Scenic Scottsdale, Arizona is known for its many upscale spas and irresistible golf courses, all enhanced in combination with year-round warm weather. With summer just around the corner, finding ways to cool off during your Scottsdale stay is an important point on the itinerary. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from whether you’re one for the great outdoors or a traveler that prefers to cool off within the comfort of an aquatic center. Here are a few Scottsdale activities to check out while you’re in town.
Water Rafting with Wilderness Aware
Arizona’s Salt River Canyon is home to the Salt River and its many thrilling rapids that await. If you’re a traveler with a heart for adventure looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun on the water, be sure to book a rafting trip with the professionals at Wilderness Aware. Based out of Scottsdale, this team customized rafting trips to fit guests’ needs with options to book half-day, full-day, or multi-day rafting tours. While the rapids are sure to inspire, guests will also find that these water trips feature amazing wildlife, geology, and plant life too.
Chaparral Aquatic Center
Prefer to spend time cooling down while staying in the heart of Scottsdale? Make your way to the Chaparral Aquatic Center and enjoy some time relaxing poolside or making the most of the lap lanes and wading area. This aquatic center is located at 5401 N. Hayden Road and entrance for the day is $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents. This center includes access to 10 lap lanes as well as a diving board and plenty of free swim space for enjoying a cool down in style.
Paiute Park
Summer in Scottsdale is a great time to combine fun, outdoor activities and if you’re looking for a place to cool off with the little ones that also offer up additional recreation, be sure to keep Paiute Park at the top of your must-experience list. Located at 3210 N. 66th Street, Paiute Park is open from sunrise until 10:30 pm daily and provides guests with a place to enjoy having fun in a sprawling splash pad during hot Arizona afternoons. Once you’ve reached just the right temperature, consider making the most of the park’s picnic tables, tennis courts, playgrounds, and several acres of green space while you’re here.
Savor Scottsdale Activities
Make the most of every moment in Scottsdale by letting the team at Parsons Villas to help you settle into your rental home away from home. Contact us today to learn more about our many options and the many Scottsdale activities waiting for you to enjoy!
Travelers hoping to enjoy time away from home and indulge in a vacation destination that comes with warm weather, intriguing desert landscapes, and city center fun have long found everything they’re looking for in Scottsdale, Arizona. This vibrant and welcoming city is loved for its many spas, golf courses, exciting trails, and architecture. While the appeal of a trip to Scottsdale remains firmly in place, the arrival of COVID-19 has seen travelers putting their plans on hold in the name of health and safety.
Scottsdale Regulations
Very much in line with Governor Doug Ducey’s executive order asking all residents of Arizona to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected, Scottsdale Mayor W.J. Lane issued a declaration of emergency in response to the pandemic as of March 18, 2020. This declaration empowers the City Manager to take necessary steps moving forward to protect Scottsdale citizens as more is learned and understood about COVID-19. At this time, essential city services such as those related to home services, waste management, police and fire protection as well as health care are fully functional. All city-based events have been canceled while city libraries, pools and recreation centers are also currently closed to the public to prevent the spread of the disease. As of March 25, 2020, the Scottsdale Trolley had suspended all services on all routes.
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
Residents in Scottsdale are being encouraged to follow the regulations, tips, and guidelines currently put in place by the CDC to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Because it is assumed the virus moves as an airborne illness, staying at home as much as possible is highly advised. Taking time to wash hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap is essential to stopping the spread of germs and if travel outside of the house is essential, it’s important to wear a face mask. The guidelines in place keep protecting the most vulnerable top of mind. Those groups at this point include individuals over the age of 65 and those with underlying health conditions. Avoiding handshakes and close contact is a strong first step in slowing the spread to these at-risk groups.
Future Forward Travel
At Parsons Villas, we have our eyes on the horizon and can’t wait to welcome our guests back when the time is right. At that time, we’ll continue our commitment to providing visitors to Scottsdale with rental accommodations that are luxurious, comfortable, and conveniently located near all of the fun you can’t wait to enjoy. Until then, stay safe and healthy!
