Ready and Roam / Arizona Desert
Plan
Best time to GO: March/April, September/OctoberOur first visit to Arizona was during Spring break. My husband suggested we try to work in a visit to a National Park and stay stateside that year. Because it's consistently warm in AZ and Phoenix offers great flight options for "snow birds" in the Spring, we choose to visit Scottsdale and the Grand Canyon. The PHX airport is a hub for connecting flights of all kinds, and Southwest flies there cross country year-round. Rent a car before you leave the Phoenix airport and take the 1/2 hr drive to Scottsdale. You'll want the car for adventuring in the Scottsdale area but also for the roughly 4.5 hour drive to the South rim of the Grand Canyon. It's important to mention that the South rim is open year round. But the North rim is not only harder to get to, but closed November through mid-May.
Rtip: If you want to include whitewater rafting in your itinerary, be aware that rafting tours are only offered April - Oct out of Peach, AZ (which is 2 hrs East of the South rim).
Learn
Falling rocks, plane crashes and dehydration, oh my! While most of the roughly 800 deaths that have occurred in the Grand Canyon since the 1800's are clear accidents, the majority of those deaths are still somehow morbidly fascinating. Inspired by the 2001 book, Over the Edge: Death in the Grand Canyon, this map, engages us in all the disturbing details. Listed by cause of death and area, these grim endings include failed river crossing attempts, murder, and death by critter. Who knew you could get so lost in a map?
Stay
House Rentals Away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you’ll find North Scottsdale. It’s not exactly a hop, skip and a jump, but if you are willing to make the 30 minute drive there are a lot of great homes for rent in this area, like this one. Tucked between the boulder filled mountains, hiking and golfing is king, and the views are expansive. If you are in a big group you must jump on this unreal luxury rental built right into Camelback mountain (contributor favorite). As an family interested in the Grand Canyon I’d suggest you head out even further, to this great property from Kid & Co in Sedona.
Rtip: Wherever you end up, consider spending a day at the Four Seasons where an appointment in the spa (they even offer kids treatments) allows you access to the resort all day. The nachos poolside have been described as "life-changing," and pair well with a seasonal margarita.
HotelsThe Scott Resort / reservations at Booking.com
Recent renovations only secure this resort as a favorite if you want to be in Scottsdale. The pool scene is low key and the location is fab for walking. A sandy bottom pool is reminiscent of being at the beach. The room size and balcony offer great privacy, and the expansive lobby is wonderful for just hanging out.
RTip: Ask to leave behind your luggage when you head out for an overnight adventure. We left our bags with the bellman at The Scott for 2 days to go North and explore the Grand Canyon.
The Boulders Resort & Spa, Carefree, AZ / reservations
What’s nice about this property is that if feels smaller than it is. It’s like you are living in an impeccably manicured country club and the golfing is world class. You’ll feel right at home in a nice Casita near the lodge pool without having to trek too far for anything. If you need more space there are certainly options for that, but most rooms have a generous living room and patio. They do offer this four bedroom house on property through Vrbo if you find yourself needing a lot more space or an extended stay. Bonus, it’s a Hilton property so if you aren’t using points you’re earning them. The staff is eager to help and tips are included.
BeSpoke Inn / reservations at Booking.com
With only eight impeccably designed rooms, this is the ideal option for any couple who is looking for the level of privacy standard in a house rental, but with the custom amenities of a luxury resort. The restaurant is fabulous, and as a guest you can enjoy breakfast for only $10.
Civana Wellness Resort & Spa, Carefree, AZ / reservations with booking.com
If you are traveling with girlfriends, look at Civana Resort & Spa. Newly revamped, this 4.5-star luxury wellness resort is completely peaceful, unpretentious and affordable. They offer complimentary fitness and movement classes, farm to table restaurants, and don’t go without making time to relax and restore in the spa.
El Tovar Hotel / website
If you decide to travel to the Grand Canyon, El Tovar offers historical luxury and direct park access. This hotel is perched on the edge of the Grand Canyon inside the South Rim of the National Park. There are less than 80 rooms, of which 12 suites have a view of the canyon, and only a handful of those offer a balcony overlooking the rim. Reopened June 15, 2020 after covid-19 closures and recent property upgrades.
RTip: This historic property is inside the park grounds but if you’d prefer to be elsewhere then the best alternative is The Grand Hotel, at the Grand Canyon. It's only 1 mile from the park entrance and 10 minutes from the South rim trail. The pool and hot tub are a nice way to end the day, and their food is arguably the best in Tusayan. If you are looking to stay at the Phantom Ranch Cottages at the bottom of the canyon, a year round lottery opens 15 months in advance of arrival.
Explore
Hiking ScottsdaleOur favorite hike in Scottsdale is Pinnacle Peak, it's a very worthy hike with beautiful views. The trail is well laid, and manageable for all abilities and ages.
