Things are heating up in Scottsdale and we’re not just talking about our triple-digit, prime-for-pool-lounging temperatures. With unbeatable values and so much that’s new to see and to do, travelers would be smart to make hay while the sun shines (although we have that year-round).
RESORT VIEWS
THE BIG NEWS: Scottsdale summers are H-O-T. But while temperatures climb to triple digits, resort rates dip to as much as 60 percent off, DJs heat up the pool party scene, kids splash around to their hearts’ content, and the spa deals beckon for relaxation, making Scottsdale the ultimate summer vacation spot. ItsThatHot.com is a one-stop shop for trip planning; whether that means fun for the whole family, resetting with rest and rejuvenation or letting loose as the life of the party.
FIVE SUMMER STAYS:
Westin Kierland Resort & Spa: The Camp Kierland package, with rates starting from $169 plus a $50 nightly resort credit, allows families to enjoy Kierland FlowRider Surf Camp, a lazy river, stargazing, campfire s’mores and more.
The Scott Resort & Spa: Rates start at only $99 at the newly renovated, Old Havana-style resort, steps from Old Town and poised for the perfect summer Instagram shots by the pool or at the trendy Canal Club restaurant and bar.
Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia: Nothing says relaxation quite like a fee-free stay, complete with an enticing lineup of spa specials and culinary experiences, and breathtaking poolside views of Camelback Mountain. Rates start at $135 at this quiet and romantic resort, reminiscent of an Andalusian village.
Hotel Valley Ho: Rates start at just $99 at this mid-century modern gem right in the heart of Old Town. Lounge at the signature OH Pool and party on with Frosé Friday, plus Saturday and Sunday DJ entertainment and drink specials.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Resort: There’s something for the whole family with the Splash into Summer Package, with rates starting at $109. Kids will flip for dive-in movies and barbecues at the pool on Saturday nights while mom and dad enjoy poolside cocktails.
ICYMI: Just opened in February is Castle Hot Springs, a Westroc Hospitality property and Arizona’s only member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Billed as a tranquil adult retreat, the resort embraces a “Digital Detox” philosophy and offers 12 Spring Bungalows, 525 square feet each, and 19 Sky View Cabins, 378 square feet each. Amenities include private terraces with telescopes for stargazing and piping directly from the nearby natural hot springs into oversized tubs.
CULINARY SCENE
THE BIG DISH: In March, a sixth wine tasting room landed in Old Town Scottsdale and began pouring. Maynard James Keenan, lead singer of rock bands Tool and A Perfect Circle, opened Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria representing his northern Arizona wineries, Caduceus Cellars, Puscifer canned wines, and Merkin Vineyards.
SIX MORE BITES:
Known for her locally sourced, elevated veggie creations, Chef Charleen Badman of Scottsdale’s FnB Restaurant was named James Beard Foundation’s 2019 Best Chef: Southwest this month, following five consecutive JBF nominations.
Drunk Munk, a tiki-inspired bar and restaurant, opened in Old Town in March and transports diners and cocktail enthusiasts to an island oasis. On the menu, find sushi rolls, flaming pu pu platters, and tiki-themed drinks (read: the Sandy Pants and Alota Colada).
Tocaya Organica, the SoCal-inspired modern Mexican restaurant, unveiled its second location at Scottsdale Fashion Square May 5, serving up health-conscious and bold-flavored dishes like the Guiltless Gluten-Free Burrito.
Bringing major contemporary-cool vibes in an unsuspecting spot is Hush Public House, just opened in February. Find dishes ranging from small plates like hush puppies and halibut crudo, to swordfish steak and Italian beef.
Keeping visitors cool in the Scottsdale summer heat, the subterranean wine cellar at LON’s at The Hermosa Inn – typically only available for private events – will open May 30-Sept. 15 for parties of two or more.
Talavera at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, is inviting Latin food lovers to experience the flavors of Peru, Brazil, Argentina and more with a new monthly interactive dinner series beginning June 13.
THINGS TO DO:
Just last month, breakthrough concept Wonderspaces opened in Scottsdale, immediately captivating and mesmerizing locals and visitors alike. The current show, “Point of View,” will run through the summer season and showcases works by 13 artists from around the world, including a digital painting installation and a virtual reality dinner party. Visitors can enjoy food and beverages within the 80-minute show while exploring topics such as power, religion, time and reality through these experiential installations. At 16,000 square feet inside Scottsdale Fashion Square, this is Wonderspaces’ first permanent location and the first of many traveling art shows planned for the Scottsdale venue.
For more information, check out Visit Scottsdale at www.VisitScottsdale.com.
