats. $40+. See website for hours. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. 480-5854848; pumpkinfestattheprincess.com
SEPT. 19–28
ARIZONA RESTAURANT WEEK
The Arizona Restaurant Association presents the return of this beloved culinary tradition featuring threecourse, prix-fixe menus for $33, $44 or $55 per person (and in some cases per couple). More than 150 participating restaurants offer seasonal ingredients and dishes not typically on their regular menus, allowing diners to experience chefs’ culinary talents and creativity across a wide array of cuisines from independently owned establishments to five-star fine dining. See website for participating restaurants. arizonarestaurantweek.com
SEPT. 19–OCT. 26
ARIZONA STATE FAIR
The Arizona State Fair celebrates 141 years as a gathering place for Arizona’s diverse residents to honor the past, celebrate the present, and explore the future. Open Thursdays through Sundays, the fair features thrilling rides, along with classic and innovative fair foods. $17.50. See website for hours. Arizona State Fair, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. 602252-6771; azstatefair.com
Community
SEPT. 20–FEB. 15
'JAMES PERKINS 'BURYING PAINTING’
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents New York-based artist James Perkins’ first museum exhibition featuring “post-totem” works created through nature collaboration. The artist buries silk, wood and stone sculptures in landscapes, allowing elements — including local coyote packs — to alter the pieces before they’re re-stretched as paintings. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
SEPT. 27–28
'ZORRO’
Arizona Opera presents this new opera by Hector Armienta featuring the legendary masked vigilante. See website for ticket prices. Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. azopera.org
SEPT. 28
BEHIND THE FLAMES FIREFIGHTER CHARITIES DINNER
Scottsdale Firefighter Charities presents its 26th annual dinner honoring the
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
SMOCA NAMES NEW DIRECTOR AND CHIEF CURATOR
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art welcomes Dr. Ceci Moss as its new director and chief curator. Moss brings 20 years of curatorial experience, most recently serving as director and chief curator of the Mandeville Art Gallery at UC San Diego, where she also taught museum and curatorial studies. With expertise spanning technology’s influence on contemporary art and culture, Moss plans to integrate innovation into SMoCA’s multidisciplinary focus while continuing to champion emerging artists. Her background at multidisciplinary arts organizations positions her well to work within Scottsdale Arts’ broader cultural ecosystem. smoca.org
Scottsdale Firefighter of the Year and celebrating first responders who protect the community. The event recognizes C.A.R.E. award recipients Max Ashton, Foundation for Blind Children advocate; Autumn Curiel, co-founder of Justice 4 Preston Lord movement against teen violence; and D.J. Foster, former NFL player and Arizona State University director of player development. Proceeds benefit Vista Del Camino Food Bank, Scottsdale Gateway Alliance, Scottsdale Prevention Institute and other charities. $500. 5 p.m. Mastro’s City Hall, 6991 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. brianshedlock@gmail.com
SEPT. 28
RHAPSODY IN BLUE & BEYOND
The Scottsdale Philharmonic opens its season featuring Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue” with guest artist Nicole Pesce. The concert celebrates American musical heritage through classical and contemporary works that showcase the orchestra’s range and artistry. See website for ticket prices. 4 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-9516077; scottsdalephilharmonic.com
COMPASS ARIZONA CLOSES $25 MILLION SILVERLEAF ESTATE SALE
Compass Arizona agents Nickie and Don Knight closed a $25 million sale of a newly built Modern Mediterranean estate in Silverleaf’s Upper Canyon in a record seven days. Built in 2023 by Paragon Custom Homes and designed by Eric Peterson of PHX Architecture, the 14,369-square-foot home features six bedrooms, eight bathrooms and an entertainment wing with a nightclubinspired bar, golf simulator, wine room and 19-seat home theater. The estate includes an infinity-edge pool, guest casita and mountain views. The Knights have sold $34 million in real estate since May, reflecting continued demand for ultra-luxury properties in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. azhomes.com
Acheive your Best Body
A N D R E S T O R E Y O U R H E A L T H
PP e r s o n a l i z e d a n d D o c t o r -
S u p e r v i s e d W e i g h t L o s s
The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program integrates FDA-approved medications with a natural and holistic approach to address the underlying biological and physical issues responsible for weight gain.
In addition to losing weight and keeping it off, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program provides clients with the tools they need to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes as well as optimize hormones for energy, health and longevity
T h e M o s t C o m p r e h e n s i v e & S u c c e s s f u l P r o g r a m A v a i l a b l e
The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program is designed to help clients be the healthiest they have ever been, in the best body that they have ever had.
Regardless of the amount of weight you want to lose, the spa-like clinic’s Integrative Team will monitor and guide you throughout the process of reaching your goal. Our clients typically lose 15–20% or more of their body weight an average of 53 pounds in 6–12 months
Best of all, the program ensures that patients maintain lean muscle mass and keep the weight they lost off for life. That is because, unlike other programs, our weight loss program looks not only at scale weight but also takes into consideration body fat, muscle mass and water weight, which all affect one’s ultimate goal.
