Arizona, with its clear, open skies, is known for great stargazing; and the different terrains in which to enjoy the seemingly infinite night sky is as countless as the stars. In cities like Phoenix where there is constant city light reflecting off the hundreds of  square miles of pavement, it’s easy to forget to look up sometimes and appreciate just how mind-blowingly big and mysterious the Universe really is – and how ultimately small our scope is. But whether you drive out into the desert, go camping with some friends, or just find a high point nearby, take some time to look up. It’s good for everyday perspective – it’s good for the soul.

Once you’ve got the bug for Arizona stargazing – here’s a chance to take it to the next level.

Did you know Arizona has five renown observatories?

Lowell Observatory - Photo: Jeremy Perez

The Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff was established in 1894 by Percival Lowell. This astronomical observatory has had quite a few big discoveries, two of which include the first evidence of an expanding universe as well as the discovery of Pluto. Lowell Observatory  offers exhibits, events, Sky Tonight Shows, and telescope viewings, student programs and more.

 

Kitt Peak Observatory - Photo: Gary Ladd

Kitt Peak  is the world’s largest collection of optical telescopes. This treasure trove is located on the Tohono O’odham Reservation high above the Sonoran Desert under some of the finest night skies in the world. There are twenty-two optical and two radio telescopes representing eight astronomical research institutions.

 

Mt. Graham Observatory - Photo: justice.gov

Mt. Graham International Observatory  is home to the world’s most powerful optical telescopes and is housed in a 16 story enclosure. Also featured on the tour is a Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope and the Hertz Submillimeter Telescope. The tours feature a trip up scenic Mount Graham, focusing on the mountain’s rich geology, history, and diversity of life followed by lunch near the summit of the mountain.

 

Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter - Photo: Pat Shannahan

Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter is anastronomy and science learning facility located on a desert “sky island” just north of Tucson, Arizona. The 32-inch Experience the grandeur of the night sky like never before, from our new 32-inch Schulman telescope. This telescope is now the largest dedicated public observing telescope in Arizona and offers observes rare visual access to the Universe. The SkyCenter utilizes the the 9,157 ft. summit of Mt. Lemmon which opens up the night sky like any other experience. This facility has the privilege of having the extensive knowledge base at the University of Arizona to deliver exceptional educational adventures.

 

San Pedro Valley Observatory - Photo: Sean Ma

San Pedro Valley Observatory - Just a short distance from Tucson is a place where visitors can specifically ask to focus on a particular area to observer. This place can accommodate small or large groups and can even host events. There is an observatory library, including Astronomy and science related books, CDs and DVDs; a fully equipped classroom with a 2.5 meter planetarium. Researches are able to make use of of the laboratory that accompany three separate telescope rooms. A laboratory room for use by researchers and others needing work space. San Pedro features Vega-Bray 20” Maksutov-Cassegrain (the “Big Mak”) f9.5 (focal length 4750mm). This is the largest of its kind in Arizona and reported to be one of the three largest in the world. Big Mak is currently operational for through-the-lens viewing, while preparations are being made to upgrade the mount, motors and dome control to improve its use for astrophotography.

• Are you on a tight-ish budget but still want to enjoy golf in Scottsdale or Phoenix?
• Are you not the “best” golfer, so you don’t want to spend a lot of cash, but you’d like to enjoy the great golf weather and take a few big swings?
• Are you paying for the foursome (two of whom your significant other is forcing you to take out for the day)?
• Are you just getting back into the swing of things and don’t want to drop $150 on a course that’s going to eat an additional $30 worth of your golf balls?
• Do you just want to play golf often while you are here but not drain the bank account over it?

Here is our little Guide to Golfing in the Scottsdale and Phoenix Area…the way locals who don’t belong to a fancy golf club do it. These are full-fledged par 71-72 golf courses, offering a great golf experience, which includes opportunities for long drives, strategic approaches, pretty views, beverage cart service, and Arizona weather. Caddy’s not included.

Photo Credit: Forelinksters Blog

1. Papago Golf Course - Phoenix, AZ – This incredible municipal golf course is quite the gem. It offers fantastic views of the Papago Mountains, the grass stays mostly green even into the depths of Phoenix’s hottest days. And currently, their prices are $15 – $48, depending if you’re walking, riding, and the time of day, of course. The pace of play is not bad for a municipal course. I’ve found that most of the people who play here at least know the rules and are considerate of golf course etiquette. This is a par 72 course that has also been recently renovated by Billy Fuller himself.

