places to visit in arizona

October 29, 2021 4 Mins Read

Our Surprise Your Eyes Pop-Up Art Experience

Lifestyle

We had a variety of ideas on our things-to-do list during Kola’s visit to Arizona. One of those items on the list happened to be the Surprise Your Eyes Pop-Up Art Experience located in Scottsdale. I thought this would be a unique experience from the moment I saw it appear on my Facebook timeline months earlier. Kola’s visit was the perfect excuse to go check it out.

Our Experience

The Location

Surprise Your Eyes is located in Scottsdale at the Arizona Boardwalk. This location is actually chock-full of fun-filled family activities. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this venue. It’s definitely a good place to visit if you are travelling with a family to the Phoenix area.

Surprise Your Eyes is a 3D selfie attraction which allows you to take pictures within a 3D optical illusion backdrop. The website describes it as an “Instagrammer’s Paradise” which I wholeheartedly agree with. As soon as we walked in, we saw with our own eyes all of the photographic possibilities.

Anyway, we visited Surprise Your Eyes on a Tuesday in the early afternoon. Apparently, this was the perfect day and time to go because we had the place to ourselves the entire time we were there. We checked-in with the staff member at entrance. Then, we were off to see what all of the hype was about.

Let the Fun Begin

Our experience began with the mining cave backdrop. It took a moment for me to figure out the right angle, but I finally got the shot. Fortunately, they have decals on the floor showing you where to stand for the perfect shot. They also have sample photos posted on the walls in order to give you an idea of how to pose in order to get the picture right.

Pop-Up Art Experience at Surprise Your Eyes

Once we got into the swing of things, we moved from one art backdrop to the next. We had a blast trying to achieve the 3D effect depicted in the sample photos. Kola appears in most of the pictures since I’m a bit camera shy, but I did take a few pics in order to prove I was there.

By the time we were done roaming the venue, we had a ton of photos to post online and add to our scrapbooks. I even took my nieces back a few months later so they could experience it as well. They seemed to enjoy the experience too (see the photos below).

Final Thoughts

Kola and I had a wonderful time taking photos during this activity. Even though I had read mixed reviews about this activity, I thought it was nice way to spend an afternoon. I just think you need to have realistic expectations of the place. It’s a fun photo opportunity and nothing more. Don’t expect it to be a thrilling amusement park ride. It’s not that type of place.

Here are a few tips to help you plan your visit.

Tips

Purchase your tickets in advance. The website allows your to purchase your tickets online. They offer discounts at various times of the year. Additionally, I believe the tickets are open-ended. You can go any day and time.
Wear comfortable clothes. You will be sitting on the floor and sometimes climbing the walls in order to get the best shot. Therefore, comfy clothes will be helpful when you are taking your pictures.
It’s a safe place to visit. According to the website, they are following all of the CDC regulations in order to provide a safe place to explore. They advise that you wear masks and social distance. Additionally, they sanitize “high touch areas” to ensure everyone’s safety.

October 29, 2021 4 Mins Read

Our Magical Road Trip to Sedona

Lifestyle

During my cousin Kola’s visit to Arizona, we took a quick day trip to Sedona. I chose Sedona because it’s considered to be a beautiful and mystical place due to its scenery. Also, I figured she would enjoy taking photos of the various views of the red rocks and soaking up the local flavor.

Our Adventure Begins

We arrived in Sedona during the early part of the afternoon after a two hour drive. As I drove us down the main strip leading into the center of Sedona, Kola started taking pictures of the breathtaking red rock formations coming into view.

The Sedona McDonald’s

In an effort to keep our day laid back and stress free, I only loosely planned a few activities for our day in Sedona. For our first stop, we visited the one and only McDonald’s in the U.S. that doesn’t have the golden arches. In fact, the signature arches are a teal color because the locals would only allow them to build the location if it blended into the Sedona environment. I thought this would be a nice first stop on our trip for my cousin to see.

Aura Readings

After our photo op at Micky D’s, we travelled back to the main strip in order have our auras read. I couldn’t resist doing this activity because Sedona is known for having lots of soothsayers and psychics in the area. It is suppose to be a mystical place with strong lay lines. It was an amusing and enlightening experience.

