Your Scottsdale summer vacation is sure to be an excellent one, filled with adventure, excitement, triple-digit temperatures, and all the comforts of home when you choose I Love Scottsdale for your vacation accommodations. Of course, at this point you may not have noticed anything beyond triple-digit temperatures, but don’t be afraid; the dry heat DOES make a difference and for most of your trip you will find that you don’t mind it too much, especially as we know all the secrets to staying cool on the hottest days. And to rest your mind even further, we have created this guide to the essential summer amenities we offer in your Scottsdale vacation rental, ensuring that your summer vacation to the “West’s Most Western Town” will be a chill one!
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Ceiling Fans in Most Rooms
We are going to start small and build up to the top essential amenities, and our first exploration will be the ceiling fans found in most rooms. We know they are the bane of every interior designer’s existence, but we also know that when you are laying on the couch, watching a little television with the fan is whirring gently above you, the nap that ensues will surely be the best one, as that fan helps keep your body cooled to the perfect temperature! Most baths and laundry rooms will not offer this amenity, but bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and outside patios will, because those are the areas you use the most and will need the circulating air the most.
Misters on the Patios
There are many reasons you may want to play outside, most of which we will touch on during this guide, and the misters will help ensure you stay cool while you do. For those who don’t know, misters are narrow hoses punctuated with a plethora of tiny nozzles, hung along the edges of patio covers, from which sprays of water lower the temperature without getting everyone soaking wet. Known to lower temperatures as much as 30 degrees, if your I Love Scottsdale sanctuary doesn’t offer a mister, chances are you will still see one in use at some of our local restaurants.
Air Conditioners in Every Property
Summer in Scottsdale without air conditioning is not something you even have to consider, and when you are out and about on a day in July, opening that front door and stepping into the cool will be a hedonistic pleasure, one that we would not deny anyone. Life is better when lived with goosebumps, and as you climb into bed each night, you may be surprised to discover that the blankets that top each mattress aren’t just there for looks! The air conditioning combined with ceiling fans will keep your room cool and your sleep deep as you snuggle under warm blankets in the middle of the hottest nights of summer.
Now That We Have the Basics Covered
No Arizona property will be without air conditioning and ceiling fans, and many will offer the misters for outdoor entertainment purposes, so of course our homes will offer the first two. And now that we have the basics covered, it is time to do a little deeper dive, exploring all the things that make summer special, that enhance that laidback vibe and increase our childlike wonder in the way this season brings so much joy. For our next set of summer amenities, you may ask yourself are they really necessary and we would respond by saying everything is necessary to make sure our guests have the time of their lives during their summer adventures in Scottsdale. We make it our mission to give our guests a Scottsdale vacation experience they won’t be able to stop talking about and the summer amenities listed next will help with that as well, starting with more ways to enjoy the air conditioned coolness of our homes and condos.
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Board Games, Game Rooms, and Theater Rooms
Remember your childhood days of summer? Every minute of every day stretched out before you in an endless array of possibilities, but you still found yourself feeling bored at times, not daring to say the words to your parents, because, well, you know, their response would always be, go clean something, ruining the magic of the day. Your kids won’t have to worry about slipping up and saying those words during your Scottsdale vacation and neither will you, as each property we offer, provides a multitude of ways to keep the fun coming! Our condos may offer community versions of all of the above, ensuring that you won’t sacrifice anything when you choose a smaller footprint.
Board Game Nights
The dining rooms of our summer sanctuaries will be put to a variety of uses, but perhaps your favorite will be family game nights held after the sun has set. Many of our escapes, if not most, will offer cabinets or shelves stocked with the classics, Scrabble, Monopoly, checkers, and maybe even Candyland, but if you want one of the newer board games that are popular or if the ones you love aren’t stocked, a visit to Old World Games will ensure that your family game nights will be filled with magic.
Game Rooms
Today’s children aren’t used to being far from their screen, and our retreats with game rooms will ensure they won’t have to. Often offering a combination of arcade games, game consoles, and gaming tables of all sorts, your space may feature the above combination or may just offer one out of the group. In either case, the opportunity to engage in competitive game playing will be one of your favorite summer amenities we offer.
Theater Rooms
Even in sunny Scottsdale a little rain may fall, and when it does, you may find yourself retreating to the living room to spend the night watching movies on state of the art televisions, or heading to the theater room, equipped with a large movie screen and a row of leather recliners (with cupholders!) to lose yourself in the magic of Hollywood. And it doesn’t matter if you watch summer blockbusters, binge watch Harry Potter movies, or settle down with a good old-fashioned scary movie, adding goosebumps to your goosebumps, and jump scares to your Scottsdale adventures. All that matters is that you have the best time watching!
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Celebrating Scottsdale Summer in Our Large Backyards
The temperatures do drop with the sunset and although your August visit may never be what could be considered chilly (except when inside in the air conditioning) your summer nights at home will be surprisingly comfortable enough to ensure you can play outside. This is a good thing because our yards are designed to be an important part of your vacation experience, and unlike the days of your childhood when being told to go outside and play was a bad thing, you and your kids might pout a little when it is time to come inside and play!
Outdoor Games
Living life unplugged is made a little more entertaining in our yards due to a variety of outdoor games. It never ceases to amaze us how a few bean bags and wooden planks with holes cut out in the middle never gets boring and the cornhole games in many of our yards offer all the proof you need. And because Scottsdale, the entire Valley of the Sun, is known to be a golfer’s paradise offering over 200 courses in the area, some of our escapes may also provide a way to practice on putting greens that have carved out a space in the yards. Some properties may offer some sort of game table out here on the patio with ping pong being the most common and because many of our properties also offer ceiling fans outside you can stay chill while you play!
Family Barbecues
A family barbecue may be the ultimate symbol of summer, and our escapes will offer propane grills, or in some cases, fully equipped outdoor kitchens featuring refrigerators, warming drawers, and plenty of counterspace on which to spread out all the different dishes you may have made. An Arizona sunset, once viewed, will be your newest obsession, and dining outside as the sun sets behind the mountains that surround our central Arizona towns will be one more way you can enjoy the great outdoors.
Our patios and decks will offer all manner of seating options, including, in some of our luxury models, Adirondack chairs placed so as to enjoy views of the golf course in our golf homes! Hammocks for early morning relaxing, firepits that you may not actually use during your summer visit, it really doesn’t get cool enough at night to sit around any type of fire, and tucked away under the eaves of the patio, in some spaces you may even find a television, allowing guests to watch the big game as they cook, eat, and play! (Go Diamondbacks!)
Browse our Scottsdale Rentals with a Private Pool Here!
Every Home Should Have One
Although there are many, many, many more amenities in our Scottsdale retreats that will ensure that you are comfortable, at ease, and are having fun, now it is time to discuss what may very well end up being your favorite part of your Arizona vacation experience. We are, of course, talking about the crystal-clear swimming pool that can be found in almost every one of our escapes. And before we start to talk about the part of having access to a pool that you already know about, we would like to share a secret that non-pool owners may not realize. A swim after dark will lower your core body temperature to the point that your teeth may chatter, even with temps still nudging that 100-degree mark.
Sleep well every night feeling relaxed and chill, waking up every morning to start your day with another swim, because why not? It may be a little too warm for a midday swim in the later months of summer, but a pool party/barbecue in the evening can be exactly what your soul needs. For those staying in one of our condos, the community is sure to offer at least one pool (if not more), and the only limitation will be the nighttime swim; most community pools are locked down at night.
