2023 Wrapped: DCi’s Top Event Highlights From This Year
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oved for its world-famous natural wonders and otherworldly reddish-brown landscapes, Arizona is an outdoorsperson’s paradise. There are miles upon miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-roading — plus golfing, hot-air ballooning, stargazing, and too many other outdoor activities to count. But adventure isn’t the only draw here. A rich cultural heritage, striking architecture, and a thriving, chef-driven culinary landscape offer plenty of other reasons to visit. Add in a wave of new hotels and design-forward venues, and Arizona now doubles as an inspired destination for corporate outings, retreats, and incentive programs.
Each city brings its own distinct pull. There’s Phoenix, home to the largest municipal park in the United States, luring visitors with high-end shopping, buzzy restaurants, and a robust arts scene. Nearby Scottsdale charms with golf and spa resorts, midcentury architecture, and dining that rivals any major metro. And then there’s Tucson, which was designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, making it one of the only two cities in the country recognized for its culinary heritage. So, if you’re looking to host your next event in the Grand Canyon State, ahead, DCi’s expert event planners share several authentic and unique Arizona experiences to build into your program.
1. Go on an Off-Road Adventure
Few experiences show off the state’s rugged terrain quite like an ATV excursion. Bring your group together for a guided ride that zips through sandy washes and rocky desert backdrops, and ends with a relaxing wine tasting. Most recently, our team curated a multi-day Scottsdale itinerary packed with standout moments, including, naturally, a thrilling ATV adventure.
2. Catch the View From Above
There’s no more cinematic way to take in Arizona’s natural bounty than a hot-air balloon ride, where guests can soak in 360-degree views of the sweeping landscapes in all their glory. At a recent event, our designers crafted a two-day meeting that wove the destination into every facet of the program. The final night was packed with wow-worthy moments, including a giant Ferris wheel, hot air balloon flights, and a desert-themed drone show that illuminated the evening sky.
3. Spend Time in the Saddle
For a slower-paced adventure, add horseback riding to the itinerary and let your guests soak in the beauty along miles of trails with sweeping desert vistas. When incorporating horseback riding into any program, DCi’s experts always ensure guests are welcomed by a guide who provides a thorough orientation, fits each rider with the right equipment, and pairs them with the right horse for their experience level.
4. Learn the Local Flavors
Food always sits at the heart of any destination — and Arizona’s rich and smoky Sonoran palate is one that’s not to be missed. Treat your guests to a demo (or a hands-on class for smaller groups) with a local chef who’s well-versed with the region’s cuisine and culture. Not only does it make for a fun activity, but it’s also an experience your guests can recreate in their own kitchens back home.
5. Cool off With a Cold Pint
Beyond its standout dining scene, Arizona is quickly earning a reputation for its craft beer culture, pouring everything from crisp, traditional lagers to offbeat concoctions like prickly pear ales. Whisk your group away on a guided brewery tour that takes them to some of the must-visit local taprooms and watering holes. Let guests connect over multi-glass flights — paired with some delicious bites, of course — that gives them a taste of the region’s beer scene.
6. Take to the Water
If you’re looking to add a water-based adventure to your program, Arizona more than delivers with countless waterways perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A favorite for locals in Phoenix is the Salt River, which stuns with its crystalline waters, dramatic scenery, and a resident herd of wild horses often spotted taking an afternoon swim. DCi has leveled up many programs with guided river experiences that offer guests a way to see the state from a whole new vantage point.
7. Trek Through Nature’s Wonders
Exploring Arizona on foot is a no-brainer way to get guests face-to-face with the state’s natural grandeur. For a more fulfilling (and educational) trek, DCi’s experts often plan group hikes led by a seasoned guide who can bring the landscape to life through insightful commentary on the region’s geology, wildlife, and history. The best way to cap off the hike is, of course, with a well-earned al fresco picnic.
8. Explore the Diverse Plant Life
It’s no secret that Arizona’s desert climate supports plant life found nowhere else in the country — and the state boasts many botanical gardens that showcase that remarkable diversity. A leisurely stroll through the gardens makes for an ideal addition to an afternoon program, especially when paired with a mocktail mixology session starring botanicals and flavors inspired by the region.
9. Take a Shot at Archery
Did you know? Arizona is considered one of the country’s premier training grounds for Olympic-level archery — so why not let your guests try the sport during your next event? Bring the group together for a guided archery session, where a dedicated coach can teach them the fundamentals of handling a bow and arrow. Archery is both physically and mentally challenging, but it’s also a downright fun activity that never misses the mark.
10. Pedal Through History
Brimming with Southwestern charm, Old Town Scottsdale is a vibrant, walkable (and easily bikable) downtown lined with art galleries, eclectic shops, diverse restaurants, and a number of museums worth visiting. Give your guests the ultimate local experience by inviting them to explore town on electric two-wheelers. Led by a local guide, your guests will kick off their day by zipping through the picturesque streets and stopping to sample bites at neighborhood eateries along the way.
11. Have Fun in the Fairways
The state boasts hundreds of golf courses that offer dramatic backdrops at every turn, so it’s fitting to weave in a golf-centric activity in any Arizona-based event. For beginners or mixed-skill groups, a hands-on clinic with a local golf pro is a fun, low-pressure way to learn the ropes. Alternatively, keep it playful with a mini golf challenge, pairing rounds with themed libations and small bites for a team-building experience your guests won’t forget.
Ready to plan your next Arizona event — complete with fun-filled excursions, guided tours, and themed dinners? Reach out to our team, and we’ll bring your vision to life.
