Spring Training

Spring Training
Attention baseball fans! It’s that time of year again-baseball Spring Training time. Spring Training 2019 begins this weekend! Baseball under the warm Arizona sun has been a tradition since 1947 when the Cleveland Indians and New York Giants came here to prepare for the season ahead of them. Now, the Cactus League’s 15 teams call Arizona home for Spring Training and Scottsdale is fortunate to be home to the San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies and our home team, the Arizona Diamondbacks. Baseball fans come from all over the country to warm up and watch their favorite teams play at Scottsdale’s premier baseball facilities.

Scottsdale Stadium was originally built in 1965 and is home to the San Francisco Giants. It has been called “the gem of the Cactus League ball parks” for its awesome location right in the middle of historic and scenic downtown Scottsdale and a short walk to a wide selection of restaurants, clubs and art galleries. Visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov for the Scottsdale Stadium spring training schedule.

The Salt River Fields is the latest and greatest in spring training stadiums and consists of separate training facilities and clubhouses accommodating each team along with an 11,000 seat main stadium with a roof structure designed to provide plenty of shade. The stadium also offers open fan observation area and batting cages. In addition, if you are not into peanuts or cracker jacks, then SRV has you covered. They not only offer traditional baseball fare, but also food for vegetarians, gluten-free options, and high end dining. Visit www.saltriverfields.com for the Salt River Fields spring training schedule.

To view homes for sale in the Scottsdale area before or after a game, give us a call! Chris 480-754-9077 & Cheryl 480-754-9477

Love is in the Air!

Valentines Day

Love is in the air this week for Valentine’s Day. If you are still looking for an idea how to celebrate, treat your Valentine to one of these romantic Valley dining destinations.

Palo Verde Restaurant at the Boulders
February 14th, 2019
4:00pm–10:00pm
$78 per person
Romance and scenic views are on the menu at the Boulders Resort’s Palo Verde Restaurant. They are offering a four-course, pre-fixed Valentine’s Day dinner. Choose from a bounty of delicious options, including fresh seafood, Beef Tenderloin, Osso Bucco and a shareable chocolate dessert for two. www.theboulders.com

Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn
February 14th, 2019
5:00pm–10:00pm
$85 per person
Toast love this year at Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn. Chef Jeremy Pacheco and the Lon’s culinary team have prepared a delicious multi-course menu that pairs perfectly with one of the nearly 700 wines featured on the restaurant’s award-winning wine list. Menu highlights include creamy Lobster Bisque, Snake River Farms Wagyu Beef Striploin, Atlantic Halibut, and Dark Chocolate Cake. www.hermosainn.com

T. Cook’s
February 14th, 2019
5:00pm-10:00pm
$135+ per person

Celebrate this Valentine’s Day at Royal Palms Resort and Spa’s most romantic and iconic restaurant, T. Cook’s. Executive Chef Alex Robinson will be preparing a special four-course, prix-fixe menu paired with a Veuve Clicquot Rose toast. Enjoy delicious dishes such as Coffee Rubbed Beef Tenderloin and Basil and Mascarpone Tortellini and end the evening with their Dark Chocolate Cherry Decadence. www.royalpalmshotel.com

Verde Canyon Railroad
February 14-16th, 2019
1:00pm
$129 per person
If you have time for a day-trip, drive 2 hours north of Scottsdale to Clarkdale to enjoy a scenic ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. The Chocolate Lovers’ Special features flowing fountains of chocolate, irresistible pastries and desserts, as well as breathtaking views from your cozy seat in the first-class car. Pair your sweet treats with a flight of Verde Canyon Railroad’s private-label wines for an added blush of romance. www.verdecanyonrr.com

When you are ready to look for a new home to fill with LOVE, give us call! Chris 480-754-9477 & Cheryl 480-754-9077

Valley Farmers Markets

Farmers MarketFarmers markets showcase the bounty afforded us by Arizona farmers, growers and artisans. Lucky us, we have such beautiful winter and spring weather to enjoy the outdoor markets, one of the many reasons we love living here!

