Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

AN ADVENTUROUS (AND ROMANTIC) BABY MOON IN MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

Since we’ve found out we were expecting, it feels as though we’ve been “babymooning” non-stop. We made a list of all of the spots we wanted to be sure to visit pre-baby, and did our best to make it happen. With the exception of the Maldives (one day!!), we hit up nearly every place on our list!

As we’ve neared the impending due date, we’ve followed our doctor’s advice and kept the trips closer and closer to home. We decided to make our last and final hurrah before baby a scenic road trip up the coast of California to the coastal town of Morro Bay. We loaded up our car seat (just in case), and headed four hours north of our home in Orange County… and it was the perfect ending to the most special season.

Below are some of the trip highlights that we highly suggest y’all do - we share about where we stayed here, and where we ate here. (Two very important details, that clearly demanded their own blog post.) ;)

KAYAK WITH CENTRAL COAST OUTDOORS

The friendly husband and wife duo that run Central Coast Outdoors offer all kinds of adventurous and scenic tours - from biking, to hiking, to kayaking! We went on a half-day private kayaking tour to the dunes, where John (our knowledgeable and witty guide) set up a picture-perfect picnic lunch. And the lunch was as good as it looks!

We saw sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals, several types of rare birds, learned about the incredible National Estuary, and thoroughly enjoyed our time out on the water. I (Alli) expected to have a harder time sitting in a kayak at eight months pregnant, but it was actually quite comfy! (Just make sure you go to the bathroom beforehand.)

John prepped our lunch while we explored the dunes!

EXPLORE THE MORRO BAY EMBARCADERO

During our three days in Morro Bay, we basically lived on the Embarcadero. Our vacation rental was steps away, most of the restaurants we visited were there, and the shops and views kept us entertained for hours. This iconic stretch is a must-see, as it’s home to some of the best scenic overlooks and many of Morro Bay’s finest attractions. Some not-to-miss spots include Crills 2 (the best saltwater taffy in town), The Shell Shop (a famous seashell sanctuary), The Garden Gallery (a jaw-dropping plant and home shop), and The Morro Bay House of Jerky (for a delicious salty snack).

We wanted everything at The Garden Gallery

ENJOY A COUPLES MASSAGE AT THE BLOOMING ROSE DAY SPA

We’ll take any excuse for a couples massage, and when we heard about Blooming Rose Day Spa, we immediately booked an appointment! This waterfront day spa (located conveniently on the Embarcadero) is warm and inviting, and the owner Alexis and her team couldn’t be nicer. Our massages were excellent (Alexis gave me an incredible prenatal massage) - and we both said we’d drive back to Morro Bay just for this! They’re mobile as well, and will happily come to your hotel/vacation rental for a more personalized experience.

SEE THE SEA OTTERS

Hands down the cutest, most playful and photogenic friends in Morro Bay are their resident sea otters. This small, sheltered bay is a perfect habitat for these adorable furry creatures, and seeing them bob and play in the water is absolutely magical. We couldn’t get enough of them! Our favorite spot to watch the otters was near the T-shaped dock by the Great American Fish Company, where there’s a giant kelp bed for them to feast on. Don’t forget your cameras!

HIKE ALONG BLACK HILL TRAIL

For the best views of Morro Rock and the surrounding area, spend an afternoon hiking along the stunning Black Hill Trail. This is the perfect hike for a babymoon, as from the parking lot, it’s an easy .6 mile round-trip trail… yes please! (For those looking for a longer hike, you can start further down Black Hill.) The sights from this 661 foot volcanic peak left us breathless, and the best part is, it’s free to the public!

TOUR THE MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM

Open Thursdays-Mondays, the small but mighty Morro Bay Maritime Museum is well worth a visit. Guests can learn about California’s fascinating maritime history, walk around a rescue submarine - and if you’re lucky, you may even get to go inside! (We did, and it was SO cool.) And just like the Black Hill Trail, this beautifully executed museum is free! Win/win!