Book our Scottsdale Vacation Condo Rentals Here!
Maybe Not Your Favorite Summer Activity
This may be a guide to summer amenities and while we know a hot tub is not an essential summer amenity, most properties will feature a hot tub as well, something that may soothe muscles that are achy and tired from flying across the country in the cramped confines that are common in today’s planes. Submerging your body in hot bubbling waters will probably be the last thing you will want to consider on the hottest days, but on a rainy night, a cooler evening, or a morning sunrise watching session, it can be the source of one of your favorite memories.
I Love Scottsdale Welcomes You to Your First Scottsdale Vacation in Summer
Scottsdale isn’t always thought of as a summer vacation destination, but we hope we have convinced you that it should be, especially when you choose our I Love Scottsdale summer sanctuaries for your vacation accommodations. Offering all the seasonal amenities we’ve discussed here while also offering all the comforts of home, the modern conveniences that make travel easier, and some extras that may surprise, our spaces may become the best part of your vacation experience.
Step into the best vacation, playing hard and relaxing even harder. We invite you to explore a world of luxury that you will be reluctant to leave when it is time to return to your real life. Reserve your favorite summer sanctuary today and discover all the ways our homes will make you feel welcome and at home during your Arizona adventures in Scottsdale!
The Scottsdale real estate market is extremely hot right now, but you found your unicorn and it didn’t cost as much as you would have thought a cute little investment home located in the best neighborhood would cost. But now that you have signed on the dotted line and are holding the keys to your investment in your hands, some fears are starting to filter through your glee. Maybe you don’t live in the area and you aren’t quite sure of how you should market it, maybe you are beginning to realize that there are a lot more details in the vacation rental business than you originally believed, or maybe the thought of the money you spent is starting to sink in. There is no need to panic, however, because you found your way to this page and our guide to the 10 reasons you should pick I Love Scottsdale for your Scottsdale vacation rental management company.
Scottsdale Property Management Services
From the First Moments
Sometimes making the first step is the hardest and as you stand there on the precipice of financial success, having I Love Scottsdale at your side will certainly make you feel more prepared. We can be there in those first moments, advising on décor, taking the pictures for the advertising, and of course, getting your property seen. First we start with the presentation, ensuring that the pictures we take will show your investment at its best, creating spaces that make travelers think of home. And because we know all the ways to maximize your space, more room means more guests and more guests means more money, your first steps toward financial success are going to feel so much easier. Once we deem your place to be tenant ready, the next step of the process begins, something we will get into in more detail below.
All the Markets
Now that your project is ready for business, the next step is, of course, getting it seen. This is a part of the process that you could handle yourself if you had the time or interest, but once you see our marketing plans, we think you will feel fine about stepping back and letting us do our thing. We don’t just advertise on one platform; we hit all the platforms, getting your property out in front of all the eyes. This multi-level marketing plan is the surest way we know of spurring interest in your Scottsdale vacation home and you may end up being surprised at how quickly you go from money going out to money flowing in, which is the whole idea. Online listings, social media websites, The vacation rental market is a competitive one and you will start out ahead of the game when you choose I Love Scottsdale to manage your space.
We Know the Game
Your investment isn’t a game to you and it isn’t one to us either. What we are saying is that we know how this business work, we make it our business to be the most successful, and we are only successful if you, our client is. We put more hours than we care to think about into researching the vacation market, watching the fluctuations and adjusting what you will charge your guests. There should be no surprise in learning that this research is ongoing, it doesn’t stop with the pricing of your space. We know that if we charge too much guests will look elsewhere and if we don’t charge enough it would be like using your cash for a Firestarter. We aim for the Goldilocks price range, charging travelers the numbers that will have them saying, “This one is just right!” No matter how you look at it, we don’t want to leave any money out on the table, we need it all to go in your coffers and our constant research is how we do just that.
You Don’t Live in Scottsdale? No Problem!
Your hometown of Columbus, Ohio is a very beautiful one, offering that perfect blend of cosmopolitan city life and country charm, but it isn’t quite a top tier vacation destination. And as you yourself may have spent many winters enjoying the milder temps of Scottsdale, the choice to buy a property here to rent out seemed to be a natural one. This also makes choosing I Love Scottsdale to manage your property the next logical step, as we live here, we play here, and we know all the things that make it attractive to travelers all over the world. We can play concierge of a sort, telling your guests which restaurant has the best salsa in the area (Los Olivos Mexican Patio gets our vote) and where you should take a road trip to when the summer temps get too high (Flagstaff wins, hands down!). Today’s traveler’s want a vacation experience that satisfies and thrills from start to end and although you could probably figure out a few things on your own, isn’t it nice to have our knowledge banks to withdraw from?
Maintenance Matters
Did you know that a property in Scottsdale can earn a good deal more than one in Mesa or even Phoenix? And as vacation rental prices skyrocket, discerning travelers are starting to demand more. They no longer want just a place to rest their head between adventures, they want a vacation experience filled with luxury and wonder, and if you advertise a heated crystal-clear swimming pool, your pool better be both, and maybe offer even more! No one wants to stay in a place with broken pool heaters, cracked windows, or air conditioners that are barely able to combat the heat, making maintenance a priority for I Love Scottsdale. Our maintenance team is the best in the business, helping to ensure that air conditioners cool, dishwashers wash, and that pool in the backyard will be open for business from the moment your guests checks in until he has checked out again at the end of his stay.
Our Housekeeping Teams Are the Best
Keeping a clean house for tenants is an entirely different story than keeping a clean house for family and this is another area where you will more than likely want to delegate the chore to our top notch housekeeping team. At home you wouldn’t mind if someone left a used pod in the Keurig, and if you found a sock under the bed, you would probably laugh to yourself; these things are minor at home, but if you were a guest in a vacation rental, both of these things would seriously affect how you look at the rental. Our housekeeping team cleans before and after each guest, and they vacuum under cushions for crumbs, look under beds for lost socks, even peek into every drawer in the bedroom to make sure there are no surprises left for unsuspecting guests. You could do this yourself, of course, but isn’t it easier to let the professionals handle the matter while you go about the business of real life?
The Latest Technology
As technology evolves, we have found that some things make the rental business easier, others make it worse, and some are outright genius ideas, and we consider it a part of our work to check out all that arises on the horizon. Keyless entry check in, the latest website updates, even the way we take the money from your guests and deposit it in your bank account offers some new version of technology to help the process goes seamlessly. We’ve already discussed advertising, getting your property out in front of the crowds, and that is also done with the latest in vacation rental technology. It is much easier for our owners to utilize a program already in existence rather than have to figure it all out themselves, starting from scratch as they scratch their heads and wondering what they might have got themselves into. Choosing I Love Scottsdale will definitely eliminate the head scratching and wondering part of the game!
The Laws Are Constantly Changing
This next reason may be the biggest reason you will want to choose a Scottsdale vacation rental property management company over going it alone. The vacation rental business is fluid and there is always some new rule, regulation, or law that needs to be learned. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and the neighborhoods, cities, and towns are always eager to take your money, enacting fines that get more expensive with each transgression. Did you know that owners are required to notify neighbors about their short term rentals in the neighborhood? We did, and yes, we consider notifying the neighbors another part of our job so you don’t have to deal with any unhappy people. We also handle the taxes that are such a nuisance and a required part of life and business. You may not be able to avoid paying them, but at least the headache will be handled by our team of outstanding people!