Hiking Camelback is not for the faint of heart, but climbing to the summit is more than doable if you are prepared, properly hydrated and up for an adventure. There are two sides of the mountain to climb, the steep and strenuous 1.2 mile Echo Canyon Trail head or the 1.5 mile Cholla Trail, which offers a more gradual climb (that is until you get close to the summit)! There is public parking at both trail heads. Echo Canyon offers facilities like a bathroom and a shady canopy where you can check and double check that you have enough water, you're properly sun-blocked and you've read all the warning signs suggesting you "read the warning signs." The parking lot is often full, but have faith and just keep driving around the roundabout as it turns over quickly. As is the case hiking anywhere in the desert get there early, the sun can become merciless as the day goes on. There will be a cappuccino or cocktail waiting for you at the end, you can do it!
Rtip: Climb up Echo Canyon and down Cholla. You can reward yourself with lunch or a cocktail at The Phoenician. This luxury resort is a quick walk from the Cholla side of the mountain. From there it's a simple Uber back to Echo Canyon where you parked your car.
Horseback Riding Macdonalds Ranch is the perfect place to feel like a desert cowboy. They offer private horseback rides for 1-2 hours at all skill levels and only 25 minutes from Scottsdale. Family owned since the 50's they raise gentle horses and they treat them well. Make a reservation well in advance or call ahead to may sure they have availability.
RTip: Stop by the Scottsdale Target for a great selection of kids cowboy boots to round out their horseback riding experience without blowing all your Lincoln skins.
Grand Canyon National Park If you heading to the Grand Canyon we suggest you drive through Sedona, and then along the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic by-way. The road parallels a meandering brook, creating a lush green oasis framed by Sedona's iconic red rocks and jagged cliffs. A completely different feel from the dry AZ desert. Stop at the scenic overlook just past the switchbacks and visit the Native American vendors while you take in the view. From here continue on to Flagstaff, where you must stop for a Rueben at Proper Meats and Provisions- one of the best ever! If time allows you can take your lunch with you to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for a picnic at sunset.
Rtip: Bring an empty water bottle with you because at the bottom of the canyon you can stop at the Sterling Springhouse and get your fill of Natural Artesian Spring water. It was once rumored that Living Springs, where the spring flows, "was a mystic healing ground for the Native Americans.”
The best way to absorb the enormity of the Grand Canyon isn't to stand at a scenic lookout behind a camera lens, but to do something active. From the South rim you can take an airplane tour, horseback ride, or smooth water raft. Because our kids are little, we choose to see more of the Grand Canyon on a bike ride along the rim. Depending on the season, Bright Angel Bicycles offers several tour options, up to three times a day, and includes rentals, guides and stops to take in the view. We choose the Hermit Road Tour which involves a shuttle, ends at a the Hermit's rest gift shop and takes you along roads otherwise closed to public vehicle traffic. They ask you arrive 1/2 hour early to get fitted for bike and check in, so plan for extra time to drive the 7 miles from Tusayan to the visitor center parking lot. The south entrance station vehicle permit is $30 and even if you've pre-purchased your pass, you still need to show the ranger your permit. While the entrance is open 24 hours there are certain times of the day that the line of cars can get backed way up.
Rtip: Swipe an extra water bottle. They are my kids favorite branded swag.
Shop
Saba's Western Wear / website
When it comes to shopping, we always like to seek out something different, something we can't find at home. This family owned, hand-crafted western wear shop is filled with an amazing assortment of cowboy boots. The price tag is authentic too, but the boots are so fabulous you'll actually wear them again.
Pendleton Wool / website
There is no place in the US I'm more inclined to buy an authentic Pendleton blanket than in Arizona, and they have a store front in Old Town. Although Pendleton was founded in Oregon in the early 1900's, the company's passion for national parks and support of the native Americans translates beautifully into the Arizona landscape. Even on the warmest evening I'd love to cover myself in their signature stripes and sip Chardonnay.
Tierra Del Lagarto / website
This gem of a spot is chock full of housewares and furniture to make anyone fell like a world traveler. Their giant show room is a treasure chest of items from around the globe. India, Morocco or Mexico they’ve got something unique to discover you even if you aren’t in the market to buy.
Outrageous Olive Oil / website
We are bound to seek out an olive oil shop whether we're in San Francisco or Minneapolis, and Scottsdale is no exception. This spot has been a favorite of ours over the years, and under new ownership they have undergone a complete renovation. If you are in the area checkout their oil and vinegar pairings and tell owners Paige & Frankie we said hello.
Old Town Candy & Toys / website
While it's not unusual to find Neccos or Raggedy Ann dolls in kitchy shops like this one, however Old Town does stock plenty of Arizona exclusive souvenirs, including cactus candy and little outlaw vests. We walked away with the least nostalgic items we could find, including a sensory ball for the pool and a feathered Indian headband.