TAKE A SUNSET CRUISE WITH ESTERO ADVENTURES

One of our favorite memories from our time in Morro Bay was the sunset cruise we did on a pontoon we rented from Estero Adventures. Starting at $90 for a one-hour rental, it’s a fun and leisurely way to take in the sights of Morro Bay - and see the sea otters up close! We had the boat to ourselves, but they seat up to 8 people, so be sure to invite your friends!

WALK ALONG THE MORRO STRAND STATE BEACH

On our last day in Morro Bay we went for a morning beach walk along the Morro Strand State Beach, and it was the perfect way to close out our trip. This gorgeous coastline is absolutely spellbinding, and the views of Morro Rock are unparalleled. We didn’t want to leave! (Depending on how much time you have, we recommend bringing some blankets and a picnic, and making a day out of it!)

Nothing like long walks on the beach at 8 months pregnant :)

We really feel like we ended our babymoon adventures in the best possible location… and we’re already dreaming about the day that we get to bring our baby back to Morro Bay! Until then, we’re hunkering down and getting our home (and ourselves) ready for the baby. Any day now!!

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, Foodies

WHERE TO EAT (AND DRINK) IN MORRO BAY IN 2020

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, Foodies

You know that “seafood diet” joke? The one you probably grew up hearing your dad say - that he’s on the seafood diet - he sees food, and he eats it? (Enter a laugh track here.) Well during our babymoon in Morro Bay, we were literally on a seafood diet - nearly all of our meals involved seafood… and it was AMAZING. You wouldn’t believe the amount of oysters Bobby consumed in a 72-hour period.

Anyway, this quaint seaside town is bursting with cozy restaurants and fabulous fresh fish, and if you’re on a “seafood diet” - it’s a definite must. (And even if you’re not a seafood fan, there’s plenty of spots for you too!)

Here’s our list of where you should eat (and drink) in Morro Bay:

BREAKFAST SPOTS:

BUTTERCUP BAKERY AND CAFE :: If a warm latte and a light breakfast is your jam in the morning, then Buttercup Bakery and Cafe is the spot for you. This homey and welcoming cafe has everything from breakfast bowls to avocado toast, and their baked goods are out-of-this-world delicious. It’s a casual, order-at-the-counter type place, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a favorite among locals. We’d hands-down be regulars here if we lived in MB!

FRANKIE AND LOLA’S :: For a more hearty, full-service breakfast experience, there’s no place better in town than Frankie and Lola’s! From their specialty omelettes to their famous iron skillet potatoes, to their hearty breakfast burritos, this is the kind of place you come hungry. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, try one of their delectable brioche cinnamon rolls!

Delicious breakfast bowls at Buttercup Bakery!

Breakfast sandwich goals at Frankie & Lola’s

SEAFOOD SPOTS:

TOGNAZZINI’S DOCKSIDE TOO :: Ask any Morro Bay local where to get to go for lunch, and chances are they’ll send you to the family-owned Tognazzini’s Dockside Too! This fish market sells some of the freshest, most delicious fish in town, and their spacious patio nearly always has live music. AND, it’s dog-friendly… so bring your pooch!

THE GALLEY SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR :: We’re big fans of this cozy seafood restaurant for two reasons - the unparalleled ocean views, and their dedication to fresh, local seafood and ingredients! Most of their fish is supplied from local fishermen, and their produce comes directly from their head chef’s farm! Oh, and if that’s not enough, The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar has a really impressive wine list, too!

DUTCHMAN’S SEAFOOD HOUSE :: You can’t go to Morro Bay without popping into Dutchman’s Seafood House and having a bowl of their famous clam chowder. It’s absolutely delicious, as is the rest of their extensive and affordable menu. (If you’re looking for a break from all of the seafood options, try their burger!)

WINDOWS ON THE WATER :: Our pick for a classy date night, Windows On The Water serves some of the finest, highest quality seafood in town, and boasts picture-perfect views of Morro Rock! They also have some incredible steak and woodfired pizzas on the menu (we opted for those), and the ambiance couldn’t be more romantic. Make a reservation in advance!

Do you think we have enough food at Tognazzini’s?