NB. The course restoration was accomplished exclusively by William R. (Billy) Fuller, Billy Fuller Golf Design. Fuller was golf course superintendent at Augusta National, and a 15-year member of the Cupp-Fuller Design team that has been involved in more than 100 courses including Pumpkin Ridge and Crosswater (Oregon), Old Waverly (Mississippi), Settindown Creek (Georgia) and Beacon Hall (Ontario, Canada).
http://www.papagogolfcourse.net/

Photo Credit: Golf Guide Web

2. The Raven – Phoenix, AZ -The Raven is a personal favorite. This course does not look like the typical Phoenix desert golf course. The rocks here don’t tuck your ball away just enough for you to think that you can get your ball back into the fairway without taking a drop or severely messing up your club. There are no gnarly, wiry, bushes that you can see your ball through but could never get to without being mutilated by the mean plant spikes. The Raven is lush, green, forgiving, yet challenging. The rolling hills play with your distance perspective. The greens require you to concentrate. And the big trees are actually a challenge, but a welcomed one, to those of us who are used to desert golf. The rates range from $45 – $66 for this May – September 2012 season.
http://www.ravenphx.com/

Photo Credit: TheCaddyShack.com

3. Silverado – Scottsdale, AZ – Scottsdale Silverado might be one of the most relaxed, unpretentious golf environments in Scottsdale. This is not to be confused with a course full of chops wearing jorts. (Though there is a chance to witness this species at any public course without a strict dress code.) Silverado just has golf course that’s really fun, moderately challenging, has a open layout, and is decently priced. It’s a great place for golfers of varying skill level to get together and enjoy the day. Rates range from $27 -$58.
http://www.scottsdalesilveradogolfclub.com/

Photo Credit: GolfNow.com

4. Vistal – Phoenix, AZ – Vistal is situated on the foothills of South Mountain. There’s even a tee box sitting on a ledge of the mountain! This place offers fantastic views of the city and the desert mountain terrain, but the grass here can be hit or miss as far as how green it stays throughout the summer. Vistal has proven to be a great course for people who like to play golf and know how. You don’t have to be great to enjoy this course, but there are enough big drives and subtle challenges that are to be appreciated. This might be one of the courses I play more often because you can find really great deals on GolfSwtich.com or any of the other golf tee time booking engines online. Their posted rate is $24 – $58, but check out a golf booking engine online before you call and set up a tee time.
http://www.vistalgolfclub.com/

Photo Credit: GolfWorld.com

5. Cave Creek Golf Course – Phoenix, AZ – Some locals might laugh or even scoff at this golf course pick. Ok, there might be a few more chops at this course. Yes, it’s built on a landfill (though you’d never know it. Hey! The shifting hill formations on the fairways and greens from rain storms means new challenges for the Regulars!) But seriously, it’s a good, long, challenging, cheap round of golf. This might not say much to you, but Girls High School Regional Golf  Championships have been held here for many years, and these girls have a 0 handicap and still find many holes on this course challenging. There are huge ravines to drive over, unassuming par 5s that can get you in trouble. You might laugh when you pull up. But you’ll see. Cave Creek is full of surprises. Rates are $12 – 48.
Cave Creek Golf Course

Also notable:

• Encanto Golf Course
• Aguila Golf Course
• Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club
• Stonecreek

Most people who live in the Metro Phoenix area are not aware that Prescott is a reservoir of lake adventures. Less than 100 miles away from Downtown Phoenix is a secret land of glass lakes, mellow rivers and streams and a entirely different way to explore our backyard. The treasure that Arizona’s nature provides continues to keep giving and surprising lovers of Arizona time and time again.

Photo Credit: AZ Central

Kayaking in Prescott can be a relaxing experience or an exciting adventure. Placid lakes offer stunning views with giant boulders and  multi-colored rock walls jetting out of the smooth water; a truly humbling experience that allows nature and yourself to come to a peaceful accord. For a little more action, many of these rocks and be jumped off of. Get a group of friends, rent some kayaks, pack some drinks and sandwiches and have a picnic at the base of a rock wall do a bit of cliff diving! (Make sure to take all your trash back with you.)

Other kayaking trips in Prescott include streams with some class two rapids that have class three spots. Some people follow these streams and rivers for a few days by setting up camp on the banks at sunset after a day of water adventure followed by another great day of kayaking just after having sunrise breakfast.

Photo Credit: Sedona Adventure Tours

Summer will be here soon enough and Phoenicians will be looking for a way to take a break from the heat. There’s so much to do in Arizona – this state is truly fortunate to have so much to offer. This summer, be creative with your weekends. If you and your friends or family are looking for exciting and budget friendly things to do Arizona this summer, there’s no shortage of options here.

Here are some kayak/boat rentals and tours:

• Prescott Outdoors
• Lynx Lake – Rentals
• Water into Wine River Trip
• Paddle to Pints
• City of Prescott – Recreation Services

View Prescott Lakes – Kayaking in a larger map

There’s quite a bit of entertainment that can come from a super action-packed, mostly-mindless, story-lacking but fun blockbuster movie. But for the next few days, Arizona is going get have the opportunity to enjoy a change of pace. Get ready to broaden your horizons and explore some cinematic art!

