Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort makes for a laid-back vacation in Mesa, Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. Take a dip in the desert sun in the outdoor pool or indulge in a soothing soak in one of the two hot tubs. When it’s time for lunch, look no further than the poolside bbq grills. Let the little ones help carry hot dogs, burgers, and side dishes and get ready for a fun family cookout. Challenge the kids to a game on the basketball or the sand volleyball courts. The resort also features shuffleboard and even old-fashioned horseshoes. The on-site children’s playground will be a big hit with the kids. Get in your daily cardio at the resort’s fitness center. If you’re into golf, you are definitely in the right place. There’s an eighteen-hole championship golf course right on-site.

Spacious one- to two-bedroom condos sleep four to six guests, are air-conditioned and offer enough room for the whole family. You’re right down the street from Target where you can pick up all the things you forgot to pack. Full kitchens give you the freedom and convenience of enjoying meals in your condo. Surprise the kids and bake up a batch of chocolate-chip cookies, and allow the little ones to get in on the fun the more chocolate, the better (there are on-site laundry facilities to help with post-chocolate cleanup). Thanks to the cable TV in your condo, there’s no need to worry about missing your favorite show.

Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort is next door to the world-famous John Jacobs’ Golf School at Painted Mountain. Courses range from two to five days with five hours of instruction each day. There are never more than four students participating to ensure that everyone gets the most out of their instruction. Kids will love the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Exhibits include Natural History, Southwest Cultures, and Mesoamerica and South America. Natural History includes the dinosaur hall, paleo dig pit, and Arizona through time. Southwest Cultures explores native people of the past including Paleoindians and Honokam. Mesoamerica and South America explores the ancient cultures of Mexico, early cultures of Central America, classic Maya, and the north coast of Peru. Up for a shopping spree? Superstition Springs Mall is less than five miles from the resort and offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Department stores include Macy’s, JC Penney, and Dillards. Pick up your next great read at Half Price Books. Who doesn’t love a good bargain? Check out Ross and TJ Maxx. Tweens will love Claire’s and Justice. Hungry? Dine at Cheesecake Factory, Applebee’s, or Pizza Pie Cafe. If you’re here for Spring Training, visit Big League Dreams Sports Park.