By Amy Kadori
Take some time to wander the grounds and discover fountains, pools, sculpture, and even a giant chess set
The art-deco style Arizona Biltmore is now part of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Collection, a group of elite deluxe
resorts. This acclaimed landmark has hosted every U.S.president as well as many Hollywood favorites for eighty years. The hotel features Frank Lloyd Wright influenced architecture, eight swimming pools, seven tennis courts, spa, five restaurants, a beauty salon and fitness center spread out over 39 beautifully landscaped acres. For golfers there's an 18-hole putting green and next door are two 18-hole golf courses.
Wows and Woes
The putting green winds through the grounds
Wows: The staff is professional and unobtrusive. The rooms are a good size with luxurious linens and comfortable beds.
Woes: Drink prices are high with cocktails averaging $15 and a glass of wine starting at $10. To leave the resort you'll probably need to rent a car.
Insider Tips
Be sure to try the elegant Sunday brunch
• Try the weekly Friday night wine tastings,
• Seasonal activities include dive-in movies in the pool (in summer) afternoon tea and a unique vartiation, a hi-tini with martinis and appetizers (during the season).
• There's a giant chess set on the lawn.
• The Tequila Sunrise cocktail was created here in the late 1930s.
• Irving Berlin's White Christmas was penned in a cabana by the Biltmore's Paradise swimming pool.
• There's great shopping less than a mile away
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Over the Fourth of July weekend a steel band played around the pool during the day. There were also two nights of concerts by a former local favorite, Esteban, now an international performer. Rather than sitting on the chairs set up on the main lawn, we sat outside our villa under a full moon listening to world-class music. Occasionally I could see holiday fireworks in the distance.
Bottom Line
The Arizona Biltmore is a great choice for a Phoenix vacation. There are great summer rates and local residents come here for a romantic getaway or with the kids.
Resources
About the Author:
Amy Kadori, a former dietician, has a degree in health and nutrition from the University of Massachusetts and writes on health issues and travel reviews. Before moving to Arizona Amy wrote a travel guide to Florida and a prize winning industrial newsletter.
Photo Credits:
Amy Kadori
Amy Kadori
Amy Kadori
