Scottsdale or Chandler Month of March

Question

Seniors 76(no dog, kids or grandkids) enjoy shopping, restaurants and golf. We have stayed in Scottsdale in the past and love it. Also, we stayed in Chandler for a week near Fashion Center and restaurants that we enjoyed. In Scottsdale we did have to utilize doctors and hospital at Honor Health. Scottsdale has gotten expensive which is the only difference we see. Are there differences we should be aware of? Probably stay in a hotel because difficult to find a place for one month in an over 55 place. All suggestions are appreciated.

Answer

Both Scottsdale and Chandler are excellent choices for seniors visiting Arizona in March, especially if you enjoy shopping, restaurants, and golf. While they are relatively close geographically, there are notable differences in atmosphere, cost, and amenities that may influence your choice.

Scottsdale:

Known for upscale shopping districts like Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Fashion Square, and high-end boutiques.
Abundant fine dining options and trendy restaurants.
Many premier golf courses, including those in the McDowell Mountain and Scottsdale area resorts.
Medical facilities: Scottsdale is home to top-tier hospitals like HonorHealth, which is convenient for access to healthcare if needed.
March can be busy due to spring training (Cactus League) and tourists, so hotel prices tend to be higher.
The overall vibe is more resort-like, upscale, and sometimes more crowded in peak season.

Chandler:

More relaxed and suburban feel compared to Scottsdale.
Shopping options include Chandler Fashion Center and smaller local shopping districts; generally less high-end than Scottsdale.
Restaurants are varied and affordable, with a mix of casual and mid-range dining.
Golf courses are plentiful but tend to be slightly more affordable than Scottsdale’s luxury courses.
Medical facilities are good, though fewer high-profile hospitals than Scottsdale; Banner Health and Dignity Health locations are available nearby.
March is less crowded than Scottsdale, so hotel rates are generally lower, and you may find longer-term stays more feasible.

Other considerations for your month-long stay:

Scottsdale offers more luxury resort-style hotels with extensive amenities, whereas Chandler has comfortable mid-range hotels often better suited for longer stays.
If walking and casual exploration are priorities, Scottsdale’s Old Town is more pedestrian-friendly and offers a vibrant atmosphere. Chandler’s downtown area is quieter and more relaxed.
Traffic can be busier in Scottsdale, especially around spring training events; Chandler is generally easier to navigate.
Both cities have ample options for grocery stores, pharmacies, and daily conveniences.

Overall, if your priority is upscale shopping, dining, and proximity to top medical care, Scottsdale remains the premium option, though at higher cost. If affordability, quieter streets, and convenience for a longer stay are more important, Chandler is a great choice without sacrificing too much in terms of amenities, golf, or dining options.

Scottsdale or Chandler Month of March

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