Spring Training For Two; Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale Arizona is a special place; particularly in the Spring. Baseball fans flock from all over the country to get a taste of the upcoming season during Spring Training. Phoenix suburbs are riddled with thirsty tourists and travelers from February to April looking for stadium sun, snacks and cold ones! 

Whilst sitting on our rooftop late last year, discussing how to celebrate our 5 year anniversary, Shawn and I decided that their was no better way to pay homage to our love than with a little roadtrip fun, desert sun, and America’s Pastime.

We are huge proponents of Airbnb. It is such a special public service that I value so much as a traveler -  Because our schedule was so unsure at first we booked an Airbnb condo in Downtown Scottsdale for 4day/3nights walking distance from N. Scottsdale Rd. and it’s famous drag. It was the perfect slice of modern heaven in this desert oasis. In circling back to our calendars, we realized that we could take on an extra day at the very beginning of our trip, so I made a one night reservation the very swank, Scottsdale at McCormick Ranch. It was a sprawling and sparkling hotel. The hotel bar, BarSix40, and restaurant, Kitchen West, were hip and perfect for the relaxation we needed after a long 7 hour drive from Southern California. A golden cocktail hour on the patio felt like paradise.

Shawn in our Scottsdale Condo // March, 2016

With a day game against the Diamondbacks to start off, and a night game against the A’s later in our stay, we had some activities to patch together and time explore the Phoenix area. With that in mind, I gifted Shawn a pair of tickets to the McDowell Mountain Music Festival; Downton Phoenix’s non-profit Concert with a few choice musicians on the bill. This year, the acts included, Beck, Animal Collective, Bloc Party, St. Lucia, The Avett Brothers, Ms.Mr. and Gary Clark Jr. (Who was our main reason to attend.) Adding “Attend a Music Festival” to our special anniversary trip made a ton of sense for us.

When it comes to trying something new, I am your gal. Typically, I don't shy away from new adventures and experiences!  When Shawn asked me if I was interested in checking out a place called "Top Golf," I was a bit weary. I had never swung a golf club before - but as it goes, party on! Now, imagine a driving range; Marry it with ski-ball, add 3 stories of hitters, a full sports bar and restaurant seating at your range ..... this place was massive and massively awesome. We had the most fun afternoon hitting balls trying to beat one another driving scores. It comes HIGHLY recommended.

The Where To's:

Where To Have Breakfast: The Daily Dose on N. Scottsdale road. Dolled up diner food to nurse any hangover.

Where To Have Lunch: Pick any cantina patio in the sun and enjoy!

Where to Have Dinner: The Mission in downtown Scottsdale. Prepare for a wait! Or hop on the highway to Windsor in Phoenix. The indoor/outdoor ambiance can't be beat; and night can their fondue!

Where to Have a Fancy Date Night: Cafe Monarch 

Stop and Shop: Fashion By Robert Black

xx

Sara De