52 Things to Do

Art in Action
The 20th annual Celebration of Fine Art art show in Scottsdale boasts as much revelation as celebration. That's because most of the 100 artists in the juried show set up working studios during the 10-week run—Jan. 16-Mar. 28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Watch closely as artists create paintings, sculptures, baskets, pottery, jewelry, ceramics, and fused glass. Ask questions and engage in discussions about the creative process. Doing so adds a personal touch to the fine art and high craft you'll see in the big white tents and sculpture courtyard at Scottsdale Rd. and Mayo Blvd. A season pass costs $8, $7 for seniors and military. Kids 12 and younger get in free. Phone 480-443-7695 or visit www.celebrateart.com.

Wright Sights
Now a National Historic Landmark, the original structure of Taliesin West was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright as his winter retreat. It's now the home of his architectural firm and school. Tours are available year-round. At Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. and Cactus Rd., Scottsdale (480-860-2700). The ASU Gammage auditorium, a circular structure with two pedestrian bridges on the Arizona State University Tempe campus, is one of the last major buildings designed by Wright. Superb acoustics enhance concerts and Broadway musicals. At 1200 S. Forest Ave. in Tempe (480-965-3434).

Movies that move you
Amp up the intensity of Hollywood action flicks at UltraStar Cinemas in Surprise—the first movie theater in the state (and one of only 4 in the world) to offer cinema-goers seats that jump and jolt—in a good way, that is. D-Box Motion Systems works with movie studios to sync seat motions with pivotal scenes in a film. The result? You'll be shifting, vibrating, and moving along with the action. $8 on top of the ticket price gets you into your seat, and personal controllers let you modulate the experience. UltraStar Cinemas is located at 13649 N. Litchfield Rd. For more information, phone 623-584-3838 or visit www.ultrastarmovies.com.

Shoot-Outs, Saloons & Steak
Have some fun in the Old West at Rawhide Frontier Town & Steakhouse, a re-created 1880s town with a steakhouse, saloon, shops, and rodeo arena. Enjoy staged shoot-outs, country western music, stagecoach rides, and rock climbing. Located at Wild Horse Pass, 5700 W. North Loop Rd. in Chandler. Phone 480-502-5600 for hours or visit www.rawhide.com for more information. Cowboy up at Don Donnelly's D-Spur Ranch & Riding Stables, where city slickers can enjoy cookouts, wagon rides, cattle drives, and horseback riding. At 15357 E. Peralta Rd., Gold Canyon. Phone 602-810-7029 for hours or visit www.dondonnelly.com for more information.

Snow Fun
Tired of basking in the sun and just can't get snow off your mind? Take a short jaunt to Arizona's high country, where you'll find plenty of the white stuff. It sometimes starts snowing as early as Oct., and skiing usually begins in early Dec. Sunrise Park Resort—Arizona's largest ski area—is only 4-5 hours from Phoenix. Call 800-554-6835 or visit www.sunriseskipark.com. Arizona Snowbowl, outside of Flagstaff, is 2 hours north of Phoenix (928-779-1951, www.arizonasnowbowl.com). Both offer runs that begin above 9,000 feet.

Batter up
Did you know that Willie Mays was the first baseball player to hit a homer at Phoenix Municipal Stadium? Or that Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio played together during Spring Training in Arizona? Discover more fun facts at Play Ball: The Cactus League Experience. This interactive exhibit celebrates the rich history of baseball in Arizona. Take a tour of an infield, let the kids play at the model concession stand and ticket booth, and view never-before-seen artifacts and memorabilia from baseball stars Ted Williams, Sandy Koufax, and others. Mesa Historical Museum (2345 N. Horne Rd., 480-835-7358, www.mesahistoricalmuseum.org) hosts the exhibit through Dec. 31. Arizona Museum for Youth (35 N. Robson St., Mesa, 480-644-2467, www.arizonamuseumforyouth.com) hosts the exhibit starting Feb. 1, 2010.

