Searching for the ultimate summer getaway and looking for a deal? I’ve got just the ticket for you, Scottsdale, Arizona! Just imagine yourself soaking in those sun-kissed days, a little poolside lounging, breathtaking landscapes, and a whole lot of fun. Summer in Scottsdale can be a great vacation idea if you know how to plan your days to take advantage of the savings while avoiding the peak heat.
A big thanks to Scottsdale for partnering with me on my recent Scottsdale girls’ trip and showing me many of the great things to do in their region!
Tips for Taking a Summer Vacation to Scottsdale
With so many travelers limited to traveling during the summer season, some may think Arizona is just for the snowbirds escaping the winter. While it’s true that the Phoenix region is especially popular with travelers escaping dreary and cold temperatures, summer in Scottsdale can be a great vacation destination! After taking multiple trips in this region, I’ve got some tips and reasons why it makes sense.
Summer is considered an off-peak season in Scottsdale, which means you’ll often find lower prices and fewer crowds. This is especially true for resorts, attractions, and even golf courses. Take advantage of the reduced rates, and enjoy the opportunity to explore popular spots with fewer tourists.
Experience Scottsdale created an entire webpage to help travelers find deals for the summer season. This is the perfect time to live like a European and take midday siestas in your room before heading out for dinner someplace fabulous.
Relax with Resort Luxury
Scottsdale is renowned for its luxurious resorts, and summer is the perfect time to experience them without breaking the bank. Many resorts offer attractive deals and packages during the warmer months, including discounted rates, spa specials, and complimentary amenities. Treat yourself to a world-class stay, lounge by the stunning pools, and indulge in the resort’s exceptional services at a fraction of the price.
You can find many resorts offering rates between $84 and $129 a night, and if you’re dreaming of staying at one of the premier luxury resorts, summer is the perfect time to score a deal. The Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia is a 5-star property with summer rates of around $229 a night.
Play by the Pool
While summer in Scottsdale brings scorching temperatures, you can still beat the heat with a dip in the pool. Many resorts have elaborate pools with refreshing water features like lazy rivers and waterslides.
The Phoenician, where I stayed for two of my trips, has a multi-level pool complex with three pools, a massive waterslide, a kid’s splash pad, and ample lounge chairs for all guests.
If you’re looking to splurge, you might consider renting a private cabana to help stay cool and out of the sun. Take a dip, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and lounge in style. Cabanas will help you stay in the shade during the peak sun times while also offering you poolside service to keep you hydrated and well-fed.
And in the evenings many of the hotels do movie nights by the pool, one of the most popular is the Dive-In Movies at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This is perfect for family vacations, which are typically during the summer months.
Outdoor Adventure for Early Birds
While the summer heat in Scottsdale can be intense, you can still enjoy outdoor activities by planning them during the cooler parts of the day. Head out for an early morning hike to beat the heat and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the desert landscape.
Alternatively, you can opt for activities such as horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, or guided desert tours, where you can explore the beauty of the surroundings while avoiding the peak temperatures. Hot air balloon rides typically start very early in the morning so it’s the perfect summer activity!
Scottsdale also has 8 lakes and rivers within an hour’s drive of the city. Renting a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to coast on the water is a great way to beat the summer heat. They even have river tubing as a summer activity. Again, aim to be out of the sun during the peak mid-day hours or make sure to cover up and stay hydrated.
Spa Retreats and Wellness
Get ready to indulge in self-care and relaxation by booking a spa day at one of the many spas in Scottsdale. Summer is the perfect time to book a treatment and enjoy some of the fabulous spa facilities. You’ll be pampered indoors with treatments like massages and facials, then make your way to the thermal pools and saunas to relax and detox.
Many of the resort deals I mentioned above involve deals for spa services or hotel spending credits that can be used on the property. This can be a way to feel like you’re scoring a deal while indulging in some self-care.
Based on my personal experience, I can recommend The Phoenician Spa as a perfect spot to spend your day. My facial was delightful, then I spent another few hours enjoying the steam room, hot tub, and most especially the rooftop pool. By the way, the spa’s rooftop pool comes with cabanas and poolside food & drink service, so you can truly spend the whole day in the spa!
Golfing Paradise
Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise, and summer provides a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class golf courses without the crowds. Take advantage of discounted rates and tee off on meticulously manicured greens surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. The summer months can offer a quieter and more leisurely golfing experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the game and the beautiful surroundings.
You can also take advantage of early tee times and elevation variations to beat the summer heat. The golf course at Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is a slightly higher elevation which means they might be 10-15 degrees cooler than other regions of Scottsdale. Plus, you can get green fee rates as low as $89 per player during the summer.
Indoor Activities
Of course, an easy way to beat the heat is to stay indoors! Scottsdale has plenty of amazing attractions that you can enjoy from the comfort of air conditioning. From museums to shopping malls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while staying out of the sun.
I’ve toured Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, which is filled with cowboy and Native American artifacts. I’ve also visited Wonderscapes which is a modern art installation exhibit in the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, which is a great indoor activity, too. Scottsdale also has a Contemporary Art Museum and a Musical Instruments Museum.
For adults, Scottsdale boasts a wine trail that offers you the chance to visit a few different indoor tasting rooms and sip some Arizona wines. While I’m typically a red wine drinker, there are plenty of cold rosés and whites to enjoy on those hot Arizona days.
Day Trips to Natural Wonders
Lastly, Scottsdale’s location allows for exciting day trips to nearby natural wonders that run around 10-20 degrees cooler in the summer. Take a break from the desert heat and head to Sedona’s stunning red rocks or plan a visit to the iconic western town of Prescott. These destinations are within a couple of hours’ drive from Scottsdale and offer a refreshing change of scenery and unforgettable experiences.
While summer in Scottsdale can be hot, with a little planning and the right mindset, you’ll have an amazing time exploring while enjoying some fantastic travel savings. So, pack your sunscreen, stay hydrated, and get ready for a summer vacation to Scottsdale!
