Scottsdale Civic Center Mall

The mall is not for shopping; rather, it's a tiny oasis in the urban desert surrounded by eateries and City of Scottsdale facilities (including City Hall and the terrific Civic Center Library) and replete with perennial flowers and greenery, paths for strolling, gurgling fountains, sculptural works and one of the best viewing angles of Camelback Mountain -- especially in the half-hour before dusk. The adjoining Scottsdale Center for the Arts is a bastion of the performing and visual arts, featuring two stages (capacities: 838 and 130) and five galleries. Next to that is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, designed by Will Bruder of Burton Barr Central Library fame.