Visiting Arizona

Camelback Mountain

Love hiking? Camelback mountain has one of the most beautiful views and is our favorite of our listed hiking destinations.. Go up Cholla side for an easier, scenic climb or go up Echo Canyon side for some rocky cliffs that make you feel like you're a mountain climber. Please note address above is for Echo Canyon side.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway Trailhead

Located on the North side of Scottsdale, this park is worth the drive. Over 180 miles of trails, there is an array of lush cacti and diverse wildlife.

Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Pinnacle Peak

Phoenix Zoo

One of our favorite zoos in the nation. Focuses on the southwest animals and agriculture.

Desert Botanical Garden

One of the most pristine places to visit in the city - full of Southwest plants and even Chululi art.

Old Town Scottsdale

The touristy part of Scottsdale. Home to numerous shops, restaurants, and bars.

Phoenix Art Museum

Stop by Arcadia Farms for lunch (see below) if you go here!

Heard Museum

Tremendous museum dedicated to the myriad cultures and art of American Indians of the Southwest.

Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights

The "Jewel of the Desert" built in the late 1920's. A 5,000 square foot architectural wonder perched atop the highest point of granite-rich property with groomed cactus gardens and undisturbed natural Sonoran Desert flora.

Topgolf

Dave's favorite place in Scottsdale. Perfect for indoor golfing, drinks, and more.

Troon North

One of Dave's favorite golf courses in Scottsdale.

TPC Scottsdale

Another one of Dave's favorite courses and home to the Waste Management Open every February. Make sure to book in advanced.

Talking Stick Golf Club

Forgot to make a golf reservation? No worries! This is Dave's favorite place to pick up a last minute round or hit the driving range.

Fashion Square

Scottsdale is known for its magnificent shopping. Check out Scottsdale Fashion Square!

Kierland Commons

Another great place for the latest fashions -- all the shops are outdoors and allow for some great walking about with lots of restaurants and street-side cafes.

Biltmore Fashion Park

Another tremendous outdoor shopping location - perfect for shopping for some new dancing shoes.

La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria

Our favorite brunch place in the city. Do not pass on getting the homemade English Muffins.

Arcadia Farms Cafe

Great place for brunch or lunch with a beautiful patio.

Los Olivos Mexican Patio

Liz's favorite Mexican food place in the city. She went here many times growing up with her family -- a real hole in the wall.

Olive & Ivy

A great place to grab a casual lunch. Located in the Fashion Square area.

Roaring Fork

Sticking around for an extra evening? One of the best upscale dinners in Scottsdale featuring James Beard award-winning Chef Robert McGrath.

La Hacienda

Looking for upscale Mexican food? Located at the Princess Resort, La Hacienda is truly one of the best authentic upscale Mexican restaurants.

Scottsdale Beer Company

One of our favorite breweries in the city. Home to many small craft batches.

Goldwater Brewing Co.

In the middle of Old Town Scottsdale, another one of our favorite breweries.

McFate Brewing Company

What can we say? We really like beer.

The Henry

Need a cocktail? This place is our favorite!

Grand Canyon - South Rim

Spending a few more days in Scottsdale. The Grand Canyon is just a quick drive away. Appx 230 miles north of Phoenix to the south rim.

Sedona

Got a few extra days? Travel to Sedona to hike the beautiful red mountains or take an amazing spa resort getaway.