The arrival of summer is often marked by planning a fantastic getaway to a sunny destination. This year, when you’re ready to set your sights on a warm and scenic escape, be sure to make Scottsdale your final travel destination. Known and loved for everything from great golf courses and spas to breathtaking landscapes and inspiring architecture, Scottsdale brings the variety you crave from an unforgettable vacation. Here are a few summer Scottsdale activities to add to your Scottsdale itinerary when you’re hoping to make the most of every moment of your stay.
Visit Papago Park
Papago Park is perhaps one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the combined Scottsdale and Phoenix area with good reason and is well worth a visit while you’re in town! With so much to see, do, and explore in this park, it’s the ideal place to spend a day whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in the company of the entire family. Lace up your boots and hike one of the many scenic trails, take time to visit Hunt’s Tomb, or make the most of the zoo that sits on-site as well.
Unwind at the OdySea Aquarium
When you’re ready to escape the heat and head into an unforgettable underwater adventure, be sure to make time for a visit to Scottsdale’s OdySea Aquarium. This establishment holds the prestigious title as the largest aquarium in the southwest and is home to over 30,000 creatures. Guests will enjoy the chance to browse more than 50 aquarium exhibits and learn a lot about ecosystems and conservation along the way as well. From jellyfish to sharks and the many fish that find their way in between, OdySea is a great escape into a world that’s normally unseen.
Enjoy the Scottsdale Contemporary Art Museum
Travelers that are feeling inspired and artistic will want to make their way to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art during a visit. Situated within the Old Town District, this museum enjoys a convenient location and provides visitors with options to browse a wide selection of contemporary architecture, art, and design that are displayed throughout four galleries. A combined collection of permanent and revolving exhibits means that no visit to this museum is ever quite the same.
Sip, Shop & Save
If you are in town on Thursday, May 21st, the Shops on 5th Avenue in Old Town will be hosting a fun night of shopping accompanied by music, free drinks, and even prizes! You can browse the fabulous wares featured throughout these popular stores from 6pm to 10pm when you attend the Sip & Shop event in Old Town for yourself.
Begin Planning Your Adventure
At Parsons Villas, we’re passionate about our work and are committed to creating customized experiences for our guests to Scottsdale with each and every visit. No matter when you plan on arriving, be sure to contact us to learn more about our many options in the area. We can’t wait to welcome you to Arizona!
If you are like us, you are probably used to enjoying time outdoors during the lovely Arizona spring season. However, the COVID-19 crisis has closed all non-essential businesses across the state and halted travel. Luckily, the internet can provide you with all sorts of at-home entertainment tailored to your interests. Here are some things you can enjoy while waiting for nationwide lockdowns to end:
Scottsdale Public Library
For those who love to read, there is no better way to pass the time than by checking out a book or two. While media centers, such as the Scottsdale Public Library are effectively closed, they continue to operate online. If you have an SPL library card, simply visit https://www.scottsdalelibrary.org/ to ask a librarian questions, check out an eBook or audiobook, rent movies, and more. This is a great budget-friendly option that will provide hours of fun.
World Class Learning
Now is a great time to upskill, train for certification, or earn your degree! A multitude of educational institutions and organizations offer online programs at a fraction of traditional tuition rates and in some cases, absolutely FREE! EdX, one of the largest open online course providers, hosts university-level courses in a wide range of disciplines offered through elite global universities. Coursera is another online learning platform that offers massive open online courses, specializations, and degrees. If you wish to go straight to the college or university itself, Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and our local Arizona State University have online programs that will help students achieve their educational, professional, or self-development goals.
Online Classes with OdySea
Scottsdale’s OdySea Aquarium might be closed, but they are offering free virtual classrooms that will teach you and your family all about aquatic life. This is a great way to see your favorite animals while the doors remained closed during the COVID-19 crisis.
Digital Safari with Phoenix Zoo
The animals at the Phoenix Zoo miss you just as much as you miss them! Attend a virtual safari with the Phoenix Zoo so you can see these majestic beasts “up close.” Educational programming and trail walkalongs will help you learn about the amazing animals that call our zoo home.