Farmers Market at the Mercado
Abby Lee Farms, Blue Sky Organic Farms, Relish This, Sun Valley Bees honey and Big Red’s hot sauce are among the vendors you’ll likely find at this farmers market at the Mercado del Lago shopping center at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale.
Details: Sundays from 9:30am-1:30pm November-February, and 9am- 1 pm March-May. Mercado del Lago, 8300 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale. arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets.com

Fountain Hills Farmers Market
Beef steaks, hard-to-find seasonings from Go Lb. Salt, jam from Grandma Patti’s Kitchen and gourmet popcorn from Gypsy Jane’s are just a few of the things you’ll find at this weekly festival in Fountain Hills. Eat while you shop and visit vendors making grilled cheese and other dishes.
Details: Thursdays from 11am-5pm October-mid April. 16858 Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills. experiencefountainhills.com

Scottsdale Arizona Farmers Market
This market in Old Town Scottsdale has evolved into a weekly food festival, with demonstrations to show you how to prepare things farmers are selling. You’ll find dozens of farmers, ranchers and vendors selling coffee, vegan desserts, cheese, crostini, pasta, candy, tamales, soups, wild-caught Alaskan seafood, hummus, tomatoes, spicy pickles, grass-fed lamb, microgreens, frozen entrees, bread and more.
Details: Saturdays from 8am-1pm October-May. 3806 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale. arizonafarmersmarkets.com

Arizona Community Farmers Market
The state’s oldest farmers market offers one of the largest selections of produce, along with fresh chickens and grass-fed lamb. Dozens of vendors sell specialty foods, including cupcakes, jam, jerky, chili pies, wild salmon, tamales, green-chile stew and tortilla soup. The location is at a park with a playground, fishing pond, ducks and geese.
Details: Saturdays from 8am-1pm October-May, and 7-11am June-September. 3502 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix. arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets.com

Barrett-Jackson 2019

Do not miss the 48th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction at Westworld Scottsdale January 12-20th. While driving through McDowell Mountain Ranch this week, you may notice the many historical and luxury cars in town for the auction, and it’s hard not to notice the big white tents as you are driving by the 101 and Frank Lloyd Wright. I’m always amazed to think under the tents is millions of dollars in auto sales every January.

Barrett-Jackson was established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale. They are recognized for offering only the finest selection of quality collector vehicles, outstanding professional service and unrivaled sale success.

More than 1,800 cars and 1,600 car collector items will be on display for all to enjoy! Even if you’re not a car fanatic, there is plenty to do with more than 200 exhibitors and over 70 food vendor locations offering a wide variety of dining options. There will also be interactive exhibits from over 100 sponsors, and don’t forget the people watching! Visit Barrett-Jackson to view schedule of events, tickets and family day information.

Free Summer Activities in Phoenix

got water signSummer is around the corner and there’s always something happening in Phoenix to keep you busy! One of the great things about our region is the variety of outdoor activities that are mainly free and are great if you’re on a budget. 

We’ve rounded up our favorite free activities to take advantage of this summer. 

Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Center

With miles of hiking trails and a variety of views, this somewhat challenging trail is great for hiking-enthusiast looking for a summer adventure.  It’s best to go early, right after sunrise.  Don’t forget to bring LOTS of water, sunscreen and a hat.

Phoenix Art Museum 

You might not know that one of Phoenix’s most popular cultural attractions is free every Wednesday evening, from 3-9 p.m. Stop by and check out the latest exhibit and get your fill of art history. 

Mesa Arts Center

This 212,000-square foot arts center is one of the largest in the state, and free to attend. They host performances, have art galleries and offer one of a kind installations. While performances cost money, walk around the area and check out the art gallery!

Arizona Capital Museum

For the history buff, take a trip to the Arizona Capital Museum to get a picture of Arizona’s early statehood. World War II buffs can browse a USS Arizona display and see artifacts specifically curated from Arizona in WWII. 

Smith Mountain Park 

In the largest municipal park in the world, these crisscrossing trails offer a spectacular view from Dobbins Lookout Point at 1,200 feet. From there, check out Happy Valley and go through Spring Mountain Park.

Apache Trail

Looking for a road trip in your own backyard? Check out Apache Trail. One of the most scenic drives in Arizona, it features scenic stops and great desert life along the way. Don’t forget to check out Goldfields Ghost Town for a spooky tour in Arizona’s gold rush land. 

Free Summer Activities Around The Valley

Summer is around the corner and there’s always something happening in Phoenix to keep you busy! One of the great things about our region is the variety of outdoor activities that are mainly free and are great if you’re on a budget. 

We’ve rounded up our favorite free activities to take advantage of this summer. 

