When people think Arizona, they think of tumbleweeds dancing across a barren desert landscape, animated cacti declaring “you’re not in Kansas anymore” and maybe about the UFO they saw last summer – that secret is safe with us. But we’re here to talk about Scottsdale, a desert city that’s so much more than just a spiky plant seven o’clock shadow, it’s “Hotter than a stolen tamale!” (But we do advise a good sunscreen to enjoy the sunshine, unless you want an extra rouge look on the vacation photos).
First Stop: Old Town Scottsdale – The Only worthy kind of Tucson Time Travel
Look, forget those oversized mouse and duck themed parks (that rhyme with ‘Mizney’ for legal purposes). Old Town Scottsdale is where the real magic happens. It’s a vibrant, bustling melting pot of Southwestern culture. One minute you’re in a high-end jewellery gallery, the next you’re in the Wild West, complete with saloon doors and maybe a cheeky cowboy standoff. Jokes aside, its array of fashionable boutiques, southwestern arts and crafts shops, and deliciously daring dining options will leave your credit cards shaking in fear, but your heart singing in joy.
The Wild, Wild, West(ern Art) – Scottsdale’s Museum of The West
If your experience with Western Art is limited to Clint Eastwood squinting in the desert, then hold onto your cowboy hat, partner, ‘cause you’re in for an adventure. At the oh-so creatively named ‘Scottsdale’s Museum of The West’ you’ll bear witness to Pulitzer Prize photographs, captivating cowboy art and a jaw-dropping collection of Hopi pottery pieces. Spoiler alert: There’s not a single squinting Clint Eastwood in sight! Soak in the iconic Western spirit and enjoy the sunshine when you wander the museum’s courtyard, a gathering place intended to connect the community with their western roots, or simply a perfectly instagrammable background.
Feel Lavish at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
If you’ve been good this year and fate is smiling down at you, you may end up at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This place defines luxury. It’s like if ‘L’ in L.O.V.E stood for luxury. Talk about a daylight spa design that looks like the architects were told, “imagine heaven, but with more jacuzzis”. It’s a trip to the clouds with a mimosa in hand, without having to deal with that pesky air travel. We’re not exaggerating. We promise. (We might be exaggerating, just a tad)
McDowell Sonoran Preserve – For the Classic Desert Vibes
Despite the jokes, we all know you came to Arizona for a taste of the desert. We also know you’d like to come home in one piece. McDowell Sonoran Preserve is your one-stop-shop to travel through the desert without the hassle of wild animals or getting lost and separated from your tour group. This natural playground serves up 30,000 acres of hiking, biking and horse-riding trails. Start early, slather on the sunscreen, pack plenty of water and enjoy the sunshine as you take in one of the world’s unique ecosystems in all its glory.
Everything Cactus at the Desert Botanical Garden
Did we not say enough about the cacti? We apologize. Pencil in a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, because where else are you going to spot a saguaro cactus playing host to a woodpecker’s nest? This place is literally accentuated with succulents. Just remember, no hugging the cacti. We heard, they’re not that fond of it.
The Food, Glorious Food – Scottsdale Culinary Scene
The food in Scottsdale can be summed up in one hypothetical question – how much southwest can you fit in your mouth-west? The city has a seriously exciting food scene that covers everything from traditional southwest flavours to modern fusion cuisine.
Wrapping Up: Put Scottsdale on your Travel List
Few places allow you to travel through time, ride a horse into the sunset, marvel at western art, embrace the noble saguaro cacti, and enjoy a menu that spells delicious in every bite, all while happily basking under a generous helping of glorious sunshine. It’s clear that the joke’s on anyone not adding Scottsdale to their travel bucket list. So, pack your sunnies, a tonne of sunscreen, and get ready to shake up in Scottsdale – your ultimate go-to for all things sunny, exciting and decidedly Arizona.