Had to try the steak at Windows on the Water!

SPOTS TO HAVE A DRINK:

TOP DOG COFFEE BAR :: We love stumbling upon local spots, and this fun and welcoming coffee shop is definitely one of them. Top Dog Coffee Bar serves some of the best micro-roasted coffee in Morro Bay, and every purchase aids local dog shelters! Talk about a win/win! (They specialize in some pretty delicious hot dogs too, if you’re hungry!)

LIBERTINE BREWING COMPANY :: We knew we loved this bar from the moment we walked in and saw they were playing reruns of The Office on their TV’s. Known for their Double IPA’s, Barrel-Aged Stouts, and Belgian Sours, Libertine Brewing Company is a must-stop for beer drinkers. And Wednesdays-Saturdays they have live music!

And his favorite beer at Libertine Brewing

Alli Talley

March 2, 2020

Arizona, USA, Weekenders

YOU MUST GO TO YUMA

Alli Talley

March 2, 2020

Arizona, USA, Weekenders

Yuma, Arizona is one of those places we’ve grown up hearing about, but never really knew what was there. It wasn’t until our friend Jennifer very enthusiastically convinced us to do some research, that we realized we’d underestimated this historic (and incredibly quirky) desert town. One week later, and we were on our way!

Yuma’s a perfect weekend trip. We were there for just over 48 hours and while our schedule was jam-packed, it felt like a very easy and doable getaway. Below are the spots we visited that we would definitely recommend. Consider this your “hit list” for when you visit!

STAY

HILTON GARDEN INN YUMA :: Overlooking the Colorado River, and walking distance to all the best restaurants and shops, The Hilton Garden Inn is the place to stay when you’re in Yuma. The rooms are clean and spacious, the facilities are beautiful, and the staff couldn’t have been sweeter. There’s a fitness center, pool, cozy lobby bar and restaurant right on property… and it’s very affordable, too! (Win/win!)

Nice, new Hilton Garden Inn in a great location!

DINE (& DRINK)

CAFECITO :: Finding good coffee in a destination is typically our go-to mission when we arrive, and we were overjoyed to stumble upon Cafecito. Located in a quaint, restored little house, this coffee shop and breakfast spot is a favorite among locals - and it’s easy to see why. Their drinks are great (try their cold brew on tap!), and their breakfast bowls (the Cafecito Oats are a must!) are as pretty as they are delicious!

THE GARDEN CAFE :: This tucked-away breakfast spot is a must-visit, if not for the picturesque garden ambiance, but for the made-from-scratch breakfasts they prepare each day! While Bobby is quick to recommend Yuma’s famous Kammaan Sausage (he went back the next day for seconds), I loved their fruit bread - either way, you won’t be sorry!

THE PINT HOUSE BAR AND GRILL :: With over 50+ craft beers on tap, and a mouthwatering menu featuring artisan pizzas, burgers, and tacos, The Pint House Bar and Grill is most definitely our kind of place. Come on a Wednesday and enjoy any burger on the menu + a craft beer, for only $10!

LUTES CASINO :: One of the most iconic (and eclectic) restaurants in town is Lutes Casino, which has been a Yuma staple for almost 70 years! Be sure to try the “Lutes Especial”, a cheeseburger and hotdog combined - and a special since 1951! Owned and run by the Lutes family, chances are you’ll see Bob, one of the Lutes brothers, serving up drinks and laughs behind the bar. If you do, say hi! Bob’s notorious for making friends and flirting with pretty ladies… you might even get one of his famous keychains!

MR G’S :: Ask any Yuma local where the best breakfast burrito is in town, and they’ll most definitely send you to Mr. G’s! Whether you’re eating there or grabbing to go, you can’t beat their hearty, made-to-order, and affordable burritos… no matter the time of day!

PRISON HILL BREWING COMPANY :: Some of the best food (and BBQ) in town can be found at Prison Hill Brewing Company. We’re big fans of their fried avocado appetizer (a must!), and their Smoked Meat Plate is not to be missed. Come hungry.

