Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is an area landmark, and is the largest private non-profit zoo in the United States. With four differently themed areas, over 1,400 animals, and trails that wind through 125 acres of exhibits, the zoo is a must see for valley residents. Some of the premium experiences (which are at additional cost) include Stingray Bay, the Safari Train, camel rides, 4D Theater, and a giraffe encounter. The Isle of the Tiger showcases some of the less than 400 critically endangered Sumatran Tigers left in the world.

During the winter months, the Phoenix Zoo hosts ZooLights, with hundreds of colorful night time light displays after the animals have gone to bed.

455 N Galvin Pkwy
Phoenix, AZ 85008

http://phoenixzoo.org/

Relationship Reconnection:
Since you're getting an up close and personal view of the animals, it's time to get up close and personal with your relationship. According to Dr. John Gottman, it's important for couples to solve their solvable problems.  Working together to overcome situational dilemmas such as intimate preferences, who does what around the house, etc., can help alleviate tension in a marriage.  Accepting differences and habits, forgiving shortfalls and mistakes, and working out practical solutions for disagreements can improve your marriage and help you work together as couples should.

Ice Skating

Let’s bring the winter to Phoenix! OK, I know it is almost impossible for that to happen. But, what if I told you there was a way?

Try Ice-skating with your spouse. Don’t know how? Take it slow.  At Ice Skating, there is a chance to go and experience a winter day. The link below is information on Cityskate at CityScape in downtwon Phoenix is a really great place to go ice-skating during the holidays.

http://www.phxicerink.com/

Photo from CitySkate

Relationship Reconnection:

While you and your spouse are ice-skating, if it is possible to hold hands while not falling do it! Sometimes life gets so crazy that we forget about the sweet physical touch of holding hands. Here is a chance to hold on for dear life if you have trouble skating! Also while you are together communicate about your everyday life. But most of all, have fun together! 

A Little Snappy

For this date all you need is your spouse, a camera, and the scenery around you.  It's time to practice your photography skills.  Rather you take photos of each other, the beautiful scenery, or set up a tripod and take pictures of you as a couple.  This is a fun way to spend time with each other and create some beautiful memories too.

Relationship Reconnection:
Since we are on a photo shoot here, let's talk about body language.  Our body language says a lot about us.  Leaning in when our spouse is talking or using eye contact shows a more genuine interest in what they have to say.  A simple pat on the leg or arm around the waist can speak volumes.  Take some time as you're out and about photographing, to use body language to express your love and appreciation for your spouse. Research shows that body language can show how much you value your spouse.

Papago Park and Hole in the Rock

Over 1,200 acres of nature trails, bike paths, water features, and a golf course make Papago Park a great place for a romantic stroll at sunset, or a picnic in the afternoon. Our favorite activity at Papago Park is to take the very short hike up to Hole in the Rock, which has a beautiful view of the Phoenix Valley below. The trails are not very challenging, and casual footwear is appropriate for most areas.

625 N. Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park

Relationship Reconnection:
See things from a different perspective. The power of positive thinking is important in relationships too.  We cannot rely on our relationships to make us happy and positive, but being happy and positive can improve our relationships.  Take time to talk about all the good/positive things in your life and relationship.  Being positive helps you look at things optimistically and gives you the fuel required to overcome challenges.  These are both important reasons to be positive and think positive in and about your relationship. This is a great way to reconnect.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Slow down and take time to relax and meditate together at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix (Ro Ho En). It is an authentic 3.5 acre Japanese garden with a tea garden and a traditional tea house. This tranquil setting features more than 1,500 tons of hand-picked rock, stone footbridges, lanterns and more than 50 varieties of plants. You can stroll among the flowing streams, view a 12-foot waterfall, and take in a Koi pond with over 300 colorful Koi fish.

