This post comes to us from a Wild Bum community member, Kelly Miller. She shares all about travel, food and everyday fun in the desert (aka: Arizona) on her blog: www.lifeinthedesert.net
As you may know, I love to travel! Whether it’s a big trip or a quick weekend getaway, I can always find a reason to get out of town for a bit. Every now and then Aaron and I get away for a weekend without our kids. For our recent getaway we spent a weekend in Phoenix. This destination is less than three hours away so it works well for a weekend out of town.
Get out your calendar and find a weekend to spend in Phoenix with your spouse or friends. Read over my recommendations on how to spend your next weekend in Phoenix.
Eat & Drink
It’s always a treat to dine at a few new restaurants during a trip and mix it up with some old favorites.
- Durant’s – I highly recommend making a reservation at Durant’s and you can count on an unforgettable meal! This steakhouse is well known and has been in business for over 70 years! Durant’s is a classic restaurant with impeccable service. This is a great restaurant to go to when celebrating a special occasion. I suggest ordering the filet mignon!
- Taco Chelo – Head downtown to visit the small businesses in the area and don’t forget to grab lunch or dinner at Taco Chelo. I am always on the hunt for great Mexican food and this is just the place to visit. Taco Chelo has done an amazing job offering delicious Mexican food that you are sure to love! Don’t forget to order a margarita or two because they are the best! The fish and veggie tacos are also at the top of my list.
- UnderTow – This is my FAVORITE bar in Phoenix! I absolutely love the atmosphere, design and the drinks offered at UnderTow. This is such a unique and creative take on a bar. Reservations are a must, so plan your visit a week in advance.
- The Attic Ale House – Enjoy a cool beer while taking in the views of Camelback Mountain. This is a low-key spot that is also a great place to watch a sports game.
Where to Stay
The Phoenix area has a hotel for everyone. Depending on your preference there are large resorts, historic hotels, boutique hotels and more. Lately, I have really enjoyed staying at boutique hotels. My experiences have included hotels with a lot of character, incredible decor and terrific customer service. What more could you ask for?!?
During our recent weekend in Phoenix, we stayed at Arrive. If you plan on spending time in Uptown or Central Phoenix then this is a great hotel location for you. Arrive Phoenix recently opened in September of 2020 and is decorated in a mid century modern design. I could definitely spend more time at the Arrive hotel and spend some time by the pool. If you are planning a weekend with friends or your spouse, book a room and if it’s a cooler month, I suggest getting a room with a fire pit. Make sure to check out the hotel restaurant, Lylo Swim Club for refreshing drinks and tasty food! The rooftop bar is scheduled to open in December.
What to Do
There is a ton of fun to be had in the Valley of the Sun! The weather is pretty fantastic, so plan on spending time outdoors. A round of golf is definitely enjoyable! If you are new to golf, make a reservation at Top Golf. For those of you that are comfortable on the course, make a tee time in advance. There are several courses for you to play. I personally enjoyed playing a round at the Arizona Biltmore Gold Club.
Pack your hiking shoes and hit the trails. A few favorite hikes of mine are Black Mountain Trail in Cave Creek and Dreamy Draw Loop Trail in Paradise Valley.
You would be surprised with all that you can fit in with 48 hours away. Make the most of your time away and make sure to add new experiences when visiting your favorite cities!
What are your favorite things to do in Phoenix?
About the Author
Hello, I’m Kelly and this is my life in the desert of Arizona. I’m a simple girl who is married with two little girls and loves the desert. Twenty years ago, I moved with my parents and siblings to the great state of Arizona. I had visited the state several times before but didn’t realize at the age of 16 that I would fall in the love with all the desert has to offer. I share all about travel, food and everyday fun in the desert on my blog: www.lifeinthedesert.net