Writer Shannon Severson
Arizona’s Extraordinary Lodging Experiences
Destination Dreamscapes
Down a winding, wooded road or motoring along a desert expanse, when it’s time to lay your head for the evening, why not make your accommodations as interesting as the scenery on your drive?
Beyond Arizona’s spectacular landscapes lies another adventure: extraordinary accommodations that transform an ordinary getaway into an unforgettable experience. From vintage trailer courts to luxury glamping, these unique stays across the state offer both out-of-state visitors and locals a chance to experience Arizona in a distinctive style.
SHASH DINÉ ECORETREAT
Ancient history, ancient stories and ancient traditions converge at this Native American-owned working sheep ranch and off-grid glamping retreat. For 15 generations, Paul and Baya Meehan’s family has tended this land according to Navajo traditions, where Baya’s ancestors once hid in canyons to escape U.S. Army removal efforts. Located 12 miles south of Page with access to Grand Canyon,
Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion, the retreat offers a peaceful Navajo cultural experience and reconnection with nature. Accommodations range from traditional hogans (including one built by Baya’s grandfather) to luxurious bell tents on raised platforms, covered sheep wagons, and the Kyoob—a modern cube cabin with Mid-Century Modern-meets-Navajo textile decor. The Meehans call it a “billion star” hotel experience for the brilliant night skies.
shashdine.com
CANE BEDS CORRAL
In Arizona’s far northern canyonlands, former Las Vegas Strip architect Randy Paul and his wife, Tammy, have created Cane Beds Corral — an intimate, affordable glamping destination on seven pristine acres near the Utah border. Their passion project began in 2020 with two hand-built accommodations: the Little Rock Cabin (sleeps four) and the Explorer’s Escape tent with a private outdoor shower. Recently added options include the solar-powered Honeymoon Hideout and colorful “Mexi-Boho” Pancho’s Villa, both with access to custom bathrooms featuring showers reminiscent of slot canyons. Committed to sustainability and affordability, the Pauls limit capacity to 10 guests, providing Wi-Fi, outdoor cooking facilities, and a gas firepit for s’mores under starry skies. The property offers easy access to Zion, Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon national parks, with local recommendations readily available.
canebedscorral.com
CLEAR SKY RESORTS GRAND CANYON
Step into your personal “sky dome” and be transported to another world. Panoramic windows and skylights offer sweeping views that make you feel like you can reach out and touch the stars, all from climate-controlled comfort with premium linens. Theme rooms let you live your own story: “Secret Agent” a la 007, “80s Video Game,” “Pink Unicorn,” and “Space Galaxy” are family-sized domes that bring creativity to life. The “Welcome Dome” serves as the central hub for dining, coffee, games and socializing. Activities range from morning yoga and giant bounce pillows to stargazing tours with the resort’s resident astronomer. Located just 29 miles from Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, it serves as an ideal base camp for scenic drives and hiking.
clearskyresorts.com
UNDER CANVAS GRAND CANYON
For the ultimate luxury glamping experience, Under Canvas Grand Canyon delivers spectacularly. This toprated resort, located just 25 minutes from the South Rim on 160 acres of pinyon and juniper forest, features beautifully furnished safari-style tents — including the popular stargazer option with built-in ceiling windows for nighttime sky viewing. The property balances luxury with environmental consciousness through its minimal footprint philosophy, purposely excluding Wi-Fi to enhance natural connections. Complimentary activities range from yoga and guided hikes to live music and s’mores, while adventures that require advance booking include Jeep safaris and specialized tours. The culinary program emphasizes local, seasonal ingredients with options for both adults and children through the end of October.
undercanvas.com
AMERICANA MOTOR HOTEL
Get your kicks on Route 66 with a stay at this awardwinning motor lodge that delivers a trippy 1970s “retro-futuristic” experience. The orange, yellow and green-hued lobby welcomes guests with board games and couches, while the property, originally built in 1962 and restored in 2023, puts you within easy driving distance of the Grand Canyon, Lowell Observatory and Arizona Meteor Crater. Wood-paneled guest rooms feature disco balls and neon signs alongside bold colors, geometric furniture and headboards that mimic ‘70s ski gear. The hotel’s “Backyard” offers yard games, fire pits, telescopes for stargazing, bikes to borrow, and a fenced dog area with bathing station. Special packages include Highway to Hops (room mini fridge stocked with Mother Road brews) and seasonal events like Sunday Funday DJ pool parties.
