Summer Staycation Guide

As the snowbirds fly home for the summer, the Valley's top resorts roll out the red carpet for locals

With Mother’s Day in our rearview mirror and Memorial Day just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to plan your summer staycation. Yes, the deals are as sizzling as the sidewalks as top Valley resorts turn to locals to help keep the lights on. So all this month, we’ll be spotlighting our fav places to get Ritz-Carlton pampering at Radisson prices. First up, the recently remodeled Four Seasons Scottsdale.

Carved into the scenic mountain foothills of Pinnacle Peak in north Scottsdale, the Four Seasons feels worlds away from the broiling Valley floor. While the Native American-inspired decor is nothing special for AZ residents, we just love the resort’s winding layout and the stunning views from the lobby lounge and the sleek Talevera restaurant.

More important, the resort just wrapped up a $1 million pool enhancement. Look for a new elevated chaise lounge area lined with a barefoot-ready grass lawn, as well as  two VIP “super” cabanas outfitted with a flat screen TV, mini fridges, iPod docking stations, ceiling fans and a dedicated staffer. Furthermore, savor a posh new poolside menu, signature cocktails such as Arizona Mai Tais served in a  frozen pineapple, and complimentary amenities such as chilled fruit kebabs and cooling mint-scented towels.

May 21 – Sept. 10, 2010, enjoy summer rates beginning at $139 per night. Other packages include Stay Longer, offering a third complimentary night with two paid consecutive nights and Experience More, extending a $100 credit with two paid consecutive nights; rates for both packages begin at $225 per night.

Summer Seasons: 10600 E. Crescent Moon Dr., 480-513-5020