Thanksgiving with young adults .. Where to stay?

Question

Thanksgiving mom/daughter visit with 19 and 21 year olds … Best area to stay (Phoenix / Tempe / Scottsdale) and be able to walk to explore (eating, shopping, etc.)? “Don’t miss” things to see and/or do?!

Answer

For a Thanksgiving visit with young adults in the Phoenix area, the best areas to stay for walkability, dining, and shopping are Scottsdale’s Old Town, downtown Tempe near Mill Avenue, or central Phoenix. Each offers a different vibe and easy access to attractions.

Area recommendations:

Old Town Scottsdale: This is highly walkable with a dense concentration of restaurants, bars (note: for 19-21-year-olds, alcohol venues won’t be accessible, but many restaurants and coffee shops are), boutiques, and art galleries. The area has a lively downtown evening scene and public art installations.
Mill Avenue, Tempe: Near Arizona State University, this area has a youthful energy, lots of casual dining options, coffee shops, and small shops. Easy to walk around and very lively, especially during the day and early evening.
Downtown Phoenix: Slightly less touristy but offers museums, urban parks, and a growing food scene. Staying near Roosevelt Row provides access to murals, galleries, and trendy cafes.

“Don’t miss” things to see and do:

Phoenix: Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, Heard Museum (Native American art and culture), and Camelback Mountain viewpoints (hike optional).
Scottsdale: Old Town Scottsdale galleries and shops, Scottsdale Waterfront, and Desert Botanical Garden if you stay close by.
Tempe: Mill Avenue shops and eateries, Tempe Town Lake for walking or paddleboarding, and local street art murals.
Food experiences: Try classic Southwestern cuisine (tacos, burritos), coffee shops, and dessert spots. Thanksgiving meals may be available at local hotels or restaurants with reservations.

For a short, walkable stay, Old Town Scottsdale and Mill Avenue Tempe are the top picks. Downtown Phoenix is great for a more artsy, urban feel but may require short drives between destinations. Overall, you can combine shopping, dining, and cultural attractions conveniently while keeping the days relaxed and enjoyable for your group.