1125 N. 3rd Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

http://www.japanesefriendshipgarden.org/

Relationship Reconnection
Take the time to really slow down and reconnect with your spouse, Hold hands, relax and enjoy strolling through the gardens.  Sometimes in life everything is rushed and we don't get the chance to really slow down and appreciate our spouse and the life we have created together.

Camelback Mountain

A hike up Camelback Mountain offers stunning views of the entire Phoenix Valley. It is centrally located, and offers two trails with different intensities. The Echo Canyon Trail is for experienced hikers/climbers who want a challenge, and may take 1.5-3 hours for inexperienced climbers. The Cholla Trail is easier for inexperienced hikers and provides a winding trail with beautiful views of Phoenix and Scottsdale, but the last 1/3 mile is still challenging if you decide to go all the way to the top. Be sure to bring lots of water and your camera!

Warning: The parking lot of the Echo Canyon trail fills quickly, and according to the city website,"Hikers cannot idle or park vehicles on McDonald Drive and Tatum Boulevard to wait for the gates to reopen. Police will ticket hikers who idle their cars on McDonald and will tow vehicles parked illegally on the street."

Cholla Trailhead: 6131 E Cholla Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85253

Echo Canyon Trailhead: 5700 North Echo Canyon Parkway, Phoenix,AZ 85018

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/camelback-mountain#_=_



Relationship Reconnection:
Huffing and puffing is a part of your hike. Huffing and puffing is a part of our lives. When you get to the top and look down at the perfect views of the alligators, tell your partner what makes you huff and puff in life. Is there something they can do or you can do to release the stress? After you’ve shared a stress or two, share a Hug and Puff. What makes you so happy you want to hug your partner? What makes you so puffed with pride that you’re happy to call them yours?

Swinging Good Time at Topgolf

Located near Talking Stick Resort, TopGolf is a very popular destination in the Scottsdale area. A multistory driving range allows for couples to keep score and challenge each other, or simply have fun whacking golf balls down the range. There are targets on the range, and a score keeping system that seems like a hybrid of golf and bowling. The restaurant has highly rated food and drinks, and the service is excellent. Although this is not a budget activity, it is very entertaining, and sure to be a memorable night.

9500 E Indian Bend Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85256

http://topgolf.com/us/riverwalk

Relationship Reconnection tip:

Take this time to have fun and learn more about each other. On each turn ask your spouse a question to expand your love map.  What is a love map?  What you know about your spouse. Dr. John Gottman teaches, “In knowledge there is strength. From knowledge springs not only love but the fortitude to weather marital storms. Couples who have detailed love maps of each other’s world are far better prepared to cope with stressful events and conflict.” 

Encanto Park

Named to Forbes Magazine's list of America's Best City Parks, go on a romantic walk through the 80 acre Encanto Park in central Phoenix. With beautifully landscaped trails and scenic bridges winding around the small lake, this can be an inexpensive but romantic outing.  From the City of Phoenix website,"Amenities include lighted handball/ racquetball, picnic area, playground, pool, lighted softball, recreation office, restrooms, lighted volleyball, lighted tennis courts, grills, fishing lagoon. The park also is home to Enchanted Island Amusement Park," which has several rides geared toward children under 10.

Located at:
2605 N 15th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/e-parks/encanto-park

Relationship Reconnection:

Dig deeper than the “our love is like a flower” … if your love is the flower, what is the soil that grounds you and keeps your deeper roots safe? What is your water? What keeps you and your partner’s love from drying up and eventually dying? What is your sun? What provides warmth and growth without ever really being a tangible element? We often bypass or don’t acknowledge what is keeping our relationship alive because like the air we breathe we take it for granted. Lets bring it to consciousness and appreciate how our partner creates elements that sustain and grow our love.

Desert Botanical Garden

Have a relaxing walk and conversation through the 50 acres of the Desert Botanical Garden.  Enjoy hundreds of native plants as you stroll through the four distinct pathways of the garden.  Historical information is presented on the early inhabitants and explorers of the Sonoran Desert region, as well as detailed information about all of the plants and flowers.  Touring during the early spring time is best to view the greatest number of flowering desert plants.  Sunsets are particularly gorgeous against the backdrop of desert garden trails.

