Arizona

Signature City Phoenix-Scottsdale

Program No. 21299RJ
Get an insider’s view on Arizona’s Valley of the Sun as you join experts to explore world-renowned cultural institutions, unique desert landscapes and historic Old Town Scottsdale.

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At a Glance

Explore Arizona’s Valley of the Sun on daily adventures spotlighting the history and culture of the Southwest’s most dynamic city and its environs — from iconic Camelback Mountain to the copper-domed State Capitol. Discover the region’s prehistoric and modern Native American cultures with a visit to the famed Heard Museum. View the city’s mix of architectural styles including Frank Lloyd Wright and Paolo Soleri. Experience the music of the city and the world at Phoenix’ newest sensation — the Musical Instrument Museum. Stay in Old Town Scottsdale where its true western roots are juxtaposed against its modern and upscale new Southwest style.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to a one-half mile and standing in museums for up to two hours.

What You'll Learn

  • Visit the Phoenix Art Museum, Musical Instrument Museum and Wright’s Taliesin West.
  • Explore the Desert Botanical Garden and sit under the stars around a campfire following dinner on a ranch.
  • Enjoy world-class galleries and a Western-themed ambiance while strolling Old Town Scottsdale.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Bob Doehnert
Bob Doehnert grew up in Basking Ridge, N.J. and earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Kentucky. He attained an International M.B.A. from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, AZ. In his ‘retirement’ Bob continues to pursue lifelong learning, especially with his passions for skiing, hiking and competitive bridge. He has participated as a group leader for Road Scholar in the greater Phoenix area and enjoys sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for Arizona and the greater Valley of the Sun.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Bob Doehnert
Bob Doehnert View biography
Bob Doehnert grew up in Basking Ridge, N.J. and earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Kentucky. He attained an International M.B.A. from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, AZ. In his ‘retirement’ Bob continues to pursue lifelong learning, especially with his passions for skiing, hiking and competitive bridge. He has participated as a group leader for Road Scholar in the greater Phoenix area and enjoys sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for Arizona and the greater Valley of the Sun.
Profile Image of Blessing McAnlis-Vasquez
Blessing McAnlis-Vasquez View biography
Blessing McAnlis-Vasquez serves as the public information officer for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC). As a member of the Community’s executive administration team, Ms. Blessing shares the story of the SRPMIC, facilitates enterprise collaboration, and prioritizes relationship development. Prior to this role, Ms. Blessing served as the tourism manager for the Salt River Community, promoting Salt River as both a tourism destination and a developer's dream location. Blessing has a bachelor’s degree in communication and a master’s in business leadership.
Profile Image of Marissa Sotomayor
Marissa Sotomayor View biography
Marissa Sotomayor, a native Coloradan, earned her B.A. and M.A. from Arizona State University. She was then hired at SRP to work for the Research Archives and Heritage team. As a historical analyst, Marissa was responsible for managing and accessioning the organization’s two-dimensional collections; she is now the team's supervisor. Outside of work, she is the president of the S’edav Va’aki Museum Foundation board of directors and the director of the ALA Colorado Girls State Program, which focuses on civic education and youth leadership.
Profile Image of Don Fernwalt
Don Fernwalt View biography
Don Fernwalt has been a horseman from the age of seven, and continues to train horses. He has entertained audiences from campfires to convents, backyards, and amphitheaters. He is known for his selection of humorous and thought-provoking material that calls back to the time when the cowboy was king.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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