americanamotorhotel.com
THE STRAWBERRY INN
Just 100 miles from Phoenix but worlds away in ambiance, the Strawberry Inn offers a pine-nestled retreat with midcentury charm and farmhouse-style design. Owners Amber and Carson Eilers have crafted a casual yet luxurious getaway with accommodations ranging from rooms in the main building to spacious cabins that sleep up to six. The property features modern amenities with plush bedding, dog-friendly options, and an on-site Windmill Coffee shop brewing Valley favorite Press Coffee. Porch swings and yard games complement the relaxed atmosphere. Nearby springs, trails and local shops provide entertainment options. With significantly cooler summer temperatures than Phoenix, it’s an ideal warm-weather escape.
thestrawberryinn.com
AIR VILLAGE
Meander down a tree-lined path where the gleaming shimmer of silver Avion trailers catches the sunlight and imagination. This quaint cluster of 10 sleek, lovingly restored 34-foot trailer shells sits beneath leafy elm trees just one block from Prescott’s vibrant Whiskey Row. Air Village defines itself as a luxury experience based on “an abundance of healthful and comfortable experiences.” Each remodeled trailer accommodates up to three adults or two adults and two children, featuring private baths, kitchenettes and queen beds with climate control. Evenings can be spent by the electric fireplace inside or enjoying mountain air from private outdoor seating areas. The parklike setting includes communal fire pits surrounded by colorful Adirondack chairs, all convenient to downtown events and nearby nature trails.
airvillage.com
More Great Getaways
For those seeking elevated experiences that blend comfort with character, these Arizona destinations offer distinctive stays that prioritize atmosphere and location:
• El Rancho Robles — This 1920s Spanish-style guest ranch spreads across 21 oak-shaded acres in the Santa Catalina Mountains, offering 27 uniquely positioned rooms and casitas at a cool 4,500-foot elevation. elranchorobles.com
• Rhumb Line Vineyard & Lavender Farm — Experience vineyard life in 1940s-inspired Quonset huts surrounded by organic lavender fields and mountain views in Cochise County wine country. rhumblinevineyards.com
• Tubac Inn — This charming boutique inn in Arizona’s premier art community features five cozy rooms showcasing Southwestern art and textiles, nestled in mesquite-shaded gardens. tubaccountryinn.com
Photos Courtesy of Epoch Visuals
SCORPION BAY FLOATING CABINS
Imagine waking to waves gently lapping against your private dock as light streams through the sliding glass doors of your floating cabin. Pour coffee in the kitchen and step onto your lakefront patio to enjoy the sparkling blue waters of Lake Pleasant — Scorpion Bay makes this dream a reality. Five fully equipped cabins sleep four to eight guests and require a minimum 6-night stay. Each features a private wet slip for boats or water toys, though the marina offers rentals including jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, and even “Yachtuzzis” — boats with onboard jacuzzis. The active can experience Paqua Park, a 7,000-square-foot floating water park with obstacles, bouncy pillows, slides and mini mountains. The Scorpion Bay Grill is one of the few floating restaurants in the United States.
scorpionbayaz.com/floating-cabins
TIRRITO FARM
This ecotourism destination is a farmstead with heart — founded by Tucson cardiologist Dr. Salvatore Tirrito and his wife, Yuri, as a sustainable escape centered on responsible land stewardship through agriculture. Much of what’s used and consumed on this family-friendly working farm is made right here. The main building is a wonder itself — an earthen structure beneath 12 million pounds of soil that maintains comfortable temperatures. The farm houses a 16-acre vineyard, restaurant, the Taproom (Willcox’s only microbrewery), creamery, and accommodations where every element works in concert. Six themed glamping domes accommodate two to four people with kitchenettes, full bathrooms and heated floors. Unique styles include Barbie Dream, Wine Lover’s, Cowboy/Cowgirl, and Hive (designed by Yuri, the farm’s beekeeper). Three luxury casitas feature modern-rustic decor.
tirritofarm.com
Photo by Ben Christensen
Photo by Vaho Matt Photography
THE SHADY DELL VINTAGE TRAILER COURT
This historic haven near Bisbee has welcomed travelers since 1927. Today, carefully restored 1940s and 1950s vintage trailers, a 1947 “Tiki Bus” and even a 1947 38-foot Chris-Craft yacht transport guests to a bygone era. Each accommodation features period-appropriate decor, from streaming oldies radios to phonographs with 45s. Most units sleep two adults (minimum age 15) with private toilets and sinks, while communal bathrooms offer full amenities. On weekends, Dot’s Diner serves meals from its own restored trailer. Located near Bisbee’s historic attractions, with the renowned Sonoita Vineyards wine region about an hour’s drive away, these popular accommodations often book six months in advance.
theshadydell.com
TINYCAMP
Ever wondered about tiny house living? TinyCamp in Sedona offers the perfect opportunity to experience it firsthand in a breathtaking setting. This pet-friendly cluster of five custom tiny homes accommodates one to four guests at a cool 4,500-foot elevation. The elevated tiny homes feature large decks that create a treehouse-like experience, and founder Darin Dinsmore has expanded with locations in West Sedona and the Verde Valley wine region. Nearby hiking trails, vortex experiences and evening stargazing from private saltwater hot tubs complete this luxury sustainable retreat that’s particularly inviting during the summer months.
tinycamp.com
In 1995, Sedona was a town where finding fresh basil qualified as sourcing an exotic ingredient. Today, it stands as one of Arizona’s most sophisticated culinary destinations, drawing food lovers from around the globe. The architect of this remarkable transformation? A grief-stricken young mother from Indianapolis who arrived with no culinary training, no business plan and nothing left to lose.