The Phoenix Film Festivals runs from March 29 – April 5 and there are some really great films worth checking out. The Harkins Theater in Scottsdale will turn into a mecca of storytelling and visual exploration through  a collection of international films as well as Arizona based films. The Phoenix Film Festival showcases a few competition categories that require the movies or shorts to be filmed in Arizona and/or written about Arizona, offering locals the chance to see Arizona from another perspective.

More than 160 films will screen during its eight-day run, and the schedule is packed with must-sees: From drag queen dreams of going to prom in A Fairy Tale to FDR: American Badass, which re-imagines WWI with werewolves, you won’t want to miss out on the kind of creativity that emerges when millions of dollars are not on the line. In addition to taking in indie flicks, film geeks can work on their filmmaking skills with free weekend seminars given by cast and crew members from the festival films.

You should come to the Phoenix Film Festival:

1) If you can’t find anything good to watch at AMC

2) If you have guessed the ending to the last seven movies you’ve watched

3) If you like Michael Bay movies

4) If you like romantic comedies, any of the dozen Saw movies, or a movie that spoofs another bad movie like Another Bad Teen Movie

5) If your  tired of your favorite actor playing the same role in every movie (except Tommy Lee Jones being authoritative and Sean Bean dying. They don’t count.)

6) If you find yourself not knowing most of the films nominated for Academy Awards

7) If you come out of most movies saying, “the special effects were awesome,” but struggle to talk about the storyline

8) If you’ve never seen a film short or don’t even know what is

9) If you’ve ever said, “movies these days suck”

10) If you’ve never been to the Phoenix Film Festival but saw a poster advertising it at your favorite bar

I don’t claim to be the expert at celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Phoenix; but yeah, I enjoy it quite a bit and all of my friends know it. It’s the one holiday I can really get into.  Maybe it’s because I grew up at an Irish Catholic school here in The Valley, where the nuns taught me to Irish dance and the priests sang “Seven Drunken Nights” with the students’ parents at the school’s St. Patrick’s Day Irish Hooley.  (Don’t worry! It was for adults only, but I was part of the Irish dancing entertainment so I learned these drinking songs young but didn’t understood them until years later!) Maybe I like this holiday because the spirit of the the Irish saying, “There are no strangers in Ireland, just friends you haven’t met yet,” comes to life whether you are here in Phoenix or in Dublin.  Or maybe I like it because, really,  I honestly just enjoy an excuse to drink copious amounts of my favorite beer with hundreds or even thousands of other people who are doing the same thing while doing little jig to the sound of a fiddle. After years of dancing in parades and visiting pubs on St. Patrick’s Day with the McTeggart Irish dancing troupe as a grade school girl, I have compiled a list of pubs that I enjoy on this fine day.

WARNING: Being that St. Patty’s Day is on a Saturday this year, it will be incredibly, even obnoxiously crowded at any place that sounds remotely Irish (or British for that matter. Go figure.)

These are just my personal recommendations. Be safe, have fun, and don’t blame me for your choices.

Slainte!

Arizona Chrissy

Vintage Guinness Advertisement

St. Patrick’s Day – March 17, 2012

Best Family Celebration

• ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE & FAIRE

29th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Faire
This Year’s Theme is “Arizona Irish 100 Years and Going Strong”

-Parade 3rd Street from Sheridan south to Margaret T. Hance Park 10AM
-The Faire starts immediately after at Hance Park West side of Central at the Irish Cultural Center
-Admission $10.00 adults 13 & older Kids 12 & under FREE. Senior (55 & over) and Military $8.00

2 Stages of Irish Music and Dancers, Kids Area, Food and Beverages, Crafters.  Free Shuttle from 1850 North Central Avenue (West side of Central Ave & Palm Lane) to the Faire.  TAKE THE LIGHT RAIL TO THE ROOSEVELT STREET STATION.

Free parking at the garage at 1850 North Central Avenue. The Parade has marching bands, Irish step dancers, bagpipers, police and fire vehicles, government dignitaries, floats, the 2012 Arizona Irish Colleen / Arizona Rose with her Court and a whole lot more.
This year’s Grand Marshall is Seamus McCaffrey who is from Belfast and is the owner of Rosie McCaffrey’s Pub in Phoenix as well as being a Founder of the Irish Cultural Center.  The Irish Persons of the Year are Sean and Patricia Prior who are from Counties Cavan and Waterford respectively.  The Priors are Founders of the Irish Cultural Center and have been heavily involved in the Irish Community for many years.  Sean is a docent at the ICC and Patricia is the Executive Director.  For further information call (602) 280-9221 or visit www.phxirish.org

