Hotel at a glance: Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak

Although situated nine miles from downtown Phoenix, this resort provides a peaceful escape from the city hustle. The surroundings of Phoenix Mountains Preserve make it a tranquil place cozily settled by the mountains and picturesque nature that offer numerous attractions, such as scenic hiking trails. This all-suite resort features comfortable rooms with private balconies and a full-service Tocasierra Spa specializing in relaxing and pampering hot oil massages.

• Have a dinner in a picturesque scenery of the hotel's restaurant, Hole-in-the-Wall, or grab a bite and a fancy drink at Slim Pickin’s nestled by the pool
• Take care of your workout regimen in a fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center.
• Stay connected with complimentary WiFi services.
• Pet friendly: enjoy traveling with your furry friend without worrying about pet hotels.

Phoenix, Arizona: Bustling Metropolis and Native American Culture Surrounded by Desert

Though the topography of the Phoenix area is all desert, it's by no means desolate. Camelback Mountain is a city park area with scenic trails that wind past boulders and red-sandstone formations; climb to the very top for a view of the entire city. Or hit the themed trails at the Desert Botanical Garden filled with Southwestern flora such as huge sonoran cacti and other moisture-hoarding succulents. Either way, plan hikes in the early morning or twilight hours to catch the most stunning sunlit views and stay cool.

For an in-depth look at the cultures of Arizona’s indigenous population, browse the 12 exhibition galleries and sculpture garden at the Heard Museum. The collection’s nearly 40,000 pieces of art range from 500 Hopi katsina dolls to a full-size Pueblo oven. In nearby Scottsdale, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West was the renowned prairie-style architect’s winter home as well as a campus for his architecture school.