Chef Lisa Dahl’s story begins not with triumph, but with unimaginable tragedy. When her 23-year-old son Justin was killed while trying to help a robbery victim in San Francisco, Dahl’s world collapsed. The familiar haunts of Marin County — the coffee shops, restaurants and landmarks where she’d watched her son grow from child to young man — became unbearable reminders of her loss.
“All of those landmark places where my son and I had wonderful times together became more than I could really hold up to,” Dahl recalls. “I really felt that I needed to move away.”
Sedona beckoned as a place of healing. Known then primarily for crystals, spiritual retreats and metaphysical tourism, the red rock country offered something California couldn’t: a clean slate in a landscape that whispered of renewal and transformation.
What Dahl didn’t anticipate was becoming the catalyst for Sedona’s own metamorphosis.
When she opened Dahl & Di Luca
Ristorante Italiano in 1995 with her then-partner Andrea Di Luca, the restaurant introduced something revolutionary to Sedona: professional fine dining executed to San Francisco Bay Area standards. The intimate, silkdraped dining room with its gold and silver chandeliers, white-clothed tables sprinkled with rose petals and worldclass musicians created an experience unlike anything the town had seen.
“Back in those days, everything was a challenge because we didn’t know people, we didn’t know the vendors,” Dahl explains. “Finding basil was like finding an exotic ingredient. But we were so fresh and different, and there weren’t very many restaurants of our caliber.”
The gamble paid off spectacularly. Dahl & Di Luca became an instant sensation, drawing visitors who came for Sedona’s spiritual energy but discovered something unexpected: cuisine that could compete with any major metropolitan market.
But Dahl was just getting started.
Over the next three decades, she methodically built what would become the Lisa Dahl Restaurant Group — six distinctive establishments that collectively employ more than 300 people and have earned everything from James Beard House invitations to Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence.
Each restaurant serves a different purpose in Sedona’s culinary ecosystem, but it all began with Dahl & Di Luca — celebrating its 30th anniversary this
year as the icon of cuisine and hospitality in Sedona, where jazz and romance are spoken. Through years of transformations, it remains the foundation upon which Dahl’s empire was built, followed by the rustic Tuscan warmth of Cucina Rustica, the artisanal wood-fired pizzas of Pisa Lisa and the sophisticated casual dining of Butterfly Burger.
Meanwhile, Dahl’s self-described “grand dame” is Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill — a stunning 6,000-square-foot monument to both culinary artistry and maternal love. Perched on a hill with panoramic red rock views, Mariposa (Spanish for “butterfly”) serves as both Dahl’s masterpiece and her tribute to Justin.
“The butterfly obviously represents transformation, but transformation on many levels — the freedom to do what I feel called to do by a higher source,” Dahl reflects. “Butterflies also represent healing. I feel that’s a big part of what I was given as a gift: the ability to offer hope to people who’ve gone through very sad and difficult hardships.”
The symbolism runs deeper than restaurant names. Dahl’s entire journey embodies the butterfly’s metamorphosis — emerging from the chrysalis of grief to create something beautiful and life-sustaining. Her restaurants don’t merely serve food; they provide what she calls “soul food” — nourishment that goes beyond the physical to touch something deeper in the human experience.
How Chef Lisa Dahl Transformed Sedona’s Dining Scene
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Dahl Restaurants
This philosophy extends to every aspect of her operation. Dahl maintains legendary standards for sourcing, working closely with organic farmers like Bob McClendon, who jokes that she’ll text him a photo if she finds one imperfect leaf on a head of lettuce. Her commitment to excellence has earned recognition from Wine Spectator magazine for 19 consecutive years for her Italian restaurants and 10 years running for Mariposa.
But perhaps most remarkably, Dahl has managed this expansion while maintaining the intimate, family-style service that made her first restaurant special. Despite operating multiple locations, she remains hands-on, greeting guests in her trademark designer chef’s coats and ensuring every plate meets her exacting standards.
I came to Sedona broken, with no culinary training, no business background, no plan beyond survival. But I had love to give, and this community embraced that love and helped it grow into something beautiful. Lisa Dahl
The impact extends far beyond her own establishments. Dahl’s success paved the way for Sedona’s current status as a legitimate culinary destination, inspiring other restaurateurs to raise their own standards and attracting sophisticated travelers who appreciate exceptional dining experiences.
