Getaway in Scottsdale, Arizona | Scottsdale Travel Guide

GETAWAY IN SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

Just outside of Pheonix, the smaller suburb of Scottsdale is a dessert gem! Though I live in Hawaii, I spent winter of 2021/2022 in my hometown in Minnesota, and after 2+ months of frigid temps, I needed a quick and easy warm-weather pick-me-up. Scottsdale was a great place to relax and rest. I only spent five days, I’d love to go back soon! Read on for some of my recommendations for a perfect little getaway in Scottsdale, Arizona!

GETTING THERE AND GETTING AROUND:

Fly into Pheonix Sky Harbor International airport and Scottsdale is an easy 8 mile/20 minute drive! I opted to rent a car because I like the freedom of being able to get out of town or to access day hikes, but Ubers and ride shares are plentiful, so a rental wouldn’t be necessary. Especially if you’re staying near Old Town Scottsdale, which I highly recommend.

WHERE TO STAY:

Scottsdale is the land of relaxing spas and bougie resorts! In fact, the entire point of my trip was to chill, lounge, and read, so my accommodations were very important. I did a fair amount of research trying to find the perfect place that was moderately priced, but, also somewhere I would be content not leaving the property. I opted to stay at The Scott Resort. The grounds, pools, and on-site restaurant (The Canal Club) were all gorgeous. I did feel the rooms could use a little sprucing up (ie a fresh coat of paint), but overall, I’d give my stay 4 out of 5 stars, and I’d stay again. I loved the location, a short walking distance to Old Town. There were lots of restaurant options nearby and within walking distance as well. La Vidorra spa facilities were great too – I had a wonderful 2 hour massage! Pro tip: request a second floor room; more natural light and airier than the ground floor.

Other options I considered:
Civana – This wellness resort and spa looks incredible, but is quite a distance north of town (26 miles). I would’ve loved to book a massage here (and tried!), but they book up weeks or months in advance, so plan ahead
Andaz – I’ve been to the Andaz in Maui and know their properties are luxurious, this would be a great option for a bigger budget! Since I traveled in January, it wasn’t quite pool weather, and I decided to save money since I wouldn’t be able to utilize all the property amenities
Four Seasons – I mean, you can’t ever go wrong with the Four Seasons!
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain – one of the top rated resorts and spas in Scottsdale
Adero – stunning rooms with balconies or terraces at a moderate price point

WHERE TO EAT:

The Canal Club – This trendy, Cuban inspired spot is onsite at The Scott. Everything I tried was delicious, especially the cocktails. They offer a variety of seating options including their lobby bar, the patio complete with fire pits, and their indoor restaurant. (And room service if you’re staying at The Scott.)

Café Monarch – Café Monarch is fine dining, at it’s finest. The prix fixe menu consisted of four courses, and each was delectable. We went all out and also started with cocktails and did wine pairings with each course too. The atmosphere inside was just a teeny bit stuffy, I’d request the patio in the future. Service was excellent

The Henry – This was a trendy, yet relaxed spot with a gorgeous patio. Food was excellent the cocktail menu was extensive and interesting. I only tried one but it was 5 outta 5 stars.

Postino Wine Cafe – This wine bar with amazing food is just a block from The Scott. It’s a lively atmosphere with a beautiful patio. Great lunch specials so you can spend the extra money trying different wines! :p

The Herb Box – I had a dinner out at the Herb Box with family. There was something for everyone and the food felt healthy and fresh. Like most places in Scottsdale, excellent patio as well.

Farm & Craft – This highly recommended spot boasts a healthy menu, with juices, salads, and bowls, but they also provide a full bar, because isn’t life all about balance? I enjoyed a causal lunch here (order at a counter) and loved sitting on the street and people watching.

Places I want to try, but haven’t made it to yet: Francine | Arcadia Farms Cafe | FnB | Reserve | Hash (for brunch) | Lon’s Restaurant (in Paradise Valley) | Toca Madera

HIKES & THINGS TO DO:

Hike Camelback Mountain – If you get tired of sipping cocktails by the pool and indulging in spa services, Camelback mountain is a challenging hike with beautiful views. It took me a couple hours round trip and even though I hike a fair amount in Hawaii, it was more strenuous than I expected it to be, and included a little bit of boulder/rock scrambling. Give yourself plenty of time, and bring plenty of water. Parking can be tricky here, my best advice is to be patient and just hover and wait for a spot.

Visit a spa – You really can’t visit Scottsdale and skip this! There are dozens and dozens of options, and no matter where you stay your resort likely has a spa or is a stones throw from one. I had a luxurious 2 hour massage at La Vidorra, but I’m dying to visit Civana – all of their spa treatments begin with an aqua therapy circuit.
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