Downtown Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho and its signature restaurant ZuZu have become Blue Zones Project Approved organizations, making Hotel Valley Ho the first hotel in Arizona to earn this recognition. The Blue Zones Project helps communities make healthier choices easier by reshaping built environments, policies and social networks. Its goal is to support longer, healthier lives through practical environmental and behavioral changes.
© Hotel Valley Ho
“We’re thrilled to be part of the Blue Zones Community® and to be the first hotel in Arizona that is Blue Zones Project Approved™,” said Ronen Aviram, vice president and general manager of Hotel Valley Ho. “We value partnerships with local organizations and look forward to offering guests and employees healthier dining and activity options.”
© Hotel Valley Ho
To meet Blue Zones Project standards, the hotel introduced a range of wellness-focused features and programs for both guests and staff. Employee-focused measures include dedicated break and relaxation areas, secure bike storage, and conveniently located parking. The hotel also provides tools and services that support overall well-being: a daily salad bar, on-site mental health and wellness resources, financial wellness tools, self-monitoring blood pressure equipment, and regular social events and gatherings.
Hotel Valley Ho established an internal wellness committee to drive ongoing initiatives and workshops, along with personality assessments that help tailor support and engagement. Staff participate in community service and charity events, strengthening social connections and fostering a culture of purpose and belonging. These efforts are designed to create routine, supportive environments that make healthy choices the easy choice.
ZuZu expanded its menu to include more health-conscious choices, bringing flavorful, nutrient-forward options to guests. New dishes such as Mushroom Bolognese and Power Loaded Sweet Potato offer satisfying alternatives that align with Blue Zones principles—emphasizing plant-forward ingredients, balanced portions and mindful preparation. These menu additions aim to deliver both taste and nourishment for diners seeking healthier options while traveling or dining locally.
The hotel’s combined approach — environmental changes, supportive programming, and updated dining — reflects the Blue Zones Project’s emphasis on practical, sustainable steps that improve quality of life. By integrating these practices, Hotel Valley Ho and ZuZu provide a model for how hospitality venues can promote healthier living for employees and guests alike, while contributing to the broader wellness of the Scottsdale community.