Let local legend Ace Bailey show you the hidden gems of art and culture in the Valley of the Sun.

Hotel Valley Ho, one of the best-known mid-century modern hotels in the country, offers an architectural walking tour of the buildings and grounds. Started in October of 2007, the tour explores the classic design elements of the hotel while sharing the history and legends associated with its famous Hollywood guests.

Led by experts from Scottsdale’s Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours, the tour gives a historical perspective to the mid-century modern design of the hotel, which first opened in 1956. The project architect, Edward L. Varney, incorporated intelligent, minimalist design with modern and Southwestern-style details in creating this Arizona landmark.

Hotel Valley Ho was originally a hideaway for Hollywood stars visiting Arizona, including Humphrey Bogart, Marilyn Monroe, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Janet Leigh, and Tony Curtis. The hotel was also the location for Robert Wagner and Natalie Woods’ 1957 wedding reception.

Hotel Valley Ho was saved from the wrecking ball in 2003. It re-opened in 2005 after an $80 million rehabilitation, which included the addition of VH Spa, Café ZuZu, Trader Vic’s, the OH Pool, and the artful seven-story tower. It now stands as a true landmark in downtown Scottsdale.

Those interested in learning more about the hotel can enjoy the architectural walking tour. The 90-minute walk is available by special appointment. Reservations are required. The tour costs $19.56 per person (the year the hotel opened), and a certificate for a discount at ZuZu, or VH Spa Shop is included. For more information or for reservations, please call or email Ace Bailey, Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours, ace@ultimatearttours.com 602.826.3155 or the Hotel Valley Ho concierge at 480.248.2000.