In January, The Pointe Hilton Resort at Tapatio Cliffs in Phoenix plans to open a three-and-a-half-acre "water experience" that should take the edge off the Arizona heat. The $7.5 million project adds a 40-foot waterfall, two free-form pools, a children's activity center, a 130-foot enclosed water flume, an open-air restaurant pavilion, and poolside gardens. New sun decks and terraces--a total of 65,000 square feet--can be used for outdoor functions.

The Hyatt Regency San Diego is now booking the Gallery, a 1,500-square-foot meeting space on the waterfront boardwalk between the property and the marina. It can accommodate up to 220 persons.

The Vail (CO) Cascade Hotel & Club completed a $2 million renovation at the end of 1996 that updated its lobby areas, ballrooms, and prefunction areas.

In November, the Arlington (TX) Hilton embarked on a $2.7 million project, to be completed in March, to renovate all of the hotel's guest rooms and public areas (except for the Grand Ballroom, which was redone two years ago) and create two concierge floors and two executive floors.

Also in Arlington, a $2 million renovation of the 310 rooms at the Marriott Arlington Hotel began in November. The project should be completed this month.