OUT & ABOUT IN SCOTTSDALE

PAINTING A PICTURE OF THE “WEST'S MOST WESTERN TOWN”
Come December 2014, put on your cowboy boots and bolo tie and mosey on over to the long-awaited Scottsdale Museum of the West. The “West's Most Western Town” will pay tribute to its roots with the opening of a museum that tells the story of history's notable pioneers and frontier expansion. Through its five galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures and cultural artifacts, the museum will depict the ever-evolving American West, from cowboys on horseback to historic roads like Route 66. Pieces by famed artists such as Carl Oscar Borg, John Coleman, and Maynard Dixon will take the spotlight at the two-story, 40,000-square-foot museum. With its dynamic rotating exhibits, educational programming and special community events, Scottsdale Museum of the West will seek to transport guests to the 19th and 20th centuries and teach visitors about the Western demeanor and mindset: integrity, optimism, perseverance, courage and creativity. 

GEARING UP FOR SUPERBOWL XLIX
In 2015, Arizona will again play host to the biggest sporting event of the year— the Super Bowl. And Scottsdale will be at the center of the party as the big game coincides with the final day of the PGA Tour's biggest tournament, the Waste Management Phoenix Open (www.wmphoenixopen.com). Get ready for celebrity sightings and unparalleled access to event venues and football coverage.  Scottsdale will host the ESPN Broadcast Village outside Scottsdale Fashion Square (www.fashionsquare.com), the largest shopping mall in the Southwest. Stop by the Village to see live sports coverage and partake in the food, games and fashion. The Village is in the heart of Scottsdale's downtown district with plenty of shopping and dining. Keep up with Scottsdale's Super Bowl XLIX planning with the Big Game Guide (www.experiencescottsdale.com/guides/the-big-game-guide.pdf). 

CHIHULY CELEBRATES DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN'S 75TH BIRTHDAY
Next time it's your birthday, invite the world famous Dale Chihuly to come. That's exactly what the Desert Botanical Garden (DBG, www.dbg.org) did in November 2013.  Chihuly in the Garden will remain through May 18, 2014 to commemorate Desert Botanical Garden's monumental 75th anniversary. Credited with revolutionizing the Studio Glass movement and elevating the perception of the glass medium from the realm of craft to fine art, Chihuly has long held a love affair with the Sonoran Desert. He put that love affair on display for the second time in three years at DBG for the exhibit that blends the distinct shapes and colors of the desert region – think agave plants and the bold and brilliant sun – with his signature touches like brightly adorned balls in wooden boats. Behold Chihuly's brilliant ability to weave his ornate glass pieces into the garden's 50,000 indigenous plants including the iconic saguaro cactus and cholla and palo verde cacti with regular admission to the garden. 

CAPTURING THE MAGIC OF BUTTERFLIES In November 2013, the new Odysea Mirror Maze (www.odyseamirrormaze.com) opened adjacent to Butterfly Wonderland. The maze is the newest installation in a $170 million project on the Salt River Pima- Maricopa Community that will also include an aquarium and IMAX theatre. The maze sends visitors young and old on the trail of an elusive rare butterfly, taking visitors around twisting corners and dead ends. Hallways lined with 1,000 mirrors create infinite reflections, and LED lighting and sound effects create the atmosphere of a Central American tropical rainforest. As they chase that butterfly over the course of an hour, visitors encounter a rickety bridge, a jungle clearing and the ruins of a Mayan temple.  The Odysea Mirror Maze continues Scottsdale's attraction with butterflies. Butterfly Wonderland (www.butterflywonderland.com) opened in May 2013 as part of the Talking Stick Destination in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. This one-of-a-kind museum boasts the largest butterfly pavilion in the United States. Start your journey in a theater with 3-D feature film the “Flight of the Butterflies,” providing insight into the fascinating life of the Monarch butterfly. From there, step into the Butterfly Emergence Gallery and observe the most dynamic stage of a butterfly metamorphosis, emergence from the chrysalis. Next, you're welcome into a lush rainforest atrium where thousands of butterflies from around the world fly freely, landing on fragrant flowering plants like sweet almond verbena and plumeria. From the atrium, continue on to several interactive exhibits showcasing other natural wonders, from honey bees and ants to sea life.  Butterfly Wonderland and Odysea Mirror Maze are the first additions of “Odysea in the Desert,” a 35-acre, $170 million entertainment complex. In the summer of 2014, the largest aquarium in the southwest will break ground . The 16-acre OdySea Aquarium, which will join the complex in fall of 2015, promises a high-tech, high-entertainment, oceanic adventure. Coined “SeaWorld meet Disneyland,” OdySea Aquarium will explore all areas of marine life – from bayous and coral reefs to deep abysses in exhibits such as “Rivers of the World,” Amazon Rivers,” “Penguins,” and “The Bizarre & the Beautiful.”  Construction plans also include the addition of an IMAX theatre; a Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum; and a “Taste of the World” culinary showcase with 14- to 16- distinctive international restaurants. 

