If You Want a Relaxed Scottsdale Day

If you want an easy outing without much planning, Old Town Scottsdale is one of the best places to start. You can wander through shops and galleries, stop for coffee or brunch, and enjoy the area’s mix of historic charm and lively nightlife. If you would like something a little more design-focused, Taliesin West makes a beautiful and memorable addition to the day.

If You Want a Classic Desert Experience

To enjoy the natural beauty of the area, we recommend Desert Botanical Garden for a scenic and low-key outing, or an early hike at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Papago Park, or Camelback Mountain if you want a more active adventure. The desert is especially beautiful in the morning, and starting early is usually the best way to stay comfortable.

If You Love Art, Culture, and Museums

If museums are more your speed, the Heard Museum and the Musical Instrument Museum are two of the best in the area. The Heard is a wonderful place to experience American Indian art and culture, while MIM offers an especially distinctive experience built around music and instruments from around the world. For guests who want a neighborhood atmosphere as well, Downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row are great places to explore local art, food, and drinks.

If You Want a Bigger Arizona Adventure

If you are turning the wedding into a longer getaway, Sedona is well worth considering. With its red-rock scenery, hiking, galleries, and shopping, it makes a beautiful day trip or overnight add-on. That said, it is not especially close for a quick outing. The drive is about two hours from Phoenix each way, and often a bit longer from Scottsdale depending on your starting point and traffic, so it is best for guests with extra time before or after the wedding weekend.

If you are looking for memorable places to dine while you are here, these are excellent options in Phoenix and Scottsdale, organized by cuisine:

Mexican: The Mission, Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila, Call Her Martina

Italian: Fat Ox, Marcellino Ristorante, Luna by Giada

Asian / Japanese: Uchi Scottsdale, Nobu Scottsdale, Tiki Taka

Steakhouse: Maple & Ash, J&G Steakhouse, Bourbon Steak

Mediterranean: Persian Room, Noor Mediterranean