With it’s signature red rock landscape and endless sunshine Phoenix is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Phoenix is home to a dynamic art scene and it’s proximity to the Sonoran Desert and several lakes and mountains means you’re never too far from a bit of adventure . I’m partnering with Hotels.com to share some of my favorite Phoenix adventures and if you want red mountain hikes, crave a bit of culture or desire nothing more than to lounge in a poolside cabana Phoenix has everything you need for a great weekend away.
This post was sponsored by Hotels.com but all opinions remain my own.This post may contain affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.
Friday
Where to Stay
For a truly relaxing getaway in Phoenix I definitely recommend looking at one of the many resorts in Scottsdale. Scottsdale is well known for it’s world class luxury resorts featuring over the top pools that are the perfect complement to the warm Sonoran sun. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale features a 2.5 acre aquatic playground with 10 pools, 20 fountains and a three-story tall tall high speed waterslide; while the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess features a 9,000 square foot white sand beach and six different pools.
Street Art in Roosevelt Row
Head to downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row for a self guided art walk. This revitalized arts district is home to one of the most dynamic street art scenes in the southwest as well as a handful of independent boutiques and galleries. If you happen to visit on the first Friday of the month be sure to check out the First Fridays Art Walk and A.R.T.S Market, featuring over 80 art spaces, galleries and vendors celebrating Phoenix’s creative spirit.
Saturday
Hot Air Balloon
A hot air balloon ride tops many bucket lists and with over 300 days of sunshine each year and the beauty of the Sonoran Desert Phoenix is one of the best places in the US to make your ballooning dream come true. Watching the sun rise from behind red rock mountains while gliding up to 5,000 feet above the desert landscape is equal parts thrilling, magical and surreal and with a champagne brunch after you land this flight with Hot Air Expeditions is one experience you won’t mind getting up early for. If you’re a first timer be sure to check out my tips for your first hot air balloon ride.
Spa Time
Scottsdale is a mecca for luxurious destination spas but I can’t imagine any of them topping Spa Avania. Select your treatment from a full menu that includes facials, massages and body treatments. After an hour of bliss at the hands of your skilled esthetician spend the rest of the afternoon at the spa’s private French mineral pool soaking in the shadow of towering palm trees. Other great spas include the Joya Spa at the Omni Scottsdale and the Alvadora Spa at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa.
Sunday
Take a Hike
Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale is perhaps the best known hike in Phoenix but the nearby Usery Mountains, Tonto National Forest and Superstition Mountains have miles of trails waiting to be explored. While beautiful the Sonoran Desert is a wholly wild place; make sure you stay on marked trails, watch out for wildlife (snakes and coyotes call this area home) and stay hydrated.
Taliesin West
Taliesin West was the winter outpost of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and it’s here where you can see the architect’s signature brand of organic architecture on full display. Equal parts Flintsones and mid-century modern, Taliesin West is where you can discover the history of Frank Lloyd Wright, his family and students (Taliesin West continues to serve as an architectural school to this day). Make sure to time your visit to Taliesin West for the evening a stunning sunset views over Scottsdale and the surrounding McDowell Mountains.
MikesRoadTrip says
My hometown. Nice piece.
Josy A says
Oooh ballooning, hikes aaaand a spa? This sounds like heaven. It is such a strange (but pretty) landscape.
Do you have to hike super early in the morning to avoid the heat?
Andi says
As you know I live in Phoenix, so I can tell you that you NAILED it! I have experienced many of these activities and really think it is the best of the best. We’re lucky enough to have a wide variety of choices when it comes to resorts which make for excellent staycations or for out-of-towners – a fabulous weekend!