Arizona is more than a destination—it’s a place to explore, savor, and return to throughout the year. Scottsdale, downtown Phoenix, and nearby destinations offer mornings in golden desert landscapes, afternoons on scenic trails, and evenings with rooftop sunsets and lively nightlife. Use this guide to discover the top experiences and activities that make every visit unforgettable.
Outdoor Adventures
Arizona’s desert terrain and waterways create endless adventure options all year long, from hiking and floating to soaring high above the landscape.
Hike Camelback Mountain
One of the most recognizable landmarks in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain is a bucket-list hike for visitors eager to experience the Arizona desert up close. Rising 2,704 feet above the city, the trail offers panoramic views of the Valley that make the challenging climb worth every step. Both the Echo Canyon and Cholla routes are steep and demanding, typically taking two to three hours round-trip. Due to rugged terrain and desert heat, early morning hikes are recommended, especially during the warmer months. This hike isn’t for beginners, but the summit views are unforgettable.
Float the Salt River
Floating the Salt River is a classic summer adventure, providing a refreshing escape from desert heat. Drift past wild horses, towering saguaro cacti, and native wildlife along the Tonto National Forest shoreline. Trips generally last two to four hours—perfect for cooling off and connecting with nature. Seasonal tube rentals are available from late April through October, yet the Salt River itself is open year-round for kayaking, paddleboarding, or private tubing with your own equipment and a Tonto Pass.
Cruise Lake Pleasant in a Hot Tub Boat
At Lake Pleasant, the Yachtuzzi hot tub boats combine boating, relaxation, and desert scenery for a unique Arizona experience. Up to six guests can enjoy temperature-controlled water, music, and lake views. This activity is great for warm-weather afternoons or sunset cruises.
Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad
Departing from Clarkdale near Sedona, the Verde Canyon Railroad offers a scenic four-hour journey through protected canyon landscapes that most visitors would never see otherwise. Vintage rail cars and open-air viewing decks give passengers incredible views of red rock formations, desert wildlife, and the Verde River along the route. It’s a relaxing and memorable way to experience Arizona’s beauty.
Tip: Fall and spring offer mild weather, while summer mornings are cooler for comfortable rides. Plus, keep an eye out for special wine or beer versions of the tour, where your ticket includes tastings along the way.
Soar Above the Sonoran Desert in a Hot Air Balloon
Take a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders! Float above the Sonoran Desert with breathtaking views of saguaro cacti, desert mountains, and glowing skies. It’s an unforgettable experience for celebrations, anniversaries, or ticking off a bucket-list adventure. GoodNight Stay guests can enjoy Sunrise Shared Basket Flights at a discounted price of $165 per person with code GNSRR.
Brunch, Dinner & Dining Experiences
In Arizona, dining is an experience: from vibrant brunches to lively dinners, the food is only part of the adventure.
Brunch at The Montauk
For a lively brunch scene in Old Town Scottsdale, The Montauk is a go-to destination. The space has a relaxed coastal vibe paired with live music and DJs that turn brunch into a social event. Groups often order the restaurant’s signature cocktail trees—like the Frosé Tree, Mimosa Punch Bowl, or Espresso Martini Tree—which makes it a fun stop for birthdays, celebrations, or a weekend brunch with friends.
Luxury Weekend Brunch at Cala
Cala is making waves with one of the city’s most energetic weekend brunches, served Saturdays from 11 AM–3 PM. Their Cala Grand brunch features fresh seafood, made-to-order pasta stations, curated cocktails, and a lively atmosphere with DJs and entertainment throughout the afternoon. With celebratory moments like sparklers and napkin twirls, the experience feels more like a daytime celebration than a traditional brunch.
Rooftop Dining at Théa
Located atop the Global Ambassador Hotel, Théa offers one of the most scenic dining experiences in the Valley. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired share plates, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails while overlooking Camelback Mountain. With fire-lit lounge areas and a lively rooftop atmosphere, it’s a great destination for sunset dinners or a stylish night out any season.
Steakhouse Experience at Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash in Scottsdale is a luxurious steakhouse known for its lively, high-energy atmosphere and modern design. The menu features creative wood-fired dishes like the Fire-Roasted Seafood Tower, “Pillows of Love” pasta, and decadent Coconut Pie, alongside the famous “I Don’t Give a F*@K” tasting menu and complimentary welcome bites. It’s a go-to spot for celebrations or a night out, with meals that make the evening memorable.