Best Pint of Guinness

• Pat Murphy’s
  3215 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix
  602-522-0669
• O’Connor’s Pub
  2601 W. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix
  602-997-7714
  St.Patrick’s Day Schedule

Phoenix Local Favorites

• Seamus McCaffrey’s Irish Pub
  18 W. Monroe, Phoenix
  602-253-6081
  Opens 9AM
  St. Patricks Day Schedule
• Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub
  906 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix
  602-241-1916
  Opens 7AM
  St. Patricks Day Schedule
• The Turf
  705 N 1st St
  Phoenix, AZ 85004
  (602) 296-5043
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule
• Dubliner Irish Pub
  3841 E. Thunderbird Rd, Phoenix
  602-867-0984
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule
• Casey Moore’s Oyster House
  850 S. Ash, Tempe
  480-968-9935
• Rula Bula
  401 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe
  480-929-9500
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule

Worth Mentioning – (Scratch N’ Sniff Irish Pubs)

• O’Donoghue’s
  20469 N. Hayden Rd.
  Scottsdale, AZ
  480-858-6329
  http://www.scottsdaleirishpub.com/
• Skeptical Chymist
  15688 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale
  480-609-8677
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule
• Tim Finnegan’s (same owner as Skeptical Chymist)
  9201 N 29th Ave., Phoenix
  602-997-2323
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule
• Fibber Magee’s (same owner as Skeptical Chymist)
  1989 W. Elliott Rd., Chandler
  480-722-9434
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule

I Want to Drink, Listen to Pseudo Irish-ish Music, Meet Pretty People & Enjoy the Sunshine

• FLOGGING MOLLY
  Part of St. Patrick’s Day 2012
  Sat., March 17, 1:00pm @ Tempe Beach Park
  54 W. Rio Salado Parkway Tempe, AZ 85281

I Want to Chug Green Beers and Throw Leprechauns

• Padre Murphys (Though, this pub has earned it’s place in Local Favorites as well)
  4338 W Bell Road
  Glendale, AZ 85308
  (602) 547-9406
  St. Patrick’s Day Schedule
• Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery
  (multiple locations)
  http://www.tiltedkilt.com/
• Mulligans
  7318 E Stetson Dr
  Scottsdale, AZ 85251
  (480) 947-8188

March 2, 2012. Mark your calendar. Arizona’s Cactus League Spring Training is getting underway and what good time this is going to be! With 15 leagues training all within one metropolitan area, you and your kids have the opportunity to see many of your favorite baseball players up close and personal. You may even have a little chat with them while they’re  throwing the ball around during warm-up.

As a kid growing up here in Arizona without a MLB team of our own (pre Diamondbacks, of course), we had the Firebirds and loved watching them. But Spring Training was something else. All my favorite big league players popped out of my trading cards and came down to play baseball in what felt like the park next door to my house. I have memories of leaning over the fence yelling “Will! Hi!” Will Clark caught the ball in his glove, turned around and called out to me. “What’s your name?” Feeling the giddy run through my legs, I called back, “Chrissy.”  He smiled and tossed me the ball he was throwing around.

Arizona Spring Training is an opportunity to travel into another dimension which feels strangely like, well, the Field of Dreams or even just the good ol’ days that so many of us grew up seeing in old sports reels and films. Players are just steps away from their adoring fans. Experiences with the players can often create these thick, vivid memories that you’d have to brush away with your hand.  There is something magical and nostalgic about baseball. The All-American sport is entrenched in our culture, and sometimes we can lose the perspective of what it’s all about between the JumboTron, advertisements, and pumped up theme music for each player as he goes up to bat. But Spring Training is different. It’s baseball in its purest form. Players are out there on the field playing hard to earn their spot on the team; there are no special sound effects, just the sound of the crack of the bat reverberating against the short walls encasing the stadium; seats are optional – and in fact, many people choose to lay in the grass on a blanket with a hot dog and a beer and even some kettle corn.

There’s no better time or place to see baseball. Arizona Spring Training is coming up and we’re all looking forward to it. You know Arizona has plenty of sunshine and during this time of year the weather averages around 78 degrees. It time to play ball!

Cactus League Spring Training 2012 Information:

• Game Schedule and Ticket Information

Recommended Arizona Spring Training Hotels:

• Hyatt Regency Hotel – Downtown Phoenix
• Marriott – Phoenix Airport
• Crowne Plaza – Downtown Phoenix
• Hilton Garden Inn – Old Town Scottsdale
• Millennium Hotels – Scottsdale
• Hotel Indigo – Old Town Scottsdale

The Grand Canyon State (a.k.a The Valentine State) turns 100 years on February 14, 2012, and you bet there’s a lot of celebrating going on. From parades and festivals to lectures and outdoor adventures, Arizonans are celebrating all that makes Arizona the great state that it is. With such a rich cultural history and diversity in interests, there will be no shortage of things to do.  Events are going on year round, but you won’t want to miss the official day of the Centennial Celebration.