Emergencies Rarely Happen During Standard Business Hours
Our maintenance and housekeeping teams do a wonderful job of keeping your property running smoothly, but emergencies happen. Electricity outages, internet outages, or even stray branches finding their way through a window on a dark and stormy night and when these emergencies arise, do you want to be the one taking the 2 AM phone call? Needing to be awake and aware enough to deal with the situation, figuring out if it is something that would require moving the guests or if this emergency can be dealt with effortlessly is something we do quite a bit and because we do and we always have a backup plan in mind. Our owners can sleep peacefully through the night, knowing that whatever emergencies arise we will handle them quickly and efficiently and notify the owner the next day during regular business hours. If it is something that could potentially be a major problem, of course we will contact you immediately; we know we would like to be notified if the tables were turned, but for most incidences, the next day is soon enough.
Maximum Return on your Investment (ROI)
The entire reason you entered this business is to make money, perhaps foreseeing a future filled with white sand beaches, meals at nice restaurants, and all the travel you have ever dreamed of doing, and your vacation rental property should be your ticket to Easy Street. As we said earlier, we spend more time than you can imagine studying the market, and everything we do for your property we do with your bank account in mind. And even if we quietly suggest you spend a little more in the early days, splurge for the premium mattress, buy a NEW television, not something off Facebook Marketplace, or simply paint the entire house instead of just one room. These suggestions, when followed, will allow us to charge premium prices for your charming retreat and at the end of the day, the differences will be noted. A maximum ROI is our dream for you, and everything we do is geared towards getting you just that!
Why I Love Scottsdale Vacation Rental Management?
Obviously, there are 10 reasons listed as to why you should choose I Love Scottsdale for your Scottsdale vacation rental property management company, but there is so many reasons more. We believe in the personal touch and when we sign on new owners, those owners become a member of our family. Even better, we treat your property as if it belongs to us, taking extra special care. Not just with the work we do, but in the way we treat your guests as well. Whatever they need (within reason, of course), we will do what we can to provide. Do you still have questions? Give us a call today and ask away. We love to share our secrets with the people we will be working so closely with in this crazy and wonderful business!
Whenever you take your family on a vacation getaway you always want to make sure you treat them to the best. This can include taking them to sought after destination such as Scottsdale where the temps are heating up along with the fun. You will find that Scottsdale has tons of exciting activities for the whole family to join in on for the holiday. Take a look at the top Scottsdale Memorial Day Weekend activities taking place here around the area:
Enjoy a Little Retail Therapy This Scottsdale Memorial Day Weekend
Going on vacation is all about treating yourself, so make sure you hit the hottest shopping areas here in Scottsdale. Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to unwind with shopping as the latest summer fashions are just coming out. Scottsdale is home to the Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale Quarter, and Kierland Commons, all premier level shopping areas where residents from all over the Phoenix Valley will come to. You will find the best clothing and apparel boutiques within a short drive of your vacation rental.
Hit Up the Arizona Boardwalk
Memorial Day Weekend is a popular holiday to travel with the family as the kids are finally off school for summer. Make sure to treat them to a little bit of fun during your stay in Scottsdale by heading over to the Arizona Boardwalk. This is a massive entertainment venue located just off Arizona State Route 101. Arizona Boardwalk is best recognized with the OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland here on the premises. Each attraction offers a stunning way to get a closer look at majestic animals in the water and in the air. OdySea Aquarium is Scottsdale’s very own aquarium that features thousands of underwater animals. You will find all of your favorites including penguins, jellyfish, octopus, rays, and of course, sharks. You will be able to see each animal in spacious habitats. What really sets OdySea Aquarium apart is their hands on attractions that let you pet sharks and rays, go scuba diving with fish, or feed the penguins. Your kids will absolutely love OdySea Aquarium.
Butterfly Wonderland is another great spot where thousands of butterflies fly freely in a massive atrium. You will be able to walk around where butterflies are known to land on visitors for a perfect photo op. You can get a discount on passes when purchasing passes for both attractions in the same day. Don’t miss out on these attractions and many others at the Arizona Boardwalk.
Salt River Tubing
Everyone knows that Memorial Day Weekend is the start of summer but locals in Scottsdale really know it as the start to Salt River Tubing. While Salt River Tubing is open on weekends earlier in the late spring it really comes to life over the holiday weekend. For the unaware Salt River Tubing is the ultimate relaxation activity nearby on the Salt River. Salt River Tubing is the onsite tube rental service where you can rent a tube for an extended float down the river. Simply arrive, rent a tube, and take the bus to the drop off point to start your day. Tubing down the Salt River takes a few hours depending on the course you take. Visitors frequently will rent a tube for a cooler where they can keep snacks and drinks in during your float. The water is bound to be nice and cool for an enjoyable experience. Don’t miss out on the ultimate summer experience found here near Scottsdale.
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Hike the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Scottsdale and quite a bit of Arizona are huge destinations for hiking enthusiasts. When you visit Scottsdale you will find the Superstition Mountains the in background along with local peaks that are no far away. Scottsdale is a great spot to go hiking with the McDowell Sonoran Preserve being so close to our vacation rentals. Perhaps the most popular trail in the preserve is Tom’s Thumb Trail. This is a challenging hiking trail that is roughly 4 miles in length. You will have a 1,200 foot elevation gain over the trail that consists of switch backs. While the trail is difficult you will find the views to be well worth the effort. If you are hiking with family, there are several other trails to explore as well. Trails including Gateway Loop Trail and Sunrise Peak are both considered to be moderately challenging hikes that are more easily accessible. Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to hit the trails before the higher summer temps arrive in the valley.
More Fun Right Here in Scottsdale
These exciting activities and much more are what you have to look forward to here in Scottsdale. Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner so now is the perfect time to start preparing for your visit. Book your favorite vacation rental with us today.
Scottsdale isn’t just for snowbirds. It’s an incredible place to spend a summer vacation – allowing you to explore the desert and embrace the heat. Afterall, it is summertime! Come explore the beauty of the desert, enjoy outdoor activities, and stay cool whenever necessary. In order to experience the best of Scottsdale, you must plan ahead! Summer will be here before you know it, so get a jumpstart on planning by following the tips below! You’ll learn tips on how to choose accommodations, what excursions to plan for, and even some insight on what to pack. Let’s get started.
Book Your Vacation Rental with I Love Scottsdale
Choosing where to stay is one of the most important parts of vacation planning. Once you figure out where you’re staying, everything else seems to just fall into place! Instead of getting overwhelmed by all the hotel options in Scottsdale, why not think outside the box with a vacation rental from I Love Scottsdale?
It’s all in the name. Since we love Scottsdale, we are excited to offer you the perfect selection of vacation rentals that will make you feel at home the moment you’ve arrived. No matter what you’re searching for, there’s a rental to match your needs. Staying in a vacation rental gives you more space, privacy, and access to luxury amenities that you can enjoy without having to wait in line, make a reservation, or share with anyone else!
Experience a vacation home away from home, with a gourmet kitchen, outdoor space, pools, and much more with I Love Scottsdale rentals! In order to experience the difference for yourself, you’ll need to book your rental early before they fill up.