The craft beer scene is brewing in Yuma thanks to Prison Hill Brewing - check out the upcoming Rio De Cerveza Brew Fest. Savor regional craft beer at the Colorado River State Historic Park, along the water with great live music and lots of sunshine. For tickets and more info check out www.riodecerveza.com

SUNSET ON THE RANCH :: If you plan your trip to Yuma just right, you can make one of the most idyllic (and romantic) culinary experiences in town - Sunset on the Ranch. It begins with a tractor-pulled wagon ride around a farm, which takes guests to a picture-perfect farm-to-table dinner highlighting Yuma produce and a local gourmet chef. Take a look here for dates and times.

Coffee is always a good idea… especially from Cafecito

Yummy Mr. G’s breakfast burritos for the road.

Bobby would be back in Yuma tomorrow for more Kammaan sausage.

Hamburger with a hot dog in it at Lutes’ Casino. How have we never thought of this?

Bobby may or may not of had the meat sweats after eating his whole plate.

Loving the views of both the ranch and the food!

KAYAK THE COLORADO RIVER :: We can’t think of a better activity on a warm, Yuma day than kayaking the Colorado River! Our guide Ken and his team are happy to take groups of all ages for a peaceful and educational cruise along the river. And if you’re lucky, you might even see a beaver!

YUMA ART CENTER OPEN POTTERY CLASS :: Roll up your sleeves and get messy! We had a blast learning the ins and outs of sculpting with clay - and the friendly folks at Yuma Art Center made the whole experience a blast! (We even had our “Ghost” moment, if you know, you know.) ;) Check their site for class dates and times.

LUTES’ WEDDING CHAPEL :: Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of old-time hollywood, or if you happen to be looking for an legendary spot to say “I do”, a stop by the famous Lutes' Wedding Chapel is a must! Back in the 1930’s there was an extremely long waiting period to get married in California, so many impatient lovers and Hollywood stars made their way to Yuma to get hitched quicker. And this time capsule of a wedding chapel has barely changed since!

YUMA TERRITORIAL PRISON :: Another place that’s a must-visit for history buffs is the Yuma Territorial Prison, which ran from 1876 to 1909. It housed over 3,000 criminals during those 33 years, and was named “The Most Haunted Destination in the Country” by Usa Today in 2019! It’s a fascinating look into prison life and the infamous people that spent time behind bars - many of which were women!

THE CAMEL FARM :: Just an easy 20-minute drive from downtown Yuma is The Camel Farm, a family-run farm raises and rescues all kinds of animals, and they currently have over 150! There’s camels, zebras, goats, and donkeys (among others), and many of which you can hand-feed! They even have a “Zedonk” - a mix between a zebra and a donkey!

IMPERIAL SAND DUNES :: When you’re heading in (or out) of Yuma, be sure to make a detour to the Imperial Sand Dunes for a striking photo opp! You’ll instantly feel as though you’ve been transported to the Sahara desert, and your friends and family won’t believe their eyes when they see your pictures!

Family photo before the kayak adventure.

Our “Ghost” moment. It was Bobby’s first time trying his hand at pottery.

Please don’t leave us here! It’s spooky!

Yuma was full of delicious food, lively culture, and captivating old west history. Once you’ve experienced it, it’ll be a place that YoU MA(st) go back to. Got it? Leave a comment if you’ve been, or if you have a suggestion for where we should visit next time around!

Alli Talley

February 26, 2020

Arizona, Weekenders, USA

Finding Christmas Magic in Scottsdale, Arizona

Alli Talley

February 26, 2020

Arizona, Weekenders, USA

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!

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!

Alli Talley

February 26, 2020

Arizona, USA, Weekenders

72 Hours in Scottsdale, Arizona

Alli Talley

February 26, 2020

Arizona, USA, Weekenders

With the new year comes new opportunities for weekend escapes. We’re always on the hunt for fun, quick, and easy getaways - and since our holiday trip to Scottsdale back in early December, it’s moved up to the top of our travel list. Scottsdale has it all - sprawling hotels and resorts, a booming culinary scene, picture-perfect scenery, world-class shopping, outdoor adventures… and did we mention a booming culinary scene? We’d go back to Scottsdale just for the food!

