• About
  • Home
  • TRAVEL
    • California
      • Big Sur
        • A Complete Guide to Visiting Big Sur
        • Visiting Carmel by The Sea: a Full Travel Guide
      • Joshua Tree
        • A Complete Guide on Day Tripping to Joshua Tree
        • Best Things to Do in Pioneertown California: A Complete Guide
      • Los Angeles
        • A Complete Guide to Visting Catalina Island
        • 20 of The Best Photo Spots in Los Angeles
      • Palm Springs
        • The Ultimate Palm Springs Weekend Travel Guide
        • 20 Best Instagram Spots in Palm Springs: A Complete Guide
      • San Juan Capistrano
      • San Diego
        • The Ultimate San Diego Travel Guide: written by a local
        • The Best Pumpkin Patches in San Diego
        • The Best Photo Spots in San Diego: A Photography Guide
        • The Insider’s Guide to Balboa Park
        • Best Things to Do in San Diego
        • The 25 Best Coffee Shops in San Diego, California
      • Santa Barbara
        • Visiting Solvang California The Most Charming Town
        • Best Photo Spots in Santa Barbara, California
      • San Francisco
        • 18 of The Best Photo Spots in San Francisco
        • Visiting Sausalito: a Perfect Day Trip from San Francisco
      • Yosemite
        • A Complete Guide to Visiting Yosemite National Park
    • Europe
      • Italy
        • A First Timer’s Travel Guide to the Amalfi Coast
        • A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Florence, Italy
        • An Ultimate Guide to the Top Sights in Rome
      • 4 Days in Paris Itinerary
      • An Ultimate City Guide: Fun Things to Do in Barcelona
      • 2 Days in Seville: a Complete Seville Itinerary
      • First Timer’s Travel Guide to London
      • 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary: A First Timer’s Guide
    • Hawaii
      • A Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Maui, Hawaii
      • A First Timer’s Guide to The Road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii
      • My Experience Traveling to Hawaii during Covid
      • Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Queens Bath
      • The Ultimate 5 Day Kauai Itinerary: a travel guide
      • Best Oahu Instagram Spots: a Photography Guide
      • Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden
      • The Best North Shore Oahu Beaches to Visit
      • Most Beautiful Places in Kauai: Best Photo Spots
    • New York
      • 36 Must See Places in New York: written by a local
      • A Guide to the Best Central Park Photo Spots
      • A Local’s Guide to Visiting Montauk New York
      • 15 Christmas Activities in New York: Best Things to Do in December
      • 15 Christmas Activities in New York: Best Things to Do in December
    • Mexico
      • Tulum
        • The Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide
        • The Ultimate Guide to Tulum Instagram Spots
      • What to Pack for Mexico: a Packing List
    • USA
      • The Best 2 Day Zion National Park Itinerary
      • One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park: A Complete Itinerary
      • 17 of The Best Things to Do in Seattle: a First Timer’s Guide
      • A Complete Weekend Travel Guide to Sedona
      • How to Spend 3 Days in Chicago: a Chicago Itinerary
      • A Complete Weekend Guide to Scottsdale Arizona
      • A Complete Weekend to Boston Trip Itinerary
      • The Ultimate Weekend in Charleston Itinerary
      • New Orleans Weekend Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in NOLA
      • The Ultimate Guide to Best Las Vegas Photo Spots
    • Hotels & Resorts
      • Complete Hotel Review: Sands Hotel and Spa in Palm Springs
      • Complete Resort Review: Iberostar Grand Bavaro Punta Cana
    • Travel Tips
      • The Ultimate Packing Guide: 29 Must Have Travel Essentials
      • Best Practices on How to Find Cheap Flights
  • Style + Lifestyle
    • Product Reviews
      • An Honest Dior Saddle Bag Review + How to Style
      • My Honest Review of the Gucci Princetown Mule
      • My Honest Gucci Marmont Shoulder Bag Review + How to Style
