Scottsdale offers the chance to explore more than nature’s treasures. Some of the best shopping west of the Mississippi is found along Scottsdale Blvd.

Starting at the south end of Scottsdale Blvd. and turning west on Stetson Dr. or Indian School Rd. takes you into Scottsdale Downtown and the 5th Avenue stores. Some of our friends spend hours browsing through shops that offer everything from cowboy boots to haute couture to fine jewelry and antiques.

Next comes Scottsdale Fashion Square at Scottsdale and Camelback Rd. which presents the visitor with 220 stores. From Nordstrom to Tiffany’s to Gap all bases are covered. You can start your day at Cocos for breakfast and move on to Nordstrom for a coffee break. Lunch and dinner offers choices from Mexican to Chinese to all-American steak and chops.

The fashionable Borgata of Scottsdale at 6166 N. Scottsdale Rd. and McDonald transports the guest to a beautiful Tuscan village. With its fountains, cobblestone walkways, flowers and courtyard you will find yourself in 14th century Italy.

Borgata features specialty stores, fine art galleries and even a day spa. For patio dining choose modern Italian at Frankie’s Pizza. For a taste of "Old Morocco" head further north to el Pedregal Festival Marketplace located at 34505 N.Scottsdale Rd. and the corner of Carefree Highway. Kids and adults are drawn to the courtyard and koi pond, the colors of the desert and the magnificent boulder formations. El Pedregal has a good variety of specialty shops and is a destination for fine art galleries.

Not to be missed is Heard Museum North, located in the north end of the center, which features Native American art and exhibits plus an exciting museum shop. For a cool snack drop in at Ben and Jerry’s. Or opt for some great Mexican food, sandwiches or fresh bakery goods.