Scottsdale Real Estate and Scottsdale homes for sale buyers agent Tim Rogers representing home buyers interested in homes for sale in Scottsdale and Valley communities.

A literal collection of cultural and art oases in the desert, Arizona's Valley of the Sun encompasses both the cultural attractions of Phoenix andthe world-class art galeries of Scottsdale. Consistently ranked as one of the top destinations in the country for travelers, the Phoenix/Scottsdaleregion supplies an impressive array of cultural centers and activites. And with more than 300 sunny days each year, it makes a perfect getaway for those looking for leisurely strolls among museums, galleries, and shops, as well as for those seeking outdoor activity in the dry desert air.

Arizona's capital is not only the central seat of its government and commerce, but also the core of its culture. At the heart of the city's offerings lies the nationally acclaimed Heard Museum of American Indian Cultures and Art, where visitors will find the nation's finest collection of Native American artifacts, including a permanent collection of exhibits on the Hopi, Zuni, Apache, and Navajo, as well as other Southwest tribes. The display of nearly 500 historic and contemporary Hopi kachina dolls, for example, is perhaps the largest in the world. The museum also hosts the annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market the first weekend in March.

Other points of historical interest include the Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum (just north of the city center),where docents dressed in period costumes lead visitors through a complete turn-of-the-century village; and the Pueblo Grande Museum (in east Phoenix) where the lives of the area's earliest residents, the Hohokam Indians, are explored through displays of centuries-old artifacts.

For a glimpse into Western art, head to the Phoenix Art Museum, housing permanent collections in 19th and 20th century art, as well as Western-themed art and costumes. The museum's annual Cowboy Artists of America Show (occurring each October) attracts collectors from all corners of the globe.

Though Scottsdale is typically known more for leisure than culture, the serious collector will want to visit the town's own Gallery District. Scottsdale is fertile ground for a thriving arts community. The city is home to more than 125 art galleries, most of which are located in the art and shopping districts. A number of museums and other fine art attractions are scattered throughout the city. In the cultural heart of the city is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (referred to as SMoCA), the only museum in the state dedicated exclusively to modern and contemporary art, architecture and design. It has the largest holding of works by Arizona artists in the state and is known for playing host to internationally renowned art exhibits as well as lectures, tours and workshops.

In the realm of performing arts, the Scottsdale Center for the Arts presentsinternationally-acclaimed performers in jazz, dance, theater, world musicand classical music as well as a series of free outdoor events on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall including noon-time performances of Native American song and dance, a free Sunday concert series and the annual Scottsdale Arts Festival.

Also while in Scottsdale you'll you'll want to visit Taliesin West, where the art and architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright are showcased at the base of the foothills.