THE EVOLUTION OF HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR You've seen Marilyn Monroe's iconic white dress billow in “The Seven Year Itch” and watched Dorothy's blue and white pinafore skip down the yellow brick road in “The Wizard of Oz.” This spring see them in person at the Phoenix Art Museum's (www.phxart.org/) premiere of the Hollywood Costume exhibit. Featuring nearly 100 of the best costumes of the century, the exhibit lets you travel through cinematic history and learn about the critical roles costumes and costume designers have played in filmmaking. Discover costumes from the great classics like “Indiana Jones,” as well as contemporary treasures such as “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Titanic.” You won't want to miss this opportunity to see the costumes that brought your favorite characters to life. The exhibit runs March 26, through July 6, 2014. 

DOWNTOWN CLUB HUB PERFECTED
Described as a “desert version of Miami's South Beach” by The New York Times, downtown Scottsdale is the place for chef-driven restaurants, fine art galleries, unparalleled shopping and, of course, sizzling nightlife. With new development coming on the scene, Scottsdale's nightlife district promises to impress clubbing vixens far and wide. And the area is sure to be prime real estate during Super Bowl 2015 festivities.

In April 2013, Scottsdale welcomed Maya Day and Nightclub (www.mayaclubaz.com), the first high-end beach club bringing together entertainment, music and food for day and nighttime fun. Beach-club goers enjoy a resort-style pool with daybeds and lounges, private and VIP cabanas with private plunge pools, a restaurant, a poolside taco bar, and Arizona's largest LED video screen outside of a major sports or concert venue. A floating stage overlooking the pool plays host to deejays and live music. At night, the party heads inside to a 9,700-square-foot nightclub where concentric rings of light flash above the circular dance floor. And the best part is that the day and nightclub are open to the public – no membership and no hotel affiliation. Maya Day and Nightclub was developed by Triyar Entertainment, developers of the W Scottsdale Hotel & Residences (www.whotels.com/scottsdale).

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row (www.dierkswhiskeyrow.com) debuted in Scottsdale in July 2013 as a 1920s-style saloon with a new country vibe. Dishing up gastropub fare with a healthy dose of country music, this 5,200- square-foot live performance club, which hosts local and national acts, comes from country star Bentley and his colleagues from Riot Hospitality Group. Bentley, a Phoenix native turned Grammy nominee, has created a comfort food menu that's chockfull of local ingredients. Chow down at the bar or at a private table, where you'll have access to self-service beer and liquor on tap.

Maya Day and Nightclub and Whiskey Row are among several newcomers to downtown, including The Western (www.thewesternaz.com) and Hi-Fi Kitchen and Cocktails (www.hifibars.com). Craft beer hangout Bottled Blonde Pizzeria + Beer Garden (www.bottledblondeaz.com) replaced longtime staple Axis/Radius in January 2014. 

QUELL YOUR THIRST FOR LOCAL FIRST
If you hold the shop 'til you drop mantra close to your heart and you're a fan of all things local, pick up your wallet and head to UNION, Biltmore Fashion Park's (www.shopbiltmore.com) innovative hub of small, independent retail stores. Having opened in November 2012, the 7,200-square-foot UNION offers shoppers 17 one-of-a-kind intimate boutiques, ranging in size from 200- to 500-square-feet, and a casual eatery. Local favorites include: Paris Envy, offering handcrafted vintage home furnishings; Smeeks, offering an assortment of sweet treats and toys; Frances, featuring an eclectic mix of clothing, shoes, accessories, books and art; Citrine Natural Beauty Bar, known for its wide array of organic skin and beauty products; and Trattoria del Piero, a casual dining spot from The Queen Creek Olive Mill. Central to the UNION experience is an outdoor patio activated with live music, chef demonstrations, tastings and even a bi-monthly farmers market. After a day of shopping all things local, make a pit stop at the mall's anchor stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's, or spend an evening wining and dining at one of Biltmore Fashion Park's tantalizing restaurants, including Christopher's & Crush Lounge, Seasons 52 and True Food Kitchen.

Looking for the perfect one-of-a-kind gift? Stop by JAM (www.jamminlifestyle.com), the 1913 historic home of Scottsdale visionary Charles Miller that was transformed into an artisans' boutique. In this artist co-op, you'll find goodies such as purses, wallets, headbands, bow ties, jewelry, aprons and munchies from local favorites like Jewels Just for YOU, Modern Nostalgic, Urban Table and Hot Chick Aprons.

Where can you get a satay aging beef skewer for dinner and s'mores sandwich for dessert? Look no further than the Food Truck Caravan (www.foodtruckcaravan.com) in downtown Scottsdale, which takes place each Saturday from 6:30-11:30 p.m. Featuring up to 15 gourmet food trucks each week, the caravan offers everything from Southern comfort food and organic slides to curries and classic diner cuisine. Also on the menu: live music from local favorites like the Spanish guitarists, the Sahnnas Brothers, and a concierge tent that dishes up coupons from nearby art galleries and shops. 

