Activities

Featured Entertainment

Western Hoedown at Koli Equestrian Center

Thursday, March 23
6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

On Thursday evening, you and your spouse/companion will head out to a lively Western celebration at Koli Equestrian Center, surrounded by the best scenery the Sonoran Desert has to offer.  As the sun sets, fabulous panoramic views of the rugged Gila River Indian community can be seen.

Plan to wear your favorite Old West attire, as the theme this evening is a good old-fashioned Western hoedown.  You’ll have a rip-snorting good time as you enjoy cocktails and casual dinner under the beautiful star-filled Arizona night sky, while having the opportunity to rope a “mechanical calf”, or learn to line-dance with lovely female can-can dancers.  Test your hog-calling ability and possibly win a prize at NIOP’s first-ever Pig Races (sure to become an annual event…).

Final Night Reception, sponsored by Archer Daniels Midland Company

Friday, March 24
6:30 p.m.

And NIOP Texas Hold’em Tournament

7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Plan to spend your final night in Phoenix at our networking reception, followed by a fun-filled game of Texas Hold'em. The tournament is open to all NIOP Convention attendees and their spouse/companion.  Don’t know how to play?  Not a problem.  The first half hour will be dedicated to the rookies and those who want to brush up on their bluffs, with dealers giving advice, rules and tips.  You won’t be playing with real money, but each table winner will win a prize.

Even if you don’t play, you’ll get the chance to enjoy food and beverages while watching the friendly competition between players as they try to pull in all the chips!    It’s your last night at the resort, so after the tournament's over, take some time to walk the grounds and enjoy one last night under the beautiful desert sky.

Weather and Appropriate Attire

The average daytime temperature in March is typically a high of 74°F.  Nights may dip as low as 44°F so bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings.  Phoenix during the month of March receives a little over an inch of rain.  Casual attire (shirts and slacks) is appropriate for all business meetings. For the Golf Course, remember no denim is allowed, and shirts must have collars & sleeves.    Don't forget your cowboy boots and western shirt for the Thursday night hoedown!

Please note that NIOP meetings and social events are not appropriate for children. 

Sporting Events

Companion Golf Tournament

The Tournament will take place on Thursday, March 23, at 9:00 a.m. across the street from the Hotel at the Whirlwind Golf Club (Devil’s Claw Course).  This year’s tournament will be a “scramble” format, with tee-off starting at 9:00 a.m.  We hope that all companions will participate in this event, regardless of skill level.  Even if your spouse/companion has never played before, encourage him/her to come enjoy some fun on the course!  If you are interested in signing your spouse/companion up for this event, please complete the online registration form. 

Cost:
$185 per person (includes greens fees, cart, prizes, tournament handling fees, transportation, and lunch)

Rental Clubs:
$45.00 per set (golf balls included)

Delegate Golf Tournament

A long-standing tradition at the NIOP Annual Meeting is the Delegate Golf Tournament, to be held Friday, March 24, at the Whirlwind Golf Club (Cattail Course).    The tournament will begin at 1:00 p.m. with a shotgun start.  The traditional “scramble” format makes for a fun, no-pressure event for all golfers.  Prizes and refreshments round out a fun-filled afternoon.  To sign up for the Tournament, please complete the online registration form.

Cost:
$160 per person (includes greens fees, cart, prizes, and tournament handling fees)

Rental Clubs:
$45.00 per set (golf balls included)

Individual Golf Tee Times

For those delegates who want to play golf on your own, please call (520) 796-8458 to reserve your tee time.  You may also check with the hotel concierge for information about other courses in the area.

Spouse/Companion Event

“Vincent’s Cooking with Class”

Wednesday, March 22
10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

What do you call a French chef who applies the culinary artistry of his native land to the diverse and flavorful bounty of the American Southwest?  The answer is Vincent Guerithault, James Beard Award winner.  Learn the tricks of the trade with Vincent himself as he entertains, educates and demonstrates three delicious courses!  Experience the sensational flavors of these courses for lunch in a unique setting that includes the intimate feel of a French bistro with the inviting charm of the Southwest.

Cost:
$139 per person (includes transportation, all taxes & gratuities)

Minimum:
12 guests

Optional Tours

4x4 Off-Road Adventure Tour

Friday, March 24
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Explore the canyons and ridges of the Sonoran Desert as a professional guide shifts into 4-wheel drive and takes guests onto the rugged trails of the West, through a forest of cacti and critters that are found nowhere else on earth.  You’ll enjoy the best “take your breath away” ride in the West, with an authentic 4-wheel driving veteran who knows his way around.

Cost:
$100 per person (includes driver, beverages, all taxes & gratuities)

Minimum:
5 guests

Hot Air Ballooning

Friday, March 24
6:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m.

Phoenix is one of the best cities in the country for ballooning.  You will enjoy the serenity of a hot air balloon ride as you float peacefully over the beautiful Sonoran Desert while marveling at the spectacular view.  A Sunrise Gourmet continental breakfast is served, followed by champagne, orange juice and mimosas upon landing. Actual flight time is 30 – 60 minutes (depending on wind conditions). 

Cost:
$195 per person (includes transportation, FAA Certified Pilot, breakfast & beverages, all taxes & gratuities)

Minimum:            
4 guests

Arizona Flat Water River Float

Friday, March 24
8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Escape the city and experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert as you float down one of Arizona’s desert rivers.  The scenic lower Salt River and River Verde are favorite foraging areas for Bald Eagles, coyotes, wild horses, mule deer and desert bighorn sheep.  You will experience a rugged mountain background as you journey downstream between towering saguaro cactus and shady mesquite groves.  An experienced and knowledgeable guide will entertain with interesting tidbits of history and intrigue about earlier inhabitants and the native plants and animals that may be encountered along the way.

Cost:
$125 per person (includes transportation, guide, all taxes & gratuities)

Minimum:
10 guests

How to register for Sporting Events
& Optional Tours

You may sign up for the activities outlined above during the online registration process.