Why Scottsdale Is the Ultimate Girls’ Trip Destination
If you’re looking for the perfect girls’ trip destination, let me save you the search.
It’s Scottsdale.
Whether you’re craving desert adventure, poolside luxury, or a little wellness reset, this Arizona gem has it all, and I just got back from a trip that reminded me how good it feels to laugh, relax, and reconnect with yourself and your friends.
Let’s start with where we stayed, because I genuinely don’t think you can go wrong here.
Where to Stay in Scottsdale on a Girls’ Trip
We split our time between Four Seasons Scottsdale and Civana Wellness Resort; the combination was chef’s kiss. 👌🏻
The Four Seasons is everything you expect from a five-diamond resort: upscale, relaxing, and gorgeous. The service? Impeccable. The kind where they remember your name and bring extra towels without being asked.
We rented a cabana by the pool, ordered sushi and fresh salads, and just soaked up the sun.
For dinner, I loved Talavera for something elegant, and Proof if you’re feeling a little more relaxed — their Route 66-themed menu is so fun, and I’m still dreaming about the strawberry pancakes.
At Civana, everything slows down in the best way. It’s a wellness resort that doesn’t feel preachy or rigid. You can eat clean, nourishing meals, choose from various wellness classes, or do nothing and enjoy the peace and quiet.
I did a cold plunge, aerial yoga, intention setting, and even a high ropes course that challenged me more emotionally than I expected. Somewhere in between the high rope walk and the guided meditation, I found a version of myself I really liked. I left Civana feeling clearer, lighter, and honestly, just better.
What To Do In Scottsdale
Of course, no girls’ trip is complete without some pampering. I had the Desert Detox Scrub at the Four Seasons spa, and my skin has never felt better. It was a relaxing experience — quiet music, heavenly scents, and just enough exfoliation to refresh me.
Civanna, of course, also has an incredible selection of spa services, and I didn’t want to miss out, so I booked Revive to Thrive, and the combination of massage and scrub was perfect.
We made sure to balance all that zen with some good old-fashioned fun, too. We rode horseback in Tonto National Forest with Windwalker Expeditions, the only company licensed to take you into the forest.
Our guide was knowledgeable and kind, teaching us about the horses and the plants and animals we saw along the trail. It was peaceful, beautiful, and just the right level of adventure.
Most importantly, the horses were loved, healthy, and well-kept.
Then there was the sunset dune buggy ride with Desert Dog Offroad. And let me say — it was wild, dusty, and ridiculously fun. We laughed the whole way through. Wear shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. You’ll thank me later.
Where to Eat in Scottsdale
Now let’s talk about the food. Because, oh my gosh, the food.
For lunch, I absolutely loved The Herb Box in Old Scottsdale. It’s cute, walkable, and the food was unique and flavorful. You can sit inside or out and then stroll the shops nearby.
For brunch, you’ve got to try Hash Kitchen — it’s loud, lively, and perfect for a girls’ trip morning. They have a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar and glitter bomb mimosas, plus the carnitas hash was out of this world.
Dinner at Tonto Bar & Grill in nearby Cave Creek was a standout. The sweet potato hummus was so good, I probably could’ve ordered a giant bowl of that and been happy. But every dish was great, and they had delicious drinks and dessert options.
And since no trip is complete without wine, we visited Carlson Creek Winery, which is also in Old Scottsdale and walkable from town. You can try five wines for $25 and grab food too. It was laid back, welcoming, and a nice way to wind down after shopping.
Poppys office has a great homey vibe, and fun drinks. It’s worth a stop to check out all the fun family pictures and memorabilia from Poppy, the family man honored here by his sons.
So if you’ve been planning a getaway with your girls — maybe to relax, maybe to reconnect, maybe just to have some fun — put Scottsdale at the top of your list. Luxury, adventure, wellness, and wine make it a destination with something for everyone. And trust me, you’ll come home feeling like your best self.