February 14, 2012 Arizona Statehood Day!

7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. (Phoenix City Hall)

Arizona Native American Sunrise Ceremony (Sunrise Is At 7:12am)

 7:45 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. (begins at Phoenix City Hall)

Reenactment of Governor George W.P. Hunt’s Walk to Capitol

 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Senate & House Lawns)

Happy 100^th Birthday Arizona!

• Happy Birthday Ceremony w/ Governor Brewer (9-9:45am)
• USPS First Day Issue Ceremony (10-10:30am)
• Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest Winners & Award (1-2pm)
• Wayne Newton (2-3pm) 

ALL DAY ACTIVITIES:

• USPS First Day Issue Stamp Sale & Cancellation
• Non-stop Arizona Entertainment
• Legacy Projects & Official Centennial Event EXPO
• Centennial Merchandise
• Phoenix Food Trucks
• Birthday Cake

Other upcoming events:

64^TH ANNUAL GOLD RUSH DAYS & RODEO, Wickenburg | (February 16-19,2012) Admission to: Rodeo, Melodrama, Barbeque, Family Carnival, contests, and Webb Center concerts. Free admission to arts/crafts faire, 4th largest parade in AZ on Saturday, old mining contests on Sunday. Award winning signature event celebrating Wickenburg’s mining and ranching heritage. 2012 is the 64th anniversary celebration. The event has been named twice by the Arizona Office of Tourism as the Best Rural Event in Arizona; and the Library of Congress named Gold Rush Days as one of the Legacy events.

A TALE OF TWO CITIES PARADE & FESTIVAL GOODYEAR AND AVONDALE CELEBRATE ARIZONA’S CENTENNIAL, Goodyear (February 25, 2012) | On Saturday, February 25, 2012, the cities of Goodyear and Avondale will host a joint parade through both cities. This inaugural parade and festival will be a celebration of Arizona’s Centennial which is being celebrated throughout 2012 beginning on the state’s 100th anniversary – February 14, 2012. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. on February 25th on Litchfield Road, travel east on Thomas Road and end at Dysart Road. Depending on the number of entrants, the parade is expected to last anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. We are currently seeking parade entrants – floats, bands, vintage cars, horses, gymnastic troops, dance troops, or other entertaining parade entries. An outdoor, family-focused festival called Trains, Planes and Automobiles, celebrating 100 years of transportation, will take place at Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) following the parade from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This fun-filled event will feature gourmet food trucks, light musical entertainment, antique car displays, arts and crafts, bouncers, a Kids Zone, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, and caricature art.

ROOSEVELT’S RIDE, Apache Junction (February 24 – 26, 2012) | The project will feature a President Theodore Roosevelt re-enactor who will be the Grand Marshall for the annual Lost Dutchman Days Parade. He will be riding in an era-specific vehicle. After the parade he will drive to more locations on the historic Apache Trail where he will speak about the building of the road to carry materials for the construction of the Roosevelt Dam.

THE FOUR HIKES OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA, Oro Valley (TBD) | The hiking event will focus on the beauty of the natural environment and education. A celebration at the historic Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley will involve activities for all family members and will focus on the historical aspect of the property and the heritage of Arizona.

TOWN OF PAYSON MOUNTAIN HIGH GAMES, Payson  (June 3-5, 2011) | The Payson Arizona Mountain High Games are the Southwest’s largest celebration of adventure sports combined with ATV trail rides, and a massive outdoor expo. Professional and amateur athletes from all over the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest will converge upon the mountain community of Payson to compete in 9 different competitions for cash and prizes. This year’s sporting events include: Mountain Biking, 5K Trail Run, Dutch Oven Cooking Contest, Archery Competition, ATV Rodeo, ATV Trail Rides, The Sawdust Festival, and an old fashioned horse shoe tournament.

Arizona Facts:

Arizona is located in the Southwestern United States and is one of the Four Corners states. Arizona is the sixth largest state in area and all New England plus the state of Pennsylvania would fit inside the state.  Only 15% of the land is privately owned, while the remaining area is public forest, park land, state trust land and Native American reservations. Due to the large area of the state, Arizona has several different climates. Phoenix is known for it’s triple digit heat in the summer, but its eight plus months 60 degree to 75 degree weather keeps the city’s population growing consistently.  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) with Mt. Humpheys in Flagstaff peaking at  a height of 12,643 feet. The main industries in Arizona can be summarized as the “Five C’s”: Cattle, Copper, Citrus, Cotton, and Climate.