Book North Scottsdale Luxury Rentals Here!
Plan Ahead for Scottsdale’s Must-Do Activities
Scottsdale is packed with exciting activities and excursions, and some require advance reservations. Make the most of your trip and beat the crowds by planning ahead for these excursions and experiences:
Take a Sunrise or Sunset Hike at Camelback Mountain
This area is a Scottsdale gem. Hiking either of the two trails (Echo Canyon and Cholla) will give you amazing views of the valley and surrounding areas. Since it’s summer, you’ll want to make plans to beat the heat by starting early. These hikes are best tackled early in the morning or just before sunset to avoid the midday heat. Plan accordingly by getting an early start, bringing plenty of water, wearing breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes and wearing sun protection.
Explore Old Town Scottsdale
Feel the spirit of the Southwest as you walk along this charming downtown area full of boutique shops, galleries and five-star restaurants. This is possible to enjoy during the day since you can pop into any of the stores for a little retail therapy (and air conditioning.) The downtown area really comes to life after sunset, but it’s important to plan ahead to enjoy the nightlight. Restaurants often require reservations so plan accordingly so you don’t miss out on the delicious food at FnB Restaurant or Reserve.
Go on a Desert Jeep Tour or ATV Adventure
Get out into the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert with an adventure ATV tour. Take the road less traveled and go over mounds and bumps to witness the desert in a whole new way. Book through a reputable company like Pink Jeep Tours or Scottsdale Adventure Tours so you don’t miss a moment.
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day This Summer in Scottsdale
Treat yourself to a bit of self-care during your summer vacation in Scottsdale. The area is home to some of the best spas in the country. In order to experience these top-rated spas, you must make reservations. Get yourself a relaxing massage, facial, or hydrotherapy session at the Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont or the Joya Spa at Omni Montelucia. Treatments should be scheduled in advance, especially on the weekends.
Pack Smart for Scottsdale’s Summer Weather
Scottsdale summers are hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100°F. Stay comfortable and ready for any adventure by packing the following gear:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics)
• Swimsuits for pool days and spa visits
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+ is recommended) hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated is essential!)
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring Old Town and desert trails and sandals or flip-flops for lounging by the pool
• Light jacket for indoor spots with strong A/C
• Small backpack for carrying essentials during hikes or tours
Plan for Relaxation & Enjoyment
Now that you know what to do, where to go, and what to pack, be sure to plan ahead for some relaxation. Often, vacations can be a lot of go-go-go and not enough rest. Unwind and savor moments of downtime from inside your I Love Scottsdale summer rental.
Start the day with a sunrise coffee enjoyed in your private outdoor space while soaking up those desert views. Go for a swim and then work on your tan poolside with a good book. Grill up your favorite flavors or have a meal inspired by something you ate during your time in Scottsdale. Dine under the stars and enjoy dessert and good conversation around the firepit at night.
Sometimes, the best vacation moments are the slower ones—so be sure to plan some downtime in between your Scottsdale adventures.
Book Your Scottsdale Vacation Rental Today
Adventure and relaxation await this summer in Scottsdale. Don’t miss a moment—reserve your summer Scottsdale vacation rental today!
When it comes time to start planning for an Easter getaway with the family, you want to pick a location that has plenty of sun and fun. Of course, you cannot go wrong with a classic such as Scottsdale this spring. One visit to the area and you will find out why it is a growing community here in Arizona and continues to be a top travel destination in the Southwest. A Scottsdale Easter Weekend brings out plenty of family fun for everyone. Take a look at what kind of plans you can make for Easter this year in Scottsdale:
Great Egg Hunt and Family Fair
Scottsdale is a huge part of the Phoenix Valley and host tons of events throughout the year, including some for Easter. Part of the fun for Easter is seeing all the kids in the family have a blast with activities they come to expect for the holiday. Easter egg hunts are a huge part of what kids want to do so do not disappoint their expectations during your trip to Scottsdale. One event will be returning this year that is sure to put a smile on their face. The Great Egg Hunt and Family Fair was a hit last year and is expected to be one of the best Easter events this year. This Easter event takes place over at the Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard for several hours of holiday fun. The Great Egg Hunt will feature three different Easter egg hunts that are expertly hidden around the venue. The egg hunts will separate kids by age so everyone has a fair shot; group one will be for 0 to 3 year olds, group two is for 4 to 6 year olds, and group three will be for older children ages 7 to 10 years.
In between the Easter egg hunts, you can enjoy a variety of additional holiday activities including photos with the Easter Bunny, music by DJ Flo, bounce houses, huge slides, face painting, a coloring contest, and more. Local vendors from a variety of restaurants and sweet shops will be around so you can indulge in some treats. The Great Egg Hunt and Family Fair is a free event to attend, but if you register in advance and bring your free ticket, you can enter a raffle for some incredible prizes such as tickets for local attractions, restaurant gift cards, and a whole lot more. The Great Egg Hunt and Family Fair will take place on Saturday April 19th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. You will find the egg hunts to take place at 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 11:30 AM.
Hide and Peep
Another great Easter event is also taking place on Saturday April 19th with the Hide and Peep Scavenger Hunt. This local event is taking place over at The Quarter that is full of all kinds of holiday fun. The kids will be able to join in on a huge Easter egg hunt where they can search for colorful eggs that are expertly hidden at The Quarter. The Easter Bunny will be on hand happy to snap pics with the family. Kids will be encouraged to hit the dance floor dancing it out to their favorite songs. Also don’t forget about face painting and balloon artists to add to the fun. The Hide and Peep at the Quarter is free to attend with tickets only required for children who are participating in the egg hunt. The event kicks off at 11:00 AM and will run until 2:00 PM.
Easter Egg Hunter Event
If you happen to be in Scottsdale early for Scottsdale your kids will still have a chance at joining in on the fun for an Easter egg hunt. The Easter Egg Hunter Event will be taking place at Kierland Commons here in Scottsdale on April 12th perfect for an early visit to the area. Similar to the other Easter egg hunt this event will feature three different age groups to help make sure all the kids are able to collect as many eggs as possible. Each age group Easter egg hunt will have a special golden egg hidden among the others that will award a grand prize for the lucky child who finds it. Additional activities will include arts and crafts along with a complimentary photo with the Easter Bunny. This special event will take place in the morning from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Please RSVP in advance by calling 480-998-9009 to secure a spot as space is limited.
Get Ready to See Scottsdale
Now that you are familiar with what to expect you will find plenty of fun right here in Scottsdale for Easter. Reserve one of our vacation rentals here in the area that sure to keep the whole family comfortable during your stay.
There is nothing quite like a little fun under the sun and that is what is waiting for you here in Scottsdale this spring. Everyone knows that Scottsdale is the life of the party here in Arizona and the month of April is a great time to visit. You get to avoid the crowds of spring break and avoid the high summer temps. Local events are a great way to experience your time here in Scottsdale. Take a look at the top events taking place this April in Scottsdale:
Scottsdale Jazz Festival
One great way to beat the heat is by enjoying a little shade and cold drink while listening to live music. Scottsdale is home to the Scottsdale Jazz Festival taking place every month of April. The event will return this year for a single day festival that will be hosting a variety of artists including RnR: featuring Rick Braun and Richard Elliot, Turning Point, Carlos Rivas y Mex-sal, Nayo Jones Experience, and the Dan Pinson All Star Band. The festivities take place over at the Civic Center East Bowl with live music kicking off at 3:15 PM. This venue is in the heart of the Scottsdale cultural district that features public art and lush gardens all around you. Passes into the Scottsdale Jazz Festival will provide you will lawn seats or you can go VIP with the exclusive VIP Lounge to hang out in. Local food and drink vendors will be on hand to keep your hunger and thirst at bay. Don’t forget to put on your best dancing shoes so you can dance the night away. The Scottsdale Jazz Festival will take place on April 26th with tickets still available for the event.
