When I think of Scottsdale, I think of golfing, spas and Frank Lloyd Wright. After picking up a few travel guides—it became abundantly clear that Scottsdale was considered a resort, golf and spa town in the Sonoran desert. Afterall, Scottsdale has more spas per capita than any other city in the U.S.
But, here are a couple of interesting facts you may not know. Scottsdale was founded by Winfield Scott, an Army chaplain who bought land to farm sweet potatoes. It was also once home to the Hohokam Indians.
There is literally something for everyone in Scottsdale. There is shopping, gallery exhibits, authentic local southwestern food, and there’s even wine made in Arizona!
For a luxurious desert escape, I recommend staying at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch. Immerse yourself in complete world class amenities and accommodations. Check your kids into the new Fun Zone Kids Club and take a break from parenting and reconnect with your spouse.
Reserve a poolside cabana for up to six guests and enjoy complimentary sunscreen, high speed WIFI, towel service, and a pool attendant. Experience the Venice of the West and take a gondola ride along the water. Soak in the view of the mountain from your room. Visit Spa Avania for the best massage or facial you’ll experience in your life! And enjoy their new Himalayan Salt Room before treating yourself to a Modern Italian dinner at Fat Ox in Scottsdale. Fat Ox offers a contemporary, luxurious Italian dining experience and menu created by Executive Chef Rochelle Daniel.
Visit Taliesin West, a National Historic Landmark nestled in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, AZ. It is also the home of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the School of Architecture at Taliesin.
What to pack?
Scottsdale is a very upscale casual city. Depending on where you’re from, you may be as shocked as I was to discover that a lot of the residents wear jeans and long sleeved tops—even in ninety degree weather! I recommend wearing layers. It can dip down as low as 45 degrees in the morning and get up to 101 in the late afternoon. Your best bet is to pack layers.
- a backpack or large stylish tote
- a few t-shirts, a couple pairs of shorts (denim and khaki are popular here)
- a couple pairs of leggings
- a couple of dresses, a light jacket (again, denim is popular here)
- a swimsuit, comfortable yet stylish shoes including espadrilles
- athletic sandals and hiking boots
- a wide brimmed sunhat
- sunscreen
- lip balm with sunscreen
- sunglasses
- and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
{Thank-you to the Visit Phoenix team for arranging a positively unforgettable experience!}
