Each day in Arizona brings a new adventure. There are multitudes of experiences from city life, to a rich cultural scene, over-the-top luxury, to desert oases. I am hooked.
Upon landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport on the inaugural Porter Airlines flight 03OCT, our small but mighty press group hit the ground running for an unforgettable few days and a level of hospitality that made us feel genuinely welcome.
A Feast for the Senses: Arizona’s Culinary Delights
If you’re a foodie like me, Arizona will sweep you off your feet. I’m talking about the kind of meals that make you pause after each bite just to fully appreciate what’s happening to your taste buds.
My culinary journey started at The Mission in Scottsdale, where Latin-inspired comfort food met an elegant, rustic ambiance. The Himalayan salt-brick walls set the tone, but the table-side guacamole stole the show—it was the best I’ve had outside of Mexico.
Another standout was FnB, run by James Beard Award-winning Chef Charleen Badman. This farm-to-table gem offers dishes that celebrate Arizona’s locally sourced ingredients. Dining at FnB felt like eating at a friend’s house—if that friend happened to be a culinary genius. Every bite of the fresh, seasonal vegetables and perfectly prepared meats was a testament to Arizona’s vibrant food scene.
Wine lovers should add LDV Winery in Scottsdale to their must-visit list. Arizona may not be the first place you think of for great wine, but its volcanic soil produces stunning grapes. We sat down with owner Peggy Fiandaca where she shared her passion for winemaking, making the experience unforgettable.
For something completely different, we were treated to The Frybread Lounge, Scottsdale's only Indigenous-owned restaurant, where Chef Darryl Montana reimagines traditional flavours with a modern twist. From frybread tacos to bison burgers, each bite honours local heritage.
Next door, the Native Art Market offered a vibrant experience. Live music and tribal dancers brought the space to life while we explored handcrafted jewelry, beadwork, and other authentic Native items. Supporting this market means directly contributing to the economic empowerment of Native artists and their families, which has generated millions of dollars since its inception.
Of course, Phoenix had its culinary treasures. Wren & Wolf was the spot that quickly became a favourite, with its dark, moody atmosphere, taxidermy creatures on the walls (it sounds odd, but trust me, it works!), and a menu packed with creative dishes that left me craving more. For something a bit more mysterious, head to Trophy Room for a secret cocktail experience that feels like stepping into a speakeasy. Upon arrival, we were asked to lock up our phones in an antique safety deposit box to fully immerse ourselves in the moment, savouring every sip.
Exploring Arizona’s Artistic Soul: A Cultural Playground
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Arizona isn’t just about the desert—it’s bursting with creativity, history, and art. Lisa Urias, Director of the Arizona Office of Tourism, tells me that the state’s new branding aims to showcase Arizona’s diversity, from its vibrant culture to its Indigenous traditions. The new branding incorporates symbols that represent the people, history, and natural beauty of the state, signalling a shift away from the barren desert perception.
“Porter Airlines’ new route from Toronto to Phoenix is a tremendous opportunity to showcase Arizona as an all-season destination to Canadians," says Lisa Urias, Director of the Arizona Office of Tourism. "This new connection enhances access to Arizona's world-class resorts, outdoor recreation, and diverse cultural experiences, reinforcing our state’s position as a top destination for Canadian visitors.”
Arizona’s appeal stretches far beyond its leisure offerings—it’s also a hotspot for business travel. With daily flights now available from Toronto through Porter Airlines, Phoenix is a breeze. The increased lift also makes Arizona an attractive option for meetings and incentive travel. During my conversations with the Arizona Office of Tourism, it was clear the state is eager to welcome more Canadian business travellers, especially given its booming industries like tech, mining, and renewable energy.
And, of course, Arizona is a golfer’s paradise. The state is home to nearly 400 golf courses, many of them world-class, attracting business professionals who enjoy combining work with a round of golf in the stunning desert landscape.
A cultural highlight for me was a visit to the Heard Museum in Phoenix where I explored Native American heritage with visually stunning and deeply moving exhibits. From traditional pottery to contemporary Indigenous art, the museum offered a powerful look into the cultures that have shaped Arizona. A standout was the American Indian Boarding School Stories exhibit, which was both educational and profoundly emotional.
A totally unexpected experience was the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), an absolute must-see in Phoenix. With over 8,000 instruments on display from different cultures, it offers a fascinating hands-on journey through the universal language of music. The Artist Gallery was a personal favourite, showcasing exhibits dedicated to musical legends like Prince, Johnny Cash, Elvis, and Bob Marley.
In Scottsdale, the art scene is alive in the streets. Public art installations like The Doors create interactive and immersive experience. Our guide, Ace Bailey, led us to places like James Turrell’s Knight Rise at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, where light and space become works of art in their own right.
And of course, there’s Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece. It’s one thing to read about Wright’s genius, but standing in his home and desert laboratory is something else entirely. The way the building blends into the landscape feels as though it was meant to be part of the earth itself. It’s a must-see for architecture lovers.
Where Comfort Meets Style: Arizona’s Luxurious Hospitality
Let me tell you, Arizona knows how to spoil you. My stay at Hotel Valley Ho was a cool throwback to mid-century modern glamour, with a splash of contemporary style. A true landmark, it was once a favourite hangout for Hollywood icons like Bing Crosby and Zsa Zsa Gabor, the hotel has maintained its retro charm while offering all the modern comforts you’d expect. Whether lounging by the pool or unwinding in my sleek room, it was easy to see why this place was the “it” spot back in the day.
Of course, if you’re looking for the ultimate in desert luxury, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a sprawling 65 acre property with six pools (including an adult-only retreat), and a championship golf course and a world-class spa. It’s a destination in itself.
Arizona has a way of capturing your heart with its warmth, creativity, and hospitality. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure—or a little bit of both—this state offers something truly special. And trust me, after tasting its culinary creations, being inspired by its art, and soaking in its desert sun, I’m ready to start planning my next visit.
