72 Hours in Scottsdale

What To Do

With over 200 golf courses, Scottsdale is a golf mecca. When you’re not teeing off, wander through the local art galleries and shops of Old Town or wind through the spectacular desert terrain on horseback. When you’re ready to relax, go for a luxury massage in world-class spas or cool off at the pool. Here’s how to spend the perfect weekend in Scottsdale with family and friends:

Day 1

8 a.m. | Kick off your vacation—and kick up your heart rate—with a breathtaking hike up iconic Pinnacle Peak. With an elevation gain of 1,300 feet, this 3.5-mile, moderately strenuous out-and-back jaunt rewards you with panoramic views of the rugged Sonoran Desert. Be sure to pack plenty of water and a picnic snack.

12 p.m. | Play cowboy for the afternoon with a guided horseback ride through the Tonto National Forest with Cave Creek Outfitters. Let your guide entertain you with facts about the flora and fauna of the area as well as local lore. Known for their well-mannered horses and small group rides, Cave Creek Outfitters is accommodating for every level of equestrian.

3 p.m. | It’s time for a mid-afternoon treat at Scottsdale favorite, Sugar Bowl. This bubblegum pink ice cream parlor has been serving up sweet treats since 1958 and fun fact—it’s often depicted in the Family Circus cartoons by Bil Keane. Enjoy fountain-style food and old arcade games at this classic desert watering hole you just can’t miss.

6 p.m. | Revel in the painted desert sunset sky while sipping fine wine on the back porch of your vacation home. Tired from a day of travel and adventure? Let a private chef take the reins for dinner tonight and prepare a delicious meal for your family in your own kitchen.

Day 2

9 a.m. | Tee off with preferred access to the nationally recognized Pinnacle Golf Course. With its beautiful, tree-lined fairways and dramatic views of the McDowell Mountain Range, this renowned 72-par course is a golfer’s paradise. Hone your skills at the expansive practice range and putting-chipping facility or join a pro for a golf clinic.

2 p.m. | Relax on your private patio or cool down poolside at the Clubhouse with your family and soak up some Arizona sunshine. Don’t forget the SPF!

4 p.m. | As the desert sun begins to drop, experience the Southwestern charm of Old Town—walk the saloon-style storefronts full of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries before stopping at Culinary Dropout on the Scottsdale Waterfront for happy hour. This laid-back gastropub features $4 mug beer and well cocktails. For a salty treat, don’t miss the pretzel and provolone fondue.

7 p.m. | Dinner is served at The House Brasserie, a quaint Victorian-inspired dining room serving up high-quality, French-influenced American cuisine. Opt to sit outside on the lush patio and sip a glass of wine from the exquisitely curated wine list or enjoy a hand-pressed cocktail.

Day 3

10 a.m. | Relax and unwind with a massage in one of The Clubhouse’s spa treatment rooms just steps from your residence. Take a dip in the hot tub or relaxation pool before your treatment and watch your cares melt away. Make it an afternoon when you grab a healthy bite to eat with poolside food and beverage service or get in a workout at the state-of-the-art fitness facility.

1 p.m. | Be inspired by the geometric shapes and straight lines of Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert escape, Taliesin West. This spectacular architectural marvel served as Wright’s winter home, studio, and architectural laboratory. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the now home of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the School of Architecture is open for a variety of tours.

6 p.m. | Head to The Mission for a date night dinner out. Enjoy sophisticated, Latin-inspired cuisine with meats prepared on a traditional Plancha or mesquite wood grill and homemade tortillas, sauces, and salsas in an intimate setting amongst the candlelight. Try the Chorizo Porchetta, a grilled pork shoulder with chorizo, rosemary, cotija cheese, white bean puree, and sweet garlic crema.

Where To Stay

The Rocks Club

The Rocks Club is a gated community in the heart of Scottsdale. The three- to four-bedroom residences each feature spacious layouts, rich finishes, and expansive patios with near-enveloping desert views for balanced indoor/outdoor living that is inviting for every vacation, whether an Arizona golf getaway or family reunion.

During your stay, enjoy access to the community’s private clubhouse and amenities, including spa treatment rooms, lap pool, and seasonal, chef-prepared dining menus. Your luxury vacation home is a short 45-minute ride from the Phoenix airport and gives a feeling of seclusion while placing every regional offering within reach.

Residences: 11 | Bedrooms: 3-4 | Bathrooms: 3-4 | Square Feet: 3,000-3,200