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It’s no secret that Arizona is one of the world’s top vacation destinations. Winter snowbirds have been flocking to this southwest American state for decades, drawn annually by its ample sunshine and dry, temperate climate. And while many travelers are familiar with Phoenix, Tucson and Sedona, we have several reasons to add Scottsdale to your list of Arizona must-sees this winter.
Located just east of Phoenix in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale sits at the foot of the McDowell Mountains near the largest urban wilderness area in the entire United States. Known for its stunning landscapes, upscale charm, and 314 sunny days per year, this mid-sized city is continually rated one of the country’s best places to visit, live and work in.
If you enjoy a vibrant arts scene, you’ll love browsing the more than 80 art galleries and museums found in Scottsdale, including those you can find along the weekly Scottsdale ArtWalk held in the city’s Old Town. Home to more than 90 restaurants and 320 retail shops, Old Town is a destination of its own, spanning nine historic and walkable neighborhoods in the downtown core.
Arizona also has several thriving wine-growing regions, with tasting rooms available right in Old Town so you can sip and sample award-winning vintages while you take in the breathtaking Sonoran landscape. Spas and wellness activities are also an established part of the Scottsdale lifestyle, adding to your winter retreat offerings.
If outdoor adventure is your passion, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from in and around Scottsdale. There are more than 400 miles of scenic desert trails in the area, putting the city on a National Geographic list of 15 best hiking destinations. Golf enthusiasts will have a hard time picking from the 200+ year-round, world-class courses in the area, and the nearby rivers and lakes offer plenty of opportunity for water sports, tubing, fishing and more. There are also miles and miles of paved bike paths to enjoy all over Scottsdale. You really can't beat the warm winter sunshine and cool desert mornings in Scottsdale.
Traveling with kids? Scottsdale makes a great family-friendly destination. Ranches, zoos, an aquarium, horseback rides, kayaking trips and river floats are just some of ways you can experience desert fun with the whole family. And guests at our LVP suite in Scottsdale will have all the equipment for babies and toddlers on site, just like every rental in the Luxus collection of properties.
Ready to book your Scottsdale getaway? Check out The Rocks 101!
THE ROCKS RESIDENCE CLUB
Nestled in the heart of an exclusive Scottsdale community, The Rocks 101 by Luxus is a luxurious retreat in the Sonoran Desert. Featuring a spacious kitchen and great room and an outdoor living space with a private plunge pool and breathtaking views of the open desert, LVP guests also have access to all resort amenities and services, including a private country club and on-site personal concierge. With many of the area’s premier golf courses, hiking trails, shopping, spas, and restaurants nearby, The Rocks Residence is an unforgettable home base for your next Arizona vacation.
Location: 30 minutes outside of Phoenix, in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert.
Climate: Consistent, dry and sunny climate with mild winters and hot summers.
Best Time to Visit: Milder temperatures make fall through spring the most popular tourist times, but summer is a beautiful and less busy season in the desert if you can handle the hot daytime temperatures.
How to Get There: Daily flights to the Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport (PHX), which is 15 minutes away from downtown Scottsdale.
Where to Stay: The Rocks 101 by Luxus
Dining: With hundreds of restaurants across the city, you’ll have access to every type of cuisine and dining experience. There’s also no shortage of outdoor patios where you can soak up the sun or enjoy warm evenings while sampling traditional and modern takes on Sonoran cuisine.
Transport: Walk, bike, taxis, rental cars, Uber and public transportation.
Top attractions: Old Town Scottsdale, McDowell Sonoran Preserve, McDonald’s Ranch, Scottsdale ArtWalk, Salt River, Canyon Lake, Desert Botanical Garden and Frank Lloyd Wright’s former winter home and architectural school, Taliesin West.
Claims to fame: The traditional homelands of the Hohokam, Pima and Tohono O’odham Peoples, Scottsdale has long been a desert oasis for many Native American tribes and communities. Currently one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, it’s also famous for its luxurious resorts, championship golf courses, and high-end boutiques.
Best suited for: Everybody! Couples, families, and groups of friends of all ages, and all activity levels. There is something for everyone in Scottsdale!
Looking for more ideas for your stay in Scottsdale? Our concierge team is ready to help make your winter retreat in Arizona your best yet. Contact us today to see how we can make your trip as personalized and seamless as possible.
Scottsdale is known for its luxury resorts and vacation homes, world-class golf courses, desert scenery, upscale dining, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a popular destination for both relaxing getaways and active outdoor adventures.
Popular activities in Scottsdale include golfing, hiking in the Sonoran Desert, visiting Old Town Scottsdale, enjoying spa experiences, exploring art galleries, and taking day trips to nearby attractions like Sedona or the Salt River.
Yes—Scottsdale is considered one of the top golf destinations in the country, with a wide variety of public and private courses offering beautiful desert landscapes and year-round play. Guests of our luxury vacation rentals at The Rocks Scottsdale enjoy priority tee times at Troon North Golf Club, two of Golf Digest’s Top 50 golf courses in the world.
Absolutely. Scottsdale is known for its upscale dining scene, rooftop bars, craft cocktail lounges, and lively nightlife, including many great restaurants right new The Rocks. The Old Town Scottsdale area is especially popular, where visitors can find everything from casual patios to high-end restaurants and entertainment venues.
Luxury vacation rentals in Scottsdale offer more privacy, space, and amenities than traditional hotels, making them ideal for families, golf groups, and group getaways. Many homes include private pools, outdoor entertaining spaces, mountain views, and convenient access to Scottsdale’s top attractions.