AERIAL TOURS TAKE VISITORS TO NEW HEIGHTS Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert as you've never done before – from the air. Desert Splash Seaplane Adventures (www.desertsplashadventures.com) takes you to new heights during aerial tours showcasing Arizona's stunning landscapes.  October through April, climb aboard a Cessna Caravan Jet-Prop Amphibious Seaplane for an excursion that begins at Scottsdale Airport and snakes its way through the Salt River canyons and lakes for a bird's eye view of the rugged, breathtaking terrain that lies 20 miles east of Scottsdale. In just over an hour, you'll have soared through Salt River Canyon and over Roosevelt Dam and “The Spires,” a rugged sand castle-like rock formation that's tucked deep inside the Superstition Mountains. You'll even experience a water landing when the seaplane touches down on the surface of Roosevelt Lake, one of Arizona's largest bodies of water. And during the second Sunday of each month, pair incredible views with savory Arizona flavors during an excursion that incorporates both a seaplane flight and brunch. Presented by local favorites such as FnB (www.fnbrestaurant.com), your crew will deplane on Splash Island, where an Arizona wine maker and farmer await. Enjoy a locally sourced meal that's as divine as the one-of-a-kind setting with tour rates at $350 per person.

Move over traffic copper, there's a new kid in town. That's right, Arizona Helicopter Adventures (www.azheli.com) is now serving the greater Scottsdale area with tours of the metro area and the city's greatest asset, the Sonoran Desert. Whether you wish to see the luxurious homes and prime golf courses in Scottsdale's metro area or the rugged and majestic Sonoran Desert, Arizona Helicopter Adventures has you covered. Its three different tour options take you miles above Paradise Valley and Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and the Superstition Mountains. Get a bird's eye view of Fountain Hills' world famous, man-made geyser or soar above the beloved Camelback Mountain. Prices range between $99 and $259, depending on the tour. 

SEEK ADVENTURE AND LUXURY IN ONE SPOT
Set amongst 12 million-year-old boulders that are reminiscent of the dramatic landscapes portrayed in “The Flintstones,” The Boulders, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (www.theboulders.com) has always been a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the Sonoran Desert. Now, the resort has elevated its offerings, allowing adrenaline junkies to test their limits with a bevy of activities that scream extreme adventure. Try your hand at fly fishing in the lakes throughout the golf course; fly high over the desert terrain in a hot air balloon that takes off and lands right on the resort's property or during a daytime helicopter ride to Sedona or Grand Canyon from the resort's private helipad; and traverse the desert's dramatic terrain during a jeep ride led by a Boulders' guide. These new programs adds to an already robust lineup of outdoor offerings at The Boulder's including rock climbing, stargazing, hiking and bicycle tours.

HEAR THE SIRENS SONG IN THE DESERT
Feel the sand in between your toes at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey anch www.scottsdale.hyatt.com). The resort debuted a 30-foot, three- story tall waterslide, the focal point of its 2.5-acre water world. Spend the afternoon barreling down the slide at one of the resort's 10 pools, 20 fountains or 45 waterfalls. The pool area features poolside cabanas and a sand beach with the Grotto Bar. Plus, stroll across an aqueduct over six pools, play a game of water volleyball or basketball, or relax in the so-called Grecian-style Water Temple, a Jacuzzi-style spa surrounded by four cold plunge pools. Other highlights include pools for two and the 4,400-square-foot “adults- only” pool, where you'll be thrilled by a rushing waterfall. For those who prefer a slower pace, get misted at “Cascade” waterfall, which softly drops water over a three-level fall. The new water world was part of a $3.7 million renovation that was completed in January 2013.

If you find yourself longing for the ocean in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, head to one of Scottsdale's signature resorts or beach clubs to quench your thirst for salt water. Ride the waves at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa (www.kierlandresort.com) with the $2.4 million Adventure Water Park, featuring the Kierland FlowRider, which debuted in August 2012. The boardsport simulator combines the thrills of surfing, snowboarding, and skateboarding into one technique called flowboarding. With energy absorbing technology that softens wipeouts, the FlowRider is the perfect activity for those of all ages and skill levels.

You've spent your weekends partying by the Hotel Valley Ho's (www.hotelvalleyho.com) famed, martini-shaped OH Pool Bar + Cabanas as DJs blast music and servers bring by delectable berry mojitos. But some days, all you need is some rest and relaxation soaking up the sun. Now, you can hang out poolside by the new OHasis Pool, a relaxing retreat with two water features, modern chaise lounges, lush landscaping and towering palms. 

ARTISTIC RENAISSANCE IN FULL BLOOM
Downtown Scottsdale is like an outdoor, walking museum with more than 50 eye-catching public art pieces thanks to Scottsdale Public Art (www.scottsdalepublicart.org). Check out the 10 most celebrated pieces during a self-guided 60-minute walking tour that includes significant sites such as the Soleri Bridge and Plaza (www.soleribridge.com), which serves as a landmark of downtown's Scottsdale Waterfront. The bridge's 64-foot-long steel clad pylons jut into the air and cast shadows on both the bridge and Arizona Canal, an ancient Indian Hohokam canal, tracking solar events such as the winter solstice and solar noon. Or, stand inside a kaleidoscope created by three 28-foot-tall mirrored panels at Donald Lipski's “The Doors.” A variety of Western statues, dramatic equestrian fountains and interactive installations will keep you moving through downtown.