For more Arizona Centennial Celebration events and information, go to http://www.az100years.org/

The romantic sentiment that comes with castles didn’t get left behind as early settlers traveled to the Wild West. The open land, pink sunsets, beautiful land formations and free spirit invited the opportunity for dreams to come true. Just as medieval castles were built to provide family protection, comfort and luxury, while making a statement to those outside the walls; these selected castles in Arizona are no different. Behind each castle wall is a story of the love, labor and an aspiration to make a dream come true.

1. Mystery Castle

Mystery Castle, Phoenix AZ Photo by Kaila White

In the 1930′s, Seattle native, Boyce Gully, moved out to Arizona without his family after being diagnosed with tuberculosis in effort to save  them from the suffering all would endure due to his illness. He was told he only had six months to live, which turned out to be 15 years. Gully was sad about having left his family and had decided to built a castle for the daughter hoping to show her how much he really loved her. Using recycled building materials and random objects like wheels and spokes, Gully had successfully built his “little princess” a castle stone by stone. This castle consists of 18 rooms, 13 fireplaces and is over 8,000 square feet. A year after news of his death, his wife and daughter, Mary Lou, moved into the castle. To this day, Mary Lou still lives in the castle built by the father who loved her so much. Visitors can take a tour of the castle, though tours times are lessening as she now in her 70′s. This grandeur statement of affection holds intimations of a father who wanted his daughter to know him; yet the need to protect her from his illness was greater.

2. Montezuma Castle

This well-preserved cliff dwelling was once the home to the Pre-Columbian Sinagua people dating back to about 700AD. Located on the way to Sedona near Camp Verde, Montezuma Castle has been a home to many for generations. This five-story stone and mortar homestead contains 20 rooms and would house about 50 people at a time. Its high postition in the cliffs offered the cliff dwellers protection from both enemies and the elements. Though it is believed that the area was briefly abandoned due to the ash form the Sunset Crater Volcano. It was last occupied in 1425AD and the reasons for abandonment of their habitation sites are not yet known; but warfare, drought, and clashes with the newly-arrived Yavapai people have been suggested.

Follow I-17 to exit 293 (4 miles north of the exit for Montezuma Castle). Continue through the towns of McGuireville and Rimrock, following the signs for four miles to the entrance to the Well. There is no fee to enter Montezuma Well.

 3.  Copenhaver Castle

This castle is a private resident located on the south side of Camelback Mountain, a popular place for residents to hike as it is a beautiful mountain located in the heart of the city.It was modeled after an old Moorish fortress in Spain that the designer and builder had remembered seeing in a movie when he was a child. The castle was built over a twelve-year period by Phoenix orthodontist, Dr. Mort Copenhaver.
Dr. Copenhaver was known to have donated money to missions in Mexico, and in exchange some of the Hispanic missionaries had come and helped him with building the castle. Dental patients also bartered construction projects for dental services. The interior of the 7,000 square foot castle was built using eight levels, with ten balconies providing a great view of the valley. It has twenty rooms, including five bedrooms, seven and one half bathrooms, four fireplaces, and three garages and carports. The living room has a seventeen foot waterfall that cascades above the fireplace. The Great room features a spa that seats twenty people. Above it is a retractable roof for views of the famous Arizona blue sky, or a wonderful view of the stars. The dungeon can be accessed through one of the many secret passageways in the home, and a helicopter pad is located on the roof for easier travel to the airport. There is a drawbridge, and a moat, and almost everything one would expect from a moorish castle. There’s even slots to shoot arrows through. The massive stone walls and solid construction of the building is a guarantee of its ability to still be standing on Camelback Mountain centuries from now.

5050 E. Red Rock Road Phoenix, Arizona

4. Sibley Castle

Sibley Castle located in the Galiuro Mountains of Arizona, About 100 miles southeast of Phoenix in what was once a old mining camp called Copper Creek. The castle is a two story structure which was built around 1908. The home once contained 20 rooms and polished oak floors. E. Roy Sibley was the manager of the Copper Creek Mine and his wife, Belle, was the postmaster at the post office  that was estableished on March 6, 1907. The town consisted of about 500 people, which included a physician, stage line, mansion, and many other buildings, much of which was built on tiers as the town was in a canyon. Today much of the town site remains and can be explored.

Copper Creek, Arizona – Take the road from town up the creek. Accessible by walking.

5. Agua Verde

This castle is a private residence built by Duane Durham. He built this castle for his wife and daughters in Vail, Arizona, which is about southeast of Tucson. Very few people have actually been inside this castle, but it is rumored to have extraordinary decor as each room has a differnt theme. There is a train that travels around the perimeter that the children once rode on. Though this house is not one visitors can tour, it is quite beautiful to see. It’s perched at the top of a hill, mysterious and ripe for legendary tales to be made.

