Embrace The Romantic Side Of Arizona, by Melody Schubert

From the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert in the south to the peaceful solitude of the pine forests in the north, Arizona is made for romance. Celebrate your love in grand style in the Grand Canyon State.  

Love is in the air in Scottsdale at All Out Aerial, a Scottsdale-based helicopter company, recently unveiled their Sunset Dinner Flights. The package includes transportation in a chauffeured town car to and from Scottsdale Airpark, a spectacular helicopter tour of the Scottsdale and Phoenix skyline, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. The evening ends with guests dining at the restaurant of their choice: The Chart House, The Terrace Dining Room at The Phoenician or Rancho Pinot Grill.

Let romance take flight with A Balloon Experience by Hot Air Expeditions, Inc.

Guests on the Hot Air Expeditions can experience breath-taking views of the Sonoran Desert from high above. Couples can enjoy sunrise and sunset flights that provide magnificent vistas of desert terrain and towering mountain ranges. The view from the balloon’s handcrafted wicker basket is virtually unobstructed and offers a picture perfect opportunity to remember the moment. Upon landing, guests will be welcomed back to earth in the traditional manner with flutes of champagne and breakfast or hors d'oeuvres complete with linens and china.

Relaxing Arizona Resorts

Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort in Tucson has always been known as a spot for a cozy and intimate vacation. The Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort has special packages available. Previous packages included accommodations, horseback riding, a couples massage and breakfast cooked to order.

US Airways Magazine named the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa in Phoenix one of the “Sexiest Resorts in America,” and now you can see why first-hand. The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa can help you create the perfect romantic getaway with amenities like an overnight stay for two, champagne, and more.

Scenic Arizona Roads

With 23 designated Scenic Roads crisscrossing the state, you’re never far from a relaxing and picturesque drive. In the northern part of the state, favorites include Kayenta-Monument Valley Scenic Road and Red Rock Scenic Road, both of which wind through fascinating rock formations. In the southern half, enjoy the rugged Sonoran Desert scenery along Apache Trail Historic Road and the high desert terrain on Patagonia-Sonoita Scenic Road in Arizona’s wine country.

Route 66

From the wild burros roaming the streets of Oatman in the west to the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert in the east, there's much to see and do along the way like visiting the Hackberry General Store, the delicious Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, unique attraction Meteor Crater and the lovingly refurbished La Posada Hotel in Winslow.

Plan Your Trip

For a complete listing of special events, getaway options, and attractions visit the Arizona Office of Tourism online at www.arizonaguide.com.

To find more about the Share The Experience Photo Contest and current news visit www.nationalparks.org or http://www.sharetheexperience.org.