I have now done Scottsdale both ways and either way is equally amazing! Scottsdale gives such a fun desert vibe and the weather is pretty nice year-round. When buying plane tickets (unless you’re a baller and can roll in on a PJ), you will fly into Phoenix, but Scottsdale is really only a short drive away. I have done it renting a car and just taking Uber, so I would say just make the call depending on what you want to do while there, how much driving it will require, parking fees at your hotel (if applicable), etc. For example, if you stay somewhere like or near Boulders, you will almost 100% need a rental car.
Where to stay:
- W Hotel Scottsdale-We got a suite for my friend’s 30th birthday and had a blast. It was definitely the party destination and the rooms were so cute.
- Boulders Resort and Spa-If you are looking for a romantic getaway, this place has got you covered!! The only downside is, if you are wanting to do things in downtown Scottsdale, it isn’t exactly close since it is about a 30-minute drive away up in Carefree. If your boyfriend or hubby likes golf, this is seriously a dream come true, but, then again, there are a ton of great courses in the area! The spa and whole resort area are so cute. I would definitely recommend it for a nice, relaxing weekend.
- Other cute places to stay:
- The Phoenician (this place looks like a dream, but it can be very $$)
- Royal Palms Resort and Spa (definitely a romantic vibe)
- Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (looks good for children too)
- Hotel Valley Ho (Relax by the pool cocktail vibe)
- Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North (I mean, let’s be honest…when is FS not amazing, but you know it’s also going to be very $$)
- Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa (cool views of Camelback and a pretty resort)
- Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa (this one is next on my list to try)
- JW Marriott (again, when is JW Marriott not amazing)
- Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows (cool spot that doesn’t appear to be overly expensive)
What to eat and drink:
The food is definitely one of my favorite things about Scottsdale. I could easily eat my weight at some of these amazing restaurants, and I can’t wait to add more to the list.
- Craft 64 Scottsdale-OK, so, if you are a pizza and cheese lover like me, this place is an absolute dream!! To give you an example of the awesomeness, their mozzarella is made in house and, when they served us our pizza, it was apparently an hour old. Talk about a foodie’s dream!
- Ruze Cake House-This place is the cutest little dessert shop. I’m talking amazing macaroons and I even got my 30th birthday cake there that blew me away and was the cutest cake I have ever seen! …super Instagram worthy spot.
- The Mission Scottsdale-I’ve been to the one in Kierland twice, but the one in Old Town I’ve heard is a must! The one in Old Town is harder to get a reservation, so make sure to book early. It, like a lot of spots in Scottsdale, specializes in modern Latin Cuisine and the food and the margaritas definitely didn’t disappoint!!
- Maple & Ash-I am so sad we didn’t make it here on our last trip. I have heard nothing but good things about this restaurant! We had reservations here one night, and we were literally too tired to make it after a day of hiking (SEE BELOW)!
- Taco Madera-I am told by a ton of people that this spot is amazing for brunch or dinner. I tried to get reservations here, but they seemed very booked up! Then again, I did kind of wait to the last minute.
- Olive & Ivy-this is the cutest brunch/lunch spot. I have now been there twice and would definitely go again. Don’t let the strip mall location fool you, the food, especially, those flatbreads, is wonderful.
- Diego Pops-This is a famous Scottsdale spot with good margaritas! They have a cute neon sign at the front of the restaurant, so, obviously it’s yet another Instagram worthy spot.
- Elements at the Sanctuary Resort-I’ve eaten here twice as well. It has great views and is an ideal place to enjoy a nice glass of VINO and some apps!
- Some other recommendations I have received from folks in the know:
- Prep & Pastry
- Hash Kitchen
- Farm & Craft
- The Canal Club
Hiking Ideas:
I have always enjoyed hiking. It’s a cool way to stay active on vacation while getting out to see the scenery! Just make sure you don’t go beyond your hiking means. Trust me, I am speaking from experience. LOL
Scottsdale is a perfect place to go on a memorable and visually stunning hike. If you look online, you will see that it’s definitely famous for all the hiking trails in the area.
HOWEVER, unless you are an extremely good hiker, I would not recommend attempting the hike at Camelback. While it was so rewarding to get to the top and see the absolutely breathtaking views, I’m telling you the trek to the top is HARD. I was so worn out and sore after this that we were basically done for the rest of the day.
Some easier hikes: Jane Rau Trail, McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Double Butte Loop (can’t make that one up), Papago Park, North Trail at McDowell Mountain Regional Park
Other Things to Do:
A Hot Air Balloon Ride!!!!-I highly, highly recommend going on one, if you can swing it. It was so fun and provided such a cool and different vantage point. Breck didn’t even mind getting up at sunrise, and that is saying a LOT. We both really enjoyed and would do it again for sure! It was such a beautiful and peaceful experience…can’t say enough!
Scottsdale Desert Botanical Gardens-The cost to get in is about 30 dollars a person, but you can get some cute and Instagram worthy shots here.
Nightlife:
While Scottsdale is super famous for the bars and nightclubs, I will go with what I know:
Maya Day and Nightclub-This place was SO fun! I would definitely recommend it for a good party when the world (hopefully) gets back closer to normal, but make sure you are cool with a crowded club feel. I went here with my girls and it was fun. Just thinking about it makes me miss pre-COVID times!
Balloons:
If you are planning a party and (are ridiculous like me and) want over-the-top pretty balloons, I highly recommend Bubble Hustle. They were amazing! They came and set up my room all cute and pretty for my birthday…definitely worth a look on Instagram!
Leave a reply