One of the top travel destinations in the American Southwest, boasting an impressive 330 days of sunshine, Scottsdale is a city of contrasts – embracing both a Wild West heritage and history as a haven for artists and writers, including architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright. Today, the pristine desert playground offers travelers an array of award-winning dining, five-star wellness resorts, world-class golf courses designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer & Jack Nicklaus, a flourishing contemporary art scene, and plenty of natural beauty.
STAY
The ultra-private, five-star Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort dates back to the 1950’s and is situated on 53-acres along Camelback Mountain. Most of the property’s casitas, suites, and villas boast their own private entrances, making it a celebrity-favorite. Enjoy its infinity pool overlooking Paradise Valley from a private cabana, an award-winning 12,000 square-foot spa offering Asian-influenced treatments, easy access to hiking trails, and acclaimed dining at The Jade cocktail bar and signature Elements restaurant inspired by the natural elements of earth, fire, water, and air,
The five-star Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is a wellness basecamp nestled into the foothills of Pinnacle Peak and was once known as the Crescent Moon Ranch, a finishing school for debutantes. The 40-acre property features 210 pink, adobe-style casitas and suites, some with private plunge pools and wood-burning fireplaces. For the ultimate in luxury, indulge in an in-casita private dining experience, a four-course menu in the comfort of your residence. Property experiences include a Celestial Picnic for two under the stars, complete with an astronomer, or connect with nature with a signature desert bathing excursion.
DINE
Nationally recognized Cafe Monarch is a family-owned fine dining restaurant in Scottsdale’s historic Old Town, serving a four-course prix fixe menu, as well as wine recommended by its Court of Master Sommeliers-recognized staff members. Also in the city’s Old Town is Marcellino Ristorante, consistently ranked among the top restaurants in the state of Arizona. Don’t miss the Italian Roots experience, a two-hour, five-course chef-driven gastronomic adventure – Chef Marcellino (who has cooked at the James Beard House on several occasions) creates a personalized menu paired with Italian varietals to elevate each dish. Maple & Ash steakhouse’s Scottsdale outpost is located in the waterfront district, with a menu crafted by two-Michelin star chef Danny Grant. Since opening this location in 2019, it has become a new hotspot for delicious food and opulent wines, receiving a mention from Wine Spectator as “one of the most amazing wine lists in the world.” Discover “the epicenter of creative Arizona cuisine” (Food & Wine) in downtown Scottsdale at FnB restaurant. Helmed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Charleen Badman, the farm-to-table eatery serves New American cuisine showcasing the state’s agricultural bounty and uniquely offers an Arizona-only wine list.
DRINK
Scotch lovers, head to the Westin Kierland for their evening of scotches, featuring 3 personally picked scotches from their extensive Scotch list, paired with chef-curated canapes.
The Beverly on Main is Scottsdale’s most intimate and upscale cocktail lounge, featuring a variety of unique cocktails with a focus on your classic nightlife atmosphere. Q 1Looking to try what Arizona’s wine scene has to offer, then the Aridus Tasting Room (previously an old art gallery), is a must. Aridus is a family-owned winery located in Wilcox, just a few hours away, that produces varietals including whites like viogner and malvasia bianca, and reds like graciano and cabernet franc, and is known to be one of Southern Arizona’s best wineries.
DO
Scottsdale is a golf fanatics heaven, with over 200 golf courses in the area it is known for being one of the greatest places to play golf in the world. Tee off at the Tom Weiskopf-designed Golf Troon North, known for its challenging two 18-hole golf courses surrounded by views of the Sonoran Desert and Pinnacle Peak.
Don’t miss the city’s thriving Arts District, home to buzzy galleries, shops and restaurants. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, features rotating exhibits showcasing contemporary architecture, art and design from a melting pot of artists. For architecture buffs, a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s personal winter home, Taliesin West, is a must.
Time is best spent outdoors, in Scottsdale – located right in the magnificent Sonoran Desert. The city is a top destination for hiking, with 400+ trails for novices and experienced hikers alike. From Camelback Mountain to Pinnacle Peak and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, there’s no shortage of desert beauty to explore.
How to get there:
Scottsdale is the ideal cold season getaway with high temps in the 70s well into the winter months. Fly private to Scottsdale Airport (SDL), located just nine miles from the city’s downtown. Get there in just one hour in our spacious CJ3 private jet, with space for up to six passengers. Find the right private jet for your trip and price your charter flight by contacting our air charter advisors at 800-214-8215.
