A Tempe & Scottsdale Travel Guide – Arizona
Arizona is hot right now, in more ways than one. With 300 or so sunny days a year and a backdrop of red rocks everywhere you look, it’s no surprise that Phoenix is among the country’s fastest growing cities. Nearby Tempe and Scottsdale offer overwhelming options for food and fun–and we’re not complaining about the abundance of choices.
This long weekend itinerary will help you explore Tempe and Scottsdale, ensuring you don’t miss any of the hottest spots…
Day One: All Things Tempe
It’s a good idea to rent a car for the weekend so that you can easily navigate between cities. Parking is abundant and affordable, so drive right into the city center and then set out on foot.
Kick your day off in this vibrant college town with breakfast at Morning Squeeze. The Benedicts and potatoes are well worth it, although do note that the fries were a dealbreaker. The aesthetic will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the 70’s. Picture orange booths, bright tile, and an abundance of greenery. It’s cute. After brunch, stroll through the city’s shops and make your way to the palm lined sidewalks of ASU’s picturesque campus for a stroll. You can also walk to the waterfront of Tempe Town Lake to enjoy the park, or set out on the water in a kayak. Go for a gorgeous evening paddle and watch the sun set behind Tempe’s Bridge and the distant mountains.
If you do one thing in Tempe it should be a visit to Pedalhaus Brewery.
This restaurant boasts a wide menu of delicious food and drinks, and the atmosphere draws you in. It’s the open air, exposed brick, vintage bikes and string lights for us. Relax outside at one of the many outdoor seating areas, play bags or ping pong, and enjoy the warm, outdoor evening you came for.
Short hike at our hotel; Marriott at the Buttes
Walk around the grounds at Marriott at the Buttes
Day Two: Old Town Scottsdale
If you’re not too tired from your night out in Tempe, get up early for sunrise at Papago Park the next morning. It’s the perfect spot for an easy stroll. You can hike to the Hole in the Rock or pick one of the other short trails to explore. Since you’re up early, head to Prep & Pastry in Old Town Scottsdale for brunch. Pick from their variety of lattes, mimosas, pastries, and full blown breakfast bowls and sandwiches.
Spend the afternoon relaxing poolside at your hotel (we recommend Marriott’s Tempe at the Buttes for its outdoor atmosphere and proximity to everything). Or, set out for Mesa to hit Arizona’s Fresh Foodie Trail. This trail is all about agritourism, boasting tastings, winemakers, restaurants, and tours. If you only have a few hours to spare, we recommend Fire & Brimstone, and Garage-East (for the wine, of course).
Save room for dinner back in Old Town Scottsdale at Hula’s Modern Tiki. This Hawaiian-influenced restaurant offers hard to beat Happy Hour margaritas and appetizers. The wait can be long on weekends, so put your name in and stroll the streets and shops while you wait. Farm & Craft is another great spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and The Social Tap comes highly recommended for its drinks and nightlife if you’re looking to experience Scottsdale after dark. You can also head back to your hotel for a night-time soak in the hot tub (Tempe at the Buttes just so happens to have three).
Sunrise hike in Papago Park
Mountain views from Papago Park
Scottsdale Restaurants to try:
What is Agritourism anyway?
A merging of agriculture and tourism, naturally. Local farmers, growers, and wineries open their doors to the public to educate people on how their food is grown and made. These groups offer experiences–think tours, tastings, and classes–that encourage people to ask questions and care about what goes on behind the scenes in the ag industry.
Do you know how your food is made? Would you eat it if you did?
Day Three: Get up get active
Did you really go to Arizona if you didn’t go for a hike? Start your third morning off at Camelback Mountain, but come prepared. This trail is harder than you may expect, so wear appropriate shoes and bring a backpack to hold your things. Water is a good idea too. You’ll need both hands to climb the rocks and hang on to the railings at certain points, but the views are unmatched and well worth the work.
If you’re worn out from your hike, spend the afternoon browsing one of the many shopping centers in either city. Barrio Queen boasts authentic Southern Mexican fare, and there’s at least one location in each city, making it a great option for lunch. You can choose to hit the Foodie Trail on this day instead, if you want even more time to immerse yourself in all that Mesa has to offer. Or, relax by the pool and enjoy dinner at your hotel (we promise Top of the Rock Restaurant offers the mountain views you came for).
Camelback Mountain
Wrap it up already
Whether you’re looking to lay poolside, explore the outdoors, or experience local fares and nightlife, Tempe and Scottsdale offer it all. This is the perfect spot for a girl’s weekend, a solo trip, or an adventure with your SO. We especially recommend this spot for young travelers looking for a safe, affordable, and vibrant place to visit.
