Close to your budget hotel in North Phoenix is the gorgeous Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, where regular events and temporary exhibits ensure every visit is unique. From the sculptural garden to the one of a kind pop-up architecture displays and permanent galleries, it’s the perfect destination for families, history buffs, art lovers—or anyone looking for the best tourist destinations in the Phoenix area. Also known as SMoCA, the museum is perched on 21 acres of idyllic landscaping. You’ll find the best in contemporary design, architecture and art from around the world in one central location. With up to 12 exhibitions per year, guests are guaranteed to be greeted with only premium featured selections. Combining literature, performance, film, music and dance within many exhibits, a number of collaborations are featured from places like Arizona State University and the Tremaine Foundation. Phoenix Rising The SMoCA Building itself was designed by Will Bruder, showcasing minimalism when renovating the old movie theater. It houses four galleries including the permanent collection and multi-use space, the SMoCA Lounge. In the Turrell Skyspace, designed by Arizona’s own James Turrell, you’ll find light used as a genuine medium. The museum welcomes guests Tuesday – Sunday with […]
Just a few minutes from your budget hotel in North Phoenix is the former home of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Set your GPS to 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in nearby Scottsdale and tour his winter home, which now serves as a campus for a prestigious architecture school (The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture). Dubbed his “winter laboratory,” the site is featured as a National Historic Landmark and overlooks the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. It also houses the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Here, the Taliesin Fellowship has been managed since 1937. One of his favorite sites, it was lovingly handcrafted over several years. Rooted deep within the desert, Taliesin West boasts an epic grandeur even for Lloyd Wright. He built and maintained it almost exclusively himself and with his apprentices, ensuring it’s one of his most personal endeavors. Amazing Architecture Although walk-ins are often welcome, it’s best to call ahead and purchase tickets/make reservations because special events often take place at this in-demand location. A variety of tours and packages are available, and some do sell out. Consider the Insights Tour for a comprehensive overview of the home, the Private Collections Tour for a glimpse […]
Have you “Heard?” The Native American museum close to your I-17 hotel in Phoenix has one of the most impressive collections in the region. Special events and pop-up, temporary exhibits make this a rich, immersive experience you won’t want to miss. Founded by the Heards in 1929, this little museum has grown over the decades and now boasts international acclaim for its impressive collections dedicated to sharing stories, art and history of American Indians. Innovative programs and renowned festivals take place here, all in collaboration with a variety of Native artists and tribal communities. Get an unprecedented perspective on the arts and culture of Native Americans with a particular focus on the southwest. Current exhibits include Over the Edge: Fred Harvey at the Grand Canyon and in the Great Southwest through December 2017. Permanent Exhibits Discover Home: Native People in the Southwest featuring 400 katsina dolls and the Navajo Hogan. The Third Dimension: Sculptural Stories in Stone and Bronze showcases American Indian fine art from the 20th – 21st century. Pablita Velarde’s Studio highlights the pieces of one of the most famous painters of the 20th century, including her “Golden Dawn.” Visit the Creative Casting display, where tin and […]