All roads lead to and from ... Phoenix! Arizona's main gateway is Phoenix and an ideal location for basing a hub-and spoke itinerary. You can travel no more than 30 miles in any direction and arrive at one or more areas offering a selection of enjoyable touring sites and activities.

If you are planning a vacation to the western part of the United States, one stop that is absolutely essential for relaxation and good times is Scottsdale, AZ. Scottsdale has been on the rise over the past decade and is currently at its peak as one of the top vacation destinations in the country. There are top-notch restaurants, sporting events, hiking trails, numerous golf courses, museums galore, and a number of lodging options to satisfy the outdoor and inquisitive spirit in every vacationer.

Since the weather in Scottsdale can rise upwards of 110 degrees in the summer, it is best to visit during the fall and spring. You will find the crowds are typically the largest during the winter months due to the flight of the snowbirds, so you can cram more activities into your stay during one of the warmer, but still manageable, months.

When looking for some of the best restaurants in the country, look no further than North Scottsdale. Here, you can find some of the best seafood and steakhouses in the country. The Ocean Club is an upscale and elegant seafood restaurant that is located in North Scottsdale within Kierland Commons. Although the wait is typically long during every season, the bar is fully stocked and most individuals believe that the wait for this seafood is well worth it. If you are looking for fine dining in a more casual atmosphere, try Mastro's Steakhouse, located off the 101 and technically on Pinnacle Peak Rd, but it is more easily visible from N. Pima Rd. Here you can find aged steaks, an extensive wine list, and pleasant music emanating from the piano bar.

Scottsdale

When most individuals think of Scottsdale, they typically think of the amazing golf courses that span the entire city. Troon North is located in North Scottsdale and takes full advantage of the natural surroundings of the Sonoran desert. Lying at the foot of Pinnacle Peak, Troon North carries through the hills and ravines of the desert but is exceptionally maintained to provide a pleasurable golfing experience. The Tournament Players Club, or the TPC, is a challenge to every golfer since it is a professional level golf course (the FBR Open is hosted by the TPC), meaning its mounds and bunkers are meant to be the downfall of every golfer whose game is not quite up to par.

If you prefer to watch the game rather than participate, consider attending the FBR Open (typically around the end of January or the beginning of February) and parking yourself at the always rowdy and exciting 17th hole. The 17^th hole has an island green that causes amateurs and pros alike quite a headache as their ball lands on the green and suddenly slides gently into the water below.