Favorite Neighborhoods for Pub crawl, Dinner, Pool Clubs,etc

Question

My wife and I visit a few times a year and have done lots of hiking, Sedona, spring training, we have road tripped to Tombstone, the Tucson Desert Museum, Scottsdale aquarium, road tripped up to Vegas via wickenberg, and road tripped back via flagstaff.

We are visiting again next week and I'm curious about recommended city culture experiences people have. I am familiar with old town Scottsdale and love it, But we never really go into Phoenix and I don't even know where to start. we'll be staying between east Scottsdale/Fountain Hills so just exploring ideas for day trips, potentially nightlife.

Pool clubs are particularly interesting to us if you have recommendations there as well. Looks a lot more affordable than Vegas in that regard...

thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you've already explored some amazing parts of Arizona, and you're looking to dive deeper into Phoenix and its surrounding neighborhoods! There's a lot to offer in terms of nightlife, dining, and pool clubs, so here are some great recommendations for your upcoming trip:

1. Phoenix Nightlife and Pub Crawls

If you're looking to explore Phoenix’s nightlife and culture, there are a few neighborhoods you should check out:

Downtown Phoenix: The heart of the city, with a mix of trendy bars, pubs, and rooftop lounges. Some popular spots include The Churchill (an open-air beer garden), Copper Blues (for live music and a lively atmosphere), and The Lost Leaf (a laid-back bar with craft beer and art). Downtown is great for bar-hopping and checking out local spots.
Roosevelt Row: Known for its vibrant street art and a growing number of craft breweries and cocktail bars. Desert Eagle Brewing and The Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. are great choices for craft beer lovers.
Arcadia: A hip neighborhood in Phoenix with a cool, trendy vibe. The Porch and Linger Longer Lounge offer great outdoor seating, perfect for relaxing with drinks and snacks in a laid-back, neighborhood setting.

2. Pool Clubs and Day Clubs

If you're into pool clubs, Phoenix offers a more relaxed and affordable scene compared to places like Vegas, and you can find some amazing spots to spend the day lounging by the pool.

Hotel Valley Ho (Scottsdale): One of the most iconic spots in Scottsdale, the Hotel Valley Ho offers a beautiful pool and a laid-back vibe. Their pool parties and cabanas are popular, and it’s a great place to enjoy a drink by the water.
The Saguaro (Scottsdale): Known for its bright and colorful decor, The Saguaro's pool scene is lively, and they often host pool parties with great music and cocktails. A perfect spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon.
The W Scottsdale: A high-energy pool club with DJs, great food, and an overall fun vibe. Located in the heart of Scottsdale, it offers a great place to relax by the pool or party into the evening. Check out their Wet Deck events.
The Scott Resort & Spa (Scottsdale): This place offers a more relaxed, luxury pool experience with cabanas and a cocktail bar. It’s a great place to spend a more peaceful day by the pool with a touch of elegance.

3. Dining and City Culture

Central Phoenix (Midtown): Check out the vibrant dining scene in Midtown, which has a great selection of modern Mexican, American, and Mediterranean cuisine. Popular spots include The Breadfruit & Rum Bar (Caribbean-inspired dishes) and Paletas Betty (amazing homemade popsicles). Midtown also has a growing arts scene, with galleries and public art installations.
Arcadia and Biltmore Area: This area has a great blend of upscale and casual spots, perfect for dinner and drinks. The Henry is a trendy spot for dinner with an upscale, modern vibe, while Postino Arcadia is a fantastic choice for wine and snacks in a cozy environment.
Old Town Scottsdale: You already know about this area, but for a day trip, it’s still a great option to explore again. It has a mix of chic shopping, art galleries, and dining spots like The Mission (modern Latin cuisine) and AZ88 (American and sushi). The area also offers a great vibe in the evening with many outdoor patios and bars.

4. Day Trips

Since you’ve already explored much of Arizona, here are a few suggestions for day trips or local activities that offer a mix of relaxation and culture:

Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum: If you’re into arts and culture, these two museums are must-sees. The Phoenix Art Museum has a great collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Heard Museum focuses on Native American culture and exhibits.
Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix): Located near Papago Park, this beautiful desert garden is a perfect spot to explore Arizona’s native plants and desert landscapes. It’s a great way to relax outdoors and learn more about the local flora.
South Mountain Park: For a quick outdoor adventure without leaving the city, South Mountain Park offers hiking trails with stunning views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert. There are shorter, easy hikes that provide a fantastic perspective of the city.

Overall, you’ll find that Phoenix and Scottsdale offer a perfect mix of laid-back leisure activities, great dining, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re spending the day lounging by a pool, visiting a museum, or enjoying local craft beers, there’s something for everyone. Have a fantastic time on your upcoming trip!

Favorite Neighborhoods for Pub crawl, Dinner, Pool Clubs,etc

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