“When I opened Dahl & Di Luca in the ‘90s, I wanted to create a sophisticated supper club that lovers and companions would continually come back to for special moments and celebrations,” she says. “I had no idea we were creating a blueprint for what Sedona could become.”
Today, at 70, Dahl shows no signs of slowing down. Her latest venture, the Lisa Dahl Foundation, represents the next evolution of her mission to nourish souls. The foundation’s
two pillars — Soup Hope and Justin’s Garden — aim to address hunger and hopelessness in Arizona’s Native American communities through nutritious, delicious food and therapeutic gardening programs.
She’s also eyeing expansion beyond Sedona, with plans to introduce Butterfly Burger to new markets — the first of her concepts designed to thrive without her constant presence.
For Valley residents planning their next Sedona escape, Dahl’s restaurants offer more than exceptional dining; they provide entry into a larger story of resilience, transformation and the power of following one’s calling despite overwhelming odds. Whether you’re seeking romance at Dahl & Di Luca,
Love, Loss & Lasagna
breathtaking views at Mariposa or family-friendly atmosphere at Pisa Lisa, each establishment offers a piece of Dahl’s remarkable journey.
“I came to Sedona broken, with no culinary training, no business background, no plan beyond survival,” Dahl reflects. “But I had love to give, and this community embraced that love and helped it grow into something beautiful.”
Thirty years later, that love continues to draw visitors from around the world to experience what one woman’s grief transformed into Arizona’s most unlikely culinary empire.
cheflisadahl.com
Scan this QR code with your phone or search for Images Arizona on Spotify to listen to our exclusive podcast interview with chef Lisa Dahl featuring intimate details about her transformation from grief-stricken mother to culinary icon. You’ll discover untold stories about building her restaurant empire, the deeply personal meaning behind Mariposa, and her ambitious plans for the Lisa Dahl Foundation that couldn’t fit on these pages.
photo essay
Photographer Anthony Giammarino
Tolleson
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Discover Arizona anew through extraordinary aerial perspectives that transform familiar summer destinations into captivating works of natural art.
The Elevated State
There’s a certain magic to Arizona in high summer — when monsoon clouds build dramatic fortresses in the sky, when desert washes briefly transform into flowing waterways and when the interplay of light and shadow creates ever-changing masterpieces across our varied terrain. While these phenomena captivate us from ground level, they become truly spectacular when witnessed from above.
In this second installment of our aerial journey across Arizona, we continue exploring the state’s remarkable exterior regions through Anthony Giammarino’s drone photography. Where traditional perspectives offer only a fragment of the story, these elevated viewpoints reveal Arizona’s intricate tapestry in its entirety — the way ancient formations connect to one another, how communities have adapted to the land’s contours and how water shapes every aspect of our environment.
The drone’s unique vantage point — higher than human perspective yet lower than aircraft altitude — captures a precious middle ground where Arizona’s true character emerges. Familiar landmarks take on new significance when
seen within their broader context. Geological features reveal their complete patterns. Natural and human elements interact in ways invisible from the ground. It’s Arizona as you’ve always known it, yet somehow entirely new.
For summer travelers venturing beyond the Valley, Giammarino’s images serve as both inspiration and revelation. They encourage us to look beyond the obvious, to imagine how the places we visit connect to the greater whole, and to appreciate the remarkable diversity that defines our state. Whether you’re planning adventures to Sedona’s red rocks, Tucson’s saguaro forests or the cool pine country around Flagstaff, these aerial perspectives offer a preview of Arizona’s summer majesty.
Giammarino, who first fell in love with Arizona through his drone’s viewfinder, continues to discover new wonders with each flight. His work reminds us that even in a state celebrated for its natural beauty, there are always fresh perspectives to be found — if only we’re willing to rise above the ordinary.
Flagstaff
photo essay
Sedona’s early economy was built on fruit orchards — especially apples and peaches — with Oak Creek Canyon fruit so prized that people from Phoenix would drive up just to buy it.
Flagstaff was designated as the world’s first International Dark Sky City in 2001, recognizing its efforts to preserve the visibility of stars through light pollution controls.
The Seven Sacred Pools in Sedona, fed only by seasonal rains, have been considered places of healing and spiritual connection by Native American tribes for centuries.
The growing wine industry along the Verde River, now generating about $25 million annually, is helping conserve water compared with traditional crops like cotton and alfalfa that historically depleted the resource.
Tucson is the only city in America with “stravenues” — a unique street designation recognized by the U.S. Postal Service for roads that run diagonally between and intersect both a street and an avenue.
Meet the Photographer
Anthony Giammarino approaches drone photography with the perfect combination of technical precision and artistic vision. A native of upstate New York who relocated to Arizona in 2018, he has methodically explored the state’s remote regions, capturing their essence from altitudes that reveal both grand vistas and intimate details.