Stargazing
Cowboys gazing up at the stars as they tend herd is a familiar Western image. These days stargazers use high-tech telescopes for a little more in-depth observation. It's about a 3-hour drive north from Phoenix to Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered in 1930. For a $6 fee, study the mysteries of the universe, observe planets and star clusters, and tour the observatory. Phone 928-233-3211 for hours of operation. The southern part of the state boasts several observatories as well, including Kitt Peak National Observatory (520-318-8726), which has one of the largest collections of telescopes in the world, and Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory (520-670-5707).

Tempe Center for the Arts
For all things arts and culture, stop by the Tempe Center for the Arts, located on the south bank of Tempe Town Lake. The center features a state-of-the-art, 600-seat theater for performances of drama, dance, orchestra, musicals, concerts, and lectures. The center also boasts a 3,500-square-foot art gallery with curated, traveling, and juried exhibitions. The gallery is open Tues.-Sat., and during most performances. Those looking for a special venue should check out the center's Lakeside room, a spectacular space with views of the Papago Mountains. The center is located at 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy. Phone 480-350-2822 or visit www.tempe.gov/TCA for more information.

Bisbee & Tombstone
Start a great daytrip or weekend getaway at Tombstone—the "town too tough to die"—where Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday shot it out with the Clantons at the OK Corral. Down the trail a bit, visit Bisbee—an old mining town turned artists' enclave. Lots of hotels (including the famous Copper Queen) and charming bed & breakfasts can make your stay unforgettable. Phone the Bisbee Chamber of Commerce at 520-432-5421 or visit www.bisbeearizona.com. For Tombstone information, phone the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce at 888-457-3929, visit their website at www.tombstonechamber.com, or call the Tombstone Office of Tourism at 800-457-3423, or go to www.tombstonebirdcage.com.

Arizona: Past & Future
The 2-block Heritage & Science Park (602-262-5071) is a mecca of exploration opportunities. First, tour one of the oldest and finest homes in the Greater Phoenix area, the fully restored 1895 Rosson House (602-262-5070). It's surrounded by many of its original neighbors in the Heritage & Science Park. Tours are available Wed.-Sun. Don't miss the Arizona Science Center (602-716-2000), where youngsters of every age will delight in learning about science and technology through interactive exhibits. Heritage & Science Park is at 7th and Washington Sts. in downtown Phoenix.

Hail, Hail Rock & Roll
Three groovy spots let you dine among such authentic treasures as rock stars' guitars, stage outfits, and other memorabilia. The atmosphere alone is worth the visit—and the food rocks, too. Try Phoenix's Hard Rock Cafe (602-261-7625), Alice Cooper'stown (602-253-7337), and Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill (480-844-8629), or if you would rather forgo the meal and take home some memorabilia, try Scottsdale's Rock Star Gallery (480-275-4501).

Tribal Culture
Whether you peruse some of the prehistoric artifacts on display or arrange to tour the tribe's sophisticated farms, you'll find the Ak-Chin Him-Dak (loosely translated as the "Ak-Chin Way of Life") an unconventional and stimulating museum of tribal culture. Located just south of the town of Maricopa in Pinal County. Free; donations accepted. Open Mon.-Sat. Phone 520-568-9480.

Fresh from the Vine
Though winemaking dates back thousands of years to the ancient Mesopotamians, it's a practice that many people know little about. Luckily, you don't need to travel far to learn how to make your own wine. Head to Su Vino Winery in Scottsdale, 7035 E. Main St., Ste. 110, for a completely customized winemaking experience. From varietal and barrel to bottle and label—you choose it all! Phone 480-994-VINO, or go to www.suvinowineryaz.com for more information. Casavino Custom Winery at 12005 N. Saguaro Blvd., Ste. 101, in Fountain Hills, offers visitors the chance to make such wines as Sonoma Dry Creek Valley Chardonnay and Luna Rossa, complete with custom labels as well. Visit www.casavinowinery.com or phone 480-816-VINO.