Expect to see more statues, sculptures and installations in the months to come. Scottsdale Public Art will complete a new wave, spending approximately $2.8 million in 2014 on aesthetic projects that will leave you awestruck. Among them: a 20-foot galloping horse sculpture that will take form at WestWorld of Scottsdale (www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld). And this fall marked an expansion of Canal Convergence, a series of events that take place over November and March that bring together temporary installations from local and national artists, live music and performances, and an outdoor marketplace.

Get a glimpse of downtown Scottsdale with one of the area's local experts on the Downtown Scottsdale Art & Cultural Trolley Tour offered by Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours (www.ultimatearttours.com). The free two-hour tour starts at 10:30 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month and takes you through the area's notable spots. Along the way, you'll learn tidbits about downtown's history. Featured locations include the historic Old Adobe Mission church built in 1933, arts district, Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, and Hotel Valley Ho (www.hotelvalleyho.com). Reservations for the free tour are required.

Also new to downtown – a series of murals that further illustrate the city's artistic spirit. Creativity has been abloom since Scottsdale's inauguration into the Wild, Wild West – the subject of a new cowgirl mural by artists Ernest Roberts and Tim Medina outside vintage clothing store Fashion by Robert Black. In an alley just a few blocks from Scottsdale Stadium (www.scottsdaleaz.gov/stadium), a giant baseball by the same artistic duo looms, commemorating the 15 Men's League Baseball teams that converge upon the Scottsdale area each year for Cactus League Spring Training (www.cactusleague.com). In front of acclaimed restaurant Citizen Public House (www.citizenpublichouse.com) is the new “Water by Design” by Sean Griffin, which underscores the ongoing importance of water

in the Sonoran Desert. And the creativity does not begin and end in downtown. Outside Barrio Café at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (www.skyharbor.com), less than a 10- minute drive from Scottsdale, artists Gennaro Garcia, Lalo Cota, Angel Diaz, Breeze, and others completed a 27-by-7-foot canvas that is plastered to the wall. The canvas depicts a gallery, the original Barrio Café, a bakery, a plane, regional mountains and one of Arizona's signature sunsets that looks as though the sky is ablaze. 

GLOBAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM THRIVES

Take a melodic journey through the world at Musical Instrument Museum (www.mim.org, MIM), the first global museum of instruments. Opened just three years ago, the museum has left its mark on the Valley of the Sun with 5,000 instruments and artifacts from more than 200 countries on display and more than 15,000 in its collection. Transport to another land with wireless headsets and LCD video displays depicting the sounds and sights of the instruments and the people who use them. See the recreation of a gong workshop, listen to the sounds of the traditional Beijing Opera or experience a contemporary Ukrainian wedding procession. Stop by MIM's Artist Gallery, which houses instruments from famous musicians throughout time, including John Lennon, Paul Simon, Black Eyed Peas and the Jonas Brothers. After enjoying a worldly concert, try out your own musical abilities in MIM's Experience Gallery, where you can play the guitars, gongs and drums. 

NEW & RENOVATED PROPERTIES 

DROP THE LEATHER-BOUND BOOK, GRAB A SCOTCH While reading is important, Scottsdale resorts are building libraries without books. Instead, they're filling the shelves with rare and exclusive alcohols.  Much like everyone's favorite anchorman Ron Burgundy, we love Scotch. The Westin Kierland (www.kierlandresort.com) loves it too, so much so that the resort is now offering more than 130 labels of the alcohol. The newly unveiled Scotch Library houses 100 single malts and 25 blends imported from the six whisky regions of Scotland, continuing the resort's homage to Scotsmen and women who immigrated to early Arizona. If you're a Scotch novice, asks the librarians— dubbed “Scotch Library Ambassadors”—for their expert advice on how to select your two-ounce pour. The Scotch Library is open from 5 to 7 p.m. nightly in the lobby. Prices range from $10 to $475 per serving.

You don't need the Dewey Decimal System to navigate the wide selection of tequilas at The Phoenician's Relish Burger Bistro. But with more than 250 labels of tequila, you may need a menu. Relish hosts one of the largest tequila collections in Arizona. The Phoenician also has its own private label of tequila available, El Tesoro. If tequila isn't your poison of choice, perhaps the restaurant's 70-plus beers will tempt you instead.

If you haven't had your fill of tequila, stop by the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess' Tequila Bar at La Hacienda. The bar offers nightly artisan tastings with selections from more than 200 varieties of tequila on the weekends. A Tequila God or Goddess will present the 36 different labels. 

PRINCESS UNDERGOES ROYAL RENOVATION Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2013, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (www.scottsdaleprincess.com) further elevates its status as one of Scottsdale's premier properties with $25 million in renovations for its meeting spaces, dining concepts, retail venues, spa and exteriors. The Princess' latest round of refurbishments wraps up a five-year, $60 million capital investment project of the resort. In October 2012, the property unveiled the new Palomino Conference Center, adding 52,331- square-feet of meeting space to the resort to make it the largest meetings resort in the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts portfolio worldwide.