“Drone perspectives are so unique because it’s not about how high you can go,” Giammarino explains. “It’s about finding that sweet spot — not as high as an airplane, not as limited as standing on the ground — where Arizona’s true character emerges.”
Through his business, Airobird Drones, Giammarino has established himself as one of Arizona’s premier aerial photographers, while his creative outlet @AntsDrone on Instagram showcases his artistic exploration of the state’s diverse landscapes. His work has taken him across Arizona’s remarkably varied geography—from the stark beauty of southern desert regions to the verdant corridors along the state’s precious waterways to the dramatic terrain of the high country.
What separates Giammarino’s work from typical drone photography is his deep appreciation for how Arizona’s landforms tell stories when viewed from above. He doesn’t merely capture beautiful scenery; he reveals connections, patterns and relationships that remain hidden from ground-level observers.
“There’s nowhere else with Arizona’s combination of color, texture and dramatic landscapes,” Giammarino says. “Every time I send up my drone in a new location, I discover something unexpected — even in places I thought I knew well.”
airobird.com
Writer Shannon Severson
Arizona’s Coolest Ice Cream Destinations
Sweet Retreats
Step inside the chilly respite of an ice cream parlor, and you’re transported back to a simpler time — when you’d leave your bike outside the door and approach the counter to scan the rainbow-hued tubs of tempting tastes. Aficionados of cool and creamy confections will want to add these independently owned havens of ice cream and gelato to their Arizona road trip bucket lists.
TIMBERLINE ICE CREAM, FLAGSTAFF
Brothers Nic and Seth Beckett cooked up their very own ice cream dreams in their kitchens with a focus on highquality ingredients free from artificial colors, flavors or cheap sweetening shortcuts like corn syrup. Their passion, creativity and chemistry are at the heart of the now wildly popular Timberline Ice Cream, situated in a small, unassuming storefront in Flagstaff. It has introduced something entirely new to the community and put the town on the ice cream map.
Every scrumptious scoop begins with organic cream, milk and eggs. Then the magic begins. Using local ingredients whenever possible, the Beckett brothers’ “super-premium” ice cream uses fresh fruit, housemade jams and natural coloring like beet juice and spirulina to produce fabulous flavors like butter pecan, rocky road, lemon berry, dairyfree orange creamsicle made with coconut cream, and mint freckle — the Timberline version of mint chocolate chip.
ticflagstaff.com
Photo Courtesy of Axis Culture Group
BLACK COW CAFE, SEDONA
Since 1998, the charming Black Cow Cafe has been scooping up heaping helpings of homemade ice cream alongside an extensive selection of pies just like mom would make if she had the time. Pastries, milkshakes, ice cream floats and coffee from a local roaster round out the menu of this favorite stop for visitors, locals and hikers after exploring the beauty of the local mountains and trails.
“A lot of people come in to try our prickly pear ice cream as it is a local novelty,” says Devin Buck, who owns the shop with his wife, Carrie. “You can’t go wrong with a classic cone, a sundae or a slice of pie a la mode.”
In addition to the famed prickly pear ice cream, flavors like rich Belgian chocolate, espresso swirl, malted vanilla and butter pecan keep this small spot at the top of the list of local favorites. Specialty sundaes include tin roof sundaes smothered in hot caramel and salted peanuts and turtle sundaes dripping with hot fudge and roasted pecans.
blackcowcafe.squarespace.com
FITE AND SONS MERCANTILE AND ICE CREAM, PRESCOTT
Within steps of Prescott’s famed Whiskey Row, the siren scent of fresh-roasted nuts wafts from the doorway, luring passersby inside the magical little shop: Fite and Sons Mercantile and Ice Cream. It’s a true oasis of sweet, creamy and chocolaty delights, offering respite from the heat or a delectable detour during one of the town’s many celebrations centered on old-fashioned family fun — from rodeos to parades.
Owners Tom and Samantha Fite say patrons in search of the best-tasting ice cream visit their shop on downtown’s picturesque, tree-lined Main Square for signature, locally made flavors like whiskey caramel toffee crunch and award-winning lemon biscuit. Every month debuts a new custom flavor combo created for their milkshake of the month, and dog owners can reward their furry best friends with doggy ice cream.
In addition to scoopable sensations, the Fites offer house-made fudge, toys, local souvenirs and a yearround Christmas room — fitting as Prescott has been called Arizona’s “Christmas City.”
fiteicecreamprescott.com
THE SCREAMERY, TUCSON
When Kenny and Linda Sarnoski decided to change their diet with a focus on clean, wholesome ingredients, they didn’t want to quit eating ice cream. Their solution? Make their own! After lots of experimentation and sourcing top-quality, hormonefree milk, cream and other ingredients, their friends and family insisted their cool creation needed to be shared with the public.