Martinis at AZ88
AZ88 has long been a favorite cocktail destination in Scottsdale and is especially known for its martinis. Drinks here are served in oversized glasses filled right to the rim using their signature “surface tension” technique. The espresso martini is a standout favorite, praised for its rich flavor and authentic coffee base, making it a must-try stop for cocktail lovers visiting Old Town any time of year.
Going Out & Nightlife
Grab a Drink at a Downtown Phoenix Rooftop Bar
Downtown Phoenix is full of rooftop bars that combine skyline views with creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere. A few favorites to check out include:
- Diablo Rooftop – Located on top of the Cambria Hotel, Diablo offers sweeping city views, craft cocktails, and a chic, energetic vibe. Sunset here is a must for photos and evening drinks.
- Eden Rooftop Bar – This desert-inspired rooftop at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar blends Mediterranean-inspired bites, craft cocktails, and skyline views. With a pool, cabanas, and firepits, the lounge transitions from a relaxed daytime spot to a lively evening destination.
- The Rose Garden Rooftop – With its floral-inspired decor and inventive cocktails, The Rose Garden Rooftop is a lively destination for pre-dinner drinks or late-night cocktails while taking in the glittering city skyline.
Whether you’re sipping at sunset or enjoying late-night views, these rooftops offer the ultimate way to experience downtown Phoenix from above.
Experience the Scottsdale Entertainment District
Located in Old Town Scottsdale, the Entertainment District is one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife destinations, with more than 100 bars, lounges, and nightclubs packed into a walkable area. Spots like Bottled Blonde stand out for their rooftop patios and high-energy atmosphere. The best time to visit is typically October through May, when the weather is perfect for outdoor patios, though summer evenings still bring plenty of nightlife energy with slightly smaller crowds.
Catch a Game at Boondocks Patio & Grill
Boondocks Patio & Grill is a popular Scottsdale sports bar and a favorite spot for watching major sporting events. The venue features a massive outdoor projector screen, numerous TVs, and a lively indoor-outdoor patio atmosphere. It’s especially popular during football season and March Madness, when crowds gather to watch games together.
Explore Old Town by Golf Cart
One of the most fun ways to experience Old Town Scottsdale is by hopping in one of the area’s golf carts. Because the district is compact and pedestrian-friendly, golf carts make it easy to travel between restaurants, nightlife spots, and shops. Most operate on a tip-based system, making them a convenient and uniquely Scottsdale way to explore the area after dark.
Ride in a Waymo
Arizona is one of the few places in the world where visitors can ride in a fully autonomous vehicle. Waymo’s driverless cars operate across parts of Phoenix and Scottsdale, giving visitors the chance to experience futuristic transportation while exploring the city.
Where to Stay for the Full Arizona Experience
After a day of hiking, brunching, and exploring Scottsdale nightlife, the right place to stay can make the entire trip even better. A hotel room might give you a place to sleep, but it won’t offer the space, privacy, and amenities that turn a trip into a true getaway. GoodNight Stay homes provide the perfect home base with private pools, spacious living areas, and resort-style backyards designed for relaxing between adventures.
Sport & Splash
5 Beds | 3 Baths | 18 Guests
Step into a home that blends luxury with fun. Lounge by the private pool and spa, challenge friends on the sports court, or enjoy indoor games like shuffleboard and foosball. Centrally located in Scottsdale, it’s just minutes from golf courses, shopping, and entertainment, making it an ideal base for a group getaway or an action-packed weekend.
5 Beds | 4 Baths | 15 Guests
Unwind at Solara, a Scottsdale retreat built for a full Arizona experience. Start the day with a dip in the private pool, recharge in the sauna or cold plunge, and challenge friends in the shuffleboard- and foosball-equipped game room. Fire up the grill for an alfresco meal, unwind by the fire pit, or lounge outdoors under the desert sky. With Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons just minutes away, Solara blends wellness, fun, and relaxation into a getaway you won’t forget.
6 Beds | 6 Baths | 14 Guests
Experience the best of Old Town Scottsdale at Nouveau. Relax by the pool, enjoy evening conversations around the fire pit, and take in the view from private balconies. With cozy fireplaces and just a short walk to Scottsdale Fashion Square, restaurants, and bars in the Entertainment District, every stay blends relaxation, local adventures, and unforgettable moments.
Explore Arizona Like Never Before
Arizona offers unforgettable experiences no matter the time of year. Soar above the desert in a hot air balloon, sip cocktails on a rooftop, enjoy brunch, or get outside to explore the landscape, then turn it all into a true getaway by booking a GoodNight Stay home that keeps you close to it all with the comfort and space to unwind.
