Picture Perfect: Instagrammable Spots in Scottsdale
The past few weeks have been cold and wet here in Seattle. So naturally, I want to relive some highlights from this Summer.
My husband and I traveled to Arizona for his cousin’s high school graduation. We decided to stay in the up and coming town of Scottsdale. This hot spot did not disappoint, to say the least. The weather was ninety degrees, and there were so many trendy restaurants, cafes and other spots you just had to take a picture of or, if you’re like me, in front of.
HOTEL VALLEY HO
We stayed at Hotel Valley Ho. This hotel was incredibly trendy. And I’m not just saying that because they upgraded us to a corner suite room for the weekend. Well, that could be part of it. From the convenient distance to downtown Scottsdale, the kind staff, the cute murals, and the poolside drinks - this boutique hotel was a home away from.
One reason I chose to stay at this hotel was that it was modern, vibrant with colors and had Mid-Century decor of the past as this hotel was built in 1956. The hotel had two different pools, although we spent most of our time at the main pool that had a DJ playing top-hits while we sipped on some strawberry with frosés.
The first day we had a couple’s relaxation massage at the Valley Ho Spa. The Spa has a lot of weekday specials so the prices were very fair. The masseuse I had did such a great job at alleviating any tension I had in my back from my desk job. I literally fell into a deep sleep and was snoring. That’s probably the last time my husband will want to do that with me!
IT’S THAT HOT MURAL
Brave the heat and visit the “It’s that hot,” mural. This colorful mural is a hot spot for any tourists visiting Scottsdale, Arizona.
There will be plenty of people taking pictures in front of this wall, so lend a helping hand and offer to take someone else’s picture.
You can find the mural at this address: 7150 E. 6th Ave, Scottsdale, Arizona.
DIEGO POPS
Not too far from the, “It’s that hot mural”, is Diego Pops. It is a restaurant that serves delicious Mexican food, which is my absolute favorite type of food. I would 100% recommend ordering the fish tacos from here. The thought of them literally makes me drool.
Diego pops also offers an alcoholic beverage in a coconut. I’ve always wanted to try this so I took the plunge, but in all honesty, I wouldn’t order this drink again because I felt like the coconut attacted fruit flies.
Sugar Bowl
One of Chris’s parents’ family friends recommended we check this restaurant out! It has been around since 1958.
It is located in Old Town Scottsdale and completely transports you to an episode of Riverdale when the characters are sipping their milkshakes at Pop’s Diner.
This place is so cute! My favorite color is pink, and the Sugar Bowl was decorated from floor to ceiling in blush pink. If you’re a big fan of diners and milkshakes, be sure to make a quick pitstop here!
Růže CAKE HOUSE
We made it here minutes before closing! Literally, the cashier was sweeping as we entered. If you have a sweet tooth (like my husband), this place will satiate that sweet craving. Růže Cake House offers different types of treats like cakes, pastries and macaroons.
My favorite childhood cereal is Fruity Pebbles and, to my surprise, this little shop makes a Fruity Pebble macaroon. The middle part of the macaroon where the filling is located was covered in Fruity Pebbles. We ended up purchasing five macaroons to try later that night including my personal favorite. It’s a must-try!
TEASPRESSA
I love coffee so much, but deep down to my core I would choose tea over coffee any day. It was essential to me that we visit this café. Teaspressa was unlike anywhere I have ever been before.
They hung artificial, ivory vined flowers from the ceiling giving an ethereal vibe to the place. Located to the right when you walk in was a huge flower wall with a neon sign reading, “C’est la Tea,” on it, and in front of this cute wall was a bohemian chair with a texturized pillow on it. Talk about a perfect photo opp!
This is not the place for you if you want your beverage in a hurry. The baristas make all-natural blended tea creations. I ordered the Black Rose signature drink.
PIESTEWA PEAK
Now as most of you know, I grew up in the Pacific Northwest. I grew up with a view of Mt. Baker and now that I live in Seattle, during my commute to work I have the privilege of taking in the views of Mt. Rainier. My point is that I’m used to seeing a certain kind of mountain. Piestewa Peak was gorgeous in a different, yet very familiar way.
It is the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains. If you decide to hike this mountain, the best rule of thumb is to have a gallon of water with you. Half to drink for the way up and a half to drink for the way down. This is crucial since the Arizona heat can get super high in the summertime. Hike safely!
What are your favorite hidden gems in Scottsdale? Let me know so I can visit them next time!