Phoenix, Arizona is where you'll find hot air balloon tours, the Desert Botanical Garden, a variety of  fascinating museums, and a vibrant food scene.

Guest: Sarah Doyle, DIrector of Communication, Visit Phoenix

Must-Do's:

1. Desert Botanical Garden: Offers the world's finest collection of arid plants from deserts of the world in a unique outdoor setting. The Garden has more than 50,000 desert plants on display throughout five thematic trails that illustrate topics such as conservation, desert living, plants and people of the Sonoran Desert, and desert wildflowers. The garden often features unique art installations such as the current Desert Pulse exhibit.
2. Heard Museum: One of the most prominent tributes to Indigenous culture and history in Arizona, the Heard Museum is known around the world for having a vast and high-quality collection of southwest Indigenous people's art, history, artifacts and more. 
3. Musical Instrument Museum (MIM): The largest of its kind, the Musical Instrument Museum is a collection of 15,000 instruments from more than 200 countries, including several modern-day artifacts on display including real props, instruments, and other historical items from musical icons such as Elvis, Johnny Cash and Roberta Flack.
4. Hot Air Balloons: Hot air balloon tours are a surely unique way to tour the desert landscape of Arizona with services such as Hot Air Expeditions and Rainbow Ryders offering sky-high, birds eye views of Greater Phoenix.
5. Phoenix Art Museum: Situated in Phoenix’s Central Corridor, the Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the southwest. Annually, over 300,000 visitors explore its exhibitions, alongside a vast collection exceeding 20,000 pieces that include American, Western American, Asian, European, Latin American, modern and contemporary art, as well as fashion design.  o    Accessibility to the art has always been at the forefront of the museum's mission with initiatives like Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesdays. Visitors have the option to make a small donation if they wish, allowing them to explore the entire museum. This event occurs every Wednesday evening and helps ensure that access to the arts is available to all, regardless of financial barriers.
6. Arizona Science Center: Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a revitalized state-of-the-art Cosm planetarium, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions and exciting science programs for people of all ages.
7. The Arizona Boardwalk Scottsdale is home to eight attractions including the Odysey Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland. The OdySea Voyager, “the world’s only rotating aquarium experience,” features shark waters, sea turtle reef and open ocean exhibits. The Butterfly Wonderland is one of the largest butterfly conservatories in North America, providing a rainforest experience unique to Arizona’s climate. Some of the new and coming soon exhibits at Arizona Boardwalk are UFO Experience and Museum of Illusions.
8. Papago Park: Hiking on the iconic Phoenix mountains is also an ideal outdoor activity for all, with trails fit for anyone's experience level including the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock hike at Papago Park. 
9. Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West: Scottsdale’s only National Historic Landmark, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, immerses you in the world of the Desert Laboratory, where Frank Lloyd Wright and his apprentices lived and advanced architecture.
10. Roosevelt Row is downtown Phoenix’s walkable arts district, home to art galleries, restaurants, bars and boutique shops in a landscape dotted by colorful street art. Popular events in the neighborhood include the monthly First Fridays Art Walk and annual festivities such as M3F Music Festival, Phoestivus, the Pie Social and more.   

What's New:

1. Dorrance DOME: Arizona Science Center recently opened its reimagined Dorrance DOME in partnership with leading immersive tech company Cosm in October 2025. The planetarium is the most technologically advanced in all North America, featuring an 18-meter diameter, CX System LED dome display with 8K+ resolution and 100x the brightness of most planetarium projection domes using Cosm’s CX System.
2. Revel Surf  at Cannon Beach opened in December 2024 as a 37-acre entertainment center and includes 500,000 square feet of restaurants, retail shops, a 17-foot cliff-diving lagoon, a KTR Action Sports playground, a skate park, volleyball, and smashball courts, and a beach themed splash pad. The centerpiece of the park is the 4.5-acre water park, Revel Surf, which has a lagoon that produces waves in various shapes and sizes. The 650,000-gallon Unity Surf Pool generates stationary surfing waves.
3. Cactus League Spring Training: Greater Phoenix is home to ten stadiums and 15 MLB teams, including Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, and Colorado Rockies, providing fans an up-close experience with their favorite players. The teams play almost 200 games across Greater Phoenix during the season, with no two ballparks more than a 45-minute drive from each other. The 2026 Cactus League season runs from February 20 to March 24.
4. Gertrude's Restaurant & Patio Cafe recently reopened at Desert Botanical Garden with acclaimed chef Mark Tarbell, James Beard Award nominee, Iron Chef America winner, and Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame inductee, at the helm. The locally sourced menu celebrates the many ingredients that grow in Arizona, creating a natural blend between the garden and dining experience. The reimagined restaurant opened in October 2025, with future plans to include an elevated patio dining service that will envelope guests in the beauty and abundance of the Sonoran Desert.
5. Pinyon is a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that opened in October 2025. Named after the resilient pinyon trees found in the Southwest, this new concept features cuisine inspired by the cultures of over 20 Mediterranean countries including Turkey, Italy, France, Malta, Greece, Spain, Morocco. Dishes will include house-made pita, crudos, pasta, seasonal salads, spreads, and dips. Pinyon is the third concept from Hi Noon Hospitality, operators of the local favorite Buck & Rider and Ingo’s Tasty Food.
6. Alden at Phoenix Art Museum is the new onsite dining option available at the Phoenix Art Museum that opened in October 2025. Named after the architect of the museum, Alden B. Dow, the restaurant reflects the characteristics of the facility, including elegant, eye-catching design, and a diverse menu. The restaurant also offers several grab-and-go options that are ideal for dining in the museum’s serene Dorrance Sculpture Garden.
7. Cleaverman Steakhouse: Pretty Decent Concepts opened three new concepts in 2025. Drop Dead Gorgeous opened in May 2025 in Tempe capturing the raw energy of the 1970s while infusing the glamor of vintage cocktails and the allure of golden hour. Filthy Animal, an avant-garde homage to the beauty and brutality of the jungle centered around a wood-fire cooking pit, opened in March 2025. Cleaverman Steak, an upscale steakhouse with complimentary drinks and a discreet martini bar named Filthy, opened in November 2025 in downtown Phoenix.

