From the colonnades of palm trees to the lobby walls that slide away, this luxurious resort is designed to impress, and it continues to be my favorite Scottsdale resort. It’s relatively close to downtown Scottsdale and has interesting architecture, beautiful grounds, and a large spa. What’s not to love? A 2 1/2-acre water playground serves as the resort’s focal point, an extravagant complex of swimming pools that includes a water slide, sand beach, and huge whirlpool spa. Guest rooms are just as luxurious as the surroundings would suggest. The resort’s Alto ristorante e bar features after-dinner gondola rides, and the Native American and Environmental Learning Center provides a glimpse into Sonoran Desert culture and ecology. Children’s programs make this a super choice for families.