There can be a lot of pressure when planning a summer staycation. Many kid-friendly escapes might not have enough for Mom and Dad to enjoy—and what about those unimpressed teens and tweens? What will keep them busy? The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain in Marana unveiled a renovation less than a year ago, welcoming some fun additions to its already-wonderful family-friendly lineup of activities, amenities and accommodations. Here’s what to see and do during your next getaway down south.
Game On
When the resort unveiled its renovation late last year, one of the most exciting updates for families was the addition of Roadrunner Arcade, located near the Ritz Kids area. The airy, bright arcade space, decked with movie posters and a chalkboard wall, is home to comfy theater chairs for watching a flick or simply relaxing; TV’s; foosball; an old-school arcade game; board game stations; and a video game section with multiple consoles, monitors and fluffy bean bags for kicking back while playing. Roadrunner Arcade makes the perfect spot to cool off after an afternoon at the pool when kids aren't quiet ready to wind down, or a pre-dinner stop to work out some energy. (You might even spy Mom and Dad catching a game on the big-screen TV.)
For the parents: Since the kiddos got to enjoy time at the arcade, it is only fair that Mom and Dad can take a little time for their own form of r-n-r at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dove Mountain. Book the blissfull stress-relief massage (ask for Justin!) to put a little pep back in your step. Just a note-worthy as the treatment is the spa itself. Order up a cocktail—even a cold glass of the gemstone-infused water will do—and lounge by the quiet, tranquility-inducing spa pool decked with daybeds (those with a treatment have all-day access).
Take a Dip
A forever favorite of kiddos (and teens…and adults…) is the Aventura Pool’s 235-ft. water slide. Littles can easily spend hours winding down the slide that offers just enough thrill and speed while the resort staff swings by offering frozen berries and peach slices. The family-friendly pool also welcomed new cabanas during the resort renovation so groups can savor their pool day in the shade and in total comfort.
For the parents: Pool, check. Happy kids, check. Now it’s cocktail time. The poolside restaurant, Turquesa Latin Grill, serves up the frosty Sonoran Sweet margarita that is best enjoyed on a sun-soaked day. The refreshing drink features tequila, jalapeno, lime, pineapple and bitters for a sweet-and-spicy sip. Some of Turquesa's cocktails are even offered by the pitcher.
Seeing Stars
Every day from 1 to 3 p.m., resort guests are invited to the Ritz Kids area to get up close and personal with desert creepy crawlies—think snakes, lizards, scorpions, spiders and more. Animal lovers of all ages delight in learning about the creatures, and seeing photography of the larger desert animals that have wandered through the property at one time or another. Right outside guests get to meet Rocky, a large tortoise who even roams the grass area around its habitat for a snack. For an extra dose of the "great outdoors," the resort can even arrange a special in-room camping setup for the littlest guests, including a tent, lanterns, stuffed animals and books.
For the parents: Adults might prefer to get face to face with the night sky, instead of a king snake or tarantula. If that is the case, the resort hosts a complimentary stargazing experience on Saturday evenings from 8 to 10 p.m. An astronomy pro heads up the discussion (which will change with each session, depending on what stars and planets are most present that night) and gives guests the chance to peek through the high-caliber telescope to get a jaw-dropping gander.