At certain times of the year special events are held, which may provide music, decorations, or additional entertainment.  Be sure to check the times in advances to ensure that you don't miss featured events.

The Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N. Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008

www.dbg.org

Relationship Connection: Use some free time prior to the date and make a playlist for your sweetie. While you both are strolling the Botanical Gardens holding hands listen to the mix your sweetie has made just for you. Music can express emotion without vocalizing. Music can take you back to your first dance as husband and wife. Music is a powerful tool use it for love.

Rappel Arizona

If you need something extra to really get the adrenaline pumping, then take your date to Rappel Arizona!  With ziplines, rappelling, rock climbing, and adventure ropes courses for people of all skill and fitness levels, these activities are sure to send your heart racing!  One of the most thrilling activities is the "Leap of Faith," where participants climb a 30 foot pole straight up, stand on top, and then (as the name implies) take a leap of faith off the top!  The zipline and ropes courses are held at locations throughout the valley, but generally rappelling adventures require traveling to an established rock climbing location.  Plan for at least a half day if you choose one of the rappelling adventures, and include travel time in your plans.

http://www.rappelarizona.com/

Relationship Connection:
Getting outside of your comfort zone allows you to see another side of your partner. Becoming vulnerable to new experiences keeps us humble and able to have fun and laugh together. It is nice to be on an even playing field with your partner where both are learning something new for the first time.

I Choo-Choo-Choose You

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, located in the heart of Scottsdale, is the most unique park of its kind in the country.  Take a ride on the Paradise and Pacific Railroad and antique carousel. Visit a variety of shops and museum or play in one of the spacious playgrounds.  Pack a picnic lunch or just relax in the grass under a tree or in a one of the park's picnic ramadas.

Photo credit: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Train rides are only $2.00 a person.  Check the website for current season hours.

http://www.therailroadpark.com/

7301 E. Indian Bend Road Scottsdale AZ 85250

Relationship Reconnection:
While you’re on your nostalgic train ride talk about child-like things. Does your spouse know what you wanted to be when you were 5 or 6? What was your favorite toy? Imaginary friends? Since the train isn’t very private keep the conversation light! Have children? Do you see any similarities between how you were at their age and how they are now?

Horseback Riding Mountain Trails

"You are in the desert southwest, experiencing it, and seeing it the way it was meant to be seen... on the back of a horse." The Ponderosa Livery Stable offers horse rentals and guided trail rides through South Mountain Park. For an additional fee you will also be provided with a steak dinner at the conclusion of your trail ride at T-Bone Steakhouse. If you're looking to get outdoors and see the beauty of the desert mountains and wildlife, a horseback ride with Ponderosa Stables is one of the best ways to do it.

10215 South Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85042

http://www.arizona-horses.com/

Relationship Reconnection:
Since you are taking a casual ride, why not have a casual talk too.  How about a talk about each others hobbies, how you can support each other with them, and maybe even discover a few you can plan to do together.  Talking and supporting each other helps you bond as a couple and can strengthen your marriage.

Arizona Outdoor Fun

Arizona Outdoor Fun offers a diverse menu of adventures, from offroad ATV trail rides, to shooting sports, to jet skis on Lake Pleasant, this company has many options for outdoor enthusiasts.  A popular option is the 2 or 3 hour guided ATV tour, where a professional tour guide will lead your party on an ATV ride through the beautiful Arizona desert.  There are a variety of packages for different levels of thrill seekers, and for different budgets.

http://www.arizonaoutdoorfun.com/

Relationship Reconnection:
Your spouse has a lot of admirable qualities.  It's your job to point them out.  Take turns and set the timer on your phone and list as many qualities for each other as you can in 60 seconds. Highlighting each others strengths can contribute to the health of your relationship!