THE TO GO LIST

Looking for a rejuvenating escape with the girls? Scottsdale, Arizona is the ultimate destination for a girls’ weekend getaway filled with wellness experiences and hidden gems waiting to be explored. 

From yoga classes to scenic hikes, health-conscious food, local shopping and more, this Scottsdale girls’ weekend itinerary is the perfect balance of taking care of and treating yourself to all that this luxurious destination has to offer!

Why Scottsdale is the Perfect Girls’ Trip Destination

Scottsdale upholds a reputation as a wellness oasis with its many resorts and spas, scenic desert hikes, and golf courses. When you and your girls need a recharge of the mind, body, and spirit, this desert gem is perfect.

In fact, Scottsdale is on a path to becoming a Blue Zone – a longevity hotspot with a high concentration of people who live to be 100 or older. Blue Zones share commonalities such as a deep sense of community, primarily plant-based diets, moderate alcohol consumption, and naturally active lifestyles.

How to get to Scottsdale

Fly into Phoenix International Airport. Upon landing, pick up your rental car or take an Uber to your accommodations. 

If you opt not to rent a car, Scottsdale does offer a free trolley, which operates Monday – Friday from 5:45 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.

When to visit Scottsdale

Spring and Fall are the most pleasant times to visit Scottsdale. The weather is cool enough to hike in the mornings, and warm enough to lounge by the pool during the day.

Where to Stay in Scottsdale

Artists’ Sanctuary AirBnB

Experience the feeling of seclusion with the convenience of everything you need within minutes of this stunning AirBnB. 

The Artist’s Sanctuary is a slice of paradise tucked away in Arcadia, just ten minutes from the airport, Old Town Scottsdale, and hiking trails. Perfect for solo travelers or up to two guests, you’ll be personally greeted by the host, Christine.

The picturesque property includes a saltwater pool and shaded outdoor lounge, along with a zero-scaped patio. 

Inside the tastefully decorated studio, you’ll find a queen bed, TV, kitchenette with a Nespresso and pods, additional seating, and a bathroom with all the essentials. 

For groups of 3 or more, or for those who prefer a hotel, check out Andaz Scottsdale.

Wellness Options

Start your days off with a sunrise yoga session with views of the stunning Sonoran desert. Many of Scottsdale’s world-class wellness resorts offer daily classes open to the public. Alternatively, you can opt to hire an instructor to lead a private class at your AirBnB. 

Looking for relaxing spa services? Indulge in therapeutic massages, revitalizing facials, and soothing body treatments designed to melt away stress at a local resort.

For a more unique wellness experience, consider trying a sound healing session under the stars or rock mandala painting. These practices will leave you feeling grounded and spiritually renewed.

*Be sure to make reservations for any of the services mentioned above to ensure availability.  

Hidden Gems

Among the resorts and desert landscapes are tons of hidden gems. From lesser-known restaurants and shops to full on ghost towns, Scottsdale is full of surprises. I’ve included some of these in the itinerary below, so if something really intrigues you, you can always swap it out!

Hike: Embark on a scenic hike through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where you’ll discover hidden trails, stunning desert vistas, and an abundance of wildlife. Keep an eye out for petroglyphs and ancient ruins hidden among the rocks – a reminder of the area’s rich history and culture.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: See Scottsdalearea from above, without having to climb! Licensed pilots will fly you above the desert in brightly-colored hot air balloons during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Shop: Visit Cosanti Originals, a cultural site on the Arizona Registry of Historic Places, also known for its handmade windbells. The otherworldly dwellings that make up Cosanti were designed by architect Paolo Soleri, who intended to contribute to creating a world that is in balance with nature, with an emphasis against hyper-consumerism.

Learn more about the history of Cosanti Originals on a guided tour.

Ghost Town: Just 45 minutes from Scottsdale lies Goldfield Ghost Town, an old mining town set along the historic Apache Trail, dating back to the 1890s.

Goldfield was originally home to three saloons, a boarding house, general store, and a schoolhouse. The town has been revitalized as a family-friendly tourist attraction, which includes shops, a museum, mine tours, and a train where you can ride and learn about the history of Goldfield and the Superstition Mountains.