The Screamery is an award-winning Tucson institution and the first in Arizona to receive certification to pasteurize its own ice cream, controlling every aspect of the process from cow to cone. Natural, chemical-free flavors are infused directly into the velvety ice cream base, and the result is a selection of unexpected and utterly craveable creations like Bacon and Bourbon — a Maker’s Mark bourboninfused base mixed with candied bacon pieces — or the refreshing, seasonal Orange Creamsicle made with real fruit.
The Sarnoskis use local, raw honey from Marana in their most popular flavor — sweet cream honeycomb. They even have dedicated hives to keep up with production demand.
thescreamery.com
BELLA’S GELATO, TUCSON
Family-owned and operated since 2015, Bella’s Gelato began as a food truck, scooping up a limited menu of creamy gelato and refreshing sorbet, but popular demand drove its expansion into a welcoming brick-and-mortar shop, taking over the former home of a much-beloved ice cream shop a stone’s throw from the University of Arizona. Named for the family’s beloved rescue Chihuahua, it’s a delightfully pet-friendly spot offering 34 flavors of homemade gelato and sorbetto, plus scratch-made desserts like brownies using locally sourced chocolate.
“We pride ourselves on our warm and welcoming atmosphere,” says owner Elizabeth Sebring. “Bella’s is a true community gathering spot. Our outdoor seating provides tremendous views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and amazing Tucson sunsets.”
bellasgelato.com
Photo by Elizabeth Sebring
DANZEISEN DAIRY CREAMERY STORE, PAYSON
The Danzeisen name — with a 60-year history in the Arizona dairy business — is well-known locally for its old-school, glass-bottled milk products on grocery store shelves. The surprise scoop is that the company has two brick-and-mortar stores — in Payson and Laveen — where it dedicates its decades of dairy experience to the sweeter side of life, swirling up towering, Instagram-worthy milkshakes, piling creamy ice cream into cones and sundaes, hosting fundraisers for local charities and even offering butter-making classes.
The most popular items on the menu are their overthe-top Stack Shakes and Stack Flights — milkshakes made with an ice cream base of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, coffee or seasonal flavors and then topped, drizzled and gilded with ooeygooey sauces, frostings, cookies, pretzels, candy, marshmallows and even Cracker Jacks to delight the eyes and taste buds.
danzeisencreamerystores.com
Photo Courtesy of Axis Culture Group
Writer Amanda Christmann // Photography Courtesy of Coconino National Forest
Red Rock Refuge
Fay Canyon’s Shaded Splendor
As Phoenix temperatures climb into triple digits, Sedona beckons with its promise of respite — offering not just cooler air but an immersive red rock experience that refreshes both body and spirit. Just an hour’s drive from the Valley, this geological wonderland provides the perfect summer escape.
Among Sedona’s seemingly endless array of trails — which attract millions of visitors annually to the Red Rock Ranger District — one stands out for its accessibility and unexpected delights: Fay Canyon Trail.
Named after Alvin Fay, a rancher who was active in the area during the 1860s, this 2.3-mile outand-back trail offers the perfect setting for summer exploration. What distinguishes this particular path is the generous canopy of manzanitas and junipers providing natural shade — a precious commodity during Arizona summers.
The trail meanders along a red-dust canyon floor, bordered by dramatic rocky outcrops that frame the azure sky. Discerning hikers will notice the terrain’s subtle transformations: from droughtresistant yuccas and prickly pear near the trailhead to an ancient-looking forest of alligator juni-
What
distinguishes this particular path is the generous canopy of manzanitas and junipers providing natural shade — a precious commodity during Arizona summers.
per, culminating in a grove of majestic oaks at the trail’s conclusion. Here, a manageable rock formation invites climbers to witness panoramic views that capture Sedona’s iconic beauty.
Approximately midway along the path is a short, steep side trail leading to Fay Canyon Arch — a natural formation spanning about 90 feet and suspended 15 feet above the canyon floor. Though marked by cairns, locating this detour requires attentiveness, but the reward justifies the effort.
Near the arch, observant hikers will discover 20th century rock wall ruins — a more contemporary counterpoint to the ancient geological formations. For those willing to venture further, an old Jeep track beyond the arch leads through a secluded canyon to even older ruins set against striking Supai sandstone cliffs.
A Red Rock Pass is required for parking — available at three visitors centers throughout Sedona. Daily passes are $5, weekly $15, and annual passes range from $20–$40. These fees contribute directly to conservation efforts and visitor services.
After your hike, extend your retreat with visits to Sedona’s acclaimed galleries, boutiques and culinary establishments — all offering air-conditioned sanctuaries filled with artistic and gastronomic treasures. The perfect summer day may well begin with Fay Canyon’s natural wonders and conclude with Sedona’s cultural delights.
visitsedona.com
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of the Coconino Center for the Arts
Beyond the Postcards Flagstaff Exhibition Reveals Route 66’s Hidden Stories
The romance of Route 66 has captivated the American imagination for nearly a century, but a groundbreaking exhibition at the Coconino Center for the Arts challenges visitors to look beyond the vintage postcards and neon signs to discover the Mother Road’s more complex truths.
