Phoenix is the beautiful modern capital city of sunny Arizona. Because of its dry Sonoran Desert weather, visitors can enjoy hiking among the soaring desert cacti, swimming, horseback, golf and other outdoor sports throughout the entire year. Typical October weather is high 80s daytime and low 70s nights.

Luxury: JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, 5350 East Marriott Drive, Phoenix AZ, 480-293-5000, marriott.com, from $400. Spread over 300 acres, including the championship Wildfire Golf Course, this five-star luxury resort offers rooms and suites, many with balconies and sweeping desert views.

Excellent dining facilities at the resort are the Italian-themed Ristorante Tuscany and the Southwestern-style Blue Sage. Additionally, the resort’s Lazy River’s large pool and water slide are perfect for sunny relaxation. Moderate: The Sheraton Crescent Hotel, 2620 W. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix AZ 85021, 602-943-8200, sheratoncrescent.com, from $150. Located in northern Phoenix,  it’s just ten minutes from Sky Harbor Airport and close to the famed upscale shopping area of Scottsdale.

There are three casual dining choices at the Sheraton Crescent, the Indigo Bistro, Indigo Lounge and Coyote Café. Attracting kids of all ages, the Castles and Coasters Amusement Park is a short walk from the Crescent.

Budget: Days Inn Tempe, 1221 E Apache Blvd, Tempe AZ, 85281, 1-800-372-5570, daysinn.com/Tempe, from $80, with free continental breakfast. Within a short distance from the Days Inn is the Desert Botanical Gardens and the Phoenix Zoo, and five minutes from Arizona State University. The hotel offers free shuttle service to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.