Get the scoop on what to add to your must see, eat, and do while you’re in Phoenix for the Healthy Teen Network annual national conference.
By Shanise Taylor
August 12, 2024
When Phoenix, Arizona, was announced as the host city and state of Healthy Teen Network’s 44th Annual National Conference, Rise, Reimagine, and Reinvent, the first thought that came to my mind was HEAT and lots of SUN. Not to be confused with either professional basketball team. Thankfully, Phoenix during the fall is the perfect time to explore what they have to offer comfortably. With average daily temperatures in the 70s, you will no doubt want to get out and see what the city has to offer. Allow me to share with you a few things to See, Eat, and Do off the resort and on!
Discover Papago Park
PHOTO CREDIT: Visit Phoenix/photo by dspaz.com
Known for its exceptional hiking, recreational facilities, and massive buttes, Papago Park is minutes from downtown Phoenix and a 25-minute rideshare from our host hotel, the Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort. Papago Park has a little something for everyone, with trails ranging from easy to extremely difficult. With its wonderous natural beauty, it’s no wonder Papago Park is also home or very close to some other beautiful sites such as Papagao Ponds, the Phoenix Zoo, Hole in the Rock, and the Desert Botanical Garden.
Experience Indigenous Creativity
PHOTO CREDIT: Heard Museum
If you are into museums, the Heard Museum is just a 21-minute rideshare away. Visit and be transported into a world of vibrant and rich traditional American Indian contemporary art! The Heard boasts some great current exhibitions, such as Substance of Stars and Art & Sole. The Heard also has a quaint museum shop and café for all my one-stop shoppers. With its mission to connect Indigenous creativity to the world, it’s no wonder they have to be one of your stops!
Explore the Legacy of George Washington Carver
PHOTO CREDIT: George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
As you’re further exploring the diverse population of Phoenix, do stop in and pay a visit to the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center. Here you can explore the legacy of one of America’s greatest Agricultural scientists and inventors through various exhibitions, community education programs, and archives.
Unwind or Let Out Your Inner Thrill Seeker
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Looking for a little energizing thrill post a conference day? Castle N’ Coasters may be the spot for you! Chockful of things to do and see, they have a variety of activities from mini golf to thrill rides. Did I mention it’s just a 13-minute ride from this year’s host hotel?
I know, I know… All the mentioning of movement and site seeing has you hangry!
Here are a few options on and off our resort to Taste and Sip!
Eat Like a Local
PHOTO CREDIT: Visit Phoenix
With live music 6 days a week, it’s no wonder The Womack is known for their classic cocktails and soulful music. This throwback venue, with its indoor-outdoor layout, is perfect for classic bites, spirits, and happy hour.
Owned by locals, and supported by locals, Lovecraft is where they have THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING CRAFT! It’s a 10-minute rideshare to experience New Mexican-inspired dishes. They do have a great rooftop bar and patio to take in views. With a wide array of craft beer, food, wine, cocktails, art, and design, Lovecraft was created to support all the crafters out there and build a community where everyone feels like a friend when they walk in the door.
Fry Bread House—a Native American food eatery—is a James Beard Award winner. Known for its unpretentious sweet and savory fry bread creations, it’s been a community staple for more than 20 years.
Thai your thing? Glai Baan’s authentic Thai street food style is sure to hit the spot. Serving small plates, noodles, and rice, their menu items are best shared with others!
Relax With a View
PHOTO CREDIT: Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort
You may be the type who wants to relax and take in all that the resort has to offer after a long day of conference sessions. Here are a few dining options and things to do as well while staying at the Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort.
Pointe in Thyme is located at the resort and prides itself on its American cuisine and seasonal dishes. The vibe is casual and with its warm inviting décor, it’s a great place to take in a meal or sip to unwind from the happenings of the day.
Looking to dress up a bit and take in a breathtaking view? Take advantage of a Different Pointe of View. This four-star fine dining experience takes dining to new heights with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Their unique windows make it possible to take in the breathtaking panoramas of the picturesque valley’s desert landscape. To experience the view without the meal, feel free to explore the Terrace Room lounge. Located inside Different Pointe of View, this stylish indoor/outdoor space is the perfect place to watch the sunset.
Inside not your thing for relaxation? Cascade Café has you covered with its waterside bites. Located in The Falls Water Village, this area of the resort is truly a desert oasis. Nestled in the heart of the gorgeous Phoenix North Mountain Preserve, this one-of-a-kind space is the ultimate in relaxation. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a slide down their 138-foot enclosed waterslide!
Wow! I made myself both hungry and excited to explore Phoenix more! I just know you are too! Hope to see you in November when we will Rise, Reimagine, and Reinvent!
PHOTO CREDIT: Ray Redstone, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