Paolo's Arc
Looming out of the desert like an image from some science-fiction movie, the Arcosanti complex—designed by urban architect Paolo Soleri—is still under construction. An example of Soleri's "arcology," it demonstrates the concept of architecture and ecology working together. Take tours, watch the creation of famed Soleri windbells, stroll the gallery, and enjoy fresh baked goods at the café. Seminars, workshops, concerts, and other special events are also offered. About 65 miles north of Phoenix; take the Cordes Junction exit off I-17 and follow the signs. Open daily (928-632-7135, www.arcosanti.org). For a taste of Arcosanti—bell making and all—without leaving the Greater Phoenix area, visit the courtyards and garden paths at the Cosanti Foundation. An elegant example of sculptural architecture, Cosanti blends desert landscaping with "earthformed" concrete architectural structures. In Scottsdale at 6433 Doubletree Ranch Rd. Phone 480-948-6145 or 800-752-3187 or visit www.cosanti.com.

Papago Salado
This is the attraction of attractions. The Phoenix Zoo, Pueblo Grande Museum, Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting, Arizona Historical Society, and Desert Botanical Garden are among the points of interest in and around Papago Park and Rio Salado. The area spans parts of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, generally including the area between the Arizona Canal from 44th St. to University Dr., and is a hub of cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities connected by the multiuse Papago Trail. For more information visit www.papagosalado.org.

Hotel Heritage
Greater Phoenix's glitzy past shines with historical hotel tours. Architecturally inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's designs, the Arizona Biltmore (2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, 602-955-6600) highlights 80 years of history every Tues., Thurs., and Sat. at 10 a.m. Tours are free for hotel guests, $10 for the public. Visit Hotel Valley Ho (6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale, 480-248-2000) for the dish on legendary Hollywood guests, including Marilyn Monroe and Humphrey Bogart, during a 75-minute tour every Tues. and Sat. In a nod to the hotel's grand-opening year, the tour costs $19.56 per person. And the historic Hotel San Carlos (202 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-253-4121) blends history with a spook or two during the one-hour Ghosts of Phoenix tour, held weekends in October. For tour rates, phone 602-414-0004 or visit www.ghostsofphoenix.com.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Wandering through the internationally famous Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, just west of Tucson, is like taking an enchanted walk through the desert—with no fear of snakes or critters. Soak up lots of interesting information, plenty of shade and water, and close-up views of bobcats, prairie dogs, coyotes, hawks, Mexican gray wolves, scorpions, rattlesnakes, roadrunners, quail, and more. Trees and cacti are identified for you as well. Docents give live-animal demonstrations and seasonal guided tours. Open Mar.-Sept. daily 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and Oct.-Feb. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Phone 520-883-1380 or visit www.desertmuseum.org.

Enchanted Island
Reclaim those nostalgic days of youth and provide your children with hours of entertainment, not to mention years of memories, at Encanto Park's Enchanted Island, an island amusement park where the kids can enjoy rides (including a train and a carousel) and games, plus cotton candy and hot dogs. The lagoon at Encanto Park comes complete with ducks, swans, fish, pedal boats, and canoes. At 1202 W. Encanto Blvd. Park hours and days of operation vary by season. Phone 602-254-1200 or visit www.enchantedisland.com for more information.

Burnin' Rubber
See if you have what it takes to compete in the world of high-performance racing. Beginning auto racers can take a spin at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving (800-842-RACE). The school offers classes on everything from Grand Prix speed to highway safety. Call ahead to reserve your spot. Or try the Richard Petty Driving Experience (800-BE-PETTY) where, after an hour-long lesson, a visitor can take the wheel for 8, 18, or 30 laps.

Dinner & a Show
Delight in cocktails, dinner, and drama on the stage in the 500-seat Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Mesa. The theater presents Meet Me in St. Louis Nov. 26-Jan. 2. Phone 480-325-6700 or visit www.broadwaypalmwest.com. Casino Arizona also makes for a great nighttime experience. Start with dinner at one of the casino's fine restaurants, then head to The Showroom at Casino Arizona for Showstoppers Live, a tribute to the superstars of American pop, jazz, country, and rock music. Phone 480-850-7734 or visit www.casinoarizona.com. Or spend the evening at Peoria's Arizona Broadway Theatre, where guests can enjoy fine dinner fare to the sights and sounds of a live musical. Phone 623-776-8400 or visit www.azbroadwaytheatre.com for showtimes and information.

