Scottsdale in 5 Days: A Perfect Southwest Getaway

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Scottsdale.

22 April 2023

Scottsdale is a charming city located in the heart of Arizona, offering visitors an abundance of cultural, natural and outdoor attractions. With its sunny weather, stunning desert landscapes, top-rated golf courses and luxurious resorts, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Whether you want to hike in the nearby mountains, browse the numerous art galleries or simply soak up the desert scenery, Scottsdale is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Scottsdale

  • Check into Hotel Valley Ho, a retro-chic hotel with mid-century modern design.
  • Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home, for a guided tour of the architectural masterpiece.
  • Take a stroll around Old Town Scottsdale, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Savor a Southwest-inspired meal at The Mission, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
  • Indulge in a nightcap at the popular speakeasy, The Beverly, hidden behind a stainless-steel door.
Day 2

Hiking and Spa Day

  • Start with a hike at Camelback Mountain for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Relax and rejuvenate with a spa treatment at Sanctuary Spa, known for their signature Asian-inspired therapies.
  • Enjoy lunch at FnB, a locally-sourced restaurant featuring seasonal dishes and a curated wine list.
  • Visit the Heard Museum, showcasing Native American art and culture.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop (or two) of artisan ice cream at Sugar Bowl.
Day 3

Arts and Culture Tour

  • Explore the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive installations.
  • Take a guided walking tour of the Scottsdale Public Art collection, showcasing over 100 pieces of contemporary art.
  • Have lunch at The House Brasserie for a farm-to-table experience in a charming historic home.
  • Discover the Western spirit at the Museum of the West with exhibits on cowboys, Native Americans, and Western art.
  • End the day with dinner at Maple & Ash, known for their wood-fired steaks and seafood.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventure Day

  • Start with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert for an unforgettable experience.
  • Go on a horseback ride at MacDonald's Ranch, a working cattle ranch with scenic trails.
  • Enjoy a casual lunch at The Horny Toad, a Western-themed restaurant with classic American fare.
  • Explore the Desert Botanical Garden, showcasing cacti and other desert plants from around the world.
  • Dine at Elements, featuring farm-to-table cuisine and panoramic views of Camelback Mountain.
Day 5

Shop and Dine in Paradise Valley

  • Drive to neighboring Paradise Valley for a luxurious shopping and dining experience.
  • Shop for designer labels at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona's largest mall.
  • Savor a modern American brunch at Elements at Sanctuary Resort, featuring seasonal and organic ingredients.
  • Drive along Camelback Road and enjoy the stunning scenery of Paradise Valley.
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at Lon's at the Hermosa, a historic hacienda with farm-to-table cuisine and an intimate atmosphere.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Scottsdale, United States by plane is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport which is located 10 miles away from Scottsdale. There are many airlines that operate frequent flights to Phoenix from major cities around the world.

Car

The best way to reach Scottsdale by car would be to rent a car and drive to the city. Scottsdale is located in Maricopa County, which is connected to major highways like I-10, I-17, and Loop 101.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Scottsdale. The nearest Amtrak station is in Maricopa, which is 38 miles south of Scottsdale. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car.

Boat

Since Scottsdale is an inland city, there are no boat services that connect to it directly.

Bus

Scottsdale is well-connected by bus. Greyhound operates regular services to Phoenix from many cities around the US. From Phoenix, you can take local buses to reach Scottsdale.

Destination

Scottsdale

Welcome to a place where the sun never seems to take a break, and the cactus probably outnumbers the residents. Yep, we're talking about the land of luxury, Scottsdale.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Scottsdale's Family Fun: 5 Days of Adventures on a Budget

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A Romantic Day Escape in Scottsdale

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Escape on a Luxurious 3-Day Scottsdale Trip

Scottsdale is a picturesque city located in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, USA. It offers a perfect setting for a romantic getaway with its scenic landscapes, luxurious spas, exquisite dining and vibrant nightlife. Whether you choose to explore the desert together or relax in your suite, Scottsdale provides an idyllic escape for couples looking to reconnect and indulge in leisure activities together.