We are asked about our favorite things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale often! You ask about family trips, girls trips and couples trips, to name just a few. We hear you and we’re ready to deliver. Come one, come all to the great state of Arizona! We are beyond lucky to have SO MANY incredible options here in Phoenix and Scottsdale. The list below includes our absolute favorites --the spots we take family and friends when they come into town and frequent ourselves regularly. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Where To Stay
North Scottsdale
• True Arizona experience. Could work for a family trip but know you won't leave the resort as you're location is a bit north and isolated.
• Perfect for a family trip. Amazing pool and amenities. Great Central North Scottsdale location.
• If you're coming to enjoy the holidays (think Christmas lights, ice skating, ferris wheel bonanza) this is the primo primo. Very family friendly with several pools and water slides.
Central Scottsdale + Paradise Valley
• The newest hotel in Central Scottsdale with a modern vibe. Boasts one of the best views in the city of Camelback Mountain from the 7th floor outdoor bar/restaurant. A great place to stop for a drink or meal if you don't stay here. Best for adults!
• Best for couples or adult-only trip. Exceptional dinner, bar, spa and pool experiences.
• Excellent location. Perfect for any type of trip. Kid-friendly pool. Must have a sunset cocktail on the balcony of the Thirsty Camel.
• A true charming Arizona experience of a hotel. This adobe style hotel has several pools a renowned spa and is nestled in between Camelback and Mummy Mountain. Kid-friendly pools but no water slides.
• Centrally located in Paradise Valley at the foot of Camelback Mountain. An old icon of a hotel recently re-done in a modern and elegant style. Perfect for an adult or girls trip.
Phoenix
• The newest Luxury Hotel ( + private club) in Phoenix against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain. "Global" or "GA" as the locals say, is a stunning space with a cosmopolitan style and four diverse restaurants.
• Romantic. Boutique resort. Best for anniversary, couples trip, or mellow girl's weekend.
• Great Central Phoenix location. Family friendly. Best kid's pool and water slides in town. Adult only pool also. Every President has stayed here!
Where to Eat
North Scottsdale
Isabella's Kitchen
• A beautiful family-friendly spot with a huge patio and grass area so the kids can run around.
• Great neighborhood restaurant up in North Scottsdale.
• Perfect lunch or early dinner post shopping at Kierland/Quarter.
• Decadent pastries, fresh-baked bread, coffee brewed right & service that sets the bar.
Spotted Donkey
Central Scottsdale
• Recently opened on the first floor of the Caesar's Republic hotel (see above). Located right next to Fashion Square Mall and a great option if you'r in this area of town! Make a res!
• A newer hot spot with one of our city's most celebrated chefs.
• Iconic martini menu. Order the Hell's Fire Fries.
• Phenomenal Italian and mediterranean inspired menu and award winning pizza.
• Think Las Vegas restaurant experience in Scottsdale.
• Tres Chic for lunch or dinner.
• Eleveted Mexican located in the heart of Old Tow Scottsdale. Don't miss the Margaritas!
• Sit in the bar and order the Grapefruit Basil Martini.
• Celebrating a special occasion? This is your spot.
• Duh.
• For the foodies.
• Tasting menu for THE most special occasion.
• Bruschetta board bonanza paired with excellent wines.
Phoenix
• A new neighborhood Modern Mexican Restaurant and Bar open for Brunch and Dinner.
• The most elegant steakhouse nestled inside the lobby of the Global Ambassador Hotel.
• Enjoy any meal here. Think: brunch, lunch, dinner, snacks and coffee.
• Our favorite steakhouse in town. Beg the host for a bar table.
Berdena's Fine Coffee + Food
• Can't miss this Old Town Scottsdale gem. Get the avocado toast.
• Google Chris Bianco. Not to be missed.
• Excellent seafood. Don't miss the Diego Rivera cocktail.
• Close your eyes and you're in Italy. Get the Cacio e Pepe secret menu item.
• French restaurant with classics inspired by the cafe and brasserie culture.
• A restaurant with modern American cuisine and a bar with Victorian era cocktails and a speakeasy vibe.
• A Sonoran restaurant experience, although located a bit on the west side. Everything is cooked over an open flame. If you're willing to travel, definitely worth the experience.
• The mini donut menu here is on fire.
• A+ for ambience and the Arizona experience. Kid-friendly. Check ahead for their live music schedule on the patio.
• An institution. Take a bag of english muffins home with you.
• If we're going on a date night, we're going here.
• One of our favorite spots to take our kids.
• Start here with your kids and then cross the street to the Sugar Bowl.
Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor
• You're welcome kiddos.
• A family friendly and funky Mexican restaurant serving up all the dishes you crave.
Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor
• You're welcome kiddos.
• Sit on the back patio.
• Downtown destination for the super foodie.
• This has girl's trip group brunch written all over it.
• Location, location, location. Get the sticky buns.
• For the juice bar lovers out there. Think juice, smoothies and grab & go.
*We strongly suggest making reservations ahead of time at all of these amazing restaurants!
Where To Drink
North Scottsdale
The Rooster Tavern
• A local favorite. Hit up the "Rooster" for great food and an equally great time. Perfect for after golf.
Handlebar J BBQ Restaurant & Bar
• A fun spot for a Cowboy vibe. Live music several nights of the week. Cowboy attire not mandatory.
Central Scottsdale + Phoenix
• A great scene for the 40+. Live music, delicious bites and fab cocktails.
• One of the most beautiful bars.
• Sunset cocktails on the patio are a must.
• Iconic dive bar in Old Town Scottsdale.
• A guy on a horse might ride into the bar.
• Our favorite date night bar. Roll the dice and order the Trust Cocktail.
• See above.
Huss Brewing Co - Uptown Taproom + Kitchen
• For the beer lover. Family friendly.
• Hungover? Order the Crispy Chicken Sammy, Chips & Frozen Greyhound.
Rita’s Cantina + Bar
• See above.
• See above.
Porters Western Saloon
• A great bar in Old Town Scottsdale.
Where To Shop
Garage Boutique
Willows Fine Goods
Old Town Jewels (turquoise and silver)
Cave and Post Trading Co. (Mens)
Grass Clippings (Mens)
Things To Do With Kids
KTR Scottsdale
Things To Do With Adults
Walk around Old Town Scottsdale
Enjoy!
