Scottsdale Travel Guide: Tips & Inspiration for a 24 Hour Visit

My name is Ana Kcira and I’m the voice behind the brand JettsetWithAna. Welcome to my short and sweet travel guide on Scottsdale, Arizona. I have been a creator for six years now, starting my brand at the end of 2019. I was born and raised in New York State, about an hour away from New York City where I still reside to this very day. The travel bug has always been with me.

Even as a child I dreamt of exploring the world but I didn’t start traveling until my late 20s. My page JettsetWithAna was launched months before the pandemic and as a travel creator that was a huge setback. Once things reopened, my husband and I decided to finally take the time to explore the US. We had already been to Europe and Asia, as well as the usual spots in America, but we really wanted to see more of our beautiful country.

I found myself in Scottsdale for the first time in October, 2019 for a business meeting and I told myself that I would come back one day. One pandemic and a few months later, I eventually made it back. Although my time in Scottsdale was short, a mere 24 hours. In that time I got to experience so much. I stayed in Old Scottsdale which was so convenient and quaint.

My 24 Hour Experience in Scottsdale

After a morning of wandering around Old Scottsdale, I headed to Fashion Square which was some of the best shopping I have ever experienced. As a New Yorker that is saying a lot! Scottsdale gave me Palm Springs vibes but not as uptight. The people were friendly and I never felt unwelcome or out of place. Arizona as a whole is a beautiful state that I highly recommend traveling through. Scottsdale, however, is definitely a one of a kind city.

I have been traveling the US recently and haven’t been to any other city quite like it. If you are looking for an energetic and fun destination that has a great balance of wellness and nightlife then Scottsdale is your scene. One thing I missed was exploring outside of Scottsdale. I had Papago Park in Phoenix on my list but sadly I didn’t have time to visit. It looks beautiful. I hope to make it back to the area soon to have more outdoor adventures.

Sugar Bowl — Exploring Scottsdale © Ana Kcira

Scottsdale’s Amazing Food Scene

After visiting various US states, I have to say that Arizona is way up there on the food scene list. I’m big on fresh meals and a good cocktail and Scottsdale did not disappoint. Some of my favorite places were Berdenas – grab an iced matcha and breakfast sandwich which are 10/10. For margaritas, head to Diego Pops and order the fresh cucumber margarita.

I also found myself at AZ/88. To be honest, I 100% went for their disco ball decor only to find out it was taken down a day or two before I arrived. Nevertheless, their classic martini and grilled cheese sandwich was the chef’s kiss. If you are short on ideas of where to eat and drink in Scottsdale then places like Berdenas, Diego Pops and AZ/88 are great spots to start.

Favorite Place in Scottsdale: The Hermosa Inn

Whenever I am in a location for a short period it can be hard to take in the entire experience because I am running around creating content. I have to say, although my time was brief, I definitely took moments to appreciate the beauty of Arizona. One location I truly enjoyed was The Hermosa Inn. I didn’t stay there, but I was able to walk the grounds and it was incredible!

Tips for your 24 Hour Trip to Scottsdale

I stayed at The Scott Resort & Spa and loved it! They have a beautifully maintained landscape as well as a great restaurant and bar. I recommend the spa there as well. My facial was very relaxing. This boutique hideaway also has accommodation offerings in other cities across the US such as Phoenix, Carmel and Laguna Beach. So check them out if you go there.

One key thing for visiting Scottsdale is picking the right time. I have been to Scottsdale twice, once in October and once in February. Both months seemed like the perfect time to be in the city. It wasn’t too crowded and the weather was lovely. My days were warm but not too hot and the nights weren’t too cold. In October, you can get away with lounging poolside without being looked at like a crazy tourist with highs above 80°F.

Also, be aware of events going on that drive up the cost of hotels and lack of car rentals. I ran into this issue on my last trip. As a side note, Lyft is way more affordable than Uber! One of my biggest regrets was paying $100 for an Uber ride from Phoenix airport to Scottsdale, only to find out later a Lyft would have been half that price. But hey, we live and we learn right? Or as I like to say, I make the mistakes and share them so others don’t have to!