Camelback mountain photoCamelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Center

With miles of hiking trails and a variety of views, this somewhat challenging trail is great for hiking-enthusiast looking for a summer adventure.

Phoenix Art Museum 

You might not know that one of Phoenix’s most popular cultural attractions is free every Wednesday evening, from 3-9 p.m. Stop by and check out the latest exhibit and get your fill of art history. 

Mesa Arts Center

This 212,000-square foot arts center is one of the largest in the state, and free to attend. They host performances, have art galleries and offer one of a kind installations. While performances cost money, walk around the area and check out the art gallery!

Arizona Capital Museum

For the history buff, take a trip to the Arizona Capital Museum to get a picture of Arizona’s early statehood. World War II buffs can browse a USS Arizona display and see artifacts specifically curated from Arizona in WWII. 

Smith Mountain Park 

In the largest municipal park in the world, these crisscrossing trails offer a spectacular view from Dobbins Lookout Point at 1,200 feet. From there, check out Happy Valley and go through Spring Mountain Park.

Apache Trail

Looking for a road trip in your own backyard? Check out Apache Trail. One of the most scenic drives in Arizona, it features scenic stops and great desert life along the way. Don’t forget to check out Goldfields Ghost Town for a spooky tour in Arizona’s gold rush land. 

Popular Summer Camp Options In The Valley

With summer on the horizon, it’s time for the kids to go to summer camp. Studies show that children who attend summer camp are more socially adjusted and generally have more positive relationships with peers. 

If you’re looking for places in the East Valley to send the kids this summer, look no further than some of our favorite locations. 

Cactus Day Camp

With over 20 activities to keep your children busy, Cactus Day Camp is a great option for adventurous kids between the ages of 3-13. With sessions in archery, swimming, climbing and crafting, there’s something for everyone! This Paradise camp runs from early June through July. 

Audobon Arizona

Do you have a nature-obsessed kid eager to spend their time outside? Audobon Arizona is a science-based camp that offers attendees the opportunity to hike, learn geocaching and learn more about astrology and nature. With an overnight option, Audobon Arizona is a great hybrid option for locals looking for a sleep-away camp feel. 

School of Rock

If music is more up your child’s alley, then the School of Rock is perfect. School of Rock in Scottsdale offers classes for beginners to the seasoned musician. Aside from instrument lessons, the day camp also offers singing and songwriting classes and vocal lessons.

Phoenix Zoo

For the animal-lovers, the Phoenix Zoo offers a hands-on summer camp for children grades K-8. This fun camp allows attendees to hike, get up close and personal with the zoo animals and learn more about caring for animals. Located in Phoenix, the class offers extended hours and scholarships for families in need. 

Friendly Pines Camp

Located North of Phoenix in Prescott, Friendly Pines Camp offers the quintessential overnight summer camp experience. Jam packed with activities, the camp has everything you can imagine, including horseback riding, photography classes, dance, climbing, canoeing and kayaking. 

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Where to Find Live Music Venues in Scottsdale

From outdoor festivals to local honkytonks, Scottsdale has something for everyone when it comes to enjoying live music. From blues-y piano bars to country music throw downs, here are some of our favorite options for local music in Scottsdale.

guitar photoCenter Stage Bar

Located in the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort, Center Stage Bar provides the perfect romantic setting for a live music experience. Set amongst rippling fountains and outdoor fire pits, Center Stage has a variety of nightly entertainment ranging from acoustic musicians to soulful jazz.

Musical Instrument Museum

Not only can you view over 6,800 instruments collected from around the world, the Musical Instrument Museum in North Phoenix is just a short drive from Downtown Scottsdale and boasts live music several times a month. From classical music to world-renowned global artists, the intimate 300-person theatre is great for a variety of performances.

Talking Stick Resort

If you’re looking for more national headlines, check out the Talking Stick Resort. With a 650-person Showroom, and 1,600-seat Salt River Grand Ballroom, the Talking Stick has featured major national acts like Lynyrd Skynyrd and Whitesnake.

Handlebar J Restaurant and Saloon

Looking for something a little more country? The Handlebar J Restaurant and Saloon located in Sundown Plaza feels like an old-timey saloon with cowboy hats and nightly country music. Founded in the 1960’s, this local watering hole used to have patrons like Waylon Jennings show up on horseback. Featuring an enormous dancefloor, make sure to bring your dancing shoes if you attend a show at Handlebar J.