On Jan. 1, 2013, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess rolled out Well & Being at Willow Stream Spa. Drawing on the Southwest's indigenous roots and time-tested Asian influences, the new spa by Trilogy Spa Holdings is the first of its kind in the United States, allowing visitors to choose from a bevy of a la carte spa services or develop a health and wellness program that factors in mental and physical wellbeing. Those who choose the latter are assisted by a renowned medical doctor specializing in health assessments, spa and beauty services, and fitness and nutrition consultation. New and innovative health classes include aerial yoga, where poses are done with the support of a suspended cloth sling to allow for greater stretch and inversion.

Enhancements to the resort's dining venues include a revamped patio at Michael Mina's BOURBON STEAK and the unveiling of the all-new Ironwood American Kitchen, offering wood-fired cuisine. The Princess Shop, the resort's primary retail and sundries location, now doubles as a coffee shop featuring grab-and-go beverages, sandwiches, snacks, gelato and iPad work stations. Other enhancements include the addition of a living wall, a unique system of plants and flowers that drape the main resort building in greenery, and a new coat of paint, which changes the resort's signature color from pink to an off-white hue. 

DOWNTOWN's MID-CENTURY MODERN HOTEL
El Dorado Scottsdale (www.eldoradoscottsdale.com) opened for business in September 2012 as a hotel with a fresh, timeless look for its 33 apartment-style rooms. Built in 1960, El Dorado Scottsdale is located in a decorative downtown neighborhood on a palm tree-lined block characterized by 1950s and '60s design, with native stone walls, balconies and courtyards with swimming pools, and lush grass lawns. The furnished apartments are larger than typical hotel suites and are equipped with kitchens, making them ideal for leisure, business and extended-stay travelers. El Dorado Scottsdale's owners have kept much of its original design, including soft turquoise kitchen tiles and retro appliances, but have added eclectic furniture and other modern-day touches. Most of the suites are two- bedroom, but some one-bedrooms available as well. The three- bedroom Day Tripper suite offers more privacy with its own courtyard and parking area. Hotel amenities include a pool and hot tub, barbecue area, fire pit, and bikes for exploring downtown. 

SCOTTSDALE'S ONLY BED AND BREAKFAST OPENS Experience the laid-back ambiance of Scottsdale's newest and quaintest downtown property, BeSpoke Inn, Café and Bicycles (www.bespokeinn.com), which opened in January 2013. As Scottsdale's only bed and breakfast, the four-room inn offers a tailored experience for visitors seeking elegance and privacy while staying in Scottsdale's buzzing epicenter. Each downstairs room is dressed to the nines with handmade décor and furniture, plus its private patio and lounge chairs offer the perfect setting for enjoying a cup o' joe in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening. Or, stay in the upstairs suite, next door to a communal living and dining room that's available to all hotel guests and offers impressive views of the 43-foot infinity edge pool that overlooks the lush courtyard below.

When hunger encroaches, stop by in-house restaurant Virtù Honest Craft (www.virtuscottsdale.com), which opened in June 2013 and has already been named one of the best new restaurants in the U.S. by Esquire.Executive Chef Gio Osso, previously of the defunct Estate House, has created a rotating menu that's described as “wandering Mediterranean” and features items like hand-made pastas, braised oxtails, house-made sausages and crudo. Prices range between $11 and $18. Diners can choose from a 30-bottle global wine list, craft beers and handcrafted cocktails by well-known mixologist Clint Spotleson. And after enjoying some seriously good grub, exploring downtown's art galleries and myriad independent restaurants is easy with Bespoke Bicycles, an on-site boutique bike shop that provides guests with complimentary transportation.

MEDITTERANEAN MAKEOVER IN THE DESERT
The Royal Palms Resort and Spa (www.royalpalmshotel.com), a longtime favorite of Scottsdale visitors for its Mediterranean-style architecture and picture-perfect views of Camelback Mountain, further elevated its status with a $1.2 million renovation of the property's Valencia Casitas in late 2012 and the debut of the all- new T. Cooks in September 2013.  The 30 casitas, nestled in the resort's Valencia Gardens, were updated with a new color palette, custom-made furniture, and a complete revitalization of the bathrooms. Prepare to be soothed with the rustic comfort of the new color palette, featuring hues of eggplant, crimson,kiwi-lime, mustard and butter throughout the walls, custom designed fabrics, and local artisan painted finishes. Slip into a state of ultra- relaxation in the newly expanded bathrooms, which include luxurious vanities, dressing areas, built-in coffee bars and privatized water closets. And enjoy the rooms' longstanding features, including the wrought-iron four-poster beds, French doors that open to patios, and in some cases, in-room fireplaces.  In September, the property's signature restaurant T. Cook's, unveiled new décor, expanded interiors, and an original menu by new Executive Chef Paul McCabe, an Arizona native who grew up a few hours north of Scottsdale in the red rocks of Sedona. A lover of locally sourced ingredients, McCabe's menu is a mix of comfort food and sophisticated ingredients that are in line with the Mediterranean principles of fresh, seasonal, local and ingredient-driven cooking. Expect everything from steak to antelope dishes on a menu that's breadth and depth breath life into the longstanding restaurant.

