What we’re about to say may be controversial, but after a long weekend in Scottsdale, Arizona, we’re now convinced this is true. Are you ready for it?
Not every holiday getaway needs to have snow.
There, we said it. While sure, a “white Christmas” is dreamy and all, there is something equally magical about Scottsdale during the holiday season. This desert town comes alive in the prettiest (and oftentimes quirkiest ways), and it absolutely stole our hearts. No gloves or snowboots required!
Here’s our Scottsdale Holiday Hit List that’s bound to have you already planning your 2020 holiday vacation.
COACH HOUSE TAVERN
Not only is Coach House Tavern known for being Scottsdale’s oldest tavern, but they’re also known for taking Christmas lights REALLY seriously. Like, you can’t believe your eyes seriously. Our mouths were dropped from the moment we approached the tavern, and exploring the inside made us even more impressed. Every square inch is decorated with colorful Christmas lights - it’s truly something to witness. Order a drink (or two) at the bar, pull up a stool, and make some friends. See ya there next year?
The coolest Christmas bar we’ve EVER seen!
CHRISTMAS AT THE PRINCESS
You can’t visit Scottsdale during the holiday season without a visit to Christmas At The Princess, the iconic Christmas experience at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The spacious and stunning resort is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with light shows, ice skating, festive rides, treats, characters, and SO much more! There’s even an area called “S’mores Land”, complete with s’mores making kits and cozy campfires. It’s a Christmas lovers dream!
CHRISTMAS TOUR WITH JOYRIDESAZ
What better way to admire Scottsdale’s Christmas decor and holiday charm than by a guided golf cart tour? The friendly folks at JoyRidesAZ make every single tour unique and so much fun. Interested in wine tasting? They’ll take you to the best tasting rooms in Old Town! Fascinated by the history of Scottsdale? They’ll take you to some must-see landmarks. Looking for that perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post? They know the best photo spots (and are amazing photographers too)! We had a blast adventuring through town with them, and some of our favorite pictures from our trip were taken by the JoyRidesAZ crew. It’s absolutely a must-do!
We loved seeing Scottsdale by golf cart!
JoyRidesAZ took us to all the best spots!
MCCORMICK STILLMAN RAILROAD PARK
One of the most quintessential holiday experiences in Scottsdale is the Holiday Lights train ride at the quaint McCormick Stillman Railroad Park. Riders of all ages can take in a joyous array of lights, music, and dazzling displays… and for only $5 per person, it’s quite a steal! After the train ride, make sure to check out their on-site Scottsdale Railroad Museum, which brings the history of railroads to life!
The attention to detail was incredible!
SHOPPING IN OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE
Old Town Scottsdale is charming no matter the time of year, but it’s truly something special at Christmastime. The streets are strung with colorful lights, the shops are decorated with charming displays, and everyone’s abuzz with holiday cheer. We recommend walking the streets in the late afternoon, with a cup of hot cocoa or a peppermint mocha in-hand. Then, grab an early dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants nearby.
Maybe we should make this an annual holiday tradition?
The holidays may be over, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to start planning for Christmas 2020. (And if you’re anything like us, anticipating your next holiday getaway is part of the fun!) We can’t recommend Scottsdale enough, and we can’t wait to return next year… with our little one in tow!