Look Ahead to Your Time in Scottsdale
We are getting through the novel COVID-19 crisis together and will come out even stronger than ever. While travel is restricted at the moment, it will open again before you know it. Contact our travel representatives to see how our Scottsdale vacation villas can provide you with a luxury experience unlike any other. We can’t wait to see you in Scottsdale once again!
There is plenty to offer in Scottsdale, Arizona year-round, especially when it comes to the spring season. While other parts of the country might just now be waking up from the cold of winter, Scottsdale thrives throughout the season with perfect temperatures and amazing events to keep guests busy. The same is true for Easter 2020 in Scottsdale. Take a look at what Scottsdale has coming up for Easter this year:
2nd Annual Family Fun Great Egg Hunt & Family Fair
The locally acclaimed OdySea Aquarium has been open for a few years now. OdySea will be hosting its second Family Fun Great Egg Hunt & Family Fair this year after its first year was a complete blast. This event will take place at the Arizona Boardwalk (where you can find OdySea Aquarium). Expect to find a variety of activities including two Easter egg hunts, interactive games, bounce houses, face painting, coloring contests, and of course a visit from the Easter Bunny himself! Local vendors will be on site showcasing incredible food and locally made wares. Participating in this event is absolutely free but families must be registered in advance. Registration can be done online or by calling the event’s sponsor, Family Fun AZ, directly at 480-291-4471. While you are in town, make sure you check out OdySea’s incredible underwater exhibits as well!
Easter Brunch
If you are looking for the perfect Easter brunch, look no further than what is available in Scottsdale. Local restaurants such as The Capital Grill and Social Tap Eatery offer incredible Easter brunch menus that you are guaranteed to enjoy. Start with comfort brunch food like chicken and waffles or pancakes. Healthier options like avocado toast and omelets are a great way to enjoy brunch while watching out for the calories. Of course, it would not be brunch without your favorite adult beverage such as a mimosa or Bloody Mary. Bottles of champagne make it easy to create your own mimosa on the fly! Enjoy these two restaurants for brunch this Easter weekend. Make sure to show up early, as Easter brunch is a popular activity in Scottsdale!
Explore More in Scottsdale
Start preparing for your journey to Scottsdale by reserving one of our premier vacation villas in the area. Each property offers the finest amenities including on site staff to help you with your stay. Call today and let us help you find the perfect villa for your stay in Scottsdale.
If you are excited for your upcoming trip to Scottsdale, we have some great news for you. When you reserve our luxury vacation villas, you will not need to pack heavy. Instead, keep your bags nice and light and let the many amenities in our homes take care of you. Here are some simple tips to help you pack light while visiting in Scottsdale:
No Need for Multiple Outfits
No other vacation rentals can be compared to our lavish villas in the Phoenix Valley. Not only do our vacation villas include washer and dryer units but also come fully staffed so you do not have to worry about the laundry. Instead, let our villa staff take care of that for you as you relax during your vacation getaway. There is simply more time for you to enjoy all the incredible things that can be found in Scottsdale.
Warm Weather Calls for Less Clothes
If there is one thing that most people know about Arizona, it is that it gets quite hot during the summer. That is especially true for Scottsdale as it is located in the desert. This means you do not need to bring any heavy clothing that will only make you hot. Instead, pack light with clothing that will fit the temperature in the valley. We recommend bringing a pair or two of shorts, swimwear, and light shirts to stay cool. Of course, if you want to take advantage of the beautiful mountains in the area, you will need a handy pair of hiking boots too!
Let Our Staff Cook for You
Another great advantage of our luxury vacation villas are the professional staffs our larger homes are staffed with. Stay in with a professionally prepared meal cooked up with our chefs. They only use fresh ingredients and will find out what exactly you enjoy for your meals. You will not have to worry about waiting for a table at the many popular Scottsdale restaurants and instead stay in for a quiet night. We can also have the food stocked up at your vacation rental so you will not need to bring anything from home!
Visiting in Scottsdale – Scottsdale is Waiting
These simple tips are a great way to help you out with packing a light bag for your trip to Scottsdale. Let our vacation villas be your home base for having fun during your stay in Scottsdale. Call today and see which villas are available for your stay.
