Tourists flock to Scottsdale for its cutting edge restaurants, upscale shopping and outdoor activities. The month of March is one of the busiest, not only because the average temperature is a perfect 75, but also because the Giants Spring Training is at the local stadium. Twelve hours will only touch the surface of this fascinating city, but you will still leave relaxed, refreshed and nourished. Here is what to do in Scottsdale in 12 hours.
MORNING MUNCHIES (9:30am)
Start you day with some morning munchies at The Breakfast Club. Though they offer some “lean & mean” selections, I would opt to indulge in the strawberry pancakes ($8.95). After all, you are on vacation.
4400 North Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ, 480-222-2582
SHOP, SHOP, SHOP (10:30am)
Shopping is an easy answer to what to do in Scottsdale. Get a flavor of the West by spending some time shopping in Old Town Scottsdale. The streets are lined with Southwestern specialty shops selling jewelry, souvenirs and such. You will feel as if you have been transported into a different place and time.
Main St. @ Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale
SEE A MASTERPIECE (12:30pm)
Take a tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, a masterpiece that Wright started building in 1937. It now is home of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, a foundation that was formed to preserve his legacy by teaching people the importance of architecture and the principles of his work.
12621 North Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, 480-860-2700
LATE LUNCH (2:30pm)
Sit on the patio for lunch at North Restaurant in Kierland Commons. Start with the Zucca Chips ($5), they are like zucchini french fries that you just can’t stop eating! Also, Don’t pass up the “Tutta la Casa” Salad ($11) that is the perfect blend of Italian goodies. After filling up on fabulous modern Italian food, take the opportunity to stroll around Keirland and window shop at the upscale establishments.
15024 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 160, Scottsdale, (480) 948-2055
WALK THE CANAL (6:00pm)
The Canal path in Scottsdale is still a work in progress, but worth a leisurely walk. Restaurants, retail shops and loft living line the banks near the waterfront.
Scottsdale Rd. & Indian School
DINNER BELL RINGS (7:30PM)
Eating well is a must on the list of what to do in Scottsdale. Head over to Roka Akor for the fanciest sushi meal you will probably ever have. The ambiance oozes of the trendiness that Scottsdale epitomizes and the presentation of the food will not disappoint any foodie.
7299 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, 480-306-8800
AFTER DINNER DRINKS (9:00pm)
Enjoy the cushy patio at Olive & Ivy for some after dinner libations. This is a great place for people watching and chatting with the neighboring customers. Don’t…and I will repeat…Don’t miss out on the housemade pesto with focaccia. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
7135 E Camelback Rd, Suite 195, Scottsdale, 480-751-2200
What else would you add to the list of ‘What to do in Scottsdale’?
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I have been dying to go to Arizona and see all the FLW sites! The minute I saw Scottsdale I thought of Taliesin West. Did you end up visiting?
Yes, I did go to Taliesin West and it was amazing! I highly recommend going to Scottsdale, there is so much to do and the weather is gorgeous (maybe not in August).
I guess I've never really thought about Scottsdale, or Arizona in general, for that matter. The only thing I know about it is that's it where Bret Michaels lives/where his "Life as I know it" is filmed.
The idea of a 12 hour vacation sounds awesomely cool! Since I live on the east coast, it won't be to AZ! Maybe hubby and I can find a cool place to head this Saturday!
Great idea!
Bernice
A 12 hour vacation – what a neat idea! I could think of a few things I could do in Scottsdale in 12 hours, but I like your list better! Thanks for the great suggestions!