In December, I got the chance to tag along with little sister KT, on a work trip to Arizona. Having never been to Scottsdale before, I jumped at the chance. Coming into the trip, I was vaguely aware of Scottsdale as a place with a vibrant art and food scene; definitely on my list to explore. We hopped on a quick flight from SFO to Phoenix, excited to spend a couple days in the Sonoran desert. Let’s see what type of fun things we can get into in Old Scottsdale!
Tap Into Your Artsy Side
Old Scottsdale is bursting at the seams with evidence of artistic expression. Countless galleries, gorgeous jewelry, beautiful Native American art- your senses will be delighted. Whether you consider yourself a creative or not, soak it up. As you wander, inspiration may find you!
Sip and See
While I realize a Sip and See is often associated with meeting somebody’s new baby (at least in the South), in this case I’m talking about wine tasting and window shopping. As you get acquainted with Old Scottsdale, head over to 5th Avenue Shops & Boutiques. Along the way, stop by Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room to sample some of their award winning selections; enjoy a flight on the outdoor patio at LDV Winery and get to know the flavors of Arizona wine.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Banana bread or French toast? How about a gloriously delicious creation that is both?? A restaurant after my own heart, Daily Dose serves breakfast all day. So head on over whenever your little heart desires and introduce yourself to this decadent banana bread French toast. You won’t regret it. Did I mention the candied pecans and caramel? The vanilla créme anglaise? Not sure what anglaise is exactly but trust me you want some in your life.
Hopefully your French toast doesn’t send you into a sugar coma. Save some room for dessert! It doesn’t get much sweeter than ice cream at Sugar Bowl. The bright pink exterior will call out to you, inviting you to take a trip back in time to the 50’s diner.
Spice Things Up
Peruse the sassy cowgirl boots in one of the many Old Town Scottsdale shops. How can you not be spicy in these cowgirl boots?
Stop into Spice and Tea Merchants and pick up some exotic spices and tea; take a little flavor home with you. As a tea enthusiast and teapot collector, I was in seventh heaven.
Round things out with a happy hour break at Blue Clover Distillery; give their spicy infused vodka a try.
Lounge at the Saguaro
If you’re visiting from out of town, strongly consider making The Saguaro your home base. The quirky, colorful, art filled property is a short 20 minute ride from Phoenix airport and mere steps away from all the restaurants, shops and attractions in Old Town Scottsdale.
For two days, I happily explored, finding things to do in Old Scottsdale, without ever needing to call a Lyft.
Catch some sun by the pool, enjoy a snack and a drink at La Señora, catch a nap on the bright outdoor patio, indulge in a pampering spa treatment– this stylish boutique hotel has plenty to entertain you!
After a fun-filled two days in Old Town Scottsdale, my biggest takeaway is that my first trip definitely won’t be my last.
I’m looking forward to spending a little time in the Sonoran Desert; get out there with those cacti that I fell in love with on my trip to Tucson. Now if you know me at all, that could end up being one of those gentle hikes that the girls and I are known for (30 minutes or less), or a walk that turns into a dramatic adventure (like that time in Occidental). Who knows?? Either way, I’m excited! I also had my eye on quite a few pieces of jewelry on this trip. I may have to pack a few coins next time to bring back something pretty. And I may need to revisit that french toast… I’m just sayin’. Try it, you’ll understand.
Have you ever been to Arizona? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do?