Rhythm Room

Located off of Route 51, Rhythm Room provides a soulful escape featuring roots, blues and other various concerts. It’s been around since the early 90’s, and hosts local and national acts on a nightly basis. From jazzy quartets to alternative rock bands, Rhythm Room has the feel of a jazz club with a dive-bar twist.

Are you looking for a home in Scottsdale? Contact Chris and Cheryl 

Scottsdale Culinary Festival 

food festival photoA local favorite, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival is back next weekend, attracting more than 30,000 people from around the region to enjoy the sights, sounds and taste of Scottsdale’s local culinary scene. The annual event featuring over 40 local restaurants, bands, a cooking challenge and more will take place April 14-15th at the Scottsdale Civic Center.

Sponsored by the Cocktail Society, this year’s event is expected to draw major crowds as it celebrates a major milestone of 40 years. The Local Lounge, presented this year by Hensley Beverage Co., will showcase local wineries, craft beer and spirits from around the state. Additionally, a beer garden will feature more than 30 Arizona breweries and over 250 beers on tap.

After eating and drinking the local fare, make sure to hop over to the four performance stages that will be featuring a variety of bands and musicians. This year’s headliner is the rock band Everclear, performing on Saturday night. Also, 90’s Pop Band Eve 6 will open for Everclear.

Don’t forget that all the proceeds benefit local nonprofit Scottsdale League for the Arts. Founded in 1992, the SLA provides grants and funding for local artists, art programs and art education through special events like the Culinary Festival and other fundraising efforts.

This family-fun event is the perfect opportunity to try different Scottsdale restaurants and discover the great local flavors. Kids can enjoy face painting, bouncy houses and fun performers like magicians.

With a variety of cuisines, there’s something for everyone at this year’s festival. The festival will be broken up into different passport sections, including the European Plaza, American Square, Latin Hill, Asian Village and Sweet Street.

Tickets are still on sale and can be purchase up until the day of the festival! It’s one of our favorite local events, and is a great opportunity to support local restaurants, all while benefiting a great cause.

We are Scottsdale local area real estate experts.  Browse this interactive map to learn about neighborhoods and view homes for sale listings.

Noteworthy Wineries around the Valley

wine glass photoMany of us enjoy to relax and unwind with a glass of wine and good company. You may not realize it, but Scottsdale is also a hub for wine, with the Senoita, Wilcox and Verde Valleys in our backyard. Dating back to the 1970’s, the areas local vineyards have made a name for themselves as a wine destination, with local tours offered throughout the year.

Check out these well-known Arizona vineyards for the best wine the state has to offer.

Granite Creek Vineyards

Nestled in the Chino Valley, Granite Creek Vineyards is family owned and operated, and was the first winery in Arizona to be certified as organic. This is a big accomplishment, as it required 100 percent of the grapes to come from an organically certified vineyard that is tested and audited. While the vineyard is a bit isolated, it’s location and weather is perfect for producing grapes.

Arizona Stronghold Vineyards

Started in 2007, Arizona Stronghold Vineyard has helped put Arizona wines on the map, winning numerous awards and recognition at tasting competitions. The vineyard, located in Graham County, boasts several wines on a seasonal basis, with their tasting room offering a quirky but fun environment.

Charron Vineyards and Winery

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Tucson, Charron Vineyards is a bit more of a drive, but is a great option for a weekend getaway. Situated in the foothills of the Stan Rita Mountains, it offers some of the oldest vines in Arizona. It’s most known for its White Merlot, which has sold out every year since it won the 2000 Governor’s Choice Award.

Windmill Winery

Built on the foundation of an old brickyard, Windmill Winery is a gorgeous nursery, turned vineyard. Founded in 2001, the quaint winery offers a shabby chic feel with a handful of wines for visitors to try in their local tasting room. And it’s just over an hour away from Scottsdale!

Su Vino Winery

While not an actual vineyard, Su Vino Winery is one of the most well-known tasting rooms, located in Scottsdale’s Arts District. The main Su Vino Winery is in Texas, but the Scottsdale location is its second storefront. With dozens of wines by the glass, including some on tap, Su Vino is a great local option if you’re not in the mood to drive to the winery.

There are many more wonderful wine bars in the valley including the Cave Creek and Carefree area. Many offer happy hour and other weekday specials.  Click here to learn about Scottsdale Homes & Neighborhoods.