Walking into the lobby of the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass transports you to another world. This hidden gem, located a few miles west of Interstate 10 and Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, offers a serene escape just outside the bustling city. The 500-room resort authentically represents the Gila River Indian Community’s heritage and culture.
The resort provides a full recreational, cultural, and inspirational experience in the American Southwest. The architecture, art and legends of the Pima and Maricopa tribes are celebrated in every detail, both indoors and out. Situated in the high Sonoran Desert, the property features untouched ancient vistas, mountains, and roaming wild horses. The luxury resort blends Pima and Maricopa cultures, offering the quiet serenity created by tribal elders and sister tribes including Salt River, Ak-Chin and Tohono O’odham. The lobby welcomes guests with a stunning hand-painted Native American mural on its rotunda, which is modeled after the Olas ki (round house) – the first Pima dwelling.
Wander with curiosity and immerse yourself in the culture, history and plant life of the Gila River Indian Community along 3.8 miles of Interpretive Trails. The trails feature a paved 1.3-mile riverwalk path and a 2.5-mile natural path that meanders through indigenous desert flora along the re-creation of the Gila River. At the end, take a moment to embrace the peace and solitude of the desert.
Dining options include the renowned Kai Restaurant, the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star restaurant in Arizona. Kai offers Native American cuisine with global accents, immersing guests in the local tribes’ culture. The menu, hand-painted by a local artist, consists of four courses: Birth (hors d’oeuvres), Beginning (appetizers), Journey (entree), and Afterlife (desserts). Chef Drew Anderson partners with local cultivators like Ramona Farms to showcase locally grown produce and Arizona-made olive oil in recipes that merge contemporary tastes with time-honored Native American techniques.
Ko’sin Restaurant offers a more casual dining experience with a menu that blends Native American and Southwestern flavors. The restaurant provides stunning views of the Sierra Estrella Mountain Range, making it a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The lobby bar is another great dining option, offering a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of cocktails, wines, and light bites. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring the resort.
Guests looking for ultimate relaxation can visit the Forbes Five-Star Aji Spa and Salon which offers a unique Native American spa experience, demonstrating the clarity and renewal powers of indigenous plants and ingredients. The spa, named “Aji” meaning “sanctuary” in the Pima language, reflects the traditions of the Pima and Maricopa cultures in every aspect, from art and architecture to treatments and services. The signature Indigenous Collection, developed by Aji’s Cultural Caretakers, offers an authentic Native American spa experience like no other.
Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is ideal for indoor or outdoor weddings, providing a picturesque setting for your special day. The resort also offers extensive meeting space for conferences, ensuring a perfect blend of both business and leisure.
On-property experiences abound at Wild Horse Pass. The resort features a tranquil pool area with a 111-foot water slide and the Hanyo Pool Bar for lunch, small bites and cocktails. Guests can enjoy 36 holes of golf at Whirlwind Golf Club and explore the 1,000-acre Koli Equestrian Center, where guided rides into the desert in search of wild horses are available. The resort’s River Boat Adventure allows guests to explore the recreated Gila River surrounding the property with paddle boards, kayaks, or pedal boats. For families, the Quail Kids Club offers a kids adventure camp with various activities throughout the year.
The Land of the Mustangs is a unique offering at the resort, where guests can learn about the history and significance of wild horses in the region. Additionally, the resort hosts a nightly gathering that provides an overview of the culture and heritage of the Pima and Maricopa tribes, enriching the guest experience with authentic stories and traditions.
The resort also caters to locals with staycation specials, cultural activities, and more, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area.
For more information, please visit www.wildhorsepassresort.com or follow them on Instagram @sheratongrandaz
