With enviable summer weather year-round, Arizona’s claim to fame (besides countless cacti) is being home to some of the country’s top resorts, restaurants, and outdoor recreation. So, live like a desert dweller with this must-do list that’ll leave you with your Vitamin-D fix and a surplus of sunset selfies with the hubs.
Live the High Life: The Phoenician
While you may be going on a mini-moon, that doesn’t mean you should settle for anything less than the best when it comes to where you recharge. The Phoenician is one of Scottsdale’s most-renowned AAA Five Diamond resorts because of its unparalleled amenities, which include elegant dining options, a trapeze, close proximity to golf courses, a pool complex complete with bright yellow cabanas, and top-of-the-line rooms. You and your sweetie deserve to live like a queen and king, and that’s how you’ll be treated at this desert oasis, romantically tucked away into the Camelback Mountains. (room rates vary; thephoenician.com)
Where to Play: Talking Stick Resort and Casino
Located on the Salt-River Pima Maricopa Indian Reservation, Talking Stick Resort and Casino is not just a premiere destination to play and stay, but also a piece of history. The modern resort offers everything you could ever want to let loose, relax, or even enjoy Vegas-style entertainment. Whether you want to be dazzled at a magic show, rock out at one of the many concerts that stop here, or enjoy one of Arizona’s famous pool parties, you just might never want to go up to your room — although we guarantee you’ll need a rest with everything there is to do. (room rates vary; talkingstickresort.com)
Take a Hike: Camelback Mountain
Item number one on a desert bucket list? Take a hike on Scottsdale’s mega-Instagrammed Camelback Mountain. There’s two trails, Cholla Trail (1.23 miles to summit and manageable) and Echo Canyon (extremely steep and suited for those brave at heart), so choose the one best suited to your abilities. Snap one of your first married memories accompanied by a drop-dead gorgeous background – you’ll certainly keep that honeymoon-high up while you’re up here. (free; climbcamelback.com)
Day Trip: Serenity in Sedona
While Phoenix has plenty to offer adventurous mini-mooners, you’d be silly not to take a short two-hour road trip up north, where the rocks are red, the air is cooler, and your spirits will be lifted higher. Visit the world famous Chapel of the Holy Cross, which offers panoramic views of Sedona, stroll around the artisan shopping center, Tlaquepaque, to savor authentic Mexican food and shop for Southwestern art, and get in touch with your chakras by visiting a healing vortex or palm reader. All your post-wedding stresses will instantly be swept away just as fast as your Mr. swept you off your feet. (sedonachamber.com)
Newlyweds in Nature: The Grand Canyon
You’ve already discovered one (and the most important) of the Seven Wonders of the World (we’re looking at you, hubby), so why not explore another one together? Start your marriage on an adventurous foot by hiking the Grand Canyon to uncover millions of years of geological history, walk over the newest glass walkway, and take the ride of a lifetime on a Pink Jeep Tour. ($43.42 and up ; grandcanyon.com)
Explore the Local Scene: Downtown Phoenix
Phoenix has recently made national headlines for its thriving artist community, Roosevelt Row, particularly during the Super Bowl in 2015. Better known as Ro Ro, the area brings together downtown Phoenix with historic districts in the area with coffee shops, restaurants, cultural events and monthly First Friday art walks. Make sure to get your java fix at Songbird (we recommend the dirty chai) or JoBot, and get a Guy Fieri-approved plate of pancakes at Matt’s Big Breakfast. Make sure you pack the shades while you’re walking around because it’s always bright in the desert. (rooseveltrow.org)
To-Die-For Eats and Drinks (and atmosphere): Fox Restaurant Concepts
You’re doing Phoenix wrong if you don’t dine with at least one of the mouth-watering, perfectly-decorated restaurants from Fox Restaurant Concepts. Go to The Henry for a complete coffee bar or brunch, Zinburger for a variety of gourmet burgers (we recommend pairing with zucchini fries and a Nutella shake), Sauce for a Caesar salad pizza, or Flower Child for quick, healthy bites and fruity lemonade in a cheery atmosphere. (foxrc.com)
Sweet Date Spot: Sugar Bowl Old Town Scottsdale
Take a trip back in time with an old-fashioned sundae or milkshake at one of Scottsdale’s most beloved ice cream diners. The Candyland-esque building, complete with bubblegum barstools and a game room, will make you feel like you’re on a first date again – butterflies included. Make sure to wear your girliest outfit to match the sugar-sweet décor. (sugarbowlscottsdale.com)
Hit a Home Run (With the Husband)
We’re sure your honey’s eyes will light up even more than they already do when you suggest spending an afternoon rooting on one of Arizona’s top teams in their state-of-the-art (air-conditioned) facilities. The Valley of the Sun means business when it comes to creating a crowd-pleasing event for everyone with unreal options for the foodie and plenty of entertainment.
360 Views: Compass Arizona Grill at Hyatt Regency Downtown Phoenix
For a fool-proof romantic dinner, the Compass Room is known as the city’s best date spot when you want a peaceful dinner for two. Situated in the famous spinning room, which continuously rotates 360 degrees, this fine-dining restaurant lets you see every angle of Phoenix without moving a muscle, so you can focus your time gazing into your soulmate’s eyes – and that dessert (compassarizona.com).
The Duce: Kid Around
Your first dance just wasn’t enough boogie time with your sweetie, so swing dance the night away at one of downtown Phoenix’s best kept secrets. Nestled inside a rockin’ retro warehouse, The Duce is the ultimate big kid’s playground, complete with mason jar cocktails and Guy Fieri’s stamp of approval on Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives. With a strawberry shortcake drink in hand, play some corn hole, ping pong, or have a hula-hoop contest with the hubs (theducephx.com).