      • My Honest Stuart Weitzman 5050 Boot Review + How to Style
      • 5 Reasons Why You Need the Gucci Soho Disco Bag
      • Are Necessaire Products Worth the Hype? A Full Review
      • A Complete Review of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
    • Packing Guides
      • Travel Capsule Wardrobe: How to Dress Like A European
      • What to Wear in San Diego: The Ultimate Packing Guide from a Local
      • 35 Airport Outfits: How to Look Effortless while Traveling
      • The Ultimate Packing Guide: 29 Must Have Travel Essentials
      • What to Pack for Hawaii: The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List
      • What to Pack for Italy: a packing list
      • What to Wear in Palm Springs: The Best Packing Guide
      • What to Pack for Mexico: a Packing List
    • Styling Guides
      • 14 Cute Summer Outfits Ideas to Try in 2022
      • 25 of The Best Denim Shorts to Wear this Summer
      • How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe: The Essentials
      • 12 Bodysuits to Shop Now
      • How to Style a Slip Dress
      • 18 Best Straight Leg Jeans and How to Style Them
      • Fall Outfit Ideas: The Best Trends to Try in 2022
      • 28 Best Holiday Outfits: What to Wear this Holiday
    • Photography
      • A Guide to the Best Central Park Photo Spots
      • The Best Photo Spots in San Diego: A Photography Guide
      • Best Photo Spots in Santa Barbara, California
      • A Complete Guide on Day Tripping to Joshua Tree
      • Most Beautiful Places in Kauai: Best Photo Spots
      • 20 of The Best Photo Spots in Los Angeles
      • The Ultimate Guide to Best Las Vegas Photo Spots
      • Best Oahu Instagram Spots: a Photography Guide
      • 18 of The Best Photo Spots in San Francisco
      • The Ultimate Guide to Tulum Instagram Spots
      • How to Edit in Lightroom Classic
      • The Best Photo Editing Apps for your iPhone
    • Lifestyle
      • Christmas Gift Ideas 2022: The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
      • Our Boho Mid Century Modern Home Tour in San Diego
      • The 25 Best Coffee Shops in San Diego, California
    • Skincare
      • The Best Summer Skincare + SPF Essentials for Glowing Skin
      • What I’m Purchasing at the Sephora Sale 2022
      • A Complete Review of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
      • Vitamin C Serum Benefits: and The Best Ones to Buy
      • Best Skincare Products + How to Layer Correctly
      • Are Necessaire Products Worth the Hype? A Full Review
  • San Diego
    • A Complete Guide to Visiting Carlsbad Flower Fields 2023
    • The Ultimate San Diego Travel Guide: written by a local
    • 20 San Diego Hidden Gems: written by a local
    • An Ultimate Guide to the Best Brunch in San Diego
    • Best Restaurants to Try in San Diego for 2023
    • The Ultimate Guide to San Diego 4th of July 2022
    • A Complete Locals Guide on Things to Do in Balboa Park
    • The 25 Best Coffee Shops in San Diego, California
    • The Best Photo Spots in San Diego: A Photography Guide
    • A Local’s Guide to Coronado Island
    • 12 Amazing Things to Do in Julian California
    • The Ultimate Guide to San Diego Christmas Activities
    • The Best Pumpkin Patches in San Diego
  • Work With Me
  • Shop
  • Travel
    • california
      • big sur
      • joshua tree
      • los angeles
      • palm springs
      • san diego
      • san francisco
      • santa barbara
      • yosemite
    • europe
      • amsterdam
      • An Ultimate City Guide: Fun Things to Do in Barcelona
      • 2 Days in Seville: a Complete Seville Itinerary
      • italy
        • amalfi coast
        • florence
        • rome
      • london
      • paris
    • hawaii
    • mexico
    • New York
    • usa
      • The Best 2 Day Zion National Park Itinerary
      • arizona
      • boston
      • charleston
      • Chicago
      • new orleans
      • seattle
    • hotels
      • Sands Hotel and Spa in Palm Springs
  • Blog
    • Style
    • photography
    • packing guides
    • product review
    • Lifestyle
    • skincare
  • San Diego
  • Work With Me
  • Shop My Looks

Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Travel, Travel Guides, USA · Last Updated: March 3, 2023

A Complete Weekend Guide to Scottsdale Arizona

Weekend in Scottsdale: A Travel Guide

Scottsdale Arizona is a laid-back albeit up-and-coming city adjacent to Phoenix that is known for its stretches of desert landscape, chic hotels with quality spas, and a new and noteworthy restaurant scene. Scottsdale is an excellent spot for a relaxing vacation underneath the palms but has plenty of activities for adventurous folk. You’ll find that this city has a nice blend of hip spots and cowboy charm and there are plenty of activities to indulge in! I’m going to share everything you need to know about spending the weekend in Scottsdale below!

Scottsdale Weather

Scottsdale is known for its dry heat and extremely hot summers with temperatures ranging upwards of 100 degrees. Avoid the months of June-August to truly enjoy all the outdoor activities Scottsdale has to offer. For the best time to visit, choose the months of September-November or March-May.

Where to Stay in Scottsdale, AZ

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share the best properties, things to do, and items I love!

There are plenty of resorts and boutique hotels to choose from in Scottsdale. Below I’ve rounded up the top hotels to stay in:

The Scott Hotel & Resort ($$)

the scott resort
the scott resort
the scott resort

Formerly known as the FireSky resort, The Scott underwent a huge makeover in 2018. This resort is part of the Classic Hotels group and does not skimp on any detail. From the beautiful lobby adorned with boho modern decor to the huge pool with cascading palm trees surrounding it, there’s a little something for everyone at the Scott Resort. We really enjoyed the film noir movies that they play outside nightly. Finally, the best part? It’s very affordable!

Book your stay on Booking.com

Hotel Adeline ($$)

scottsdale arizona
scottsdale arizona

Another affordable option is the Hotel Adeline which is located just north of downtown Scottsdale. The pool is the main attraction of this boutique hotel which sits in the center of the hotel. There are plenty of Instagram-friendly places at this boutique hotel. Finally, the rooms are very stylish and comfortable!

Book your stay on Booking.com

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa ($$$)

This resort has a beautiful contemporary design and is one of the newer places in town. Each room is adorned with beautiful contemporary designs and the resort has three pools to relax in. Finally, it’s near Camelback mountain so it’s set back from the hustle and bustle of downtown Scottsdale so you can truly relax.

Book your stay on Booking.com

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia ($$$)

This resort sits at the bottom of Camelback Mountain (a popular hiking spot in Scottsdale) and has over 35 acres of lush desert and mountainscapes and plenty of high-class amenities (including one of the best spas in town). This resort airs on the expensive side of the hotels in Scottsdale, but if you’re looking to splurge on your trip, this spot is the one for you!

Book your stay on Booking.com

Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ

Old Town Scottsdale

Notably, the main attraction in town is Old Town Scottsdale. A small cowboy-inspired part of town with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. You can spend an entire afternoon discovering all that Old Town has to offer. Not to mention the amazing restaurants nearby including Diego Pops and sugarbowl (more on that below).

The Desert Botanical Garden

scottsdale arizona
desert botanical garden

Located outside of Scottsdale is The Desert Botanical Garden. A 140-acre botanical garden that houses over 4000 species of cacti. It costs $25 a person to enter but there is no time limit on how long you can visit. This was one of our favorite parts of Scottsdale so I highly recommend a visit here. Finally, visiting during golden hour is the most magical time to experience this place.

Hike Camelback Mountain

Hiking Camelback Mountain is no easy feat. There are two trailheads to choose from and both are on the difficulty scale when it comes to hiking ability. Furthermore, the elevation gain on both of the trails is extremely steep (2700 feet) so make sure to bring loads of water and wear the proper shoes. All in all, if you choose to do this hike you’ll be rewarded with beautiful sweeping views of the city and a sweaty workout.

Papago Park

Located near the Desert Botanical Garden (you can visit both in one trip) is Papago Park. A hiking spot with beautiful red butte rocks as far as the eye can see. The most famous spot in this park is called Hole in the Rock (only a 0.3-mile hike). It’s a cool rock formation that overlooks nearby lagoons and you can even spot the cities skyline in the distance.