Scottsdale is understatedly cool, and that’s exactly why we like it. Plan a trip during the summer – their off-season (May-September) – and you’ll find slamming deals on hotels. (We’re talking 60% off peak season rates!) Need we say more?

Oh ya, and here’s where WE think you should stay, eat, and explore if you just need a quick 48-hour retreat...

STAY:

Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Bungalows

Overlooking Camelback Mountain, this modern and welcoming oasis couldn’t be more picturesque - or more luxurious! The bungalow style rooms are spacious and filled with amenities, from complimentary drinks and snacks to cozy robes and a shower that’s bigger than our entire bathroom at home!

The property itself is stunning, with perfectly maintained courtyards, a jaw-dropping pool area, and an inviting lobby that’s thoughtfully decorated with local art. In fact, all of the rooms have artwork from local artists - and you can even go on a free art tour of the property during your stay!

Sally loved exploring the property, but loved naps even more…

Colorful grounds of the Andaz Scottsdale

AFTERNOON:

After you’re all checked in and settled, spend the rest of the day shopping and meandering around Old Town Scottsdale. From charming boutiques to trendy coffee shops to family-owned wine tasting rooms, there’s something for everyone - and enough to keep one entertained for hours! Some of our favorite spots include:

Cricket and Ruby: It’s no secret we’re in full on “baby mode” over here, so we were thrilled to find this adorable little children's boutique. They even have some cute bohemian-chic “Mamma and Me” sets that Alli was eyeing… she could have easily bought the entire store!

Cartel Coffee Lab: We sometimes plan our Arizona adventures around this trendy and downright delicious coffee shop. Their baristas are friendly and knowledgeable, and their coffee is strong and full of flavor - it’s the perfect afternoon pick me up!

The Plant Store: Finally a shop the two of us could agree on! This perfectly Iinstagrammable and airy space is filled with beautifully curated cacti, succulents, and house plants, and there’s even an area where you can pot your own!

Leela Market: Filled to the brim with playful gifts, Arizona-themed accessories and decor, and even some stylish women’s wear, this is THE place to souvenir shop. It’s “Desert Luxe” at its finest!

EVENING:

End the night at The Mission, a modern Latin restaurant that’s bursting with flavor and sophistication. The atmosphere is stylish and elegant, and yet casual and inviting all in one… and the food. Oh, we could write a whole blog about the many mind-blowing dishes at The Mission. They’re incredible.

From the tableside guacamole (we both agree it’s the best guacamole we’ve ever had - and we’ve had a LOT of guacamole), to the crispy pork belly with a cola lime glaze, to the tacos made on hand-pressed corn tortillas, to the mouthwatering desserts… you’ll be tempted to order one of everything. We did, and we had zero regrets.

Oh and of course, no trip to The Mission is complete without a margarita (or two). You can’t go wrong with The Mission Margarita (add grand marnier for a real treat), and if you’re feeling adventurous, we highly recommend the Aguacate. It’s an avocado margarita that will have you wondering why you hadn’t thought of this combination sooner.

Make a reservation in advance, as they are known to fill up quick. And most importantly, COME HUNGRY.

MORNING:

We can’t think of a better way to work off your big dinner than a sunrise hike at the Gateway Loop Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We suggest arranging a guide with REI Co-op Experiences, who will not only take you to and from the preserve, but will also lead you along the trail, sharing fascinating facts about the plants and wildlife you encounter, and give an insightful look into Arizona’s rich history. This guided experience was one of the highlights of our trip, hands down!

If you’re anything like us, at this point you’ve worked up an appetite. Farm & Craft serves healthy and sustainable food, with a seasonal wellness menu, kombucha on tap, and all ingredients are gluten free, hormone free, and organic. Their breakfast menu is as hearty as it is healthy, with some of our favorites being the Egg White Scramble and The Breakfast Sandwich. If you’re feeling like something sweet, try their Acai Bowl!

Planning our route on the Sonoran Preserve Trails!