6. Castles -n- Coasters

Alright, so maybe this isn’t a real castle, but this is a favorite among the kiddos. Castles and Coasters is located in central Phoenix and is a great place for the kids to have an afternoon doing their thing. From miniature golf and bumper boats to rides and even a full scale roller coaster, Castles -n- Coasters is sure to be a good time for the whole family.

9445 Metro Parkway East
Phoenix, AZ 85051
602-997-7575

Thanks to http://www.dupontcastle.com/ for the collection of castles and information.

Basic Beginnings

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Flagstaff
Most Flagstaff visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Flagstaff. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Flagstaff via I-17,  which is about a 2.5 hour drive. There are a limited amount of flights from Sky Harbor Airport to Flagstaff Airport available, but that is an option. There are shuttle companies that offer daily scheduled trips for about $38 per person each way, while Amtrak has a train station in heart of town as does Greyhound bus service.

Lodging

Flagstaff experiences an influx of Phoenicians trying to beat the summer heat during the months of July – August. Grand Canyon visitors start coming around in May and keep flowing in all the way through October. Then the snow players take it from there during the months of December – February. This town has plenty of hotels, motels, cabins and bed and breakfasts, but it gets booked pretty quickly on holiday weekends, days following a good snow storm or extra hot days in The Valley.  Making plans in advance is recommended especially if you, your family or travel friends have accommodation preferences. Even the hostels get booked up regularly!

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Flagstaff. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $75 – $250 per night in the peak months and $50 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Cabins
Flagstaff is the perfect place to rent a cabin. Flagstaff’s four season weather makes it inviting year round. Cool off  and relax in a summer cabin surrounded by wildflowers with picturesque mountains in the distance. Better yet, stay warm by a crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa after a day of skiing or sledding in the winter wonderland. Cabins tend to be visitors’ first choice in Flagstaff lodging, so book early if possible.

Bed & Breakfasts

Flagstaff’s charming mountain home atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy staying at a bed and breakfast. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $125 per night to $350 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Flagstaff is certainly pet-friendly. Several Flagstaff bed & breakfasts, inns, cabins and hotels cater to four-legged family members. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Flagstaff, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

Dining

How to See Flagstaff…

“Is everyone here young and cool? Even that old man with a white beard acts like he’s 35.” – overheard at Charly’s Pub at the Weatherford Hotel

It’s true. Flagstaff tends to attract people who are looking for adventure. The vibrant spirit often appears as being young at heart – and it’s everywhere. It can’t be helped. From hiking, snowboarding and rock-climbing to Grand Canyon helicopter tours and Colorado River rafting, it all starts in Flagstaff. How do you want to see Flagstaff?

…on a Bicycle Ride Around Town

If you’re planning on staying in town, a bicycle is the perfect way to get around Downtown Flagstaff. That’s what the locals do! There are bike racks everywhere and nothing is far enough to actually need to hop in a car to get to.  In fact, finding a spot to part a vehicle can be quite the chore in this part of town. Rent a bike. You’ll be able to see, experience and interact with more  of everything, guaranteed. There are people from all over the world and all walks of life in the mountain town that you won’t want to miss.

…on a Guided Tour

You won’t want to miss a guided tour of Lowell Observatory. This was where the once so-called planet, Pluto, was discovered. Flagstaff’s fresh mountain air and clear skies make it a wonderful place to explore the Beyond. Other guided tours include the Museum of Northern Arizona, which features a wealth of geological and cultural information about the Southwest; then there is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, a five-acre park showcasing an extraordinary early 1900s mansion owned by the Riordan family who logged Flagstaff in the city it is today.

Other tours that depart from Flagstaff are tours to the Grand Canyon. Many tours to the Grand Canyon leave from Flagstaff since it is the biggest city near the canyon. Visitors often take helicopter tours, jeep tours, bus tours, river trips or guided hikes. See Flagstaff.com‘s tour guide to get more information and pricing.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Flagstaff offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Flagstaff from above,

• Must-Do – Humphrey’s Peak

Humphrey’s is located 14.5 miles northwest to Flagstaff, Arizona. Take US 180 north for 7 miles, then Snowbowl Road (FR 516) for 7.4 miles to the Snowbowl lower parking lot. Find the Humphrey’s trailhead at the north end of the parking lot. All roads are paved.The trail is very well marked until you reach the saddle. The first 3 miles the trail gradually climbs the mountain, then the last 1 3/4 miles it gets steeper and more difficult. There are posts added on the last 3/4 of a mile to help mark the trail. It is very rocky and loose above 12,000 feet. The trail ascends 3 false summits before reaching the true summit. The trail is moderate to difficult, but anybody in some sort of shape can make it without consideration to elevation sickness. Total mileage is approximately 4 3/4 miles.

