109 table is that it sometimes hosts pool tourna- ments, which it doesn’t post about because it doesn’t have a website. It’s best to call ahead to ask whether there is a tournament going on before checking it out in person, but it’s worth the call for the laid-back atmosphere and hours of fun. JJ’s is also home to UFC and can be booked for parties or celebratory occasions. 22222 B EST P U B L I C P O O L McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic & Fitness Center 15525 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale 480-312-6677 scottsdaleaz.gov/sports/aquatics/ mcdowell-mountain-ranch-pool Dozens of public swimming pools dot the landscape of metro Phoenix, offering its resi- dents oases of refreshment and fun. The nicest one we’ve found is in North Scotts- dale, and it’s pretty much got something for everyone. The McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic & Fitness Center boasts a 13-lane, 25-yard lap pool and multiple diving boards. More amenities are available during the summer, including a splash pad, lazy river, waterslide and play pool. The pool offers swim lessons for all ages and water-based exercise classes, too. We like McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic & Fitness Center for the cleanliness and stylishness of its facility and the reasonable fees for Scottsdale residents and nonresidents alike. The moun- tain views aren’t bad, either. 22222 B EST P U B L I C P I C K L E BA L L C O U RTS Pecos Park 17010 S. 48th St. 602-262-6111 phoenix.gov/parks/recreation-and-community- centers/centers-p/pecos If you’re a pickleball fan, you’ve probably played here. This Ahwatukee park is open to the public, boasting 16 courts with well- maintained amenities like restrooms and water fountains. Regulars know the drill, so even on weeknights when the courts are full, you won’t be made to wait too long for your turn in a court. The courts are well illuminated and lines are well marked. And even if your family isn’t into pickleball, bring them along — Pecos Park also offers a skate plaza, a dog park, playground, splash pads, a paved walking path and areas for basketball, soccer and volleyball. 22222 B EST STA I RWAY TO H E AV E N Estrella Star Tower Estrella Parkway and Hillside Drive, Goodyear We’re kind of tired of the term “hidden gem,” but it’s undeniable that one of the joys of living in metro Phoenix is discovering wonderful things that aren’t particularly well known. Case in point: the Estrella Star Tower. Designed by local astronomer Steven Kates, the spiral-shaped structure stands at the entrance to a Goodyear neigh- borhood, surrounded by trees, cactuses and a water feature. Kates intended the Estrella Star Tower to be a place where we can reflect on our place in the universe. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top for views of Estrella Mountain Regional Park. Tiny lights set into the exterior of the tower illuminate as the sun sets, making it sparkle like a jewel in the desert. 22222 B EST STAYCAT I O N S P OT Arizona Biltmore 2400 E. Missouri Ave. 602-955-6600 arizonabiltmore.com The Valley resort scene is an embarrassment of riches. But among so many wonderful spots to get away from daily life and take a staycation, the Arizona Biltmore continues to stand out as our favorite. The resort, which will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2029, is a thrilling blend of old and new. The stunningly beautiful central building continues to be one of the most elegant spaces in the city. A major refresh completed in 2023 included original dining concepts, upgrades to rooms and the new Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden. A weekend at the Bilt- more can include drinks at the sleek Wright Bar, a cabana at one of the resort’s seven pools or perhaps a round of golf. The Bilt- more’s frequent staycation specials help knock a few dollars off the bill, but truly, we’re OK spending a bit to enjoy ourselves in such beautiful surroundings. 22222 B EST E XC U S E TO TA K E YO U R PA N TS O F F I N P U B L I C Phoenix No Pants Light Rail Ride Valley Metro Rail riders were treated to an astonishing sight on a Sunday afternoon in mid-January: dozens of people boarding trains in T-shirts, undergarments, socks and shoes. As for their pants? Not so much. Members of this group were sans slacks, shorts or skirts while riding the rails into downtown Phoenix, while fellow passengers