See a Ghost
Goldfield Ghost Town will give you a feel for the hard and gritty work that put Arizona on the map. This is an authentic 1890s mining town that features a nature trail, mine tours, one of the largest collections of antique mining equipment in the Southwest, and a scenic narrow-gauge railroad circuit tour. Open daily, it's about 41/2 miles northeast of Apache Junction via the Apache Trail (AZ Hwy. 88). For directions, phone 480-983-0333.

Fancy Footwork
The grace and art of bodies in motion are highlighted at performances of the Greater Phoenix area's many dance companies. This winter, Ballet Arizona presents The Sleeping Beauty Feb. 11-14 (602-381-1096). A Ludwig Dance Theatre (480-966-3391) and Desert Dance Theatre (480-962-4584) produce a variety of dance performances.

Military Memorabilia
Attention, fans of machinery, power, and the red, white, and blue: Exhibits at the Arizona Military Museum (5636 E. McDowell Rd. in Phoenix) feature weapons, uniforms, and captured Iraqi armored vehicles from Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Other notable items include a Huey helicopter from the Vietnam conflict. Phone 602-267-2676 for museum hours. Commemorative Air Force Arizona Wing Museum (2017 N. Greenfield Rd. in Mesa) restores and displays a variety of war birds used from World War I through the Vietnam conflict. Highlights include the most fully restored B-17 flying today, an F4 Phantom, a MiG-15, and a MiG-21. Experience the exhilarating thrill of flight with a ride in the B-17 or in an SNJ or a C-45. Phone 480-924-1940 or visit www.arizonawingcaf.com for hours and admission fees.

Tee It Up
The Greater Phoenix area features some of the finest golfing in the nation at more than 300 local resort, park, and country club courses. Pick up a free copy of the Phoenix Golf Guide and the Official Arizona Golf Guide at your hotel's concierge desk or from the Southwest Section PGA, 10685 N. 69th St., Scottsdale (480-443-9002, www.southwest.pga.com).

Leaf Watching
Arizona changes from summer to winter rapidly, but the change is as brilliant as it is quick. Some of the most spectacular scenery in the state appears during the few short weeks when the leaves change color on trees in the high country (5,000 feet above sea level and higher). Leaves change at different times, depending on altitude. Head one hour east of Phoenix to Boyce Thompson Arboretum (520-689-2723) and behold the beautiful autumn leaves. Or phone the Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau (602-254-6500) for recommended places around the Phoenix area. For information about where to see fall color around the state, call the Arizona Office of Tourism (602-364-3700).

Soaring Excitement
If you're looking for a unique perspective on Arizona's magnificent landscape, try this vantage point—flying motorless across the sky in a sailplane. Soar at high altitudes as rising air currents give you a natural lift. Try Arizona Soaring at Estrella Sailport (480-821-2903, www.azsoaring.com) or the Turf Soaring School (602-439-3621). Or give the Red Baron a run for his wings by flying your own combat mission. Fighter Combat International instructors teach air-combat tactics and then turn over the controls and let the guests do the flying. Located at 5865 S. Sossaman Rd. in Mesa, the company offers programs for groups as well as corporate teams. Phone 480-279-1881 or visit www.fightercombat.com. If soaring with the birds is more your style, contact Sky Masters School of Hanggliding (602-320-6349, www.hangglidearizona.com) to arrange for one of their various hang-gliding instructional packages.

Mountain Parks
Perfect for picnics, hikes, sunsets, and panoramic views, popular Greater Phoenix-area parks include Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area (just north of Lincoln Dr. near 22nd St.) and South Mountain Park (10919 S. Central Ave.). Maricopa County also operates Estrella Mountain Regional Park, on the west side of metro Phoenix, and McDowell Mountain Regional Park, to the northeast. The City of Mesa operates Red Mountain Park. It's best to visit these parks early in the morning or around sunset during hotter months—and always pack water when hiking.

