I’m back on the blog and for good reason: my ARIZONA TRAVEL GUIDE is officially live!! You guys know that we’ve spent a lot of time here over the years (because my fiance is from here, and we love it), but today I’m sharing a full Phoenix and Scottsdale travel guide sharing the best places to stay, eat/drink, explore, and more if you plan on visiting! If you’re dreaming of desert vibes, stunning sunsets, and plenty of things to do, Phoenix and Scottsdale are calling your name! From luxe resorts to epic hikes and trendy spots to eat and shop, these Arizona gems have something for everyone. Without further ado, let’s dive into the ultimate guide to exploring these sunny cities—whether you’re chasing relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. 🌵✨

 

WHERE TO EAT/DRINK:

COFFEE/BRUNCH:

• Breakfast Club– 10/10 our favorite brunch spot to sit outside and enjoy…it’s our weekly tradition because we love it so much and in our opinion, by far the best brunch spot in town! (very high quality local ingredients and menu items that are updated seasonally, the nicest/best staff, and great locations in all the best parts of town- our favorite is the Biltmore location)
• The Henry- a trendy spot known for their coffee/work area or brunch
• Elly’s-  the most insanely huge & delicious omelettes, great coffee
• Schmooze- located in old town, a casual coffee/breakfast spot located on a luscious patio
• Central Phoenix Farmer’s Market– this is random, but every weekend there is a guy who sells breakfast burritos that are delish!
• LGO– another neighborhood fave and one of our staples for brunch, lunch, coffee, or dinner
• El Chorro- known for their sticky buns and gorgeous outdoor setting at the base of Camelback

HAPPY HOUR:

• Global Ambassador- some of the best views in Arcadia of Camelback Mountain, rooftop setting that’s trendy/upscale
• The Canal Club– set at the Scott resort, it’s a cute outdoor spot to sit near the fire place, near the pool, or at the trendy indoor/outdoor area for drinks
• Postino- this is a cute and girly favorite for endless bruschetta and wine

DINNER:

• North Italia- this has been our date night spot for 9 years! we always order the same yummy Italian food and love the vibe
• The Mission- serving modern and upscale latin cuisine & trendy drinks
• Diego Pops- another Mexican food spot located in old town that is trendy and a fun atmosphere
• Chopshop- one of our favorite, but it’s the most casual, and good for take out (they have healthy bowls that are to die for)
• Olive & Ivy- located near Fashion Square shopping, an amazing outdoor patio situated on the canal, great ambiance for winter/spring months

DESSERT:

• Jeni’s ice cream
• Sugarbowl

WHERE TO STAY:

The Scott- located near old town, trendy, and casual vibes

Montelucia- upscale, gorgeous setting & stunning views, Spanish architecture, gorgeous pools & mountain views (+ the best spa)

Mountain Shadows– a modern Scottsdale resort, with breathtaking views & a golf course

The Biltmore- a desert oasis offering the best accommodations, 7 pools, and golf courses

WHAT TO DO:

• Hike Camelback Mountain: Iconic trails with breathtaking city views
• Explore Papago Park & Desert Botanical Garden: Stunning desert landscapes and plant collections
• Visit Pinnacle Peak Park: Scenic hikes in North Scottsdale
• Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Sunrise or sunset over the Sonoran Desert
• Tour Taliesin West: Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural gem
• Stroll Old Town Scottsdale: Art galleries, boutiques, shops, restaurants, and Western vibes
• Relax at a Luxury Spa: Try the Phoenician or Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

OTHER TIPS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

Something to note on the seasons in Arizona: the best time of year to visit in my opinion is December-March! The peak season (and most expensive months) are probably January and February since there are so many events going on: Barrett Jackson Car Show, Waste Management Open (golf tournament), Spring Training (baseball), just to name a few…etc etc!

WEEKEND GETAWAY TRIPS:

We highly recommend venturing up North to get to cooler temperatures either in Sedona or Flagstafff! We have done both and love them both 🙂 Sedona has great hikes, tons of red rocks, awesome spas, and rock jeep tours! In Flagstaff, our favorite things to do include wandering the cute downtown, renting e-bikes fromRides n Motion Flagstaff, and eating teppanyaki dinner at Sakura (so so yummy and fun!). Definitely let me know if you venture up north an hour or two to enjoy the sites 🙂