CULINARY SCENE

NEW RESTAURANTS FILL THE VOID
It's a fact of life. Sometimes restaurants need to plant roots elsewhere. And sometimes chefs seek out new opportunities. No matter the reason, they leave a void when they go. Luckily in Scottsdale, a new restaurant or chef is always just around the corner ready to capture our hearts and our stomachs. Last year FnB (www.fnbrestaurant.com) began dishing out its sophisticated comfort food in a new downtown location just blocks away, leaving an empty storefront bookended by Cowboy Ciao (www.cowboyciao.com) and Kazimierz World Wine Bar (www.kazbar.net). Luckily Peter Kasperski, the mastermind behind Cowboy Ciao and Kazimierz, has a plan for the neighboring spot. Kasperski will open Counter Intuitive, a lunch spot and nightlife destination. On weekdays between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you will find carryout house-cured meats, breads, steamed buns, muffins, sandwiches, oysters, rilletes and just about anything else you can imagine. On Fridays and Saturdays between 11 p.m. to 3 a.m., you'll find cocktails to quench your thirst as you munch on the delectable menu items. But that's not all. Between 5 and 10 p.m., Counter Intuitive becomes an extension of the beloved Cowboy Ciao.

In 2011, the closure of Trader Vic's left our Polynesian food cravings unanswered. Satisfy those cravings once more at Hula's Modern Tiki (www.hulasmoderntiki.com), which opened in January 2014. The restaurant will open in a spot in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, giving the former Big Earl's BBQ some Polynesian flair. Sip on a Mai Tai, chow down on seared Ahi wontons and Bali Hai BBQ ribs, and top off the meal with a luscious banana cream pie. 

CHOW DOWN
Chef-driven restaurants have dominated Scottsdale's culinary scene for the past several years. Still, foodies have been “chomping” at the bit for new hangouts from notable chefs. Well, their wish is our command.  Executive Chef Michael Dei Maggi joined forces with Joey Maggiore, son of Tomaso Maggiore of Phoenix's Tomaso's, at Cuttlefish Ocean Kitchen to provide Scottsdale with ocean- inspired Italian cuisine. The restaurant opened in December 2013. Dei Maggi has international experience as a chef from places such as France, New York and California and has always practiced sustainable cooking, which he continues at Cuttlefish with Maggiore's help. Even in this landlocked city, the menu features coastal Italian dishes such as Octopus Sopressata and Live Catalina Sea Urchin made with environmentally-conscious seafood flown in daily.

For years, foodies have been begging beloved local chef Kevin Binkley to open a restaurant in Scottsdale. In December 2013, Bink's Scottsdale finally became a reality. It's Binkley's fourth venture to open in the Phoenix area and the second to open last year. He's been busy. Bink's Scottsdale will incorporate many familiar favorites from his other concepts while still maintaining a distinct identity.

If you're familiar with Dave Andrea and Payton Curry's Brat Haüs, then you'll be chomping at the bit to try their newest endeavor, Taco Haus, which opened in January 2014. Instead of bratwurst and beers, you'll be reveling in handcrafted margaritas and tasty tacos at this sister restaurant. Taste Chef Curry's Latin cuisine, stop by the Ceviche Bar and pair your meal with the House Horchata. 

SCOTTSDALE – SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED
Scottsdale loves to shake things up when it comes to crafting cocktails. And there's no better place to sip on a martini than jade Bar at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain (www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com), which debuted its sleek, expanded new look in October 2013. Named one of the best bars in America by Esquire magazine, this chic lounge underwent a major renovation that nearly doubles its seating both inside and out, while maintaining its signature feature: floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Cozy up with a friend or loved one at the stand-up drink bar – made of authentic jade– or on the patio, featuring a retractable shade, heaters and a fireplace.

You love cocktails and you're a fan of all things local. Then it's time to mix it up, literally, at The Mix Up Bar, at Royal Palms Resort and Spa (www.royalpalmshotel.com). This fun cocktail haven, which opened in September 2013, is the brainchild of Kim Haasarud, founder of nationally acclaimed beverage consulting company Liquid Architecture, and Paul McCabe, the new executive chef at T. Cook's whose passion for locally sourced items is as much a part of him as his Arizona roots. Expect the unexpected with garden-to-glass cocktails featuring a lineup of ingredients like AZ Bitters Lab's flavored bitters, La Bella Terre's botanical sprays and vinegars from Outrageous Olive Oil & Vinegars, plus fresh produce and herbs grown in the new T. Cook's garden. Pair a cocktail with a meal that's designed to enhance the flavor of the alcohol.

If you crave classic cocktails with a twist, stop by Citizen Public House's (www.citizenpublichouse.com) sister venture Citizen R+D for a Shipwrecked Cocktail from master mixologist Richie Moe. A longtime fan of obscure spirits and alcoholic concoctions, Moe's latest venture was inspired by his favorite cognac, a variety that's shipped across the world and arrives with a routing map documenting its exotic journey. Motivated by the complexities imparted on the cognac by the elements it encounters on its voyage, Moe is exposing his innovative barrel-aged cocktails to similar elements. He coats the barrels in salt, agitates them multiple times a day to simulate the movement of the ocean and moves them outside for sunshine and then into the walk-in cooler to replicate night air. Moe even goes so far as to douse the barrels with Pacific Ocean water from the California Coast, resulting in soft, complex and briny versions of classics such as Beefeater 24 Negronis and Martell VSOP Cognac Sazeracs, available for $13.

