When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Franciscan Renewal Center
Why Franciscan Renewal Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Franciscan Renewal Center, affectionately known as The Casa, is a peaceful and inspiring destination located on 25 pristine acres in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Founded in 1951, it serves as a spiritual oasis where individuals and groups can find renewal, rest, and meaningful connection away from the city’s hustle. The center operates as an active religious community under the guidance of the Franciscan Friars, embracing the legacies of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi. Ideal for meeting up with friends or groups seeking tranquility and spiritual growth, the Casa offers an inviting atmosphere enriched with beautiful outdoor spaces, modern conference facilities, and spaces designed for quiet reflection and prayer. Visitors can participate in private retreats, support groups, adult education, weekly Mass, and volunteer ministries focused on service to others. The center’s amenities, including accessible parking, wheelchair accessibility, air conditioning, and restroom facilities, ensure comfort and convenience for all who visit. Whether attending a spiritual retreat, enjoying fellowship, or engaging in educational programs, the Franciscan Renewal Center provides a nurturing setting for healing, transformation, and community connection.
Here's what people think of Franciscan Renewal Center
As of recent, Franciscan Renewal Center holds a 4.7-star rating based on 122 reviews.
Visitor reviews consistently praise the Franciscan Renewal Center for its serene environment and welcoming community. Many highlight the center's blend of traditional and contemporary spiritual offerings, which resonate deeply across diverse groups. The facilities receive commendations for their cleanliness, peaceful setting, and well-equipped meeting spaces. Positive reviews often mention the warmth and attentiveness of the staff, the quality of the retreat programs, and the inspirational atmosphere that fosters personal growth and reflection. Attendees appreciate the availability of supportive ministries, volunteer opportunities, and the celebratory Masses, particularly noting Saturday night services as a favorite experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback includes comments about the restriction to nonprofit organizations for event bookings and the policy against children under 18 staying overnight, which may limit accessibility for some families. A few visitors found the reservation cancellation policy to be strict. Nevertheless, these concerns are generally outweighed by the overall positive impressions. In conclusion, reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the Franciscan Renewal Center as a spiritually rich, peaceful place that continues to impact visitors profoundly through its programs, hospitality, and dedication to fostering renewal and service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rob Os
A beautiful and peaceful place for retreats. There’s a healing garden, labyrinth, pool, good food , and facilities are clean and well maintained.
Sarra Stanley
Room was so nice! Pool was lovely, conference rooms were simple and clean. We had a great group retreat here! Very peaceful and a short drive from the airport. Wasn’t really into the galactic stained/painted glass in the chapel but had beautiful Masses and Adoration in there. Hope our group comes back again!
Barbara Quintana
I visited the Franciscan Renewal center this year on world labyrinth day. It is an amazing campus. Very beautiful, serene and scenic. The perfect restorative space for body, mind, spirit
j cirino
I recently attended an 8-day retreat at the casa and I could not be happier with my experience. From the moment I stepped onto the campus I felt at home at peace and at rest. From the meditation chapel to the labyrinth there's something for everyone. The accommodations are simple and comfortable with no distractions. I also have to mention that every staff member I came into contact with was wonderfully helpful and kind and seemed quite happy to be doing the work that they're doing. The food and meals are both plentiful and obviously made with love and quite a bit of talent. I can't recommend enough choosing to spend some time at the Casa. I would almost guarantee that upon your departure you'll feel restored and enriched.
Daniel Schroeder
The Casa changed my life La casa is a place of love hope, and faith on the Casa property on its grounds there are there are people that are rooted in love hope and faith called fryers. They embody, hope love and faith anyone looking for a spiritual home I feel like I should check out the Casa. It has truly changed my life and helps me see the best in humanity with love, hope, and faith.
How to reach Franciscan Renewal Center
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Why Franciscan Renewal Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at the Franciscan Renewal Center offers a rare combination of peaceful retreat and meaningful connection, making it an ideal venue for a group meetup. Situated in Paradise Valley, Arizona, this center is more than just a venue — it is a spiritual oasis dedicated to renewal, rest, and contemplation in a beautiful natural setting. The Franciscan Renewal Center, affectionately known as “The Casa,” offers a sanctuary where companions can escape daily distractions, engage in reflective activities, and share meaningful experiences together. With a stellar 4.7 rating from over 120 reviews, the center is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, cozy accommodations, and thoughtfully designed grounds. Whether your group seeks a quiet getaway, spiritual enrichment, or just a special place to connect, The Casa’s tranquil environment, complete with meditation chapels, labyrinths, and art, encourages shared moments of growth and intimacy. It’s an inspiring venue where friends and family can recharge mentally and emotionally, while also enjoying delicious meals and comfortable lodging that supports a relaxed yet enriching retreat experience.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at the Franciscan Renewal Center?
The Franciscan Renewal Center offers a wide array of activities that cater perfectly to group meetups, blending spiritual, educational, and recreational elements. Groups can participate in weekday or weekend Mass services at Our Lady of the Angels Church, which provide communal worship grounded in the Franciscan tradition and open to all faiths. Beyond liturgical services, the center hosts diverse retreats and special events that your group can join for spiritual growth, healing, and transformation. One particularly enriching option is the “Discover the Vision” tour, where visitors explore the center’s mission, ministries, and beautiful facilities while gaining new insights into spiritual renewal and community service. For those interested in personal or group reflection, the center’s meditation chapel, labyrinth, and healing garden offer serene spaces for prayer, contemplation, and restorative walks. In addition to spiritual activities, there are recreational amenities such as a putting green, desert walks, and a pool and spa area, perfect for groups seeking relaxation alongside their spiritual journey. All of these offerings create a balanced and holistic experience suited to diverse groups wanting meaningful time together.
