Pinnacle Peak: 3.5-mile round-trip, moderate trail with desert scenery and city overlooks (Amanda and her family hike here Thanksgiving morning!) Tom’s Thumb: hiking area with a variety of trails and stunning views; great for all levels and especially popular at sunrise and sunset (we took our engagement photos here!) Camelback: 2.5-mile round-trip, strenuous hike with great views of the Phoenix Valley
Olive & Ivy: near Old Town and Fashion Square with a great patio and Mediterranean cuisine (Amanda's favorite lunch spot) The Living Room Wine Café & Lounge: relaxed spot with indoor and outdoor couches, fire pits, extensive wine list and good food (Dan and Amanda favorite) True Foods: if you’re shopping in Kierland or Scottsdale Quarter, a great option for a healthy meal (Dan's rec: panang curry, Amanda's rec: ancient grains bowl)
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: known for its pools and spas Four Seasons Spa: spa services include pool access The Phoenician Spa: spa with rooftop pool (recommend if you want to explore downtown Scottsdale)
Kierland Commons/Scottsdale Quarter: outdoor shopping area across the street from each other with restaurants (our favorites: The Greene House, True Foods, North Italia) Cave Creek & Carefree Boutiques: western shops, fun western bars & ATV rentals (check out Buffalo Chip or Harold's)
Grayhawk: public club with two great courses, Raptor & Talon; leave time for a beer at the club house (Beresford family favorite) Troon North: public club with two courses, Monument & Pinnacle. Monument is more wide open. Pinnacle is target golf, great landscape, fun but bring a few extra balls (Dan's favorite) TPC Scottsdale: home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open
Sedona (2 hours north): famous for red rocks, hiking trails and art galleries (check out Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and Pink Jeep Tours) Grand Canyon South Rim (3.5 hours north): this time of year, some hiking trails may be closed because of snow Page / Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend (4.5 hours north): make sure to look into areas that require guides