One of Scottsdale's original cowboys, Lon Megargee, founder of the upscale, yet rustic The Hermosa Inn (www.hermosainn.com) would be proud of the recent transformation at Last Drop at the Hermosa. This casual dining bar and grill was expanded to include couch and table seating indoors and outdoors. The daily happy hour features live entertainment and an all-day menu from Executive Chef James Ducas that includes everything from salads and sandwiches to shared bites and pizzas from the new wood- burning oven. All hand-crafted cocktails featuring house-made liquors, tinctures and bitters are whipped up by Last Drop's mustachioed Spirit Guide Travis Nass.

FLY FULL WITH GOURMET GRUB
Going to the airport doesn't have to be about dashing for a flight while your stomach rumbles. Slow down and grab a savory meal at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport's (www.phxskyharbor.com) Terminal Four, which added more than 40 gourmet dining options from Scottsdale and Phoenix favorites throughout 2012 and 2013. Staples such as Sauce (www.foxrc.com/sauce), Olive & Ivy Marketplace (www.foxrc.com/olive_ivy), Cowboy Ciao (www.cowboyciao.com) Cartel Coffee Lab (www.cartelcoffeelab.com), Four Peaks Brewing Company (www.fourpeaks.com) and Zinc Bistro (www.zincbistroaz.com) opened their doors in the airport's busiest terminal. More spots will be added throughout 2014, including Lo-Lo's Chicken and Waffles www.loloschickenandwaffles.com), Matt's Big Breakfast (www.mattsbigbreakfast.com) and Sweet Republic www.sweetrepublic.com).

A GASTRONOMICAL TOUR
Embark on a cross-country road trip at Proof, a new American canteen that opened in November 2012 at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North (www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale). Featuring home-style comfort fare sourced entirely from the 50 states, this relaxed restaurant draws upon Arizona's frontier history and local ingredients such as Maya Farms veggies, Sunizona tomatoes and Gila Bend shrimp. Servers are outfitted in denim and gingham, and there's even a soda jerk serving up milkshakes and spiced ice cream concoctions. Classic American favorites populate the menu, including fried green tomatoes and chicken and waffles, and drinks include wine, microbrews, and small batch and craft distilled American spirits. Proof is nostalgia at its best – we're talking handmade candies, “TV dinner” menus for kids, and music and TV programming that ranges from American sitcom theme songs to light jazz.

After finding success with its daytime tours, Destination Food Tours (www.destinationfoodtours.com) added a 3-hour Old Town Dinner Tour that introduces you to Scottsdale favorites like Malee's Thai Bistro (www.maleesthaibistro.com) and The House Brasserie (www.thehousebrasserie.com). Learn about Scottsdale's establishment and how it has developed over the years, and then sit down to tempting noshes and drinks. On the menu are unique flavors from Outrageous Olive Oils and Vinegars (www.oliveoilarizona.com), a sampling of delicious appetizers at AZ88 (www.az88.com), a choice of wine paired with cheese and meats at Su Vino Winery (www.suvinowineryaz.com), and a slice of pizza from Grimaldi's (www.grimaldispizzeria.com), among other tasty bites. 

SCOTTSDALE MAKES WINE EXPLORATION EASY Let Detours of Arizona (www.detoursaz.com) guide you on a day-long exploration of Arizona's newest wine community in the scenic Verde Valley just south of Sedona. This fully guided tour features stops at four wineries and highlights some of Sedona's most picturesque landmarks including Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock and Airport Mesa Overlook. Beyond the views, you'll likely meet one or more of the winery owners who will relay their passion for Arizona wines. Taste full bodied red and crisp white varieties during this full-day tour, which costs $170 per guest and includes luxury ground transportation, guide services, wine tasting and lunch.

Continue the Arizona wine experience with Pavle Milic, part-owner of FnB Restaurant (www.fnbrestaurant.com), a trendy gastropub in the heart of downtown, just one of many Scottsdale restaurants serving Arizona wines during lunch and dinner. Be on the lookout for braised leeks with mozzarella and a fried egg, named one of the 10 best restaurant dishes of 2010 by Food & Wine. Of equal appeal is owner Pavle Milic's other venture, Bodega/AZ Wine Merchants, an oenophile paradise with varietals grown and bottled in the Grand Canyon state. There, you can also find local produce and artisanal products from MJ Breads, Queen Creek Olive Oil and Maya's Farm.

WORLD-CLASS GOLF 

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
In Oct. 2013, the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa (www.camelbackinn.com) culminated its seven year, $70 million renewal project with the unveiling of its new 18-hole, 150-acre Ambiente Golf Course. With a focus on conserving water, maintaining a wildlife habitat and decreasing pesticide and fossil fuel use, Ambiente lives up to its name, which means “environment” in Spanish. The newly premiered Ambiente, designed by renowned golf architect Jason Straka, will draw leisure and avid golf players as a one-of-a-kind course that couples dramatic scenery with challenging conditions. From new restaurants to expanded schools, construction is abuzz in Scottsdale's golf scene, especially at SunRidge Canyon Golf Club (www.sunridgegolf.com), which has upgraded its practice facility with a new 1,600-square-foot performance center, home to the Jim McLean Golf School. Featuring indoor and outdoor hitting bays outfitted with the latest Trackman launch monitors, the new performance center also offers a club-fitting suite and fitness studio for flexibility, stability and strength training programs. 

