Fun Things for Couples to do in Scottsdale
There are tons of fun things for couples to do in Scottsdale. Keep reading for recommendations for romantic restaurants, resorts, and activities for couples in Scottsdale.
This year for my birthday the Hubs and I did a weekend in Scottsdale, Arizona. I had been to Phoenix a few times for work and always wanted to explore more of Arizona for fun. Scottsdale is full of beautiful scenery and home to some of the best spas and resorts. It checked all the boxes for a perfect baecation.
We went to Scottsdale in late February and the weather was amazing. It was a bit chilly at night, a light jacket was enough. During the day it was sunny but breezy and pleasant. Scottsdale can get very hot in the late spring and summer. I was told late Fall and the end of winter was the best time to visit.
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Best resorts for couples in Scottsdale
There are so many romantic hotels and resorts in Scottsdale. Many include spas and great restaurants onsite. We stayed at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. I absolutely loved our hotel and highly recommend it. I will warn you, the resort is not adult only, and we saw a few families with young children, however, it didn’t bother us at all.
The rooms are all villa style, so we weren’t disturb by noise or anything you would find in your typical hotel. The staff was friendly and helpful. I told them it was my birthday and they sent us a complimentary bottle of prosecco and sweet note.
There are picturesque views of the mountains everywhere you turn. The resort has an onsite spa, but I didn’t get to visit it before we left. There are lots of activities to do at the resort, so if you wanted to, you could spend your whole trip hanging out there and not be bored.
We booked our hotel and rental car through Costco travel for a great deal. Our package included a $50 daily resort credit which we could use towards the spa or at the restaurants on site. Definitely check out Costco Travel if you’re a Costco member.
Fun Things for Couples to do in Scottsdale
What I really like about Scottsdale, is that there is so much to do depending on the type of trip you want to have. Whether you want to do spas and relax, hike, horseback ride and have an adventure trip it’s there.
I was going for a little bit of both on this trip. Some adventure, relaxation and luxury, and of course great meals! Since this was a birthday trip I had some bucket list activities I wanted to do.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
The Hubs and I took our first ever hot air balloon ride. We booked our trip with Rainbow Ryders. Our ride was magical! That’s honestly the best way to describe it. It felt so serene and peaceful. Our pilot shared a little bit of Scottsdale history during our ride. It wasn’t bumpy or scary at all. After the ride we had a champagne toast.
Hiking Camelback Mountain
Camelback mountain is one of the most popular attractions in Scottsdale. The hike was rigorous, but we got it done and felt so accomplished at the end. We met hikers of all ages, from kids, to older people, and even someone hiking with an infant in a baby carrier! As well as people at every fitness level. The other hikers were all so encouraging as we were going up.
Tips for hiking Camelback Mountain
- Wear good hiking shoes. I wore sneakers that were worn down and had me slipping at the end.
- Wear sunblock. The weather was nice when we went, but I still recommend sunblock
- Bring lots of water. You will be sipping as you go and return. You don’t want to.
- Take an Uber or cab to and from the mountain because parking is limited.
Phoenix Art Museum
On the last day of our trip when we were back in Phoenix before going to the airport we visited the Phoenix Art Museum. I had high expectations for this museum but I was a little disappointed at the exhibits. I’m not sure if was the time of year we visited but I’d say check the site to see what exhibits are being featured.
Some other activities I considered doing and I hope to do next time:
- Desert Rock Winery & Distillery – wine tasting
- Scottsdale Wine Trail
- Botanical Gardens
Where to Eat in Scottsdale
I had so many places on our itinerary that I wanted to visit and came highly recommended. Scottsdale has lots of cute restaurants and the Southwestern and Mexican inspired flavors are big here.
The Mission
After our hot air balloon ride, we were starving! We quickly changed at the hotel and headed to dinner at The Mission, located in Old Town Scottsdale. I had such high hopes for this place because it kept popping up on lists for best places to visit. However, we were a bit disappointed.
We ordered the tableside guacamole which people kept raving about. It was fresh and made well. We also ordered elote, and street tacos. These tacos are small and are not served with any sides. The food was decent, but coming from Dallas, where street tacos are prepared with excellence, I just wasn’t impressed. Especially for the price. Also, the seating was tight and the lighting was very dark and moody. I would return for drinks and guacamole, and maybe grab dinner somewhere else.