Find out more at http://www.visitphoenix.com.

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San Diego features beautiful beaches, world-class museums, a vibrant Gaslamp District, and LEGOLAND.

Guest: Edna Gutierezz, Sr. Public Relations Manager, San Diego Tourism Authority

Must-Do's:

1. Balboa Park: America’s largest urban cultural park, home to 18 museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Don’t miss the Botanical Building, which was renovated in December 2024, the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Spanish Village Art Center, and climbing the California Tower at the Museum of US, as well as visiting the museums.   
2. La Jolla Cove & Sea Caves: Swim, kayak, or snorkel with sea lions in crystal-clear water. The cliffs also offer some of the city’s best coastal views. One of the hidden gems is the Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, a century-old hand-dug tunnel accessible from inside a small gift shop. 
3. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: The birthplace of California with Mexican heritage, live mariachi, and delicious handmade tortillas.

Best Views:

1. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: The name says it all—one of the most breathtaking sunset spots on the West Coast.
2. Cabrillo National Monument: Panoramic views of the bay and tidepools; a great spot to reflect on San Diego’s early history.
3. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Stunning ocean-view trails and rare pine trees — perfect for sunrise hikes.

Don’t Miss Attractions:

1. San Diego Zoo: One of the world’s best zoos, pioneering conservation and immersive habitats like the new Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp.
2. USS Midway Museum: Step aboard a real aircraft carrier and get a sense of San Diego’s proud naval legacy.
3. San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary where giraffes, rhinos, and antelope roam freely across vast savannas. Don’t miss the zipline-style Flightline Safari. Coming 2026: Elephant Odyssey, a major elephant habitat enhancement that allows visitors to get a closer look into the Zoo’s elephant conservation efforts.
4. LEGOLAND® California Resort: A creative theme park in Carlsbad designed for families with kids 2–12, featuring over 60 rides, shows, and attractions. The new space-themed land is set to open in 2026 and will bring a new groundbreaking indoor rollercoaster, two new cosmic rides, and a junior astronaut training zone.
5. Coronado & Hotel del Coronado: The historic beachfront icon is a must-see for its Victorian architecture, beachside dining, and “Skating by the Sea” in winter. Recently completed a multi-year, $550 million restoration and expansion that preserved its storied past while adding new luxury guestrooms, ocean-view dining, and upgraded amenities.

What's New:

1. The Shell at Jacobs Park: The San Diego Symphony’s waterfront venue with year-round concerts under the stars and skyline views.
2. The culinary scene. San Diego’s food scene is thriving, blending fresh coastal ingredients, Baja influences, and global flavors. Michelin stars, innovative chefs, and locally sourced menus make it a must-visit for food lovers. Including:
   1. Deckman’s North at 3131: Michelin-starred Drew Deckman celebrates Baja-sourced ingredients in a stylish rooftop dining experience.
   2. Lilo: Intimate fine dining in Carlsbad with a Michelin-starred tasting menu inspired by California coast flavors.
   3. Jeune et Jolie: Michelin-starred French-Californian bistro in Carlsbad with seasonal menus and refined modern dishes.
   4. Callie: Mediterranean-inspired flavors blended with San Diego’s local ingredients in a vibrant setting.
   5. Le Coq: Emerging upscale option by acclaimed Chef Tara, offering inventive cuisine and an elevated dining experience.
3. The first-ever NASCAR San Diego Weekend will be held in June 2026 at Naval Base Coronado, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy. In addition to being San Diego’s first NASCAR event, it will also be the first race to take place on a military base.
4. Liberty Station is also welcoming an exciting new hospitality concept, The Admiral, which is opening by the end of 2026 and is being helmed by acclaimed restaurateur Ryan Thornsen of Mister A’s. The project will bring new life into four historic WWII-era buildings in the heart of Liberty Station, transforming the buildings into a dynamic blend of dining, entertainment, and heritage. 