Tour de Scottsdale
Part of the charm here in Scottsdale is the beautiful scenery you have all around you. The Sonoran Desert is the backdrop of Scottsdale with local mountains and sweeping desert scenery available to see. Take advantage of the incredible views by participating in outdoor events such as Tour de Scottsdale. This is the annual cycling event hosted by Scottsdale where you can enjoy a 30 or 70 mile option with incredible views the entire time. This community event will emphasize environmental conservation and camaraderie. This is not an event just for professionals either as it caters to cyclists of all experience levels from recreational riders up to experienced athletes. The Tour de Scottsdale will take place on April 12th starting over at Westworld of Scottsdale. Tickets are still available and start at $20 per participant.
Arizona Arte Agave Tequila and Mezcal Festival
This spring you can combine the experience of live music, incredible art, and delicious mezcal and tequila tastings with the Arizona Arte Agave Tequila and Mezcal Festival. This event brings together the rich culture of Mexico along with local artists. You can choose from over 100 different varieties of tequila and mezcal to sample. Traditional mariachi music will be played with folkloric dancers on stage. Light bites that are designed to pair with the tequila and mezcal tastings will be on hand as well. shop through local artists to find something to bring back home with you. This 21 years and over event will take place on Friday April 18th over at The Clayton House here in Scottsdale. Come enjoy the finer things in life while celebrating Mexican culture and heritage. Tickets start at $79 per person.
Scottsdale Fair and Festival.
One of the biggest venues here in Scottsdale that hosts a variety of events is Westworld of Scottsdale. It hosts some of the biggest events all year including the Scottsdale Fair and Festival happening this April. This multiday event kicks off on April 25th for a 10 day extravaganza. The event center will turn into a carnival with plenty of midway rides for everyone in the whole family to enjoy. Live entertainment will also be available all festival long including live music taking place each night. A ride on the Ferris wheel will reward you with desert sunset views that cannot be missed. The livestock shows occur daily and are perfect for the farmer inside you. Check out the rodeo demonstrations or sample from some of the best food trucks that the Phoenix Valley has to offer. Children under the age of 5 get in for free, and there is plenty of parking to be found outside. Don’t miss out on this year’s Scottsdale Fair and Festival for the traditional fair experience with incredible desert views.
More Fun in Scottsdale
Now you can see why Scottsdale is the fun here in the Phoenix Valley. Book your next vacation rental here in the area to start planning for your trip. Come see Scottsdale this April before the summer crowds come to the area.
In many parts of the world, spring is just another chance for winter to throw a toddler sized temper tantrum, storming in with ice, wind, and snow after a few balmy days and making people feel as if they will never be warm again. In Scottsdale, however, springtime is paradise and the sun shines (just not too brightly), the wildflowers begin to bloom, and residents with heated pools or hot tubs find themselves taking the first dip of the year. If this sounds like something you want, no, you NEED in your life, we at I Love Scottsdale have created this guide to even more reasons you should escape the cold and flee to the desert where warmth, excitement, and fun is waiting!
Hello Sunshine
Did you know that Scottsdale has over 330 days of sunshine every year? We aren’t going to lie and say that is always a good thing, because there comes a time every September where we are over the sun, but it isn’t over us, and we may grumble more than a little, but from February to May, we delight in its constant presence. Nights do get cold in the early part of spring—the difference between day and night temperatures can be as much as 30+ degrees, if you can believe it—and yes, there will be days of rain and storms, but they pass quickly, and the days warm up even quicker. As a matter of fact, you may find yourself wondering what the fuss is about as our lowest temperatures feel like a balmy spring day. So, when packing for your Arizona adventures, remember, layers are great, swimsuits are recommended, shorts will probably be worn, and sunscreen is definitely a necessity! You are going to spend a lot of hours playing outside during your spring journey to paradise, and you don’t want a sunburn disrupting your enjoyment of your visit.
This Is Patio Season
In your frigid hometown, the patios of your favorite restaurants are empty expanses of tables with chairs turned over on top of them, but in Scottsdale, spring is definitely patio season! Visitors can expect to spend many hours on the patios of their vacation sanctuaries or dining on the patios of the restaurants listed below. We apologize for the waitlists in advance though; everyone wants to be outside!
Virtu Honest Craft, 3701 N Marshall Way in Scottsdale, Serving Weekend Brunch, Closed Mondays
Although Virtu Honest Craft is mostly an intimate dinner restaurant on weekends, it opens for brunch, and the patio is the only place you want to sit. Tucked away in an idyllic garden setting, the patio lights will charm when you are enjoying dinner, but it is their brunch menu we want to talk about first. Offering meals made with farm fresh ingredients, their pancakes are light, fluffy, and often topped with sweet berries and whipped cream.
Rehab Burger Therapy, 7210 E 2nd Street in Scottsdale, Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
You are in the desert, but the beach themed atmosphere of Rehab Burger Therapy will make you imagine you can hear waves crashing against sandy shores. Winner of multiple local food awards and offering delicious and innovative burgers (the Hangover Burger is self-explanatory) and a fantastic cocktail, beer, and wine menu, their patio soaks up the sunshine in all the best ways.
Outrider Rooftop Lounge, 7142 E 1st Street in Scottsdale, Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
Offering more than just an outdoor patio, the Outrider Rooftop Lounge provides panoramic views of the mountains (yes, that mountain that looks like a camel lying down is named Camelback Mountain) and the sunsets seem to hit harder when experienced from the seats on this rooftop. The menu consists of shareables and tapas, but nachos for lunch is always a good idea and their tapas platter eats like a full meal. Live music nights add to your enjoyment of this outdoor experience.
Time to Go Outside and Play
There are a lot of wonderful indoor attractions that you may want to explore if it happens to rain during your visit, but the promise of spring is revealed in this collection of outdoor attractions, offering fun, warmth, and that Arizona sun smiling down on you and your family.
Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N Galvin Parkway in Phoenix, Open Daily at 8 AM
You can and probably will enjoy a hike or two through the Sonoran Desert during your Scottsdale visit, but the Desert Botanical Garden will still remain a highlight, educating you on the unusual plants you encounter in the wild (and in their gardens) while also providing special events that include Flutterfest, a celebration of butterflies and other pollinators, and their Music in the Garden events that take place on certain evenings throughout the months of January through May. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and this adults-only event promises to bring you joy.
