With gorgeous outdoor scenery, charming local culture and plenty of fun activities, Scottsdale is the perfect destination for a couples getaway. If you’re thinking of planning a weekend getaway to Scottsdale with your significant other, here are some of the top things we recommend for a memorable couples getaway to Scottsdale.
Outdoor Fun
Hiking
If you enjoy the outdoors, there are fantastic hiking trails in the Scottsdale area to explore. The moderately challenging hike up Camelback Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert landscape. If Camelback feels too intense, consider an easier hike like Pinnacle Peak Trail for spectacular desert views without as much elevation gain. After your hike, you might want to go grab a beer at a nearby brewery (try Pinnacle Brewing near Pinnacle Peak, or OSHO Brewing near Camelback), or spend the afternoon poolside at your vacation rental, soaking up the sun and resting your muscles.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Catch a sunrise or sunset while on a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. Float above the desert landscape and take in the spectacular 360° views drenched in golden hour colors. GoodNight Stay has a special partnership with Rainbow Ryders, the largest and most established hot air balloon company in the Southwest – make sure to contact them for exclusive pricing on a hot air balloon adventure. The birds-eye view from a hot air balloon is a unique and romantic experience to share with your loved one while in Scottsdale.
Desert Adventures
Experience the desert landscape up close with a tour of the trails through Tonto National Forest. Step into the romance of the Old West with a horseback trail ride through the desert and meander along the scenic trails at a leisurely pace. Or if horseback riding isn’t your thing, head out on a UTV Tour, where you can fly through the dirt trails with a guide to show you all the best spots.
Stargazing
The clear Arizona skies and the desert’s lack of light pollution make stargazing a peaceful way to spend an evening with your significant other. You can likely see a fair amount of stars from your vacation rental, or you could join a guided stargazing tour at nearby dark sky areas like McDowell Mountain Regional Park, where experts will help you spot constellations and learn more about the night sky.
Relaxation
Spa Day
Indulge in a day of pampering with your loved one at one of Scottsdale’s world-class spas. Luxurious day spas at The Phoenician and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer couples packages that include side-by-side massages, aromatherapy treatments, and access to amenities like plunge pools, saunas and steam rooms to rejuvenate you and your loved one. GoodNight Stay guests can take advantage of discounts through ResortPass Scottsdale, giving you and your partner access to over 50 different hotels and spas in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area! An IV session is another great way to relax and recover from desert activities. Check out Revitalize Mobile IV, one of GoodNight Stay’s exclusive partners for our vacation rental guests. If you prefer a more intimate and private setting, they’ll come directly to your vacation rental for a personalized IV session in the comfort and privacy of your home!
Wine Tasting
Explore Scottsdale’s wine scene with a tasting tour along the Scottsdale Wine Trail. This collection of local tasting rooms and wine bars in downtown Scottsdale gives you the opportunity to sample Arizona-produced wines paired with gourmet small plates. A wine tasting experience is the perfect romantic activity, especially for couples looking to enjoy a relaxing and intimate outing.
Explore Old Town
Take a leisurely walk with your partner through the charming streets of Old Town Scottsdale, a vibrant area filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. Visit during the day for a laid-back vibe, or go in the evening when the area comes alive with live music and bustling nightlife for a more energetic date night.
Desert Botanical Garden
Explore the beauty of the desert at the Desert Botanical Garden. This 140-acre garden showcases the diverse plant life of the Sonoran Desert and it’s truly a lovely way to spend a few hours with your loved one. The Desert Botanical Garden is particularly magical in the evening as the sun sets and illuminated pathways create a romantic ambiance. They also host a variety of events that are perfect for couples, like Music in the Garden (starting October 4th, 2024), Light & Bloom (on October 12th, 2024), and the enchanting Las Noches de las Luminarias (from November 29th, 2024). Be sure to check the event calendar and make advanced reservations for a special date night!
Check out Modern Art
Immerse yourselves in modern art at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. This intimate museum features rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, architecture, and design. The peaceful environment offers a chance to connect with your partner on a deeper level while taking in world-class art.
Calling All Frank Lloyd Wright Enthusiasts
Visit Taliesin West, the winter home and studio of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, where you can take a guided tour of this National Historic Landmark to learn about Wright’s designs and how they harmonize with the desert landscape. The unique architecture and rich history make for a fascinating and romantic outing.
Scottsdale Restaurants
There are a wide range of great restaurants in Scottsdale where you can enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one. Here are just a few of our top picks for a date night!
Café Monarch
Consistently ranked as one of the top fine dining restaurants in the country, Café Monarch is the top tier of luxury romantic dining in Scottsdale. A frequently rotating four-course prix fixe menu is served in an elegant space, with chandeliers and a candlelit patio creating a romantic ambiance. Impeccable service and a focus on the guest experience is a recipe for romance at this Scottsdale institution.
Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain
This farm-to-table dining experience features an Asian-American fusion menu with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Time your reservation for sunset to enjoy stunning views of Paradise Valley from the sleek, modern dining room or the outdoor terrace. It’s a romantic yet slightly more relaxed alternative to ultra-fine dining.
The Mission
This intimate spot in Old Town Scottsdale delivers cozy ambiance and bold Latin flavors. The menu features a mix of modern Latin-inspired dishes, from grilled street corn to tableside guacamole, paired with a fabulous range of craft cocktails. The dim lighting, rustic brick walls, and flickering candlelight create an inviting atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner.
Olive & Ivy
Olive & Ivy offers a charming Mediterranean-inspired menu in a beautiful setting along the Scottsdale waterfront. The menu includes shareable plates like hummus and flatbreads, as well as fresh pasta, seafood, and salads. The twinkling lights, waterfront views, and casual-chic decor make it a great spot for couples who want a laid-back yet romantic dinner.
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
If you want a casual night out, Cien Agaves serves up a playful twist on Mexican cuisine. This lively Mexican restaurant is known for its authentic tacos, vibrant atmosphere, and extensive selection of over 100 premium tequilas. Guests of GoodNight Stay receive a 15% discount here!
Plan Your Scottsdale Couple’s Getaway
GoodNight Stay offers a selection of Scottsdale vacation rentals perfect for couples, with all the space you need while also offering luxurious amenities like pools, hot tubs, private patios, and prime locations near all of Scottsdale’s top attractions. You can easily sort our vacation rentals by bedroom size to find the perfect fit for you and your loved one.
Stay in a cozy apartment like Blue Abode, where you’ll have a private patio, communal pool and quick access to downtown Scottsdale. Or opt for a luxury condo like The District, with high-end finishes and luxury amenities right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. If you want total privacy, check out Desert Paradise, where you have plenty of space to spread out and a private backyard with a hot tub.
Whether you’re hiking up scenic trails, indulging in a couples’ massage and pool day, or enjoying a romantic dinner with a mountain view, Scottsdale has something for every couple looking for an unforgettable getaway. Our Scottsdale vacation rentals provide the privacy and comfort that make your trip feel even more special. Book your vacation rental with GoodNight Stay and start planning your ultimate couples getaway to Scottsdale!