Eat: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a date milkshake from Sphinx Date Company. This family-owned market sells a variety of artisan-sourced gifts and local dates, plus Arizona beer and wine.

The Perfect Scottsdale Girls’ Weekend Itinerary

Here’s how to enjoy the perfect girls’ weekend getaway with a focus on wellness. 

Day 1

Arrive at Phoenix International Airport. Pick up your rental car, and drive to your accommodation. While Uber/Lyft does service Scottsdale, having a rental car will allow you to get around much more conveniently.  

Head over to Sushi Brokers for dinner and drinks. Be sure to order the calamari — the dipping sauce is incredible! 

Day 2

Wake up bright and early to grab a bite before hiking Camelback Mountain. 

*Depending on the time of year, you can start the hike a bit later in the morning, but I would advise aiming to be finished by 1 p.m.

Less than ten minutes away is Schmooze, one of Old Town Scottsdale’s best breakfast spots. Fuel up with coffee and a breakfast burrito or bowl, and plenty of water. Schmooze, which does not take reservations, offers counter service with the option to sit inside or out on their beautiful patio.

After breakfast, head to Camelback Mountain to begin your hike. Choose from two trailheads: Echo Valley and Cholla. I have only started this hike from the Cholla trailhead, but other hikers along the trail said this was the harder of the two. You can also do this hike from point to point (starting at Echo Valley and ending at Cholla or vice versa), and take an Uber back to your starting point.

This strenuous hike is 2.6 miles roundtrip with 1,420 feet of elevation gain. Keep in mind that there is a lot of loose gravel, and that you will have to scramble during the last portion before arriving at the summit.

Hiking Tips:

-Follow the blue trail markers for the most direct and safe route

-Bring at least a liter of water in a water backpack to allow your hands to be free

-Wear grippy hiking shoes or boots

After the hike, visit Kaleidoscope for a rejuvenating organic juice or smoothie. This local gem has multiple locations in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area; the closest to Camelback is in Old Town Scottsdale.

Head back to the AirBnB to freshen up, or cool off in the pool! 

Once you’ve had a chance to relax, head back to Old Town for some shopping before dinner. Here you’ll find everything from clothing boutiques to native jewelry, cigar shops, home furnishings and more. 

There are some amazing dinner options in this area, including Olive & Ivy (upscale), Zuzu (swanky neighborhood favorite), and Farm + Craft (cute and casual). Whichever you choose, be sure to make a reservation ahead of time as this area tends to be busy on weekends.

After dinner, grab a night cap at AZ88, a well-known contemporary bar famous for their martinis. Prefer a mocktail? Ask the bartender for recommendations!

Day 3

Enjoy a leisurely morning before brunch at The Canal Club.  

Located inside The Scott Resort & Spa, this Cuban-inspired American restaurant has a small menu filled with several delicious vegetarian options. Enjoy brunch out on the terrace underneath an umbrella, or opt to stay in the air conditioning in the gorgeous indoor dining space. 

After brunch, drive to Cosanti for some local shopping, and marvel at the unusual structure and sustainable offerings.

Next, take a half-day trip to Goldfield Ghost Town: an 1890’s mining town located among the Superstition Mountains. Tour the mine, learn about the town’s history, shop in the revitalized historic buildings, and even get a tattoo!

If you have time before sunset, drive a bit further down the historic Apache Trail (SR-88) to reach Lost Dutchman State Park. Here, you’ll find many trails with beautiful views and wildlife. Entrance to the park costs $10 per car.

After your Wild West adventures, head back to Scottsdale and make a stop at Sphinx Date Company to pick up locally-sourced dates and other goods. Treat yourself to a date milkshake as a pre-dinner dessert!

Wrap up your last day in Scottsdale with a delicious meal at Toca Modera. This modern Mexican Steakhouse features sustainable and organic cuisine, unique live entertainment and a stunning design. No matter when you read this, I promise I will still be thinking about their truffle quesadilla (not pictured because we ate it so fast!).

And that’s a wrap! With the perfect blend of wellness experiences and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered, Scottsdale is the ultimate girls’ weekend getaway destination. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Scottsdale has something for everyone.

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