"The JW Desert Ridge—one of the largest resorts in the area—feels almost like a small city packed with everything and anything you can imagine including multiple pools, two 18-hole golf courses, a driving range, an array of restaurants (including the new, not-to-be-missed Tia Carmen) plenty of pickle ball and tennis courts, a spa and fitness center, lawns and lounge areas throughout, and lots of experiences geared for children, from a large kids’ club with a long list of daily activities to a lazy river to an arcade. Not surprisingly, families make up a big portion of the guest population and the pool areas are more energetic than serene. The resort first opened two decades ago and, in 2022, completed the first phase of an $80 million renovation—updating rooms, the lobby, and common areas, plus unveiling its new signature restaurant. Both a waterpark and an adults-only pool area are slated to come online later this year. The resort completed the first phase of an $80 million renovation in 2022—updating rooms, the lobby, and common areas, plus unveiling its new signature restaurant. Both a waterpark and an adults-only pool area are slated to come online later this year." - Lizbeth Scordo
