Seeking a Solo Adventure? Head to Scottsdale With This 8-Stop Itinerary

This Is the Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

With 330 days of sunshine every year, an extensive host of world-class resorts and enough luxury and leisure to make even the most famous vacation destinations blush, it is easy to see why Scottsdale has quickly become one of the best escapes for those looking to soak up some sun. Whether you’re seeking a scenic mid-morning hike or some of the best pools to lounge around during a lazy afternoon, read on to see our picks for the best way to spend a day in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, even if you’re a solo traveler. Scottsdale Arizona Itinerary

Stay: Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Begin your day by checking into one of Scottsdale’s premier resorts and spas: the beautiful Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. Featuring five different dining experiences—each one drawing inspiration from authentic Spanish cuisine—as well as a breathtaking pool area overlooking the pristine, cardinal cliffs of Camelback Mountain, the Omni is the perfect place for your home base during a visit to Scottsdale.

Scottsdale Arizona Itinerary

Do: Camelback Mountain

Speaking of Camelback Mountain, we recommend starting your trip with a bit of adventure via a guided hike through one of the most scenic areas of the Sonoran Desert. Leaving from the resort, hikers will have the opportunity to travel atop towering cliffs while taking in the gorgeous views surrounding the resort. Just be sure to pack plenty of water!

Breakfast + Coffee: Berdenas

Credit: Halie Sutton

Once you’ve wrapped up your hike, we recommend replenishing with a quick trip for some coffee and breakfast. Therefore your next stop will be in the heart of Old Town, to Berdenas. This spot is equal parts trendy and tasty. With a great selection of pastries and sandwiches to go with a quaint interior with ample seating, Berdenas is the perfect place to recharge before heading out on your next adventure.

Scottsdale Arizona Itinerary

Visit: Desert Botanical Gardens

For your next stop, we suggest a quick trip over to neighboring Phoenix to explore the desert in a way unlike any other at the Desert Botanical Gardens. With over 140 acres of smooth, sandy paths winding through over 4,000 different kinds of flora, the botanical gardens boast one of the most serene, outdoor experiences in all of Arizona. Don’t forget to say hello to our fluttering friends over at the Butterfly Pavilio. In addition stop at the Garden Shop to discover how you can bring some of these gorgeous flowers to life in your own home.

Do: Lounge by the pool + grab a bite to eat at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

After a morning full of adventure, take time to recharge poolside and enjoy a bite at one of Omni’s tasty spots. Head to MBAR for wood-fired tapas and a signature sangria—it’s the perfect blend of flavor and relaxation. Craving something bold? Try the authentic carne asada tacos at Taqueria Centro for a satisfying, sun-soaked lunch. Regardless where you dine, your taste buds will thank you as you unwind under the warm desert sun.

Omni Scottsdale Montelucia
4949 E Lincoln Dr
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
480.627.3200

Scottsdale Arizona Itinerary

Relax: Joya Spa

Credit: Omni Scottsdale

Credit: Jason Dewey

Looking to take your much-needed rest and relaxation to the next level? Once you’ve had your fill of the pool area, head on over to Joya Spa. With a variety of packages and treatments, Joya offers everything from full-length massages to naturopathic wellness experiences. From the moment you walk in, the focus is on comfort, serenity, and total mind-body relaxation.

Our advice? Treat yourself to their signature Black Pearl Detox Facial—it’s a fan favorite for a reason. Let the experts at Joya work out any lingering stress and leave you glowing, inside and out. Meanwhile all of your worries will melt away.

Shop: Cosanti

After that, for a truly unique and artistic experience, head to Cosanti in the heart of Paradise Valley. This architecturally mind-bending gallery and boutique feels like a hidden desert gem straight out of a dream. Its sprawling stonework captures the raw beauty and spirit of the Arizona desert in every curve and corner. Inside, you’ll find an authentic collection of handmade bells, bowls, platters, cookware, and jewelry crafted with care. It’s a place to explore, admire, and maybe take home a one-of-a-kind piece that speaks to the soul. It is truly a marvel to behold—both inside and out—and definitely worth a stop before heading to dinner.

Scottsdale Arizona Itinerary

Dinner: Prado

For your last meal of the day, we recommend indulging your senses in an authentic Spanish meal at Prado—Scottsdale’s premier destination for fine dining. At this old-world restaurant, guests are invited to take part in a communal experience and enjoy wood-fired tapas and breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain. Prado serves up an assortment of Spanish-influenced fare that reflects Spain’s Andalusian region’s unique flavor and heritage. And with everything from Rioja braised short rib and Valencia paella to fritto misto, you’ll definitely want to sample as much as you can.

In conclusion, a trip to Scottsdale is a must-do for you this year.