Gateway Trailhead

Image gallery image
saguaro cactus

Located a little outside of Scottsdale is this trailhead which features the Saguaro Cactus (native to Scottsdale and Phoenix area) that can grow over 12 feet. It’s a local spot but is great for a nice hike in the desert. Aim to get there in the morning or else it will be sweltering hot mid-afternoon.

What to Pack for Scottsdale

  • Bathing suits! If you overpack anything in your suitcase let it be this. Being that Scottsdale is warm year-round you’ll always want to have bathing suits handy! I always find great suits at Aerie, Cupshe, and Summersalt.
  • A light jacket for the evenings.
  • These Sam Edelman sandals are my favorite since they’re timeless and comfortable. The perfect combo for a desert escape. Also, these Olukai Sandals are my go-to and have lasted me years. They’re great for the pool or a casual daytime look.
  • Sunscreen: This GOOP FACE SUNSCREEN BRUSH is perfect for traveling because it adds SPF to your face all while not messing up your makeup. It’s my new holy grail product and you need to add this one to your packing list! Also, my daily moisturizer with SPF is incredible for traveling + every day!
  • Flowy Dresses: These really come in handy when the temperatures are high in the spring/summer. My favorite white dress for photos is linked here, here + here.
  • Hiking shoes: if you plan on doing the Gateway Trailhead or Papago Park hike you’ll need good hiking shoes.
  • Shorts: Abercrombie has the best shorts for all sizes and shapes. Check my favorite pairs that have lasted multiple seasons here. I also love my Levi cut-offs they’re so classic and never go out of style.
  • Basics: I always find the best basics at Free People & Abercrombie. It’s nice to have some neutral tees and tanks handy during your stay.
  • A large sun hat. Nothing screams vacation more than a large sun hat. Shop my favorite affordable straw hat here!

Best Restaurants in Scottsdale

The Canal Club ($$$)

Image gallery image
Image gallery image

A Havana-inspired restaurant located inside the Scott Hotel. It’s known for its exquisite cuisine and delicious craft cocktails. Finally, it has an extremely Instagram-worthy interior with an old-school Cuban car in front, so make sure to bring your camera!

Diego Pops ($$)

Located in downtown Scottsdale, this Mexican restaurant is a fan favorite from the locals! They are known for their modern twists on classic Mexican favorites. Make sure to get the Mexican corn appetizer and thank me later!

The Montauk ($$)

Located in downtown Scottsdale, The Montauk is known for its eclectic and New England-inspired dishes. Transport yourself to the Hamptons with this restaurant and make sure to check out their notable brunch menu!

Farm + Craft ($$)

  • girl standing in front of scottsdale arizona murals
  • scottsdale arizona breakfast spot

This popular bistro is best known for its organic and vegan breakfast and lunch. Their focus is on healthy and sustainable food with a modern and farm-to-table twist. Finally, make sure to check out the cool mural located across the street!

Sugar Bowl ($$)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sugar Bowl (@sugarbowlaz)

This 1950’s establishment is known for its retro pink exterior, delicious ice cream, and malt shakes. They serve diner food as well and it’s a fun place to visit with kids!

Thank you for reading my “A Weekend in Scottsdale Guide”! Please feel free to comment if you have any other questions or needs when visiting Scottsdale, Arizona. For more of my travel guides click here! Enjoy your trip to the desert!

pin this post for later

Image gallery image
Image gallery image

XX,

Courtney

In: Travel, Travel Guides, USA · Tagged: america, ARIZONA, travel, usa

You’ll Also Love

windmill in downtown Solvang CaliforniaVisiting Solvang California The Most Charming Town
Arch Rock Joshua TreeA Complete Guide on Day Tripping to Joshua Tree
Moms Pies in Julian California12 Amazing Things to Do in Julian California

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

36 Must See Places in New York: written by a local

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Terms
  • Work With Me

Copyright © 2023 Le Travel Style · Theme by 17th Avenue