Hotel Recommendation for Romantic Weekend in May

Question

My wife and I are coming in to celebrate my birthday. We would like to do a hike and explore nightlife, shops, and restaurants. We’re in our 40s. Was looking at a few hotels, but the only one that seems to make sense is the Andaz. Looked at Adero too, but too seems to far from everything else. Four Seasons and Phoenician are too pricey.

Answer

For a romantic weekend in Scottsdale in May, where you want a balance of hiking access, nightlife, shopping, and restaurants, the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows is an excellent choice. Its location in the Scottsdale Waterfront/Old Town area makes it convenient to restaurants, bars, and shops while still providing a resort feel with pools and spa amenities. It’s also within reasonable driving distance to hiking spots like Camelback Mountain and Pinnacle Peak.

If you’re open to considering alternatives to the Andaz that balance location, amenities, and cost, here are some options:

Hotel Valley Ho: Centrally located in Old Town Scottsdale, this mid-century modern hotel offers a fun, stylish vibe, easy access to nightlife, shops, and restaurants, and is a short drive to hiking trails.
The Scott Resort & Spa: Located just north of Old Town, this boutique property has a lively pool scene, spa, and is a quick drive or short ride to shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Residence Inn Scottsdale Old Town: Offers a more budget-friendly option while still being walking distance to downtown Scottsdale attractions and a short drive to hiking areas.
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows: Already mentioned, it’s a standout choice for its luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere and central location.

For hiking, consider:

Pinnacle Peak Trail: Moderate 3.5-mile round-trip hike with great views, not too strenuous.
Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon or Cholla Trail): More challenging hikes with panoramic city and desert views.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Multiple trailheads with varying difficulty, good for a shorter or longer hike depending on your energy level.

For nightlife and dining, Old Town Scottsdale offers a variety of trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and art galleries within walking distance of most centrally located hotels. You can enjoy a romantic dinner, explore local shops, and experience Scottsdale’s lively evening scene without needing to drive.

In summary, the Andaz is a top choice for your needs, but if you want to explore other centrally located options with good access to both hiking and nightlife, Hotel Valley Ho or The Scott Resort & Spa are excellent alternatives that may better fit budget considerations while still providing a romantic getaway experience.