Trail Length:4.5 miles one way.
Elevation Range: 9,300 to 12,633 feet.
Elevation Gain: 3,333 feet.
Summit Peak: 12,633 feet.
Trail Rating: Strenuous.
Hiking Time: 3 hours one way.
Hiking Season: Late spring to fall.
Winter Permits: Required
Camping:No camping above tree line.

• Local Favorite – Mt. Elden Trails

The summit of Mt. Elden is a 9,299-foot peak on the north edge of Flagstaff. You can hike any of several good trails or drive up a rough road. Wildflowers, a variety of forests, and panoramic views reward those who ascend even part way. A fire-lookout tower marks the summit. Climb the tower, if it’s open, for the best views. On a clear day you’ll see much of north-central Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon and Mormon Lake to the south; the Painted Desert to the east; Humphrey’s Peak, Sunset Crater, and other volcanoes to the north; and Bill Williams Mountain to the west. Flagstaff lies directly below. An eruption of thick, sticky lava created Mt. Elden.
The hiking season runs from May to October, a bit longer for the drier eastern slope. You’ll need to carry water.  Allow at least half a day for a hike to the summit and back; elevation change is 1,300–2,400 feet, depending on the trailhead. Horseback riders and mountain bicyclists can use most of the trail system.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 2.5 – 3.5 miles
Map and Information: Mt. Elden Trail Guide

 …On a Wall (Rock Climbing)

The Pit (Le Petit Verdon) is one of Flagstaff’s most accessible rock climbing areas for people of all skill levels. Most of the routes are sport but there are a handful of trad routes.

Take I-17 towards Flagstaff. Take the Lake Mary Road Exit. Turn right onto Lake Mary Road, then follow this road approximately 6 miles down. On your left, you will see “Canyon Vista” campground. This is where we are camped at the trailhead to the Pit. Park in the parking lot, trail starts at the end. Go down the small trail, take a right at the fork. You can see the crag from the parking lot and trail. Follow the trail to the other side, there you will see the bolts and pitches.

Flagstaff Temperatures and Precipitation:

Flagstaff receives an average annual snowfall of 99.5 inches
based on the 1st day of each month

Flagstaff Average Clear, Partly Cloudy and Cloudy Days by Month Annual Total

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Flagstaff. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

It’s here! Arizona Snowbowl has officially opened for the 2011-2012 snow season. All resort amenities will be open.  Agassiz, Sunset and Hart Prairie chairs and the Little Spruce Conveyor will be operating daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Over 80% of the resort is now open with terrain available for all ability levels. This includes several of the new runs made over the summer! Flagstaff has been getting some unusually cold weather and the town is excited to have a great skiing and snowboarding season at Snowbowl.

Is this your first time to Arizona Snowbowl?

Arizona Snowbowl is located just 14 miles outside of Flagstaff. It takes about 2 1/2 – 3 hours to the top of the mountain if you’re coming from Phoenix. There are plenty of places to rent ski and snowboarding gear around town averaging about $30/day for a complete equipment set up not including clothing. There are several slopes perfect for beginners. In fact, this is one of the more beginner friendly places to learn. This resort has a great team of instructors to learn from if you feel like taking ski or snowboarding lessons at Snowbowl. So just come out, give it a try and have fun!

Arizona Snowbowl Info:

Lifts Operating

• 3 of 6; Agassiz, Sunset & Little Spruce Conveyor

Surface Conditions
Early season; please watch for marked and unmarked obstacles on the slope sunset Terrain Park

• Boxes: 1
• Rails:3
• Hits: –

For Arizona road conditions please visit ADOT’s website

Forecast: Read the National Weather Service forecast for Snowbowl

Rates:

Please remember that lift tickets purchased in advance do not guarantee vacancy at the Arizona Snowbowl. If our maximum occupancy has been reached on any given day, admission may be denied. An early arrival is recommended for those who purchased their lift tickets in advance.

*HOLIDAY DATES

• Thanksgiving: 11/24/11 – 11/27/11
• Christmas: 12/21/11 – 01/01/12
• Martin Luther King Weekend: 01/14/12 – 01/16/12
• President ’s Day Weekend: 02/18/12 – 02/20/12

Military Discount – Anyone with a DOD card is eligible for a $40 All Day Adult Midweek Lift Ticket. That is 25% in savings!
(Discount is valid Monday through Friday, non-holiday and cannot be combined with any other specials)

Military Discount is also offered at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins. Present your DOD card at the time of check-in to receive 10% off your accommodation!
(Does not apply towards our Stay & Ski package)

Stay and Ski FREE – 2 Lift Tickets for the price of 1 are available with your stay at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins.
This special is available upon check-in. One free ticket per room per night, but additional tickets are available for purchase on the mountain.

Great Discounts for Groups of 10 and more guests.

You can find more discounts like the Peaks Card, which is a five time use lift discount card, or places to rent a ski and snowboard equipment, and other fun stuff on our Peaks Card information page.