Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona

Once upon a time, Phoenix and Scottsdale were part of the same city. But both have been growing and developing at a rapid pace, and now they stand as two separate, but connected, metropolises. Phoenix’s roots are ancient, built upon the ashes of a Native village. Scottsdale is a young city with an old soul. Both cities blend the historic Arizona cultures — Native American, Spanish, and western pioneer — into a modern culture that is entirely their own. But the best thing is, you really can’t visit one without visiting the other, so your family gest two interesting holiday spots in one trip.

What to do:

The obvious place to begin is at the Arizona Museum for Youth, a hands-on art gallery for kids from toddlers to ten-year olds. Children are encouraged to examine works of art up close and to use interactive exhibits and participate in seminars to learn about the creative process. The Arizona Doll and Toy Museum will fascinate children and adult doll aficionados alike with its collection of dolls from the Victorian era to the present. The Hall of Flame Firefighting Museum contains imagination-inspiring pieces such as a 1725 hand pump to shiny apple-red fire trucks. The top attractions at CrackerJax Family Fun & Sports Park include two miniature golf courses, a bumper boat lagoon, a kiddie go-kart track, and baseball batting cages. In honor of the spirit of the western frontier you can visit the Goldfield Ghost Town, a re-creation of an 1890s mining settlement. The Phoenix Zoo, features an Arizona Trail with mountain lions and coyotes, as well as exhibits about animals from other parts of the world. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park features restored locomotives, old railway depots, and a train that takes you around the park.

Where to Stay:

The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North (1-800-819-5053) has a staggering number of attractions for children. From the desert-awareness tours to the scavenger hunts and from the movie nights to the stargazing seminars, the activities are pure fun; doubles start at $295. Another great option is the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa (1-888-625-5144), a property that ranges over 730 acres. The grounds contain a 900-foot flowing river pool, a children’s playground, and plenty of sports facilities; doubles start at $189.

For More Information:

Visit www.phoenixcvb.com and www.scottsdalecvb.com.

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