AFTERNOON:

There’s no lack of activities in Scottsdale, but one of our favorite things to do when we’re there is to set aside some time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities. So we suggest doing exactly that.

If the weather is nice (which it most likely will be), spend the afternoon at The Andaz’s spacious and alluring pool. If you find yourselves hungry for a light bite, dine at their on-site restaurant Weft and Warp. Or cozy up in your private bungalow and take a nap on the feathery-bed… Hey, nothing says “vacation” like doing nothing!

EVENING:

If you’re beginning to notice a “foodie theme” to this itinerary, you’ve caught us. The culinary scene in Scottsdale is so advanced and wide-spread, we can’t help but revolve a good chunk of this getaway around dining!

That being said, book a reservation at Toro Scottsdale, where Pan-Latin cuisine takes the stage, bringing together inspiration from Latin America, Japanese, and Peruvian-Chinese influences. It’s a melting pot of flavor that’s unlike anything we’ve had before… and it blew us away. (Where else can you order empanadas and sushi?!) They also have the Valley’s largest selection of rums - over 111, and their skilled bartenders make a daiquiri that will have even the most skeptical drinkers singing its praises.

MORNING:

You can’t visit Scottsdale without an indulgent (and creative) breakfast at Hash Kitchen. It’s a must. We realized we were in for a treat the moment we walked in and saw the build-your-own bloody mary bar (Arizona’s largest) and heard the people in the booth next to us raving about the Cannoli Donuts. While the HK Hashes are their specialty, you can’t go wrong with anything on their extensive menu - try their Cereal Shooter Flight for breakfast cocktails like you’ve never had before!

After you’re fed and happy, take an Instagrammable (and educational) golf cart tour around Scottsdale with our friends Kirk and Monica from JoyRridesAZ! They’ll customize your tour based on your interests, and make plenty of stops for photos, exploration, and even wine tasting! After a few hours with this dynamic husband and wife duo, we were convinced that the best way to see Scottsdale is by golf cart… and we have a feeling you’ll be hooked too! (Plus, they’re expert photo takers - some of our favorite pictures from the trip were taken by Monica!)

Too much good stuff in this photo… we loved Hash Kitchen!

Loved finding the best photo spots in Scottsdale!

Monica from JoyRidesAZ knew all the angles :)

AFTERNOON:

Stop for lunch at Hula’s Modern Tiki, an urban twist on the classic tiki bars of the 50’s and 60’s, right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Sip on mai tais, snack on their famous Crispy Coconut Shrimp Rolls, and pig out (literally) on Duke’s Luau Pork Plate. It’s a taste of Hawaii in the desert, and it’s fun for the whole ohana!

Just half a mile down the road is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, a visually compelling and uniquely curated collection of art, architecture, and design. Many of the compelling exhibits are interactive, and all of them will inevitably cause you to see the world a little differently.

Hula’s had amazing food and tasty drinks!

Enjoying the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

EVENING:

It’s your last night in Scottsdale, so why not go all out? The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa offers a Wine Me, Dine Me dinner at SWB, their southwest bistro. This culinary experience has guests dining on an exclusive, made to order, four-course dinner prepared by Chef Joe and his incredibly talented team. They have nightly seatings at 6:00 and 8:00pm, and paired with the menu are specialty glasses of tequila and wine. Guests sit at a bar overlooking the open kitchen, and get a first-hand look as each course is created. If you consider yourself a “foodie”, this experience is a must!

Wine Me, Dine Me will bring out the foodie in you! Enjoy!

MORNING:

End your Scottsdale getaway with coffee and a light breakfast at one of our favorite local spots, Maverick Coffee. Located in an unassuming strip mall, you’ll wonder why we sent you here… until you step inside and see that this place is buzzing (both literally and figuratively) and that the food and coffee is top-notch. Try their avocado toast or breakfast burrito, and wash it down with the Kyoto Cold Brew or their Bullet Proof Coffee!

Are we missing something? Do you have a favorite Scottsdale restaurant, bar, or activity we should try next time we’re there? Leave a comment and let us know!