Scottsdale Travel Guide

If you’ve never made it out to AZ, I HIGHLY recommend planning a trip ASAP. Moving out here has given me a whole new appreciation for the desert and all AZ has to offer – it makes for the perfect vacay! Since I always get questions asking about my favorite spots in Scottsdale, I thought it might be helpful to condense my top picks into one post. Be sure to bookmark this for your upcoming trip!

WHERE TO EAT

Nicer Spots $$$:

• Maple and Ash – this is a VERY fun spot for a girls night or special occasion (bachelorette or birthday). They make it a super fun experience for celebrations.
• Francine – a French restaurant with a vibe like no other. This is a must for at least drinks or happy hour, IMO. Love this place!
• Houston’s or Hillstone- Both owned by the same restaurant group and equally as amazing. It’s our fave spot in Scottsdale/Phoenix!
• AZ88 – They have the BEST martinis – their espresso martini is arguably the best in AZ.
• Fat Ox – Great date night spot.
• Etta – has something for everyone and the vibes are great. Also has a great brunch as well!
• Palma – located in Central Phoenix near all the “hoppin” spots 😉 Love the menu here and has a great outdoor seating vibe. It’s also attached to Champang Lanes, which is a Champagne bar + Bowling. Definitely a must!
• Toca Madera – my FAVORITE restaurant in Scottsdale. Such a fun vibe. I like to describe it as “Classy Vegas in AZ”. This is a must if you are coming on bachelorette – super fun atmosphere at night. FYI – They book out VERY far in advance so I would call ASAP to secure a Rez.
• Steak 44 – my favorite steakhouse in AZ.
• La Hacienda – My favorite Mexican restaurant in AZ. Located at the Fairmont Hotel.
• The Mission – Another nicer Mexican spot.
• Buck and Rider – Best seafood in the area!
• The Americano – This is such a good date night spot with bomb food!
• Parma – In North Scottsdale. Amazing Italian!
• Flint – located in the Biltmore area. Really great food and an awesome rooftop bar!

Brunch:

• The Henry – They have a great brunch and rooftop as well.
• Cala – an awesome spot for brunch (also has a great dinner menu!) Great indoor.outdoor vibes. One of my top picks for sure!
• Farm and craft – Love this spot for a casual breakfast or lunch. Has healthy options!
• The Montauk- Another fun brunch spot that typically has live music on the weekends.
• Prep and Pastry – They have a great breakfast here, too.
• Sumo Maya – Everyone raves about the brunch here. Very fun vibe and atmosphere! Another great option for bachelorette weekend!
• The Vintage/Chestnut + Luci’s are my top breakfast recs that are casual! Awesome places to get something quick, or maybe after you hit a workout class. The food and coffee is amazing at both of these!
• The Local Donut – the best donuts in the area!

Casual:

• Barrio Queen – Mexican
• Diego Pops – Mexican
• Geisha – Sushi
• Pomo – Pizza + Gelato
• LGO aka La Grande Orange – Amazing Pizza and a cutie shop attached!
• Doughbird – Ever craved eating Rotisserie Chicken with Pizza? You will once you dine here. One of our favorite more casual spots!
• Culinary Dropout – Love this spot for casual American. Has an awesome vibe and typically does live music. I recommend the location in The Quarter.
• North Italia – Italian
• Postinos – Wine bar that has a great happy hour.
• True Food- Healthy casual option.
• Luci’s – Healthy casual option. Specifically love breakfast here!
• Kaleidoscope- The BEST juices and smoothies.

Coffee:

• FourtilFour
• Berdenas
• Press Coffee
• Maverick Coffee
• Street Brew
• LUX
• Lakeview Coffee
• Sip

Drinks:

• The Scott Hotel has the insta famous Canal Club. People loving going by there though because the vibes are amazing and its a great photo op. Personally, I think the drinks and food are OK, but the atmosphere is great if you are looking for a fun place to grab a drink.
• We also love going to any of the resorts around town and just getting drinks. it’s normally chill and most have some pretty amazing reviews. The Phoenician + Sanctuary are our faves!
• The Canopy at The Hilton has some of the best views on their rooftop bar – def worth grabbing a drink there while you are in town!
• Wrigley Mansion is one of my top recs for drinks. It’s got history and a view + amazing cocktails! You’ll get to see the sunset over Phoenix. it never disappoints – a hidden gem for sure!
• Killer Whale Sex Club – A really fun speakeasy with great cocktails!
• Wine Girl Scottsdale – a super fun spot for girls trip or bachelorette. Really cute and photo worthy!
• Bitter and Twisted – highly recommended craft cocktail bar.
• 36 Below – A speak easy under a coffee shop. Super unique cocktails!
• Century Grand – another speak easy that takes you on a fake train ride. You gotta experience it for yourself! Make sure you have a rez.

WHERE TO HIKE

• Pinnacle Peak – This one is farther north, but one of my absolute favorites in Scottsdale.
• Piestewa Peak – My top recommendation for hiking. This one is a great option for anyone and you’ll get great views.
• Camelback Mountain – typically the first hiking spot that most visitors end up going to, but I recommend against it. Camelback is a very advanced hike and typically not super fun for visitors, even if you are able. I recommend the two above hikes first.
• Tom’s Thumb – Another more challenging hike, but a fun one if you’re up for it and specifically looking for something advanced.
• Sedona – about 1.5 hours north and a beautiful area to explore if you are looking for some gorgeous scenery and hikes. Just be sure to block off a whole day for this if you plan on going!
• Prescott + Flag are also great areas about 1.5-2 hours up north that have green, trees, and typically a much cooler climate! Lots of great hiking, camping, mtn biking there!

WHERE TO STAY

There are TONS of AirBNB options and resorts all across Scottsdale/Phoenix. Sharing some of the resorts below that I either personally recommend, or come highly recommended from trusted friends!

• Four Seasons
• The Phoenician
• JW Marriott Camelback
• Andaz
• The Fairmont
• The Scott
• Civana
• Sanctuary Camelback

WHERE TO SHOP

• Fashion Square
• The Quarter/Kierland

WHERE TO GET BEAUTIFIED

• Nail Salon – Lacquer Nail Salon Scottsdale (ask for Trang!)
• Melt by Melissa – They do anything from waxing to spray tans, eyebrows, lashes, and more! I get my lashes and brows done here. Go see them if you need any beauty treatments while you are in town.
• Luxury Skin Scottsdale – This is where I go for my facials! You have to see Kayla or Jess while you are in town.

Your an always message me with any questions! Enjoy your trip!

xx,

Em