DITCH YOUR STICKS
With baggage fees, TSA checks and other travel obstacles, schlepping golf clubs along on a trip can be exceptionally cumbersome. Thankfully, Kierland Golf Club (www.kierlandgolf.com) recognizes that and has recently teamed with Nike to offer the “No-Hassle” Rental Package. The twilight tee time package includes the latest Nike Golf technology such as rental golf clubs, golf shoe rental, a sleeve of golf balls and a golf glove for $45.

Or, dial into Club Hub (www.clubhub.com), offering premier TaylorMade rentals shipped directly to your hotel or golf club to be used for the duration of your stay. When your trip is over, simply pack the golf clubs into the shipping container and return them to the original delivery site or any FedEx location. Club rentals are $60 for the first day and $15 for each day thereafter or $100 for one week.

Even better yet, ditch your old sticks and head to Cool Clubs (www.coolclubs.com) and pick up a whole new set. Cool Clubs, one of the world's leading custom club fitters, carries the best technology from top manufacturers, allowing you to precisely match the latest golf club offerings with a player's unique swing. For the ultimate experience, Cool Clubs offers travelers a unique Day in the Life Package that includes a premium outdoor tour fitting, lunch and a massage at Well & Being at Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (www.scottsdaleprincess.com). Packages start at $1,000. 

CUISINE IS KING ON THE COURSE
Hot on the heels of the debut of its new clubhouse, McDowell Mountain Golf Club (www.mcdowellmountaingc.com) unveiled Mesquite Grille in February 2013. This restaurant and wine bistro is designed as a casual, upscale gathering place for golf guests during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Its robust menu of American Southwest and Chicago Italian favorites was developed by Executive Chef Mark Hamilton and features items such as homemade sausage, pasta tossed with fresh vegetables and fresh seafood. Adding to its allure, the restaurant's beautiful outdoor terrace provides sweeping views of the Scottsdale skyline.

The culinary lineup at Starfire Golf Club (www.starfiregolfclub.com) got a fresh new look under the creative direction of consulting chef Payton Curry, one of Scottsdale's local celebrity chefs. In January 2013, Starfire Golf Club unveiled its new clubhouse restaurant The Scottsdale Grille, featuring an ever-changing seasonal menu of fresh ingredients from local farmers and producers for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and Sunday brunch. In addition to the debut of The Grille, the 60- year-old public course's clubhouse is in the midst of a renovation that incorporates warm design elements, the debut of a new pro shop with a farmer's style market, and an expanded special events space capable of hosting gatherings, weddings and corporate functions of all sizes. Construction was finalized this summer. 

DRINKS, MUSIC, CADDIES – NOT YOUR FATHER'S GOLF GAME
Want to play like the pros at the Waste Management Phoenix Open? Hit from the same tees as Phil and Tiger on TPC Scottsdale's (www.tpc.com/scottsdale) Stadium Course with the Forecaddie Experience.  Caddies carry your bags, offer shot selection advice, rake bunkers, read greens and much more. Plus, get the insider's perspective of the history and heritage of golf and the TOUR. And don't miss the plaques inside the clubhouse commemorating the top moments of the Open's history – JB Holmes' monster drive on the 18th hole years ago, Tiger's “loose impediment” that took help from the fans to move, and Andrew Magee's hole-in-one on a par four, just to name a few. 

SCOTTSDALE CVB NEWS 

DESERT I DO'S
He got down on one knee and you said yes. Now, you're looking for the perfect destination wedding spot. Lucky for you, the perfect Scottsdale wedding is at your fingertips with the Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau's new wedding planning website (www.experiencescottsdale.com/weddings-honeymoons/)This one-stop features the bureau's Wedding Guide, which includes ideas on where to shop for the big day, catering options, and most importantly, a variety of properties and venues that range in size and price. Plan your wedding at The Hermosa Inn (www.hermosainn.com), built in the '30s by cowboy artist Lon Megargee as his private residence; Desert Botanical Garden (www.dbg.org), home to more than 50,000 accessioned plants and wildflowers that are native to the Sonoran Desert; the ultra-hip W Scottsdale (www.wscottsdalehotel.com), located in the heart of downtown Scottsdale and within walking distance of hundreds of shops, restaurants, art galleries and nightlife spots; or at Montelucia Resort & Spa (www.montelucia.com), a Mediterranean-style resort offering picturesque views of Camelback Mountain. And once vows have been exchanged, plan your honeymoon hideaway at one of Scottsdale's premier, luxury resorts and spas, such as Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa (www.sanctuaryaz.com), where Beyonce and Jay Z honeymooned, or at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician (www.canyonsuites.com), Arizona's only AAA Five-Diamond, Forbes Five-Star resort, offering everything from a private infinity- edge pool to chauffeured-resort transportation.