Complimentary Culture
Beat the Arizona heat with a free visit to a local museum. Kick off the weekend at the Children's Museum of Phoenix (215 N. 7th St., 602-253-0501, www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org), where admission is free the first Friday of every month, 6-10 p.m. For dinosaurs that roar—and much more—visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History (53 N. MacDonald St., Mesa, 480-644-2230, www.azmnh.org), Mesa Contemporary Arts (1 E. Main St., 480-644-6501, www.mesaartscenter.com), or the Arizona Museum for Youth (35 N. Robson St., Mesa, 480-644-2467, www.arizonamuseumforyouth.com) from noon to 5 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month.

Antiquing
Whether you're shopping for English teapots, cast-iron stoves, or rolltop desks, antiquing in the Greater Phoenix area offers something for everyone. Downtown Glendale, Arizona's antiques capital, is a great starting point. Contact the Glendale Office of Tourism & Visitor Center (5800 W. Glenn Dr., Ste. 140, 623-930-4500) Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., for information, or see our advertisers for store names and locations.

Up, Up & Away
If you don't have 80 days to go around the world, how about a couple of hours to go around the Greater Phoenix area? Hot air balloons are a kicky way to view the terrain. To drift away on a desert breeze, contact Hot Air Expeditions (800-831-7610) or Arizona Balloon Works (928-399-9833).

Historic Neighborhoods
People who have abandoned the suburban lifestyle in favor of the benefits of living "close in" have created a sort of renaissance in the city's historic neighborhoods. Tour them by car with a map from the Phoenix Historic District Coalition. The map illustrates and describes some of the area's major architectural styles—including California Bungalow, Pueblo Revival, American Colonial Revival, and Transitional Early Ranch. Phone 602-253-5579 for a free copy.

Exploring Biosphere 2
You'll feel like a Biospherian yourself on the behind-the-scenes guided tour of this once-sealed human habitat. Biosphere 2 is a mini-world that contains replicas of Earth's major ecosystems—rain forest, savanna, marsh, ocean, and desert. Exhibits allow you to explore the center while learning about the future of the planet. Call ahead for tour times. About a 2-hour drive south of Phoenix. Take US Hwy. 60 east to AZ Hwy. 79, then head toward Oracle and watch for signs. Admission fee. Phone 520-838-6200 or visit www.b2science.org.

Water Colossus
To see one of the world's highest fountains, rising more than 300 feet into the sky and powered by 600-horsepower hydraulic pumps, travel to Saguaro Blvd. in Fountain Hills, northeast of Phoenix (take AZ Hwy. 87 to Shea Blvd.). The fountain is nearly 3 times bigger than Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone Park and it goes off every hour on the hour for 15 minutes. Free admission (480-837-1654).

Wallace & Ladmo
Fans of this KPHO-TV kids' show will be happy to find the long-term exhibit Wallace, Ladmo, and Company at the Arizona Historical Society. Thirty-five years of laughter are captured in the exhibit, which features artifacts, photographs, props, slides, and videos of the award-winning, longest-running daily show in television history. Admission fee, free parking. Open Tues.-Sun. Phone the Arizona Historical Society at Papago Park in Tempe, 480-929-9499.

Irish Cultural Center
Do you find yourself captivated by Celtic traditions? A stop at the Irish Cultural Center is sure to have your Irish eyes smiling. The center offers exhibits as well as events, concerts, the Irish Festival in October, and of course, the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Faire. Fans of the Emerald Isle with a little more time can also enjoy taking a class or two at the Irish Cultural Center's Academy of Irish and Celtic Studies. The center, located at 1106 N. Central Ave. in Phoenix, is open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m-3 p.m. For more information, phone 602-258-0109 or visit www.azirish.org.

The Musical Arts
The Phoenix Symphony offers classics and pops performances with enough variety to please any taste, and it also provides accompaniment for some of the world's greatest musical talents. Phone 602-495-1999. Orchestras in Scottsdale (480-945-8071), Mesa (480-827-2143), and Flagstaff (928-774-5107) also offer excellent performances, as do the Arizona Opera (602-266-SING), Phoenix Opera (866-OPERA4U), and Arizona State University's Herberger College of the Arts (480-965-4495).

