School may be back in session, but that doesn’t mean that summer is over—which means it’s the perfect time for a staycation. Grab your swimsuit and sunscreen, and get ready for a luxurious getaway right here. After all, less travel time means more vacay time.
Aptly named Mountain Shadows (MountainShadows.com)—it stands in the shadow of Camelback Mountain—the storied resort has both a richly historical past and a celebrated future. The original destination was built in 1959 and drew everyone from international travelers to Hollywood stars, such as Liz Taylor and The Monkees. By 2004 it had closed its doors, and in 2014, it was demolished. In 2017, it reopened, rebuilt with sleek designs that capture both the essence of the property and the same stunning views of Camelback.
Sleek, bold, and luxurious, there are abundant thoughtful spaces, such as the art gallery, which offers museum-quality exhibitions that change every two months, and the living room, a sunken space where you can settle in with a drink. There’s also the Short Course, the 18-hole golf course where every hole is a par 3.
The main restaurant is Hearth ’61, named in honor of the year Paradise Valley officially became a town. Helmed by lauded chef Charles Wiley, it offers modern American fare.
Nearby in Old Town Scottsdale is Hotel Valley Ho (HotelValleyHo.com), another property with a history. A landmark since 1956, it was built by architect Edward L. Varney in a distinctive modern-meets-Southwestern style. Today, the mid-century modern hideaway is a popular locale for stays, meals, events, spa treatments, and its weekend summer pool parties.
Its restaurant, ZuZu, is helmed by Executive Chef Russell LaCasce and offers everything from Steak Tartare and Lobster Mac + Cheese to Slow Braised Pork Shank. Of course, most end a meal with the locale’s famous over-the-top Show Stopper Shake.
Hotel Valley Ho is also known for its events, which are often open to those stopping by as well as staying on property. The summer sees its popular market series, which showcases local purveyors, wines, beers, spirits, and eats, as well as celebrity chef dinners. There’s also the Magical History Tour and live music (select Friday and Saturday evenings).
The rooms have a distinctive modern style, and those looking for a home-away-from-home can choose the two-story, 1,500-square-foot Presidential Loft, which includes a full kitchen.
