ideal-LIVING Retirement and Relocation Blog
2015 Fall Issue

Stunning Views from Above — in Phoenix

by Rachael Provost

Aristotle once said, “In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.” He was talking about a bigger sky. Brighter stars. Breathtaking sunsets. He was talking about Phoenix, AZ, though he probably didn’t know it.

There’s a whole lot of outdoors to explore in Phoenix, also known as Valley of the Sun, for its reputation of having gloriously sunny days almost every day of the year. Dobbins Point, the highest outlook point in Phoenix accessible by trail, delivers majestic views that will take your breath away. At 2,300 feet, you really can see it all, and it’s stunning—views of the entire valley, from Phoenix’s cityscape to the surrounding mountain ranges, and gorgeous sunsets in the evening.

More unprecedented views can be found at Hole in the Rock at Papago Park. A series of holes in a small sandstone hill creates a window for sweeping vistas of the western part of Phoenix. Whether you choose to get to the hole from the path behind the hill, or take the more adventurous route and climb the face of the hill to reach the top, the view will be equally magnificent.

Perhaps you’re looking for a different perspective, a way to go above it all and really take in all of Phoenix. Catch the sunrise from the sky in a hot air balloon ride with unobstructed, 360-degree views of the rugged terrain of the Sonoran Desert and the wildlife that inhabits it. Or you can get up close and personal with the scenery and spend the day rock climbing or playing a game of golf in a desert canyon.

Explore the sights and sounds of the downtown area, where you’ll find art galleries, museums and restaurants full of delicious food. In Phoenix, it’s just part of the scenery of everyday life.

Savory Eateries

• 5th and Wine is the place to go when you want good food, an extensive wine bar and a comfortable atmosphere. Be sure to try the bruschetta, panini sandwiches and burgers.
• El Chorro, a school-turned-restaurant,has a menu far from typical cafeteria food (including sticky buns), and beautiful views of the prominent landmark, Camelback Mountain.
• Kai is the only Five Diamond Native American restaurant in the world, where you’ll find food influenced by Pima and Maricopa and killer views of South Mountain and the city.

Top Things To Do

• Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball “Play ball!” at Chase Field, where you can become a fan of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
• Desert Botanical Garden Explore the wonders of nature at this renowned 140-acre desert museum, where 50,000+ plant displays showcase the desert’s natural beauty.
• Hole-in-the-Rock Papago Park Holding the history of prehistoric Hohokam Indians and breathtaking vista and mountain views, these massive, otherworldly sandstone buttesset Papago Park apart, even in a city and state filled with world-class natural attractions.
• Roosevelt Row Downtown Phoenix’s walkable creative district features restaurants, boutiques and galleries for you to explore.

Request More Information from Communities Near Phoenix, AZ:

K. Hovnanian's � Four Seasons at Ventana Lakes

Peoria, Arizona

K. Hovnanian's ® Four Seasons at Ventana Lakes in Peoria, AZ, an active adult new home community for those 55+, will offer single-family new homes in an excellent Peoria location. There are multiple community centers including space for cards and games, a library, billiards, ping pong, quilting, crafts and a stage for programs, productions and concerts. The community features 4 pools and well as gorgeous lakes that are available for catch and release fishing. Several sports courts are available to residents including bocce, racquetball, shuffleboard, tennis, basketball, horseshoes, pickle ball and volleyball. Read More...

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Las Palmas - Active 55+ Resort

Mesa, Arizona

Affordable Active 55+ Resort Living. It's easy to see why so many of our residents feel like they're on vacation all year long. Las Palmas is a world-class resort with year-round activities, luxury amenities and a friendly group of active 55+ adults who enjoy life to the fullest, just like you. Visit our impressive selection of custom-built homes beginning in the $50's. Whether you're looking for the best value in retirement or simply the best place to take life easier, you'll enjoy the lifestyle at Arizona's premiere 55+ resort. Las Palmas is among the award-winning family of Thesman Communities proudly offering affordable resort living since 1980. Gated with 24 hour security. Visit us today, open daily for tours 8-5 Read More...

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K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Victory at Verrado

Buckeye, Arizona

Offers single-family new homes in a beautiful desert setting with a wide variety of community amenities. Enjoy 55+ Living with K Hovnanian Homes. Read More...

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David Weekley Homes - Victory at Verrado

Buckeye, Arizona

David Weekley Homes has delivered the best in Design, Choice and Service for the past 40 years. As one of the largest privately-held builder, David Weekley Homes continues to build high-quality homes and offer open floor plans that suit the needs of any lifestyle. Read More...

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Las Palmas Grand - Active 55+ Resort

Mesa, Arizona

It's easy to see why so many of our residents feel like they're on vacation all year long. Las Palmas Grand is a world-class resort with year-round activities, luxury amenities and a friendly group of active 55+ adults who enjoy life to the fullest, just like you. Read More...

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Palmas Del Sol - Active 55+ Resort

Mesa, Arizona

Surprise yourself with the affordable luxury at Palmas Del Sol, one of the finest Active 55+ communities in Arizona. Relax in our heated pool, join friends in our multi-million dollar clubhouse, or rejuvenate with a year-round calendar of events planned by our full-time Activities Director. Read More...

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K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Wickenburg Ranch

Wickenburg, Arizona

K. Hovnanian Homes will join Wickenburg Ranch in early 2019. This gorgeous new collection of homes features five unique single-family designs ranging from 1,492 to 1,802 square feet. Each home is designed with large, open living spaces ideal for entertaining and everyday casual living. Homes feature 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Wickenburg Ranch offers an incredible lifestyle to its residents - including a 40,000-square-foot Golf and Social Club! Homeowners here enjoy a huge calendar of events, golf, a spa, dog park, hiking, restaurants, fitness, sports courts and so much more! Read More...

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Palmas Del Sol East - Active 55+ Resort

Apache Junction, Arizona

Luxury and affordability come together at Palmas Del Sol East. From the best in social and recreational activities to an impressive selection of quality manufactured homes from the $30s. Read More...

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Sunrise Village - Active 55+ Resort

Mesa, Arizona

Step into this active 55 plus community in East Mesa and be amazed at how affordable a resort lifestyle can be! You will discover friendly people, luxury amenities and newly remodeled homes from the $30s. Our gated community offers a year-round calendar of social events planned by our Activity Director. Read More...

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