Devour
Scottsdale & Old Town,The Breakfast Club / website
Not surprisingly, you'll have to get in line for breakfast on the weekend. After you get your name on the list, pop in line for drinks at the side bar and go outside to enjoy the AZ sun while you wait for a table. There are six different kinds of Benedict, the staff is super attentive and they serve alcohol.
RTip: While they don't take reservations, you can put your name in before you arrive through the nowait app. That's the best way to time your arrival, track your spot in line, and minimize your wait.
The Mission Old Town / website
It's worth waiting for a coveted lunch spot on the patio by the fire, and for dinner you’ll want a reservation well in advance. Start with the shrimp anticuchos and the guacamole, and then be sure to order a variety of tacos & tortas to share. The black bean puree and the poblano grits are incredible sides and every one of the margaritas are fabulous.
RTip: While you wait for a table, visit the actual adobe Mission next door. If you say please, the volunteer attendant might let you ring the church bell.
Virtu Honest Craft / website
This restaurant is settled inside the charming Bespoke B&B in old town Scottsdale. With it's weekly menu of fresh seafood and handmade pasta it's easy to see why it's getting so much press. Make a dinner reservation near sundown, so you can slip into the evening with a craft cocktail under the picturesque patio lights. During your stay be sure to check out sister restaurant Pizzeria Virtu on Main Street.
RTip: For more places to eat in this area, check out our Foodie Guide to Arizona, and if you are interested in unique outdoor dinner experiences check out Cloth and Flame for upcoming events.
Further afield in North Scottsdale / Carefree,La Grande Orange Grocery and Pizzeria / website
Not exaggerating everyone recommends, La Grande Orange and for good reason. It’s a fun, gourmet, chic spot that serves everything from delicious breakfast sandwiches to brick oven pizza and sushi. The coffee is incredible and they open at 6:30am so you can stop in before or after your Camelback adventure.
The Grotto Cafe / website
An ideal brunch spot to grab anything you might be craving after a good hike. Whether it’s a breakfast burrito, biscuits and gravy, or a chicken salad sandwich. They also serve spicy Bloody Marys (a little on the Clamato side for my husband) and fantastic local IPA. There is plenty of space inside and out so don’t let the line intimidate you.
Taqueria inside the Indian Village / 6746 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
Suggested by contributor Liz Seaman, this secret place is legit and not even on the internet. Inside the Indian Village Gift Shop you’ll find authentic Mexican favorites and killer frybread. Once outside you’ll find a quaint back patio to plop down at a shady picnic table and stuff your face with the saltiest tortilla chips, chunky handmade guacamole, and any combination of tostadas, enchiladas or tacos you can dream up.
Lamp Pizza / website
If you need a pizza fix, as we always do on vacation, check out Lamp wood-fired pizza. Just be sure to order your take away well in advance because they get busy with a capital B. They have a ridiculous number of delicious salads and almost as many white sauce options as red (which makes my daughter’s heart sing). Yum!
In Sedona,Although it’s not on any kind of direct route to the Grand Canyon, Sedona is a perfect 1/2 way spot for lunch (2.5 hrs between each stop) Plus you won’t want to miss the scenic route we outlined above in “explore.” As for where to eat, you’ll likely want to go for the aforementioned Reuben from Proper Meats and Provisions. If you’d rather sit down, it should be very easy to get into The Hudson for lunch, which serves American food and offers fabulous views from inside and outside on the patio. You can decide to make a meal of the starters or go for a burger. The house made corn chowder is delicious. Another option for lunch would be to grab Italian from Pisa Lisa.
If you are overnight in Sedona, The Coffee Pot is wonderful for breakfast with over 100 omelette choices as well as authentic Mexican. Elote is fabulous for dinner, but it’s also “the place to go” so you’ll need reservations a month or more in advance. Another option, nestled in a wooded bank on the water, is Cress on Oak Creek. Whatever you decide, be sure to fill your belly because the food is nothing to speak up once you arrive at the National Park.
Sip
This is the best coffee shop and not just in Old Town but maybe anywhere. Everything is delicious, and the place is adorable. Super chic specialty lattes that will knock your socks off.
Proof Cantina / website
Proof at The Four Season’s Troon North is the best place for a cocktail, mid afternoon, late night or first thing in the morning.
Take
A lightweight layer & beanie, a list of great podcasts, a weekend bag and some great pool toys.
Rearview
Next time we're feeling like an active Spring break adventure, we'll head out of Phoenix the other direction to Tanque Verde Ranch. This dude ranch vacation spot has been on our list for a while, and we look forward to the cowboy cookout, horseback adventures and a prickly pear margarita real soon. Cheers to experiencing something new as a family while still finding time to relax.
