Why Travel Advisors Should Sell Scottsdale as a Luxury Winter Escape

I spent four days in Scottsdale in early December, and it wasn’t nearly enough to take in everything the desert city offers. The sun warms the days, the resorts sparkle and the desert hums with energy. I soaked in spa treatments, savored elevated dining, explored scenic trails and caught glimpses of championship golf courses, all without feeling rushed. With everything close at hand, it’s easy to mix adventure, style and culture in one trip. For couples, bridesmaid getaways, girlfriend escapes or snowbirds seeking a mild winter retreat, Scottsdale delivers luxury and laid-back desert magic in equal measure.

Stay in Style: Resorts That Impress

Scottsdale’s resorts balance desert charm with modern comfort.

• Fairmont Scottsdale Princess features airy rooms, expansive views and quiet corners to unwind, six outdoor pools and Arizona’s only beach escape.
• Hilton Scottsdale Resort, Mountain Shadows and The Scott Resort & Spa each have a unique personality — some boutique, some social — but all make it easy to enjoy the city.

Whether your clients are looking for spa and pool amenities, a boutique vibe or a social hub, Scottsdale’s resorts offer style, convenience and indulgence.

Spas That Restore: Scottsdale’s Signature Wellness

Scottsdale’s spa culture is impressive.

• Resorts like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and The Scott Resort & Spa offer treatments inspired by the desert: prickly-pear facials, desert-herb scrubs and warm-stone massages. Thermal pools, eucalyptus steam rooms and quiet lounges give clients space to exhale.
• bluSONIL provides red-light therapy, IV hydration and regenerative treatments for recovery and vitality.
• Civana Wellness Resort, just north of the city, focuses on movement classes, mindfulness practices and plant-forward cuisine.

Dining That Reflects the Desert

Scottsdale’s culinary scene keeps me coming back.

• Virtù Honest Craft offers inventive plates that highlight seasonal ingredients. The Ends Restaurant in Old Town is known for craft cocktails and innovative cuisine inspired by global flavors.
• At the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval, a Pan-Latin restaurant overlooking the TPC Stadium golf course, is a standout. A quick shuttle takes guests there for any meal of the day, from breakfast to sunset cocktails.
• We ended our culinary explorations at The House Brasserie. Located in a historic Old Town home, it serves modern American fare with thoughtful, seasonal touches. Highlights included hazelnut chocolate bonbons, Sonoran Desert chocolate mousse and their signature “Coffee for the Win,” a decadent coffee martini crafted with premium liqueurs.

Between creative menus, local ingredients and beautiful settings, Scottsdale is a treat for clients who love food as much as relaxation or adventure.

Golf, Outdoor Adventures and Spring Training Baseball

Winter is prime time for golf and outdoor exploration in Scottsdale.

• Westin Kierland Golf Club and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer lush fairways with desert backdrops. Advisors can suggest quieter tee times for clients seeking a more relaxed experience.
• The WM Phoenix Open, including the WMPO Pro-Am in late January and the main event in February, blending play with tournament energy.
• Desert Botanical Garden showcases cacti and desert blooms at their peak in winter.
• Vigorous hikes in McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Pinnacle Peak provide elevation and breathtaking vistas.
• Hot-air ballooning with Rainbow Ryders at sunrise delivers panoramic, peaceful views over the Sonoran Desert. The best photo spot is just after lift-off when the sun hits the desert floor and mountains in the background.
• Spring Training baseball lets clients enjoy warm-weather games:
  • Scottsdale Stadium: San Francisco Giants
  • Salt River Fields: Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies
  • Other venues: Dodgers, Cubs, Padres, Angels, Rangers, Brewers, Royals, Guardians

These experiences appeal to event-driven travelers, active outdoor enthusiasts, couples and snowbirds, making Scottsdale a winter destination with both luxury and action.

Culture and Shopping: Desert Soul

Old Town Scottsdale is full of galleries, boutiques and tasting rooms.

• Thursday ArtWalk lights up the streets with music and desert-inspired art, perfect for a casual evening out.
• SMoCA showcases contemporary exhibits in a sleek modern setting.
• Western Spirit: Museum of the West brings frontier history and native heritage to life.

Scottsdale’s compact layout makes it easy for clients to combine art, shopping and cultural exploration with resort relaxation or outdoor adventure.

Why Travel Advisors Should Sell Scottsdale

Scottsdale in winter is a strong sell for clients seeking reliable weather, luxury and variety.

• Easy logistics: resorts, golf, dining, spas and cultural activities are all within short drives.
• High-value demographics: couples, event-driven travelers and snowbirds spend more and appreciate immersive experiences.
• Seasonal appeal: golf, baseball, hiking and spa experiences are at their peak November through March.

For travel advisors, Scottsdale is a smart sell. Clients can enjoy a mix of wellness, culture, outdoor adventure and luxury accommodations all in a compact desert playground. With thoughtful recommendations, advisors can create bespoke itineraries that leave clients inspired and eager to return.

For more information, visit Experience Scottsdale.