Scottsdale July 2025

Question

My friend and I ( both mid thirty girls) are booked to stay at Hotel Valley Ho mid July. We have a concert on the Saturday, but will be there Friday- Monday.

We’re looking for recommendations for brunch, dinner, cool views, pool parties, retail shopping etc.

Likely will not be doing any hiking, but would love a cool view point of interest if possible.

We will be ubering.

Thanks for your help!

Answer

Scottsdale in mid-July will be hot, but staying at Hotel Valley Ho puts you right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, which is perfect for brunch, dinner, shopping, and nightlife. Since you’ll be using Uber, you can easily explore nearby areas without worrying about parking or driving in the heat.

Brunch and Breakfast Spots

Morning Glory Café – Classic breakfast with a fun, quirky vibe and great outdoor seating.
The Henry – Upscale café with modern décor, solid breakfast options, and excellent coffee.
FnB – Focus on seasonal, local ingredients; known for a more refined brunch experience.

Dinner and Nightlife

Olive & Ivy – Mediterranean-inspired dining with beautiful patio views along the canal in Old Town.
Mastro’s City Hall Steakhouse – Classic steakhouse with a glamorous vibe and live music.
Virtù Honest Craft – Creative small plates, perfect for a quieter, romantic dinner.
Postino Wine Café – Casual wine and small plate spot, fun for lighter evenings or pre-concert drinks.

Cool Views & Scenic Spots

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Scenic Drive – Even without hiking, you can enjoy desert vistas via short scenic drives.
South Mountain Park Lookout – Drive to Dobbins Lookout for panoramic views of the city and desert.
Roosevelt Row (in nearby Phoenix) – Street art and urban murals make for fun photo opportunities.

Pool Parties & Relaxation

Hotel Valley Ho pool – Known for a lively daytime pool scene; check for weekend DJ sets or themed events.
W Scottsdale – Rooftop pool parties with DJs and cocktails, a short Uber ride from Old Town.
The Saguaro Scottsdale – Colorful, fun hotel pool vibes; consider a day pass if you want a change of scene.

Retail Shopping & Browsing

Old Town Scottsdale – Main street shopping with boutiques, art galleries, and southwestern souvenirs.
Scottsdale Fashion Square – Large upscale mall with designer brands if you want indoor air conditioning and more variety.
Scottsdale Waterfront & Canal Shops – Blend of art, dining, and shopping along a scenic canal path.

Other Tips

Try to plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening to avoid peak heat (usually 11am–4pm is hottest).
Uber is perfect for hopping around Old Town, Fashion Square, and nearby viewpoints without worrying about parking.
Evening strolls in Old Town are very pleasant, with many restaurants and bars having patio seating.

With three full days, you can enjoy a mix of brunch, shopping, pool lounging, and dinner spots, plus a few scenic drives or urban murals for great photo ops. Your concert on Saturday night will fit in nicely with this itinerary.