Neighborhoods:

1. Barrio Logan: San Diego’s creative heart and a hub of Chicano art, culture, and cuisine. Explore colorful murals at Chicano Park (a UNESCO World Heritage nominee), browse local galleries, and enjoy authentic bites from neighborhood favorites like Las Cuatro Milpas or Mujeres Brew House.
2. Convoy District: A vibrant Asian cultural and culinary corridor recognized as San Diego’s newest Business Improvement District. From Korean BBQ and ramen to boba, sushi, and dessert cafés, Convoy offers an unmatched international dining experience.   
3. Little Italy: Once home to San Diego’s tuna-fishing community, Little Italy is now a chic urban village filled with Italian trattorias, rooftop bars, and boutique shops. Stroll through Piazza della Famiglia, dine at celebrity chef restaurants like Herb & Wood or Juniper & Ivy, and visit the Little Italy Mercato farmers market every Saturday for local produce and artisanal goods.

Find out more at https://www.sandiego.org.

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The Greater Palm Springs area incorporates nine cities that are home to the Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals, numerous wellness resorts, art museums, indigenous culture, and world-class tennis and golf.

Guest: Joyce Kiehl, Director of Communications, Visit Greater Palm Springs 

Must-Do's:

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Largest rotating tramcar in the world with incredible views.
• Midcentury Modern Architecture Tours
• The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Wildlife, botanical gardens, conservation programs.  
• Natural Mineral Hot Springs (Desert Hot Springs/Palm Springs)
  Spa at Séc-he (Palm Springs) Tribal-owned mineral spa fed by sacred waters. 
• Shields Date Garden: Ahistoric institution since 1924, is famous for popularizing the iconic date shake. The signature shake is made using date crystals—a patented invention by founder Floyd Shields—blended with vanilla ice cream and milk. Located in the Coachella Valley, the garden also offers date tastings, a café, and the classic "Romance and Sex Life of the Date" film.
• San Andreas Fault Jeep Tours: A desert adventure jeep tour is an open-air, guided excursion, often on private land, that explores unique desert landscapes and shares information about geology, local history, and native plants. 
• Sunnylands: Often called the “West Coast Camp David,” this 200–acre retreat was built by philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg and has welcomed U.S. presidents, world leaders, and cultural icons for more than five decades. Visitors can explore the public gardens, which feature desert-friendly landscaping, art installations, and beautiful walking paths with unobstructed mountain views.
• Hotels:
  Parker Palm Springs
  Sensei Porcupine Creek 

What's New: 

• Rancho Mirage Observatory: Free stargazing events and educational programs.
• Good Vibes Floating Sound Bath: Unique wellness experience by Lauren Del Sarto.
• Temalpakh Farm (Coachella): Farm market and cultural experiences run by the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
• Murals in Coachella and Indio and Downtown Indio: Colorful public art and storytelling through murals. 
  Play tennis where the Pros Play: Home to the BNP Paribas Open.
  Amazing courts and great coaching. 
• Michelin-Recognized Restaurants: Eight Michelin-recommended locations across the region. 
• Thompson Palm Springs hotel: New luxury hotel in the Design District. 
• Desert International Horse Park: Esquestrian/Dressage.
• BMW Performance Center 

Find out more at http://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

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Mammoth Lakes, California is home to world-class skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking at Mammoth Mountain, hiking, backpacking, and camping, a series of lakes for boating, as well as shopping and dining at Mammoth Village.

Guest: John Urdi, President & CEO, Mammoth Lakes Tourism 

Must-Do's:

• Ski and snowboard Mammoth Mountain
• Hike in the Lakes Basin
• Sunset at Convict Lake or Minaret Vista
• Explore the geological wonders in the area
• Paddleboard or kayak the lakes

What's New:

• Limelight Hotel opening December 1, 2025
• Mountain Coaster at Mammoth Mountain
• Trail Fest event
• Fall colors
• Spring skiing

For more information, visit:
https://www.visitmammoth.com 
https://www.mammothmountain.com

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Ventura is a California coastal town located between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. It features water sports, whale watching, a botanical garden, a mission, plenty of hiking, wall muirals, and Mexican cuisine and culture.