Collectibles Shop

Once our readings were complete, we visited Son Silver West which was situated next door. This establishment was a large collectibles emporium filled with an assortment of odds and ends for the home as well as souvenirs (old signs, art, pottery, etc…). It was a great place to roam because there was a plethora to see at every turn. It was definitely a feast for the eyes.

Early Dinner

By the time we finished roaming through the store, we were ready to eat. We had asked the cashier at the aura shop to give us a few restaurant suggestions and she didn’t disappoint. Out of several options, we decided to visit Javelina Cantina since it was close to our location.

The restaurant was neatly tucked inside a hillside shopping area with views of the the red rock formations. The inside of the restaurant was decorated with Mexican décor and the atmosphere was easy going. The host was able to seat us immediately because we arrived early enough to beat the dinner crowd.

The menu had a variety of items to choose from. We ordered appetizers, a main course, and desserts. With the exception of the Mexican street corn, which was a little bland, we enjoyed every morsel.

Final Thoughts

Sedona is a must see for anyone visiting Arizona. The lovely views alone are worth the drive. It’s definitely a place for tourists that enjoy visiting places that are not the norm.

Here are a few tips if you decide to visit Sedona.

Tips

Visit the Sedona Website. It will offer a multitude of ideas for your visit.
Plan Ahead. There are a lot of activities to do in Sedona. It’s best to create a list so you will have an idea of where you are going and how to get there.
Check the weather. Sedona is located two hours north of the Phoenix area. Therefore, it experiences seasons unlike the southern part of the state. So, don’t expect it to be warm during the fall, winter, or early spring. Dress appropriately for the season.
Take Pictures. The views of the red rock formations are stunning and unique. Therefore, you will want to take plenty of pictures for your photo album or scrapbook.

October 27, 2021 5 Mins Read

Good Times at As You Wish Pottery in Glendale

Lifestyle

In my quest to find kid friendly activities to do with my nieces during their two week visit, I came across As You Wish Pottery in Glendale, Arizona. It seemed like the perfect indoor activity to do with Noelle and Ayla on a hot and sunny Arizona afternoon. As usual, I checked out their website, viewed the prices, read about how it works, and booked our session. Easy as 1-2-3.

Our Experience

The Location

The As You Wish we visited was located in Glendale, AZ. It was nestled in what appeared to be an entertainment district. The building was surrounded by restaurants, a mall, and a movie theater. Making it a convenient location to plan an entire afternoon of activities in one spot. Therefore, we decided to paint our pottery at 11 am, then head to a late lunch at one of the restaurants around the corner from the pottery place afterwards.

The Painting Session

We were able to check in and be seated as soon as we arrived. There were a few other people painting their pottery at the time of our visit, but there was enough space and tables so that everyone could safely enjoy their painting experience.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

As we were getting settled at our table, I immediately noticed the bright and fun décor of the place. The walls were painted in rich purples and vibrant greens. The long wall to the left of the entrance was filled with an assortment of pottery for customers to choose from. The wall straight ahead contained cabinets and drawers filled with all of the materials needed to paint your pottery piece (paint, stencils, sponges, etc…). Additionally, the tables were already set up with paint brushes, palettes, bowls of water, and sponges needed for your session.

The girls, Gigi, and I headed over to the pottery wall first and browsed the selection. We allowed the girls to pick whatever tickled their fancy. Ayla chose a dog and Noelle chose a princess. Next, we headed to the supply area to gather the paint colors the girls wanted to use. Gigi and I opted to just watch and assist the girls with their projects during our session, which turned out to be the right choice.

Step 2: Paint Your Pottery

Once we returned to our table with all of our supplies, one of the staff members came to over to explain the pottery painting basics. These basics proved to be quite helpful as the girls started to paint their figurines. I assisted Noelle, while Gigi worked with Ayla.

Ayla and Noelle spent the next hour and half creating their masterpieces. My mother and I looked on and helped when needed. They both did an excellent job of painting their pottery pieces. It was fun watching their figurines come to life with their unique artistic touches.

Step 3: Turn in Your Creation at the Front Counter and Pay

After the girls finished painting and were pleased with their creations, we took their pieces to the front counter and paid for the pottery and session. The staff member then explained that the pieces would be ready in approximately five days and told us the earliest date we could pick them up.

