How to Plan the Most Romantic Getaway in Scottsdale
The scenery in Scottsdale sets a perfect backdrop for any romantic weekend. With its colorful skies and dramatic mountains, it’s an easy spot to put your troubles away for a few days. Whether you’re visiting from around the corner or across the country, here are our top picks to get the most out of every moment.
Take a Food Tour
7025 E Via Soleri Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Scottsdale attracts some top-tier chefs, so if you want to sample as many confections and creations as possible, a good food tour is a fun and flirty way to do it. Street tacos, Italian classics, and award-winning sweets are just the beginning of this adventure.
If you and your sweetheart look forward to trying all the new restaurants and dishes back home, get ready to be impressed by all the local flavors in Scottsdale.
Sail Along the Sunrise on a Hot Air Balloon
7934 N Glen Harbor Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85307
There’s something about rising in a hot air balloon at the same time the sun does. See the Sonoran Desert from an entirely new vantage point, and keep your eyes peeled for the early-morning critters. From coyotes to (occasional) bears, a hot air balloon is a memorable way to spend your morning.
Just be sure to plan in advance because you’ll have to be up long before the sun rises to make it to your destination on time. If you'd prefer to sleep in on your vacation, there are also sunset tours that you can take as an alternative.
“Hike” the Urban Wine Trail
7134 E. Stetson Dr.; B-110, Scottsdale AZ 85251
The urban wine trail is all within walking distance of downtown Scottsdale and features seven unique Arizona wineries. Each tasting room has its own varietals, vibes, and flavors, and you can even get a Wine Trail Passport to make sure that you hit them all.
As growing techniques advance, states like Arizona, Idaho, and Texas are increasingly gaining recognition for their efforts (and results).
Not only will you sample the fruits of their labor, you’ll also learn more about the burgeoning industry in the state. The best part about the urban wine trail is that it takes you through many of the other highlights of Scottsdale, including theaters, boutiques, and museums.
Splurge on the Romantic Dining Cove at Marcellino
7114 E Stetson Dr, Old Town Scottsdale, AZ
The romantic dining cove at Marcellino is five courses in a special velvet-draped haven just big enough for two. Not only is it delicious, it’s also personalized, with the chef learning more about your favorite foods before creating a custom menu (and, of course, hand-selecting the wines that go along with them).
Prices vary based on when you book and your culinary preferences, but if you’re planning anything particularly special (like a proposal), this could be the perfect spot to do it! If you're planning a Scottsdale trip for couples, this might just end up as the highlight of the vacation.
Swing by the Sugar Bowl
4005 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
The Sugar Bowl is heaven if you’re a fan of 1950s americana nostalgia, but it’s also perfect for anyone who loves the classic combination of a patty melt and chocolate malt. The Sugar Bowl has built its reputation on remaining true to its 1958 roots. From the decor to the menu, it’s a mainstay of the city, one that's survived for maintaining quality and consistency with each confection.
Not only is the Sugar Bowl designated Founding Business, but you can also find it on the Historic Preservation Register. And, while you're not required to share a single milkshake with two straws on your romantic getaway, it might make for a more memorable visit if you do.
Light Up the Sky at Las Noches de Las Luminarias
1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
If you visit during the holiday season, the Desert Botanical Garden hosts this festive event on select days in November and December. On these nights, the paths aren’t just lit up with holiday decorations, they come alive with unique and creative displays at every turn. With sparkly lights, themed festive treats, and live entertainment, you can experience the expanse of the desert sky from a whole new vantage point.
In addition, if you’re celebrating a special occasion, like an anniversary, you can purchase a tribute Luminaria tribute bag and display it on the Garden Terrace.
On any given night, you might see folk bands, harpists, carolers, mariachi bands, flutists, and singers. Share a cup of hot cocoa or a cocktail as you stroll through the gardens. If you're traveling outside the festive season, the botanical gardens are still a romantic place to visit (day or night).
Mountain Bike Through Sonoran
Pima Dynamite Trailhead. (Across from13613 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022).
If you’re looking for a few thrills before you chill out at the hotel, try a mountain biking tour through some of Arizona’s best trails. Start off at the Pima Dynamite Trailhead, grab your gear, and then explore with the help of a handy guide. Not only will a guided tour ensure you won’t get lost (or run out of water), but you can also tailor the tour’s difficulty based on your skill levels.
Plus, if you want to push your cycling up to the next level, you’ll have all the tips and tricks you need right from the start. Drink in the flora and fauna, from the cacti to the jack rabbits, as you both pedal away the day.
Tube Down the River
9200 North Bush Highway, Mesa, AZ 85215
If you're in Scottsdale during the warmer months, you can head down to Salt River, rent some inner tubes, and bring the cooler along too. Fun and relaxing, the Salt River has some great views, and it's the perfect way to reset after you've explored Scottsdale on foot, bike, or hot air balloon.
Plus, it’s where many of Arizona’s wild horses go to fuel up and hydrate, and their pitstops can end up giving you the best photo opps on the trip.
You can also kayak or paddleboard down the Salt River if you're so inclined. Just keep in mind that this is a popular activity during the summer, so you may want to plan this activity on the earlier side to avoid the lines.
When there are so many ways to experience the beauty of Scottsdale, it's hard to go wrong on a romantic getaway in Scottsdale. Simply strolling through the town can be exciting enough to give you ideas about what to do next or use our tips for an even bigger headstart.
If you're looking for a comfortable place to stay, one that gives you enough privacy without total isolation, the 100 Collection highly recommends Porter, our local partner. Whether you want an outdoor kitchen, fireplace in the bedroom, or gym with sauna, you can find it with these stunning vacation rentals.