Segway of Scottsdale, 7330 E Earll Drive Suite R in Scottsdale, Open Daily
The town of Scottsdale offers a blend of midcentury modern and old west charm, and the best way to explore it can be on two wheels. Segway of Scottsdale has been offering tours of Scottsdale for 19 years, and as the sun smiles, spring breezes rustle through the trees, and the earpiece in your ear harbors the voice of your guide telling the stories of “The West’s Most Western Town,” you will know that there is nowhere else you want to be. The tours last two hours and only ages 12-75 can participate in this activity.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E Indian Bend Road in Scottsdale, Open Daily, 9AM-6:30PM
A day at the park is one of our favorite ways to enjoy a beautiful spring day, and the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers some extras that will make it a treat for the whole family. Featuring a pint-sized rideable train that circles the park, a railroad museum, and housing three model railroad clubs, this whistlestop adventure will be the ones your kiddos talk about forevermore. Also offering special events that include live music and holiday celebrations, this park is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Spring Events
If you visit in the summer months you may notice that there aren’t a lot of events going on, but from February to May, we make up for the lack. There simply isn’t enough time on this page to announce all the events that come to the Scottsdale area in the spring, but the ones listed below offer a great sample of what you can expect.
Arizona Renaissance Festival, 12601 E Highway 60 in Gold Canyon, Weekends Only
Weekends in February through April are meant for turkey legs, jousting, and huzzahs as the Arizona Renaissance Festival comes to town. It is a bit of a drive from your luxurious I Love Scottsdale abode and it is quite a ride back in time, but we promise you will enjoy a day filled with bodacious delights, bawdy humor, and be able to throw rotten tomatoes into the faces of knaves taunting you from behind colorful walls. Also offering a shopping opportunity that will leave you with your arms full, you may want to consider waiting to do your shopping on the way OUT of the event.
M3F Music Festival, Margaret T. Hance Park in Phoenix
March is when this annual nonprofit music festival comes to Phoenix, offering three days of live performances on an outdoor stage, as well as a plethora of other adventures. Providing a family zone, kids under 12 are free, with games, arts, face painting, and music, a Vendor Village selling everything you never knew you needed until you held the items in your hand, art displays, cocktail bars, food, and VIP experiences, this event is a popular one with music lovers and families.
Arizona Restaurant Week, the Spring Version, Various locales
The best vacations are often remembered for the meals that were devoured, and if your visit brings you here in May during Arizona Restaurant Week, your memories will be taken to the next level of wonderful. Participating restaurants offer a prixe fixe menus that are separate from their standard ones, allowing the chefs to show off their skills and creativity.
Sport Events, February and March
This area of Arizona is known for their sports teams, we offer our own baseball, football, basketball, and until recently, hockey teams, ensuring that enthusiasts will always find something sports related to enjoy, including the special events listed below.
WM Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale
Home to the rowdiest and loudest hole on the PGA Tour, the WM Phoenix Open has been attracting the best golfers in the world and their most enthusiastic fans for many decades. It was the 16th hole where young Tiger Woods made a hole in one back in the 1990s, and the excitement generated from that one shot changed the trajectory of golf, at least in Phoenix, for years to come. Also home to the Birds Nest, a tent that serves as an entertainment venue during and after the day’s tournament activities, some of the world’s biggest singers have performed on the stage.
Cactus League Spring Training
The end of February and all of March brings 15 professional baseball teams to the Valley of the Sun, each playing in a variety of stadiums that are located all over the area, including two in Scottsdale. And although the Arizona Diamondbacks are our hometown heroes, it is quite possible that the Chicago Cubs, playing in their stadium which is a smaller version of Wrigley field, attract the biggest fans. There is no better way to enjoy a spring day than sitting in an open stadium watching your idols hit the ball out of the park and because we are also becoming food snobs here in the desert, most stadiums feature gourmet delights that will enhance your adventure.
NASCAR Championship Weekend, 7602 S Avondale Boulevard in Avondale
Oh, did we forget to mention we have NASCAR here as well? The Phoenix Raceway in March is where you want to be when you love the cars that go fast and this weekend represents all that is wonderful about the sport, offering beer, food, beer, and the opportunity to meet drivers and sign your name on the finish line. Hmm. Did we mention there would be beer, and probably wine as well, but everyone knows that beer and NASCAR are a team that can’t be beat.
Play Outside at Home with I Love Scottsdale
Your spring adventures beyond the borders of your vacation home’s yard are destined to be ones you remember forever, but because you chose I Love Scottsdale for your vacation accommodations, your getaway is about to ratcheted to the next level of WOW. Remember, sunny days, warm temperatures, and that we reminded you to pack a swimsuit, because more than likely your escape will feature a heated pool in the backyard. Heated will be necessary for the early spring visitors because nights get a little nippy, sometimes even frosty, in February and March, but by May you may even be swimming at night, even if that doesn’t help your tan. Also offering hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, firepits, and the occasional putting green, your outdoor activities will not have to cease simply because you returned home for a little peace and quiet.
Peaceful and Serene
Our Scottsdale vacation rentals are a perfect option for your ultimate vacation needs. Scottsdale spring sanctuaries offer that peaceful feeling and serene vibe you have been searching for your entire life. Comfortable, luxurious, and welcoming, these spaces will feel like home, even as you are miles away from your own front door and we have a feeling you will never want to leave. Reserve your favorite escape today and discover all the reasons your escape to the desert was the best decision you could have made this year!
When it comes to finding the perfect destination for Spring Break, consider Scottsdale. There is no place that offers more exciting activities in the spring than our very own home. Spring Break is the perfect time to see Scottsdale for the 1st or even 10th time. The area features many family friendly activities for the children along with plenty of nightlife spots for the adults. Take a look at how you can spend the perfect Spring Break in Scottsdale:
OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland
Spring Break is the perfect time to show the kids some educational fun here in the area. The whole family will love an opportunity to head on over to OdySea Aquarium. This is Scottsdale’s very own aquarium and continues to be a highlight for kids year after year. OdySea Aquarium is Arizona’s highest rated and largest aquarium in the entire state. Guests will arrive and marvel at just how massive this attraction truly is. You will have the opportunity to see 300 different species of animals in over 70 different habitats across the attraction. Of the 6,000 different animals that call OdySea Aquarium home you will have the chance to see fish, sharks, rays, turtles, jellyfish, octopus, penguins, and much more. Part of the fun at OdySea is the chance to join in on interactive exhibits. The Sea Trek helmet diving lets you go beneath the surface of the water and encounter rays in person. Or join in on the penguin or sloth encounters where you get to meet these loveable animals in person.
Book Our Spring Rentals in Scottsdale!
OdySea Aquarium is not the only attraction found here in Scottsdale. Right next door you will find Butterfly Wonderland that is part of the complex. While OdySea was all about life below the surface of the water, Butterfly Wonderland is seeing it flutter around in the sky. This attraction features a massive atrium where thousands of butterflies freely roam. You will able to explore the atrium at your leisure and get photos with these majestic creatures. You will find plenty of opportunities for them to land on you providing the perfect photo opportunities. Spring Break is all about the whole family having a blast together which you can do over at OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland in North Scottsdale.
Hit the Hiking Trail
Spring Break is a beautiful time of year to visit Arizona. The weather will be gorgeous with temperatures rising but not too hot yet. Arizona is a beautiful state that has plenty of outdoor hiking trails to explore. Scottsdale has several hiking trails very close by located at the McDowell Mountain Preserve. Some popular trailheads that are easy to reach include Gateway Trailhead and Trail Head Preserve. You will find easy to moderate trails that will reward your effort with stellar views up top. If you wish to seek out the Superstition Mountains out east, you will find the drive to them is relatively easy to navigate. In fact, getting to anywhere in Arizona is very easy with our interstate system. You can find yourself up in Sedona exploring the Red Rocks in just over an hour from Scottsdale. Or continue up to the Grand Canyon for an easy day trip to see this wonder of the world. The outdoors is playground here during Spring Break.