Why is the Franciscan Renewal Center perfect for group meetups?
The Franciscan Renewal Center’s design and mission make it an exceptional venue for group meetups by fostering a sense of community, tranquility, and purposeful engagement. Each group member receives private or semi-private accommodations with comfortable rooms similar to hotel standards, ensuring privacy and restfulness alongside shared experiences. Meals provided by the center are highly regarded for being delicious and thoughtfully prepared, allowing groups to enjoy nourishing food without the hassle of planning or cooking. The grounds are expansive and beautifully landscaped, featuring sculptures, murals, and natural elements that stimulate peaceful contemplation or group conversations outdoors. Another key feature that enhances group visits is the availability of guided spiritual direction and support services, providing both individual and collective opportunities to deepen the retreat’s impact. Groups composed of nonprofit organizations or faith-based communities often use the Franciscan Renewal Center for meetings, conferences, and educational retreats due to its excellent facilities and collaborative environment. All these factors come together to create a seamless, restorative, and inspiring setting where friends or family can not only reconnect with each other but also with deeper spiritual and personal growth.
What type of retreat options does the center offer for groups and individuals?
The Franciscan Renewal Center offers versatile retreat options tailored to the unique needs of both individuals and groups, making it easy to customize your visit. For those who prefer flexibility and solitude, non-directed private retreats provide the freedom to use the center’s peaceful environs for prayer, rest, and personal reflection without a fixed schedule. Alternatively, directed retreats are available where a spiritual director guides guests through scripture, prayer, and practices that enhance the transformational potential of the retreat experience. These directed retreats can be particularly enlightening for groups that want a carefully structured spiritual journey together or for individuals seeking focused guidance. Additionally, nonprofit organizations or religious groups can reserve the center’s meeting spaces for their own retreats, conferences, or workshops, with support for group logistics and catering. Whether your group values quiet meditation, spiritual education, or an interactive group retreat led by experienced facilitators, the Franciscan Renewal Center provides professional support and facilities that encourage deep renewal and collective bonding.
How can art and architecture enhance your group’s experience at the Casa?
The artistic and architectural features at the Franciscan Renewal Center significantly enrich its atmosphere and offer unique opportunities for group reflection and conversation. The Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Angels is a stunning space filled with carefully commissioned art and liturgical glass that narrate Christ’s story through a Franciscan perspective. Art docent tours are available for groups seeking to deepen their appreciation of this symbolism and learn about the spiritual meaning behind the church’s design elements. These tours foster insightful dialogue and personal reflection, making them a perfect activity for groups wanting to combine spiritual and cultural enrichment. The use of natural building materials and symbolic motifs throughout the center invites guests to explore themes of creation, faith, and transformation together. As your group strolls through the lush gardens, labyrinth, and outdoor sculptures, the environment becomes a living gallery that inspires contemplation and shared discoveries. By integrating art and architecture into your group meetup, you add a memorable layer of inspiration that resonates long after the visit.
What makes the Franciscan Renewal Center’s hospitality stand out?
The hospitality at the Franciscan Renewal Center stands out because it combines warmth, professionalism, and attention to guest needs in a setting dedicated to healing and renewal. Each guest room offers comfortable accommodations with private baths, allowing guests to relax fully after a day of activities. Meals served are not only nutritious but also beautifully prepared, often described by visitors as delicious and satisfying, which supports the overall wellness focus of the retreat. The staff and religious community at the center are deeply committed to welcoming everyone—regardless of faith background—with respect and openness, making it an inclusive space for diverse groups. Additionally, the center provides various support services such as counseling, spiritual direction, and volunteer ministries, which enrich the experience beyond physical comfort. This comprehensive approach to hospitality ensures that visitors feel cared for on multiple levels—body, mind, and spirit—helping groups to connect more meaningfully and deepen their time together. The thoughtful service and serene environment work hand in hand to create an exceptional atmosphere where every guest feels valued.
How accessible and accommodating is the Franciscan Renewal Center for group events?
Accessibility and accommodation for groups are priorities at the Franciscan Renewal Center, making it a practical choice for meetups of various sizes and purposes. The center is conveniently located in Paradise Valley, yet it offers a secluded environment that fosters focused reflection and community connection without urban distractions. Facilities include ample meeting rooms equipped to host nonprofit organizations or faith groups for conferences, workshops, and retreats. Registration and scheduling for tours, retreats, and special events are streamlined, with staff available to assist groups in customizing their experience. The campus layout ensures easy access to outdoor spaces, chapels, and recreational areas, suitable for guests with different mobility levels. By combining flexibility with supportive infrastructure, the center accommodates a wide range of group activities—from formal gatherings to informal reunion retreats—ensuring your event runs smoothly and comfortably for all attendees.
Why is the Franciscan Renewal Center a unique choice compared to other venues?
Choosing the Franciscan Renewal Center for your group meetup means embracing a venue that uniquely blends spiritual depth, community focus, and natural beauty—all within a welcoming and serene setting. Unlike many typical event spaces, The Casa is grounded in a mission of spiritual growth, renewal, and service, which imbues every activity and interaction with a sense of purpose and reverence. Its ties to the Franciscan tradition emphasize simplicity, compassion, and connection to creation, giving the center a distinct ethos that shapes the guest experience. The center’s facilities are designed not only for comfort but also for reflection, enabling groups to engage more deeply with their own dynamics and the surrounding environment. The combination of daily Mass, spiritual guidance, art, and nature sets it apart from venues that focus solely on recreational or meeting functions. If your group is seeking a meaningful, transformative experience in addition to enjoying quality time together, the Franciscan Renewal Center offers an unmatched environment to cultivate those outcomes. This unique blend makes it an extraordinary destination where friendships and family ties can flourish amidst a backdrop of spiritual and personal renewal.