“Route 66: Alternative Perspectives,” running through Sept. 27, launches the U.S. Route 66 centennial celebration with what curator Julie Comnick describes as “a decidedly non-nostalgic and creatively interpretive photo-documentary of life along the Mother Road.”
The exhibition features three distinct photographic perspectives that collectively paint a more nuanced portrait of America’s most famous highway. In the Main Gallery, visitors encounter Edward Keating’s haunting “Main Street: The Lost Dream of Route 66” alongside Wes Pope’s whimsical “POP 66: A Dreamy Pop Can Camera Odyssey Along Route 66.” The Project Gallery houses “Shades of Route 66: Celebrating Diversity Along Historic Route 66.”
For Arizona travelers planning their own Route 66 adventures, the exhibition offers a compelling starting point that acknowledges both the romance and reality of the Mother Road.
Edward Keating, the late Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist remembered for his coverage of the Sept. 11 attacks and the series “How Race Is Lived in America,” spent over a decade documenting the social and infrastructural decay surrounding Route 66. His images provide an unceremonious look behind Americana postcards and into the faces and places that others pass by.
Throughout his body of work, Keating found humanity in small, often forgotten places and moments, documenting the human passion that drives hope and change while offering reasons to look a little closer.
The exhibition includes Keating’s work through a partnership with his widow, renowned photographer Carrie Boretz.
In striking contrast, Wes Pope’s “POP 66” transforms the familiar into the fantastical through pinhole photography. Pope, who has worked as an artist and educator for more than 25
Edward Keating, Broken Window, Route 66 Diner, Tulsa, OK, 2000
years and currently co-directs the multimedia journalism master’s program at the University of Oregon, creates his images using handmade cameras fashioned from soda cans.
Pope’s camera obscura blends clarity and distortion as his frame and perspective take on the curvature of the pop can. His work acknowledges a disappearing life along the Mother Road while celebrating what he calls “the guessed moment of exposure and the surprise result of the shot.”
The exhibition incorporates cutting-edge technology alongside traditional photography, with Pope’s work enhanced by immersive virtual reality elements including photogrammetry and 360-degree video, supported by the University of Oregon. Visitors can scan QR codes with their phones to explore the aesthetic connections between analog photography and digital media.
The third component, “Shades of Route 66,” addresses the highway’s often-overlooked diverse history. Produced by Cline Library at Northern Arizona University and funded by the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, the project explores stories of the underrepresented voices of
people and their communities who contributed to the diverse cultural and socioeconomic landscape along Route 66 through Arizona.
The final product, a digitally accessible StoryMap using ArcGIS, provides a well-rounded and inclusive history of Route 66’s planning, construction and development using anthropological and decolonial lenses.
For Arizona travelers planning their own Route 66 adventures, the exhibition offers a compelling starting point that acknowledges both the romance and reality of the Mother Road. Rather than perpetuating nostalgic myths, these three photographic perspectives invite viewers to engage with the highway’s complex legacy and continuing evolution.
coconinoarts.org
‘Route 66: Alternative Perspectives’ Through Sept. 27
11 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday–Saturday Coconino Center for the Arts
2300 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff // Free 928-556-3253 // coconinoarts.org
Wes Pope, Pop Can Camera Obscuras Used to Photograph Route 66
ITALIAN CHARCUTERIE SUSHI ROLLS
A sophisticated fusion of Italian antipasti and Japanese technique, these elegant rolls transform the traditional charcuterie spread into artful, bite-sized presentations. Premium prosciutto cradles layers of creamy burrata, roasted peppers and sun-dried tomatoes, while fresh basil pesto and peppery arugula add herbaceous notes that marry beautifully with a final drizzle of aged balsamic.
Serves: 4 as an appetizer (8 pieces)
INGREDIENTS:
6 thin slices prosciutto di Parma
Francine Coles
Photographer
Writer and
thefancypantskitchen.com
Recipe
6 slices premium salami
2 tablespoons fresh basil pesto
1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers, julienned
1/3 cup oil-packed sundried tomatoes, chopped
4 ounces fresh burrata cheese
2 cups fresh arugula
Balsamic glaze for finishing
DIRECTIONS:
Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean cutting board. Arrange the prosciutto slices in a rectangular pattern, overlapping each piece slightly to create a cohesive base. Layer the salami slices along one edge of the prosciutto rectangle.
Spread the basil pesto evenly over the salami. Distribute the roasted red peppers and sundried tomatoes in an even layer.
Tear the burrata into portions and distribute alongside the other ingredients. Top with the fresh arugula.
Using the plastic wrap as a guide, carefully roll the assembly into a tight cylinder, ensuring the prosciutto forms the outer layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into eight equal pieces. Arrange on a serving platter and finish with a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze.
