Does our short-story film, Extraordinary Moments, Lifelong Memories, have you dreaming of a getaway to Scottsdale? Extraordinary Moments, Lifelong Memories is an exploration of the Scottsdale area’s most iconic locations and experiences by re-living the most significant memories of a couple who met and returned to Scottsdale over the course of their life together. So no matter if you are seeking wide open spaces, ways to focus on your health and wellness, or creating connections with family and friends, you, too, can experience extraordinary moments in Scottsdale.
Magical Setting
Scottsdale’s lush Sonoran Desert environment creates a stunning backdrop for many magical moments throughout the film. Whether your interest is hiking, biking, a leisurely stroll or taking breathtaking photos, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the desert.
Stay Your Way
You can visit the Scottsdale area for years to come and never experience the same stay twice. Case-in-point are these exceptional properties:
The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch
This sprawling resort is a family favorite because of its many recreational amenities, including a 2.5-acre water park with 10 pools, 3-story waterslide and signature sandy beach. Additional amenities include championship golf, Spa Avania and five on-property restaurants.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
Ideal for a luxurious adult getaway, accommodations at Sanctuary include casitas and suites, as well as personal mountainside villas. From its perch high atop of Camelback Mountain, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, refresh with Asian-inspired spa specialties, and savor culinary delights on the elements scenic dining deck.
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch
Fun for all ages can be had at the historic Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch, where sun-filled days, exciting adventures, idyllic star-lit nights and good company combine to create an authentic, Arizona experience. With panoramic views of the wilderness, its 20 rustic cabins are quaint and comfortable and feature colorful Mexican serape curtains, hand-painted Monterey oak furniture, and Western art. To preserve the serene atmosphere of the ranch, there are no televisions, phones, radios or clocks in the cabins.
The Arts
Scottsdale has been long renowned as a top-tier arts destination, so it’s no surprise that art and architecture play a starring role in the film. Enjoy astonishing art of the past, present and future with everything from historic landmark architecture and galleries to forward-thinking, immersive interactive exhibits:
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
Scottsdale's only UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark, the grounds and buildings at Taliesin West were constructed over a period of approximately twenty years by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his apprentices. Taliesin West serves as a prime example of Wright’s organic architecture since the structures are built of the rocks and sand from the Sonoran Desert and meld into the lower McDowell Mountains. Expert-led tours at Taliesin West are available Thursdays through Sundays.
Cosanti
Created by the late Italian architect Paolo Soleri, Cosanit is part art studio and part architectural experiment. Cosanti features earth-formed concrete domes that seem to defy gravity as they provide an enchanting backdrop for the melodious sounds of bronze and ceramic Cosanti Originals windbells. Call ahead for bronze pour times and experience the creative process in action!
Wonderspaces Arizona
Art is for everyone (and for all ages) at Wonderspaces, which features interactive exhibits from around the world that bridge the gap between artists and new audiences. Lively visuals, playful lighting and hands-on fun are all in a day’s exploration at Wonderspaces. All tickets must be purchased online in advance.
The Marshall Gallery of Fine Art
Celebrating 20 years in Scottsdale, this renowned gallery is located in the heart of the Scottsdale Arts District. The Marshall Gallery offers a stunning showroom showcasing an exceptional collection of contemporary painting, sculpture, glass and furniture. Explore on your own, or allow expert art consultants to offer complimentary assistance to find the perfect addition to your own collection.
The Sugar Bowl
Hungry after all of that browsing? The Sugar Bowl is historic in its own right! Since 1958, the Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor/Restaurant has been dishing out delicious American food and scrumptious ice cream treats to devoted locals and tourists alike. It has remained virtually unchanged in menu items, décor and location since its beginning. Come join the fun and nostalgia at the Sugar Bowl!
Adventure Awaits
No trip to Scottsdale is complete without experiencing the great outdoors, which is another unforgettable part of the film. Here are just a few adventures to get you started:
MacDonald’s Ranch
Get a taste of the Old West on a horseback-riding excursion through the Sonoran Desert. MacDonald’s Ranch offers guided trail rides for all skill levels.
Hot Air Expeditions
A hot-air balloon ride offers the most expansive views of the Sonoran Desert. After your sunrise flight with Hot Air Expeditions, you’ll celebrate with a champagne toast and breakfast surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Tom’s Thumb Trailhead
For advanced explorers, Tom’s Thumb Trail is a steep 4.6 mile, round-trip trek to the base of the Thumb rock formation. This challenging hike will lead you through fantastic boulder formations and reward your exertion with stunning desert and mountain views.
Can’t wait to begin planning your own magical getaway to Scottsdale? Click here to find out how to play, stay and save!