Escape the cold back home and come to sunny Arizona to celebrate Scottsdale St. Patrick’s Day. This holiday is typically not thought of as being a traveling holiday; however, you will find an abundance of exciting activities and special events waiting for you in Scottsdale. Take a look at what is waiting this St. Paddy’s Day:
2020 Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Faire
You will find an exciting all-ages event for St. Patrick’s Day this year at the annual Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Faire. This event will take place at nearby Margaret T. Hance Park for an all-day celebration. This year’s event will have a variety of activities including bagpipers, Irish step dancing, live Irish music, arts and crafts, and much more. A children’s area will also be open, letting your children run around having a blast while you get to check out the Irish beer on tap. The 2020 Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Faire will take place on Saturday March 14th.
Scottsdale Shamrock Crawl
While there are several all-ages events you can attend, St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is often best enjoyed by the adults. Old Town Scottsdale will be hosting their annual Scottsdale Shamrock Crawl on Saturday March 14th for an afternoon of drinks and shenanigans. Every bar in Old Town will be open for this special event where you gain free entry to all the bars after purchasing a wristband. The wristband also entails you to three penny ($.01) drink specials at any of the bars. Expect to find all the bars decked out in their best St. Patrick’s Day decorations. The Scottsdale Shamrock Crawl will take place from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Annual Shamrock Half Marathon
Another popular event in Scottsdale is the annual Shamrock Half Marathon. This race is entering its fourth year and offers plenty of fun for everyone. The different races include the half marathon, 10K, and 5K, so you can pick a distance perfect for you. This year’s event has been moved to Kiwanis Park, located in our sister city of Tempe. The event starts at 8:00 AM and early registration is still open!
Your Irish Vacation in Scottsdale St. Patrick’s Day
Plan for the best possible vacation getaway by reserving one of our luxury vacation villas in Scottsdale. You will be feeling like royalty with onsite staff and exclusive amenities that are only available with us. Contact Parsons Villas to get started!
Get away from home and enjoy an incredible stay in Scottsdale. Scottsdale is the perfect location to have a solo vacation and see what Arizona is all about. We have something for everyone to enjoy. Take a look at some of the exciting Scottsdale activities waiting for you:
Head Over to Saguaro Lake
One of the most popular attractions nearby is Saguaro Lake. Arizona offers sunshine over 300 days out of the year, letting you enjoy the lake no matter when you visit. Go visit the lake and try paddle boarding for an entertaining way to enjoy the water. Rental shops along the lake let you check out gear you need.
Hike the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
If you want to see incredible views on a hike, look no further than the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This preserved land is just outside of Scottsdale and is easy to get to. Expect to find easy trails that are ideal for hikers of all experience levels. The desert landscape is beautiful to behold, so make sure you do not leave your camera (or smartphone) behind. Experiencing this preserve alone is a quiet and eye-opening activity.
For those who wish to find more populated trails, venture over to Camelback Mountain. This local peak is right inside city limits and offers some incredible trails. However, popularity has increased over the years, so make sure to get there early to find a parking spot.
Visit the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Spend the evening alone with a performance of the arts. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is venue you want to be at for all things performance related. This center features countless shows during the year focused on Broadway, dance performances, and even live music. You will feel uplifted with these thrilling performances that are held throughout the year.
Treat Yourself
If you are vacationing alone, you deserve to treat yourself to some fine dining. Find some of the best steak in the city over at Dominic’s Steak House, located at 15169 N Scottsdale Rd. This local restaurant features made-to-order steaks, a modern ambience, and delicious cocktails and wine.
Time for Scottsdale Activities
These Scottsdale activities will provide you with an incredible time in Scottsdale. Find yourself only the best of lodging by choosing our luxury vacation rentals in the city. You deserve the highest quality of amenities and home features for a solo trip to Scottsdale, and Parsons Villas is here to help! For a solo traveler, we would recommend Troon Ranch’s Casita, Garden Cabin, or Loft Cabin.
