Scottsdale for the Luxury Traveler

Scottsdale for the Luxury Traveler – When you think of traveling to Arizona, Phoenix is always the go-to place. But instead of the buzz and lights of the ‘big’ city, trade them for a saguaro desert city just to the east and you’ll find a hotbed of arts and design trends.

Sure, Scottsdale has a reputation for being the laid-back spot for those of retirement age – and while there is a very chill vibe, trends tend to go in cycles. Today’s Scottsdale has an arts scene and architectural style that’s attracting younger travelers. New restaurants and hotels are popping up all the time. Scottsdale could very well be Arizona’s new cultural capital.

A large part of Scottsdale’s draw is this new luxury-meets-vintage vibe. For instance, in neighboring Paradise Valley, the hotel Mountain Shadows was rebuilt to pay homage to the original 1959 property but with a modern touch. The hotel’s pool captures the stunning view best with Camelback Mountain as a backdrop. Mountain Shadows’ owners did the same at a sister property in Scottsdale, the Hotel Valley Ho. This 50’s icon has hosted such celebrity greats as Bing Crosby, and with its modern update now hosts tours of Scottsdale’s finest architecture, such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s impressive Price House.

Not too far from Hotel Valley Ho is the Andaz Resort and Bungalows. Their recent addition of 16 luxury suites offers access to various workshops – painting, pottery, and photography with some of Scottsdale’s finest artists.

And speaking of art, if you enjoy strolling through a museum on holiday, you’ll be right at home in Scottsdale. The Museum of Contemporary Art houses some of the finest works of modern times, such as Skyspace. After you’ve had your fill, it’s just a 20-minute drive to Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and art studio, Taliesin West. In fact, this property is now UNESCO-recognized thanks to Wright’s trademark floor plans, interiors, and artistic touch.

If you have a bit more time, check out the immersive, interactive arts displays at Wonderspaces. Over 15,000 square feet of exhibits await you. And if you prefer your art outdoors, consider Desert Botanical Gardens Wild Rising exhibit. There are over 1,000 animal sculptures that line the surrounding trails.

If you’re an avid art lover and you enjoy luxury accommodations, consider Scottsdale for you next getaway.