Spring Training
Ask any local what their favorite activity is here during the spring, and we guarantee most will say Spring Training. With the weather being so beautiful here in Arizona, it should be no surprise that most MLB teams come here every year for their Spring Training. The Phoenix Valley is home to several Spring Training stadiums that host MLB Spring Training games from late February throughout the month of March just in time for Spring Break. You can find favorite teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cub, and San Diego Padres all over Phoenix. However, the save the best for Scottsdale as we host the San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Colorado Rockies here in the area. You can enjoy a game at Old Town’s Scottsdale Stadium or head to Salt River Fields located at Talking Stick. Tickets are relatively inexpensive especially if you purchase a lawn seat that is perfect when you bring a blanket to lay out on. The schedule is already posted for this year’s Spring Training so make sure to catch a game (or two) during your Spring Break visit.
The Best Spring Break Fun
Scottsdale is your best destination for an adventure-filled Spring Break this year. These are just a few of the many ways to plan for your action packed trip. Make the most of your stay in Scottsdale by reserving one of our vacation rentals in the area. You will find luxury homes with all of the amenities you want close to these local attractions.
The new year means we are gearing up for more winter holidays here in the Valley and none are quite as exciting as Valentine’s Day. If you have been looking for the one destination that your loved one will absolutely love to visit consider nothing else but Scottsdale. Our Arizona community is the ideal spot to treat your loved one to a romantic getaway complete with candlelit dinners, time at the spa, and more romantic activities. Here is how you can spoil your partner when you visit Scottsdale for Valentine’s Day:
Romantic Dinner for Two
Whenever you think of a romantic dinner you may be picturing a candlelit table, glasses of champagne, and a luxury menu complete with entrees of all cuisines. You will find that and much more when you dine out in Scottsdale for Valentine’s Day. One of our favorite spots to dine out at for the romantic holiday is Reserve. This is one of Scottsdale’s most luxury fine dining establishments that offer an inventive menu with a set price. Reservations are required for this upscale restaurant where you will enjoy candlelit, white table cloth tables and a five course meal. Each course brings out a new decadent dish that will elevate the senses. Each course also features a wine pairing to bring out the flavors further. You will find popular items on the menu including Siberian caviar, Maine lobster tail, wagyu steak, and much more. This is one of Scottsdale’s pricier restaurants but is well worth the cost of admission. To feel at home in Scottsdale you can book a reservation at Olive & Ivy. This has become a staple for the Scottsdale community and continues to be a favorite. Olive & Ivy serves up California Mediterranean fare in a bustling restaurant setting. You will find a variety of dishes including steak, pasta, seafood, much more. Try out local favorites such as the shrimp scampi risotto or share some bacon wrapped dates. The beer and wine list is extensive with plenty to pick from. No matter where you end up at for dinner make sure you place a reservation well in advance to secure a table for Valentine’s Day night.
Hit the Spa
Getting a delicious meal is just the start to the romance here in Scottsdale for Valentine’s Day. Treat your loved one to a day at the spa where they will walk away feeling completely rejuvenated. Spa Avania is one of the popular spots in the city where you can enjoy the French Celtic mineral pool along with 19 treatment rooms. The onsite salon is perfect if your loved one is also looking to change up their style for the trip. Inspire Day Spa is another local favorite that offers a waterfront day spa. You will find all of the services you want from a spa including individual and couples’ massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and much more. The serene setting will make sure you both are feeling at peace here in the spa. It is also recommended to place a reservation at the spa in advance prior to your trip to secure a spot over Valentine’s Day.
Book a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Seeing Scottsdale from the ground is always great but seeing it from high up in the air is even better. Create lasting memories with a hot air balloon ride that will take you up and over the Phoenix Valley. This is a unique experience that will take you for up to an hour in the air as you take in the beautiful desert vistas. Rainbow Ryders is a local hot air balloon company that features rides here in Scottsdale. You can book a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride that will add to the romantic ambience. The experience is over 3 hours in length with up to an hour in the air. You have never seen sights quite like this.
See the Beauty at the Desert Botanical Garden
Enjoy the perfect date night during your stay with a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden. The Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of different species of desert landscape including cactus and trees. You will be able to explore the 55 acres of space that is set up in gorgeous exhibits. This year, the Desert Botanical Garden will have their Light Bloom exhibit open over Valentine’s Day. Beautiful geometric light installations will be set up over the garden offering a stunning convergence of nature and light. Don’t miss out on this unique and romantic outing in Scottsdale.
Get Ready for the Romance in Scottsdale
Our vacation rentals will keep you comfortable all trip long when you book ahead for Valentine’s Day. Treat your loved one to a stunning property found nowhere else.
When you live in an area that gets over 300 days of sunshine every year, there are perks that come along with the privilege. Pool season extends throughout most of the year, your winter wardrobe is limited to a few sweaters and a jacket or two, and in the spring, the Cactus League brings baseball teams from all over the nation to our doorstep for Spring Training games. Scottsdale in February and March may be your favorite place to visit and our I Love Scottsdale Spring Training sanctuaries are sure to be your favorite places to stay and this guide will help you enjoy, the season, the town, the games, and our properties to the fullest!
The Two Spring Training Leagues
Spring Training games are divided into two leagues of 15 teams, with the Grapefruit League in Florida filling up their March calendars with games and the Cactus League right here in the Phoenix area doing the same. This time of year is absolutely beautiful in the desert, with the sun shining bright and the temperatures lingering in the warm but not too warm zones, and as travelers from all over the nation flock to the stadiums that serve as home to our 15 teams, we too find ourselves playing hooky from work, grabbing our stadium chairs, and taking ourselves out to the ballgame. Offering a more intimate experience than during the regular season, the games are the perfect time to get autographs, check out the players before the season begins, and to enjoy hot dogs and other baseball foods, especially enjoyed by all those who have been behaving since the new year began!
10 Stadiums
There are 10 stadiums in the area, each hosting one or two teams from across the US, but today, we want to concentrate on our hometown stadiums, the two that are actually located in Scottsdale. Our I Love Scottsdale homes are sure to be located near one or both, and as you spend more time at the park and less time fighting traffic, you will have a vacation experience that is both exciting and comfortable. Starting with Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, located at 7555 N Pima Road, this wonderful stadium often serves as a concert venue, festival grounds, and during July 4th, fireworks destination spot. But in the spring, it is home to our hometown heroes, the Arizona Diamondbacks, winners of the 2001 World Series, making this stadium quite popular with the locals during Spring Training 2025. They also share the stadium with the Colorado Rockies, but in our minds, it is the Diamondbacks that matter! Our second field, Scottsdale Stadium, is located at 7408 E Osborn Road and is the seasonal home to the San Francisco Giants, winners of eight World Series since 1905. As you can imagine, Giants fans are quite in love with their team, making Scottsdale Stadium equally popular at this time of year.
