Bostonians are fortunate to enjoy all four seasons, however, in the dead of winter the cold does get a bit old. So, if you are looking for some sunshine and balmy temperatures, head to Scottsdale, Arizona. Here is our complete guide to Scottsdale, Arizona.
Getting to Scottsdale
Scottsdale is just a quick direct flight away from Boston’s Logan Airport. With the best routes on JetBlue and American Airlines, expect a 6-hour journey on the way there and a 4.5-hour trip on the way back. From Logan (BOS) you will fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). The PHX airport is within a few minutes of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa. So, if you will be visiting any of those cities, use PHX. Uber and Lyft are prevalent in all of these areas and both are quite reliable. But beware, all the drivers seem to be just a bit chattier than we are used to in the Northeast.
Where to Stay in Scottsdale
When visiting Scottsdale, the place to stay is the W Scottsdale. Only 15-20 minutes away from the airport, you’ll be checking in before you know it once you land. Located in the heart of “Old Town”, W Scottsdale is within walking distance of most of the popular shops, restaurants and nightlife.
As soon as you walk in, you know you are in a W Hotel, the chic lobby, the trendy music and the fashionable crowd screams “W Insider.” If you are in Scottsdale for a good time, this is the place you’ll want to call home. And when you head up to your room, the classic W look in the guestrooms is just as pleasing. The modern bathrooms, plush bedding and lovely views let you know you are in for a treat of a weekend.
When we walked in our room, we were greeted with this fun margarita kit! The perfect welcome to the Southwest!
What to Do in Scottsdale
Before even leaving the W, there is lots to do. Known for their pool parties, the W is giving their “Wet Deck” some well-deserved TLC at the moment but will be reopening soon with an even more exciting party venue. But don’t worry the pool and bar are still open so you can still enjoy plenty of alfresco cocktails even before their new club is open.
And if you are looking for a bit more of a lowkey way to enjoy the weekend, head to the Away Spa located on the lobby level of the property. Enjoy hair, makeup, nail and spa services at Away. More on Away Spa coming in our next blog post!
If you want to get outdoors and see some of the local nature, head to the nearby Desert Botanical Garden. Only about 10 minutes away from the W Scottsdale, the Desert Botanical Garden is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny Arizona afternoon. With several different walking paths, visitors get to experience different types of desert flora and fauna up close. Check out the various types of cacti and make time to read the little explainer plaques on the side as you’ll learn some fun facts, for example, the famous Saguaro cactus (the big ones that look like they have arms) only grow their first arm after about 50-75 years and they are state treasures and it is illegal to destroy them with height dependent hefty fines.
And if you are up for some adventuring, sign up for a hot air balloon ride with Arizona Balloons. Sign up for a sunrise ride and head to the meeting point (about 30 minutes away from Old Town Scottsdale) to meet up with your ballooning team. The experience begins by meeting up with the team, they take you to where they will be taking off that morning; they determine this each morning dependent upon the wind and then they start the inflation process of the giant balloon. First, they shoot air from fans into it, then the fire goes on and then the balloon starts to gentle right itself. Finally, when it is nearly filled up, the passengers hop in and you’re off. The only step after that is to enjoy the fabulous ride. This was our first-time riding in a hot air balloon, and it was absolutely lovely, smooth, peaceful and filled with lots of amazing sunrise views over the desert. The landing wasn’t bad at all either. The team at Arizona Balloons have decades of experience so you gently skid to a halt and then hop out for a celebratory mimosa and snack and get to enjoy yet another wonderful view!
Where to Eat
The District – A Night Out
Start your night out at The District. Located just behind the W Scottsdale, the District is a lounge and restaurant that specializes in gourmet burgers and cocktails. Start here, grab a burger, some drinks and either enjoy the music inside or head out to the courtyard for lots of alfresco fun. Since Scottsdale enjoys balmy nights most of the year, skip the jacket and just bring a light sweater and you are set.
Farm and Craft – Brunch
Any leisurely weekend must include a stylish brunch. Farm and Craftis an absolute can’t miss. Start with their cold pressed juice, then move onto some starters like the burrata and grilled vegetables, and then go for some brunch classics like the breakfast sandwich, crustless quiche and the acai bowl. And why not order an iced latte while you’re at it. Oh, and even in the middle of winter you can sit outside in a t shirt because, while you have not only the sun to keep you warm, you have dozens of heat lamps to keep you nice and toasty.
Culinary Dropout – Dinner
For a homey dinner away from home, head to Culinary Dropout. Another spot just a walk away from the W, Culinary Dropoutis a trendy eatery that serves up plenty of comfort food classics as well as an extensive cocktail and craft beer list. Some can’t misses are the friend chicken and the ribs. And off course you have to order some nachos for the table to share.
One response to “A Winter Warm Weather Escape to Scottsdale”
[…] is a great place for a quick warm weather getaway. If you read my last post (A Winter Warm Weather Getaway to Scottsdale), you know all about what to do and where to eat, but what about relaxing? If you want to include […]