Racing Traditions
Described by some as the area's best-known secret, the Penske Racing Museum (7125 E. Chauncey Ln., Phoenix, 480-538-4444, www.penskeracingmuseum.com) boasts the largest collection of Indy 500-winning cars this side of the Mississippi. Also on display are 18 vintage cars, NASCAR vehicles, Indy 500 pace cars, and Team Penske racing trophies. Featured drivers include Helio Castroneves and Gil de Ferran of the Indy Racing League, and Rusty Wallace and Ryan Newman of NASCAR. Don't leave without a stop at the museum store, where you can pick up racing memorabilia such as a miniature helmet or autographed die-cast cars.

Live Theater
All dressed up with no place to go? Try the Phoenix area's many antidotes—musicals, comedies, dramas, Broadway hits, and more. This winter see These Shining Lives Feb. 26-Mar. 12 at ASU Herberger MainStage Theatre (480-965-6447). Arizona Theatre Company offers Ain't Misbehavin' Dec. 30-Jan. 17 (602-256-6995). The Black Theatre Troupe stages Fathers and Other Strangers Jan. 14-24 (602-258-8128). And at Arizona Jewish Theatre Company (602-264-0402) enjoy The Kosher Cheerleader Jan. 10-25.

Ready, Aim...
Guns are still a part of the West, but nowadays most shooting around here is done at one of the Greater Phoenix area's excellent ranges. Arizona Game & Fish Department operates the Ben Avery Shooting Facility (623-582-8313)—the nation's largest publicly owned shooting range—just west of I-17 on the Carefree Hwy. Or try the Scottsdale Gun Club (480-348-1111) at Loop 101 and Raintree Dr. While only the Scottsdale Gun Club offers equipment rentals, both facilities offer courses and instruction.

Sky Harbor Art
"Delayed" and "canceled" are two words that regularly plague those who fly the ofttimes unfriendly skies. Well, when you're in Phoenix, don't despair. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has one of the largest airport-art programs in the nation. Featuring a permanent collection, changing exhibitions, and the works of Arizona artists, Sky Harbor art offers travelers a pleasant diversion. To find out what's showing when you'll be at the airport, phone 602-273-2105 or visit www.phxskyharbor.com.

Rock Art
Visit with voices from the desert's past at the Deer Valley Rock Art Center, 2008 winner for "Best Museum for Little Kids" in the Phoenix area as part of Nickelodeon's Parents' Pick Awards. Run by the Arizona State University School of Human Evolution and Social Change, the museum is dedicated to the study of petroglyphs at the foot of Adobe Dam. No one knows for sure which culture made the more than 1,500 ancient symbols. Learn from displays, presentations, and interpretive tours. Admission fee. About 21/2 miles west of I-17 on Deer Valley Rd. Phone 623-582-8007 or check out www.asu.edu/clas/shesc/dvrac.

Lions & Tigers & Bears, Oh My!
That's not all you'll find at the Phoenix Zoo. Recently named one of the top 5 zoos in the country, this 125-acre zoological park is one of the largest nonprofit parks in the nation and is home to nearly 1,200 animals. Be sure to explore the zoo's 4 distinct trails: Arizona Trail, Africa Trail, Tropics Trail, and Children's Trail. Located at 455 N. Galvin Pkwy. in Papago Park. Admission fee. Phone 602-273-1341 or visit www.phoenixzoo.org. To see Arizona's only aquarium and its largest collection of exotic animals—more than 325 species—take an outing to the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission fee. At 165th and Northern Aves. Phone 623-935-WILD or visit www.wildlifeworld.com.

Casino Fun
Grab that change jar for a rendezvous with Lady Luck at a number of casinos around the state. Take a chance at either of the two Casino Arizona locations, both on Scottsdale's eastern border (480-850-7777), Apache Gold Casino Resort near Globe (800-272-2438), or Fort McDowell Casino in Fountain Hills (800-THE-FORT). All offer blackjack tables and other games.