Guest: Ventura Visitors Bureau PR Manager Julie Madsen 

Must-Do's:

• Take in the sights along the Ventura Promenade: historic Ventura Pier (oldest wooden pier in the state), C-Street (iconic California surf spot that hosted the state's first "professional" surf contest), bike the coastal trail·
• Explore the Taco District: the Ventura Avenue is lined with a dozen + mom and pop taquerias, each with their own unique flavors and specials. Along the way, see the incredible and colorful public art murals all along the street.
• Stroll Main Street: officially closed to car traffic, Downtown Ventura is the destination to sip, stroll, and shop safely. Check out local community events, farmers markets, and fun pop-up activities happening all throughout the year. Shop and dine at dozens of locally owned businesses and find your own eclectic Ventura keepsake.
• Have fun harborside at the Ventura Harbor Village: fun and colorful character pedal boats, some of the freshest seafood plates, unique boutiques, and more...the Ventura Harbor Village is a must-visit for families to couples to solo travelers. 
• Visit the Channel Islands National Park: one of the least visited national parks in the country, visit the Galapagos of North America. Wave hello to the cute island foxes, hike with panoramic ocean views, kayak through giant sea caves, snorkel through rich and diverse kelp forests, and camp under the stars. It's just a boat ride away but feels worlds apart from the hustle and bustle.

What's New: 

• Corazón Cocina: Michelin Bib Gourmand Corazón Cocina has opened their newest location in the heart of downtown ventura.
• Room Service Coffee: located in the up and coming Gasworks Building, Room Service brings a new level of hospitality and experience to not-your-average-coffee-shop.
• Westpark Skatepark: the largest skatepark in Ventura County, and one of the largest ones in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties.
• Pinyon Ventura: hole in the wall restaurant, sit outside on their cozy and dreamy outdoor patio/alleyway and dive into delicious sandwiches and sourdough goods, evenings will feature wood-fired pizza, small plates and salads
• Mother Tacos: Mexico City-style taqueria, located in the GasWorks building. Get ready for made-to-order churros, delicious craft cocktails (frozen margaritas, anyone?), mouthwatering street-style tacos served on homemade tortillas, and more.⁠
• Ventura Harbor Village: Boba by the Sea and Golden Hour Goods

Find out more at https://visitventuraca.com.

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Carlsbad is a charming coastal town in San Diego County with beautiful beaches, LEGOLAND theme park, color flower fields, outdoor recreation, and a downtown Village with shopping and dining.

Guest: Kim Sidoriak, CEO, Visit Carlsbad

Must-Do's:

• Walk along Carlsbad's seven miles of pristine beaches 
• Savor tasty bites served with a slice of history on the nationally recognized Carlsbad Food Tours  
• Experience LEGOLAND® California Resort along with the SEA LIFE® Aquarium - fun for the whole family  
• Michelin star dining at Jeune et Jolie and Lilo 
• Learn about the history of musical instruments and more at the Museum of Making Music
• Explore the iconic Flower Fields of Carlsbad Ranch® from March 1
• Mother's Day Pick strawberries at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company (seasonal March - June)
• Shop and dine in Carlsbad Village. Don't forget to take a photo at the "Carlsbad" sign at Carlsbad Blvd. and Carlsbad Village Drive.  
• Visit the peacocks at Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch 
• Enjoy Carlsbad's outdoor adventures - hiking one of our many trails in Carlsbad, mountain biking or enjoying the beauty of our lagoons.   
• Seasonal fun during Halloween and the holidays 

What's New:

• Opening of the Hotel Solea (Autograph brand) in the spring 
• New space-themed land and a GALACTICCOASTER (an indoor roller coaster) at LEGOLAND® California Resort opening in the spring  
• NCAA Division 1 Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in May 
• Hearts of Carlsbad Village in February 
• Carlsbad 5K and Marathon   

Find out more at https://visitcarlsbad.com.

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Laguna Beach is a charming coastal town situated halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles. It offers picturesque beach coves, world-class mountain biking, water sports, art museums and summer art festivals, plus dining and shopping in The Village.

Guest: Joanna Bear, CEO, Visit Laguna Beach

This episode includes:

• How visitors can support responsible tourism in Laguna Beach.
• New initiatives and developments in this Southern California coastal town.
• Insights on balancing tourism with community well-being and environmental care.

Must-Do's:

• Hike at Alta Laguna Park
• Attend the Sawdust Art Festival
• Go the beach. Parking available at Aliso Beach and Montage/Treasure Island
• Shop and dine on The Promenade on Forest Avenue

What's New:

• The Surf & Sand resort recently reopened after a multi-million-dollar renovation
• The Montage Laguna Beach recently reopened Studio, a fine-dining restaurant
• Le Petite Pali hotel 
• Rivian Theater and Showroom

Find out more at VisitLagunaBeach.com.

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