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Romantic Valentine escapes in Arizona

Treat your Valentine to a unique and romantic adventure.  Arizona temperatures in February are perfect for outdoor activities.  Imagine sharing romantic locations for star-gazing, secluded lodgings, exploring Victorian galleries, Wild West history or simply relaxing in a whirlpool spa.  Here are a few ideas to consider when planning that romantic getaway for your sweetheart.

  • Sedona Red Rock State Park – 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ, 86336 (928) 282-6907

For the adventurous couple consider watching a brilliant sunset and gazing at the stars at Sedona Red Rock State Park. This is a spectacular location for those coveted photographs of the Arizona skies.  Located at the base of the Mogollon Rim this site offers many opportunities to experience the Sedona Red Rocks.  The park is open 7 days a week from 8am – 5pm and the Visitor Center is open from 9am – 5pm.  Consider joining an educational and exciting Geology Hike on Sunday, February 12 at 2pm and learn why the rocks around Sedona are red.  The guided Geology Hike includes a trek along Eagle’s Nest Trail.  Be sure to grab your camera for this, there will be many opportunities for scenic photographs.  Remember to get a few pictures with your sweetheart.

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  •  Kitt Peak National Observatory – located 56 miles SW of Tucson, AZ   Reservations (520) 318-8726

A 90 minute drive southwest of Tucson, Kitt Peak National Observatory is located on the Tohono O’odham Nation.  At 6,875 feet above sea level with a picturesque view of the expansive Sonoran Desert, temperatures are cooler around the observatory.  Kitt Peak National Observatory is part of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory and shares its mountaintop perch with the National Solar Observatory.  This facility houses 24 optical and 2 radio telescopes.  The Visitor Center is open daily to the public where visitors can learn about astrological events.  Three major nighttime telescopes are available for the romantic star gazers.  Kitt Peak National Observatory offers guided tours, nightly observing programs and for the avid gazers of the night skies why not spend the night with a telescope through the Advanced Observing Program. 

  • Copper Queen Hotel – 11 Howell Ave, Bisbee, AZ, 85603 (520) 432-2216

The historic Copper Queen Hotel offers guests an opportunity to step back in time to the vintage era of the 1900’s. The hotel has been open since 1902 and is the oldest continuously operated hotel in Arizona.  Just a 90 minute drive southeast of Tucson, Mule Pass Tunnel marks the entrance to this mile high historic community.  Stroll along Main Street and embrace the essence of the old west or enjoy the Victorian atmosphere as you explore the unique shops and fine arts.  Be sure to stop by the Old Bisbee Brewing Company for refreshments and experience another historical treasure. 

  • Grand Canyon Ranch – 3750 Diamond Bar Ranch Rd, Meadview, AZ , 86444 (800) 359-8727

For a more traditional western romantic escape Grand Canyon Ranch  is located 5 miles from the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.  This is a spectacular location for travelers to experience the picturesque landscapes of Arizona.  The historic Grand Canyon Cattle Ranch provides 165 square miles of wilderness.  Guests can select lodgings from authentic Indian teepees, rustic genuine pine cabins to overnight camp outs or enjoy a comfortable room at the Grand Canyon Hotel with daily maid service.  Enjoy other activities such as Grand Canyon tours, horseback riding or take a flight in a helicopter. Heli Usa Airways offers tours or a 30-minute flight to Las Vegas, Nevada.

  • Southwest Inn in Sedona – 3250 State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ (800) 483-7422

If you prefer a lush and intimate suite with hot tubs consider staying at Southwest Inn in Sedona .  Experience the elegance of this “green” hotel centrally located near many Sedona restaurants and activities.  The energetic staff will help you plan your romantic getaway, whether you choose to explore the Cathedral Rock Vortex nearby or venture the 2-hour drive to explore the Grand Canyon.  The hotel offers upscale amenities tucked into a casual atmosphere of a bed and breakfast.  Ask the staff about Vortex hikes, bike rides or plan a romantic sunrise hot air balloon ride.  Perhaps your sweetheart would like to explore Indian Ruins with a sunset Jeep Tour.

  • Sedona Canyon Wren Cabins – 6425 N. State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ (800) 437-9736

Enjoy an intimate cabin for two near Oak Creek Canyon.  Canyon Wren Cabins offers whirlpool spa tubs and wood burning fireplaces for those romantic evenings.  Plan a peaceful journey to the mystic red rocks of Sedona where you can star gaze with your special Valentine or relax in the intimate ambiance of a private cabin for two.

  • Greer Lodge – 44 Main St, Greer, AZ, 85927 (928) 735-7216

Take a journey to high country and explore the wintery wonderland of snow at Greer Lodge .  Nestled in the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine Forest, Greer Lodge offers cabin rentals near some of the most scenic trails in northern Arizona.  Weather permitting visitors to the lodge can enjoy some free sleds and tubes for enjoying the snow.  Other activities include snow shoe treks, cross-country skiing, snow ball fights, s’mores around the camp fire and cozy fire pits.

Whether you choose the luxury of a hotel suite and spa or the adventurous escapes of hikes and rustic cabins make your plans quickly.  Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so don't get caught searching for that last box of chocolates for your sweetheart. Treat the one you love with a romantic getaway and tender embrace under the Arizona stars.

Resources:

 http://www.excellent-romantic-vacations.com/arizona-romantic-getaways.html

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To read more about unique travel destinations: Tiiu’s Travels

, Phoenix Travel Photography Examiner

Tiiu Napp relocated from Pacific Northwest to Mesa Arizona in 2001. Her passions are Africa's AIDS orphans, grandsons and photography. This college graduate is focused on teaching children through environmentally centered family activities.

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