Off-Road Adventures
The rugged off-road trails of Arizona await you and a trusty steed—in this case, a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Tour guides know the best spots for sightseeing and provide an abundance of nifty stories—most of them true. To get started on a jeep jaunt, contact Pink Jeep Tours in Sedona (800-873-3662, www.pinkjeep.com), Desert Dog Hummer Adventures (480-837-3966, www.azadventures.com), or Safari Jeep Tours (928-282-3012, www.safarijeeptours.com).

Wrigley Mansion
If you think this house has something to do with either chewing gum or baseball, you're right on both counts. William Wrigley Jr. built this opulent mansion in 1929 and gave it to his wife as an anniversary gift. Today, tours offer a look at the grand place. Off 24th St. and Arizona Biltmore Cir. Admission fee. Phone 602-955-4079 for reservations.

Dance Country
Haul out your cowboy hat, boots, and jeans and head to one of the Greater Phoenix area's popular country western clubs, where you can join in, learn, or just watch country swing and line dancing. Stardust Country Bar in Glendale draws a boot-scootin' crowd Tues.-Sat. with live music. Rustler's Rooste at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix stages live country western music plus dancing every night (602-431-6474). Rusty Spur Saloon (480-425-SPUR ), housed in a restored 1921 bank building in Scottsdale, presents live music every night.

Grandeur Restored
Back in the days when Americans dressed in their best to go to a show, giant palaces such as the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix hosted the event. The Spanish Baroque Revival architecture makes this touring-show and concert venue, built in 1929, one of the most luxurious in the West. At 203 W. Adams St. For information on shows and free tours (the 3rd Tues. of the month at noon and 1 p.m.), phone 602-262-7272.

Heard Museum
The Heard Museum displays an internationally famous collection of artifacts and art—including basketry, pottery, textiles, kachinas, and jewelry—from Southwestern Native American tribes. It also offers numerous festivals, performances, and workshops at its original location, 2301 N. Central Ave. Phone 602-252-8848. Or visit the Heard Museum North at The Summit at Scottsdale, 32633 N. Scottsdale Rd. (480-488-9817). Visit www.heard.org for more information. All locations open daily.

Mesa Arts Center
Downtown Mesa recently made a substantial contribution to the arts and culture scene in Greater Phoenix. The Mesa Arts Center, crowned the largest arts facility in Arizona, offers visual and performance art in a variety of styles, Broadway-style theater, and even a few art-education classes. The entire center includes four theaters, contemporary art galleries, and an exhibition area, as well as 2 buildings dedicated to art study and studio space. The center is located at One E. Main St. in Mesa. Phone 480-644-6500 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

Sassy Chassis
Relive the glory days of automobiles as you cruise through rows and rows of hot vintage and specialty autos. Every Sat., car buffs from around the state gather to show off their prized beauties. Set to music as classic as the cars, the fun runs 4-9 p.m. in the northern and eastern parking lots of the Scottsdale Pavilions (Pima and Indian Bend Rds.). Call 480-443-0080 for more information.

Outdoor Adventures
For everything you'll need to romp through the desert, check out Arizona Outdoor Fun Rentals in Phoenix. You can rent land and water toys as well as sign up for tours by land, water, and air (602-400-2445, www.arizonaoutdoorfun.com). Arizona Outback Adventures (480-945-2881, www.aoa-adventures.com) and Take a Hike Arizona (866-615-2748, www.takeahikearizona.com), both in Scottsdale, also offer guided tours and equipment rentals. If all you need is a mode of transportation, you can rent your choice of off-road vehicles at Sedona Off-Road Center in Sedona (928-282-5599, www.sedonaoffroadcenter.com).

Get the Blues
In the mood for a little soulful lamenting? The Greater Phoenix area offers a couple of musical outlets for just such a purpose: Char's Has the Blues (602-230-0205), voted best blues club in Phoenix for 20 years in a row, or Phoenix's Rhythm Room (602-265-4842), where you can see the likes of Leon Russell and other greats perform.