Many of the Scottsdale and Paradise Valley resorts were built during the time when Arizona was attracting tourists for more rest, relaxation and golf. Today, our state and market has changed considerably. Many of those existing resorts attract corporate events, national conferences, etc. Scottsdale is also host to the Phoenix Open and other sporting events that occur annually. Resorts that have been there for decades continue to refresh and attract tourists, event visitors and corporate clients.
On the other hand, the West Valley’s development has been more recent and driven by new residents joining the state and region since the mid-2000s. While we have major national attractions such as spring training and other sports, we were largely composed of bedroom communities. This is no longer the case as we’ve seen a shift in the companies choosing to locate in the West Valley over the past 10 years.
National events such as the Nascar championship race and once again, the Super Bowl continue to elevate this region and attract out of state visitors.
We’re already seeing the market turn west in response to the quality growth and excitement here. The iconic Wigwam Resort continues to be a strong attractor for the growing number of music artists playing in the stadium or arena in Westgate. VAI Resort will be the largest hotel in Arizona with 1,200 rooms and onsite entertainment amenities for kids to adults! All of this is in response to the shift west.
We also have tremendous outdoor recreation offerings from hiking, mountain biking, equestrian, fishing, water sports and boating in three regional parks surrounding our communities. We have been very focused on growing these amenities for our residents, but when packaged, we have tremendous offerings for visitors.
Given the trajectory of quality growth, new companies and retail investments, I’m confident that hospitality investors will soon see the need to serve this region with more resorts. I’m also happy that I get to experience this growth as I just hit my 23rd year as a proud West Valley resident.