Final Thoughts

We had a wonderful time at As You Wish Pottery Painting Place. The girls enjoyed painting their pottery and Gigi and I were happy to watch them have fun and be creative. This was an entertaining arts and crafts activity to do with the kids and we would definitely go again. I would highly recommend this to people of all ages looking for something fun and different to do for their next outing. It’s a nice way to bond and create memories.

Here are a few tips to help you plan your visit to As You Wish Pottery.

Tips

Make your reservations online. It’s convenient, quick, and easy.
Expect to be there a minimum of two hours. It takes time to get settled, choose your pottery piece, gather materials, and paint.
Be aware of the cost. There is a fee per person for the session and a separate fee for each piece of pottery that is selected. The price of each piece of pottery ranges from $12-25 per piece.
Take snacks and water. Since you will be there a while, it might be wise to have these items on hand. Especially, if you have kids with you.
Listen to the pointers given by the staff. If this is your first visit, it’s good to have them explain the basics in order for your creation to look its best.
Guide younger children as they paint and create. Sometimes, children forget some of the basics while they are creating. They may also need assistance if they lack the hand and eye coordination to successfully paint the pottery. Therefore, remind them to cover all areas, add enough paint, and help them when needed. This will ensure they achieve the desired end result.
Paint your initials on your pottery. This makes it easy to identify when you pick it up later.
Take a picture of your pottery. This is just an added precaution just in case they can’t find or identify your pottery at the time of pick up.

July 30, 2021 4 Mins Read

Our PixyPros Selfie Museum Experience

Lifestyle

The activities list for my nieces two week visit was vast. I had everything you could do inside with children in this hot Arizona heat on my list. The list ranged from activities we could do in the house to visiting museums. We tried to think of a variety of activities so they wouldn’t be bored during their visit. Remarkably, the one place that proved to be one our most fun activities didn’t make the list because I had never heard of it. That place was the PixyPros Selfie Museum in Arrowhead Mall.

So How Did We Find This Place?

We actually came across PixyPros by accident. We were originally heading to the Build A Bear store in the same mall, but due to our late start that morning, we didn’t make it in time. They had a limited capacity and were full the rest of the day. We were a little disappointed, but made the best of the situation. So, we just roamed the mall instead buying treats and doing some light shopping.

Our Luck Changed For the Better

As we were making our way to the food court, we walked pass the PixyPros location. Something about the vibrant colors and music captured my attention, so I decided to walk in and take a look. The young man working the counter gave me a brief introduction about the establishment and how it worked. He also explained the pricing (which was very affordable).

Me and the girls walked around and really liked what we saw. There were a variety of sets to choose from. Each set was colorful and unique. There was something there for everybody. Plus, every set was equipped with a ring light and cell phone attachment which made taking photos easier.

After our little tour of the venue was over, I immediately thought it was a cool idea, but decided to wait before I made a decision.

What Happened Next?

An hour later, after we had finished our lunch and shopping, I felt a strong urge to go back to PixyPros. I really didn’t want to head home without doing something fun since Build A Bear was a bust that day. So, I convinced GiGi and the girls that we should take some fun photos at PixyPros.

While Gigi sat in the food court watching our bags, I took Ayla and Noelle back to PixyPros. I paid the $20 fee and got started. Originally, we were only going to take photos on the swing set, but we were having so much fun that we decided to do more.

As we hopped from one vignette to the next, the more fun we had. The music and the fun backgrounds made it such an exciting place to be. Plus, Noelle and Ayla looked so cute in each setting. The clothes they wore that day just seemed perfect against each background. By the time we were finished, we had at least 60 or more shots to choose from.

Unfortunately, what was supposed to be a 10 minute activity turned into 35. GiGi was shocked that we were gone so long, but when she saw the pictures, she understood. She was so thrilled to have such nice photos of her adorable granddaughters that she forgave us for taking forever.

Final Thoughts

PixyPros is a fun place for adults and children alike. The combination of colorful settings and music make it a great experience for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the pricing makes it an affordable activity for both individuals and groups as well. Therefore, I highly recommend PixyPros for your next entertaining activity.