Travel Diary, Scottsdale
kim sauter
I LEFT MY HEART IN ARIZONA
Excuse the dramatic headline but every time I leave, I DO. Arizona has a huge piece of my heart. COVID is making me feel nostalgic and also allowing me to catch up on destination blogs. I have been traveling to Scottsdale quite frequently over the past few years and I always get questions about what to do where to go and what to see. Here are my recommendations from relaxation to the most important, FUN!
My first tip before going anywhere is to ask people you trust and have similar interests and lifestyles. I can’t take credit for half of these spots because they have been recommendations from friends or friends of friends. Use your network, social, google, etc. to your advantage. I’ve also had the best rapid spray tan EVER for $15 bucks in Old Town. She doesn’t have a website so DM if necessary.
Off the plane first thing, CHECK THE FARE for the Taxi VS. Uber. This could save you quite a bit of money so make sure you look. Once you get to your hotel take time to relax, get to know the property and have a cocktail before you hit the ground running. Not sure about you, I absolutely hate being rushed.
It would be impossible for me to list everywhere but for the sake of organization I’m making lists. I got a tattoo in Phoenix and I honestly have no idea where it was or how to find it! Oops. Ok, here goes:
WHERE TO STAY
Andaz
Hyatt Gainey Ranch
The Sanctuary
The Gainey Ranch is extra special around Christmas time, they have a gorgeous tree and everything is lit up like Clark Griswold threw up everywhere. I did a couples massage in the private suite here at the SPA and can now die happy. No seriously, this is a must do. They have a private massage suite that leads to an even more private hot tub, lounge, shower situation. You can have wine… or beer… or both. Trust me on this, I wouldn’t lead you in the wrong direction. I can’t even take credit for it because it was a birthday gift. Pinch MEEEE.
I love the Andaz as well. They have a fantastic pool area and covered bar with TVs (if you need to watch SportsCenter and also plenty of misters to keep you cool). I like to be in the sun but not the ENTIRE day so you can still chill with your friends while they swim and get some shade if you need. Rooms at this property all have private entrances with your own outdoor space and smaller pools centered in between. There is no other place to stay if you are there in the summer and all the best brunch spots are a short scooter ride away.
The Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain is extra boujee but in the way we want it to be. Also a big WINNER at Christmas time. I have a huge thing for Holiday decor, can you tell? ALL the amenities and being surrounded by Camelback is absolutely breathtaking. This one is a bit further away from Old Town but well worth it!
BRUNCH & LUNCH
Montauk
Farm & Craft
The Henry
Olive & Ivy
Chop Shop
La Grande Orange
Ok, lots to do and see here but my. top TWO are the Montauk and The Henry. Make sure to get reservations for The Henry because it is a scene. In a good way.
DINNER
SumoMaya
The Mission
Citizen Public House
The House Brasserie
I wouldn’t call these kid friendly spots but let’s be honest that’s not what you are here for. I would make the flight for dinner at either SumoMaya or This Mission and then turn back around and come home if necessary. Make sure to get the wings, Sea Bass, Shishito Peppers and street tacos at SumoMaya. At The Mission everything is GOOD. Literally everything. Table side guac is a must and so are the margaritas. You’re welcome.
ENTERTAINMENT
Coach House
The Rusty Spur
BODI - Personal Training w. Sarah
Color Me Mine
Top Golf
Whiskey Row
W Hotel Lobby Bar and Rooftop
Camelback Trail
Spring Training Baseball
Suns Game & Downtown Phoenix
This is why I love this city! There is so much you can do and see. I will always make a stop at The Rusty Spur. That is my place. It is the “Oldest Saloon in Old Town” and TINY. They take song requests so make sure to bring cash. The Coach House is the most fantastic at Christmas. I do not recommend hiking Camelback with a hangover but take WATER. There are typically a lot of people, tourists included, on the trail so be prepared to wait and maneuver around small children and older non-athletic adults, especially if going on a high traffic day. Baseball games have plenty of vendors with local craft beer and food so you can eat and drink at the stadium with Camelback in the background. I splurged on tickets for the Suns game because YOLO so we also ate at the Arena and the food was VERY good. You get there and immediately are led to the lounge where you can have drinks before the game and be escorted to your seat. I think we were in the 7th row. I had way too many GINS. No regrets tho. It only led me to spending extra coin at the gift shop. I just cant help myself. Plan accordingly if ubering from Old Town to Downtown PHX so you have enough time to explore. Now go book your trip and make some memories. XO