Honorable Mention
We know we said we would just concentrate on the two stadiums in Scottsdale, we are I Love Scottsdale, after all, but we can’t talk about Spring Training if we don’t bring up the fact that the most popular team in the Midwest calls Mesa home during the month of March. The Chicago Cubs have their own stadium here, Sloan Field, one that is built to look exactly like Wrigley Field, just on a smaller footprint. And as much as we love our Diamondbacks, you haven’t seen fan love until you witness a Spring Training game starring the Chicago Cubs, especially as many locals are Midwest transplants eager and excited to see someone from their own hometown play the game!
Seeking Autographs
Every baseball fan is thrilled to collect an autograph from their favorite players, and during Spring Training, it is easier than at any other time of the year, with the best time to get them being during their practices. Practice is open to the public, generally taking place in the morning hours between 9 AM and noon. Be sure to arrive early, as it is no secret this is the time to get the autographs of your favorites, and try not to linger. There will be a lot of people waiting and everyone deserves a shot, so have what you want autographed ready, bring a Sharpie (The players won’t be carrying those in their uniform pockets!) and sit in the second row. Your time to be thrilled will arrive and you will make a memory that will last a lifetime. Want photos with your kids? Arrive even earlier, while the team is warming up, and the friendly players are sure to be agreeable. If you can’t make practice sessions, there will still be opportunities to get your autographs as players linger in the foul ball territory before and after games, specifically for this purpose and that includes the most famous athletes, not just the prospects who are hoping to be signed for the season.
More Than Hot Dogs and Cracker Jacks
The food being sold during Spring Training games has received an upgrade, and although there will always be hamburgers, hot dogs, and probably Cracker Jacks (Does anyone really eat those anymore?), each year the food services people bring new items to the menu to excite your taste buds. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, is especially known for their gourmet food choices, and in previous years, new food items have included hot dogs made from ostrich, elk, rattlesnake, and even vegetarian versions. Hot dogs still seem to be the most popular food item, and other variations have included a bacon, macaroni and cheese hot dog, but burrito bowls and loaded nachos are always a sure bet as well. The Diamond Bar offers restaurant quality food, prepared when ordered and a huge television inside the restaurant ensures you won’t miss a minute of the game if you decide to dine this way.
Spring Training with the Kids
The youngest generation of fans, your children, may not have the attention span necessary to sit in a seat and watch the entire game, but the stadiums in Scottsdale both offer kids zones to help the littles burn off some of their excess energy. The Cold Stone Kid’s Fun Field at Salt River Fields is a free activity zone, letting kids practice hitting whiffle balls and running the bases (This will definitely tire them out!) while also offering an ice cream cart to sweeten their dispositions. At Scottsdale Stadium, the kids can run around the berm alongside the field or they can take their energy to the batting cage, hitting their own balls out of the park. In any case, the vibe of Spring Training games is much more relaxed during the regular season games and parents can feel comfortable when their children are a little more exuberant than usual. It’s spring, the weather’s gorgeous, and the baseball season is in full swing; how can you not be exuberant?
The Innings Festival, Tempe Beach Park
Again, although we are concentrating on Scottsdale at the moment, the Innings Festival, held every year at Tempe Beach Park, is close enough to your I Love Scottsdale baseball retreat that you won’t feel like you are driving forever just for a party. Occurring at the beginning of Spring Training (generally the last week of February) and lasting two days, this exciting festival kicks off training season in all the best ways. Offering three stages where a rotating round up of live bands will be constantly playing, delicious foods, and baseball themed activities for everyone, the beauty of the Papago Mountains and Tempe Town Lake offer an extra element of wonder to the whole celebration. A batting cage and speed pitch section offer fun ways to test your own baseball skills, vendors will be passing out free merch at spots like the Beatbox Clubhouse and the Ghost Lounge, and food vendors will be selling all manner of delicious foods. And because one weekend is wonderful, two weekends must be even better (and it is!) the second weekend of Spring Training provides the Extra Innings Festival offering more of what you explored in the first!
A Tour of Restaurants
Although there are some games that take place in the evenings, the majority are played in the afternoon, ending, for the most part, in plenty of time to enjoy a night out on the town and if you didn’t completely pig out during your baseball adventures, the restaurants listed below will be yummy additions to your Spring Training shenanigans. We’ve also included some breakfast restaurants, in case you don’t feel like utilizing the fully equipped kitchens in your I Love Scottsdale spring sanctuaries.
Hash Kitchen, 8777 N Scottsdale Road in Gainey Village & 14838 Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in North Scottsdale
There are not enough words to describe the breakfast wonders that await you at Hash Kitchen, one of the most exciting breakfast spots in the entire Phoenix Metropolitan area, not just in North Scottsdale! From their Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar to the live DJs that provide music on the weekends, Hash isn’t just a restaurant, it is a fantastic party spot that will enhance your away from the ballpark activities. Offering a great time to experience some authentic Mexican chilaquiles (an egg dish served over tortilla chips) or their eclectic takes on Benedicts, including one made with fried chicken, biscuits, and a maple reduction, you won’t leave Hash Kitchen feeling hungry or bored!
Durant’s, 2611 N Central Avenue in Phoenix
Your daytime hours are going to be filled with a fun and casual vibe that matches our hometown, but we can be fancy too, and if you want to up the elegant vibe and experience a true special occasion meal, we are going to change it up a bit and suggest Durant’s as the restaurant you should not miss. Located in nearby Phoenix, not Scottsdale, the history of this venerable institution that originally opened in the 1950s is as delicious as the steaks they serve, involving the original owner Jack Durant who once worked for Bugsy Malone in a Vegas casino. Pro tip, regulars know that the only way to enter Durant’s is through the back door which gives guests a sneak peek into the kitchens where food magic is created. This hot spot is also a great spot in which to rub shoulders with celebrities, many of which may be in town for Spring Training.
Butter’s Pancakes & Café, 8300 Hayden Road #104
Sometimes you just want a good breakfast, not a party, and when you are fueling up for a day on the fuel, Butter’s Pancakes & Café has just what you seek. Offering every flavor of pancake under the sun, all fluffy and practically plate sized, they also serve French toast, waffles, and a huge classic egg menu that takes a while to read but will be worth all the extra effort when you find the meal that makes your heart smile.
More Than Baseball & Food
Scottsdale is one of Arizona’s top vacation destinations, and although your primary reason for visiting is the game, you may want to explore other exciting activities in town. OdySea Aquarium, located at 9500 E Via De Ventura offers a tropical oasis in the middle of the desert, providing more than 2,000,000 gallons of waters in its aquariums, Taliesin West was Frank Lloyd Wrights winter home and architecture school and can be toured today, and the Scottsdale Wine Trail features seven wine tasting rooms offering Arizona wines that are sure to become your newest obsession. Night spots like Cake (modern and exciting) and the Rusty Spur (Western and historic) will provide the opportunity to dance, drink, and perhaps meet a celebrity or two as they like to hang out in these spots as well!
Come Home to Comfort
Your favorite moments, however, may be the ones that take place after the last home run has been hit out of the park, the leftovers from your hearty meal have been bagged up, and your night on the town has ended. The moments you spend at home with I Love Scottsdale, swimming in private pools, soaking in bubbling hot tubs, maybe even playing foosball against your 10 year old in fully equipped game rooms, will be the ones you treasure forever. Reserve your favorite Scottsdale retreat today and come home to comfort every night of your stay; we even have homes for a last minute stay!