Romance is always in the air when you travel to sunny Scottsdale, Arizona. Our lovely destination is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Scottsdale this year. With romantic activities and luxury restaurants around every corner, Scottsdale is the place to be for an unforgettable getaway with your significant other.
Sunset Hike at the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
Scottsdale is a hiker’s dream, featuring endless acres of beautiful terrain. One of our favorite places to have a romantic sunset hike is at the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. This local preserve has over 115 miles of trails and is open from sunrise to sunset. The central trailhead can be accessed from The Gateway and leads to the remaining trails. February is also the perfect time for a hike, as much of the local flora will be blooming.
Visit Butterfly Wonderland
Have you ever wanted to be surrounded by millions of butterflies? If so, make sure you visit the Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale for Valentine’s Day. Take your loved one to this gigantic butterfly atrium where hundreds of different species live in harmony. You can snap picture-perfect photos for a romantic memory during your stay.
Go Out for a Romantic Dinner
There is no shortage of romantic restaurants to enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner. Scottsdale features all of your chain fine dining establishments such as The Melting Pot and Ruth Chris, but we recommend some of locally owned establishments that offer delicious food in a romantic interior. Check out Café Monarch for incredible New American cuisine. Marcellino Ristorante is an upscale Italian restaurant with handmade pasta and more. As always, Valentine’s Day is a popular night to go out, so make sure to place your reservation well in advance!
Stroll Down Old Town
For a romantic talk and late-night drinks, look no further than Old Town Scottsdale. This popular neighborhood is where you will find many of the city’s local shops and late-night bars. Take your loved on for a stroll after dinner before you pick a venue to enjoy a nightcap. Some popular spots rated by the locals include Rusty Spur Saloon and Old Town Tavern.
Valentines Day in Scottsdale is Waiting
Get ready for your next Scottsdale getaway by reserving your luxury villa today. Each rental offers everything you need for a romantic stay that will surpass anything you have experienced before. Come experience a romantic Valentine’s Day in Scottsdale!
If you have visited Scottsdale before, you are most likely aware of the large late-night scene the city has to offer. Neighborhoods such as Old Town Scottsdale have lively pubs and cocktail lounges that are a treat to enjoy. There is no shortage of places to enjoy a handmade cocktail, but a few stand out over the others. Here are the best places to find handcrafted cocktails in Scottsdale:
Bitters Cocktail Bar & Food
When it comes to delicious food and excellent craft cocktails, look no further than Bitters Cocktail Bar & Food. This local favorite gets its name from the necessary ingredients for a delicious craft cocktail. Cocktail lounges can be a bit on the expensive side but you will be comforted to hear that Bitters features its own happy hour specials. The ambiance is always inviting inside and encourages you to relax with your favorite beverage of choice. You can find Bitters Cocktail Bar & Food at 145 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 115.
Beverly on Main
Another incredible cocktail lounge is the always upbeat Beverly on Main. This cocktail bar features luxury American comfort food with live music and handmade cocktails. DJs will make your weekend evening energetic as you sip on house specialty drinks. The exposed brick and mahogany wood offer a sense of classiness while providing a new age energy only found here. Enjoy special evenings such as Tequila Tuesdays, Midnight Brunch on Fridays and Saturdays, and Thursdays Unplugged with live musicians every Thursday night starting at 7:00 PM. Beverly on Main can be found at 7018 E Main St.
Bourbon & Bones
Bourbon is the name of the game when you make a visit to Bourbon & Bones. This incredible cocktail lounge and restaurant features five pages of bourbons and whiskeys for you to choose from. Enjoy these spirits in your favorite cocktail or order them neat. Luxury items on the menu also include steak made to order, seafood, and much more. Best of all, Bourbon & Bones features an industrial chic interior that is inviting to all. Stop in Bourbon & Bones found at 4200 N Scottsdale Rd.
Cocktails in Scottsdale Done Right
Add a touch of class to your night by visiting these incredible cocktail lounges with incredible cocktails in Scottsdale during your stay . Choose our luxury vacation villas for an experience like no other. Contact our rental agents today to have your vacation villa prepared for your next stay in Scottsdale.