My husband and I love Scottsdale for when we’re looking for a romantic couples getaway. There are so many options for getting to relax and enjoy quality time together. The Desert Botanical Garden is a prime romantic destination featuring a vast array of desert plants and themed trails.
When it comes to a trip to Scottsdale, you can do a little bit of everything, with outdoor exploration of the mountains mixed with the city life just minutes away. You can spend one moment horseback riding through the desert and the next enjoying a luxurious spa. Keep on reading for all the romantic things to do in Scottsdale AZ!
Scottsdale is filled with romance! So many beautiful restaurants, charming activities, and many opportunities to get close.
Romantic Things to Do in Scottsdale AZ for Couples
1. Go on a hot air balloon ride – There’s nothing like a romantic trip up in the sky with some of the romantic views of the Sonoran desert and mountains around with Rainbow Ryders.
2. Have a multi course romantic dinner – With Two-Michelin-star Chef Chef Danny Grant’s restaurant Maple and Ash, couples can get quite the culinary experience. Try their IDGAF menu which is a surprise mixture of the chefs top picks! Of course there are no shortage of romantic restaurants in town to get your foodie fix.
3. Go for a wine tasting – This city has several amazing wineries and restaurants that show off the impressive and diverse wine scene in Arizona. From your normal wine scenes serving up incredible bold wines at Carlson Creek to Merkin that changes the wine scene with Maynard Keenan, a performer for the band Tool, couples can spend time trying out the different wine around Scottsdale.
4. Make your wine – If you want to go beyond the wine tasting experience of just trying wine but actually create the wine that perfectly matches your palette, head out to Su Vino for a romantic wine blending experience and create your perfect wine.
5. Have a spa day – Check into the Spa Avania at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale where couples can spend a full day of relaxation. You can enjoy a romantic couples massage, relax in the salt lounge, or enjoy one of their other diverse amenities.
After the spa treatments couples can spend the rest of the time enjoying the fire or adults only pool, hot tub, sauna, and all the other amenities that are available in site.
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6. Stay in a romantic hotel – There is no shortage of luxurious resorts that couples can enjoy. The Mountain Shadows Scottsdale Resorts is perfect for couples who want to spend quality time together. From the pool and hot tub you get scenic views of the mountains on both sides and the modern designs is a beautiful touch.
7. Enjoy fresh made pasta – The Italian food at Marcellino’s is like no other, which shouldn’t be a surprise since Chef Marcellino is originally from Italy. The restaurant is beautifully decorated and they even have regular live music for a romantic evening.
8. Ride in a gondola – Get even more of Italy at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale where they’ll take you for a romantic ride through the water.
9. Have a one of a kind dining experience – Cloth and Flame provides intimate dining experiences where they can set up a private dinner in a beautiful location with some of the top chefs.
10. Visit the Aquarium – See sharks, colorful fish, otters, penguins, and more at the OdySea aquarium. You can make this romantic experience extra special with a diving experience or by meeting sloths.
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11. Have afternoon tea – Nibble on tea cakes, scones, and other delectable treats all while enjoying some tea or wine at the Phoenician.
12. See a magic show – Be wowed be incredible feats of magic and wonder with a show at the Davis Circus of Illusions.
13. Eat all the chocolates – There are some great chocolate tours around and will help you discover the best chocolate spots and restaurants in town.
14. Visit a speakeasy – There’s just something so romantic about a little bit of mystery and the idea of something that was once illegal. I could tell you where the speakeasies are, but it’s part of the fun of the mystery to find them yourself. Tucked inside a restaurant, you would never know whats hidden behind some discreet door.
15. Have a romantic picnic – Mystery Picnic Date is a fun couples option because they’ll take you around to collect the different ingredients and then you’ll end in a romantic spot to enjoy your picnic.
Fun Things to Do in for Couples: Desert Botanical Garden & Nature
With so many fun things to do for couples in Scottsdale, the hardest part is just figuring out what to do! There are so many museums, unique spots, and fun gems to discover.
1. See the art – The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art makes for a great couples date with all of their exhibits and the unique artwork that you can discover.
2. Go for a photo tour – You can finally get all the couples pictures your heart desires! Joyrides AZ will take you to some of the best photo spots in Scottsdale and snap all the photos you could want! Additionally they have historic tours, wine tours, and other fun tours of Scottsdale that couples can take part in.
3. See the butterflies – Butterfly Wonderland takes you on a journey through the rainforest and a chance to see over 70 different species of butterflies that you can get up close to! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, couples can even try different edible insect snacks!
4.Discover the West – The Scottsdale Museum of the West will take couples through the art, history, and culture of the American West.
5. Discover incredible art – Cosanti Origins is a unique art gallery and studio with unique architecture and an eclectic design that is a fun spot for couples to visit.
6. Wander through old town – See the different shops and galleries in Old Town Scottsdale that make you feel like you’ve transported back in time.
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7. See the wildlife – Couples can take tours of the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center where they’ll learn about black beats, foxes, coyotes, and more. They even have a yoga option to do yoga around the animals!
8. Go on a Food Tour – Arizona Food Tours is great for couples who are also big foodies. With so many restaurants in Scottsdale it’s hard to choose just one place. So don’t! Go on a tour where you can try multiple restaurants in a few hours!
9. Go back in time – Eat with your hands and watch knights joust to win while sitting inside a castle turned stadium at Medieval Times.
10. Scavenge for Treasure – Puzzle Rides is a fun mixture of outdoor escape room/scavenger hunt around Scottsdale with different themes from a pirates treasure adventure, money heist, ghost riders, and more.
11. Become part of the art – Wonderspace is different than your typical art. Each piece tells a story and so often couples get to be a part of the art in different ways.
12. See the art – There is quite an art scene in Scottsdale and couples can enjoy wandering through the different art galleries including the Marshall Gallery of Fine Arts, Xanadu Gallery, and others.
13. Try local spirits – Taste the quality of gin and vodka in town straight from the distillers at Blue Clover Distillery and then learn and try different cocktail combinations with their spirits.
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14. Make your own beer – For couples that are into beer rather than just trying different kinds, be a part of the brewing process! Osho Brewery will teach you the basics of brewing and let you create your own to enjoy.
15. Play some golf – With some of the best scenery, couples who like to golf will like the unique courses that Visit Scottsdale has to offer.
16. Make a candle – Choose your favorite scents and blend them for a custom aroma and then pour a candle as a way to remember your trip!
17. Visit the breweries – Follow the Scottsdale Ale Trail to experience the beer scene in Scottsdale.
18. Indulge that sweet tooth – This all pink diner in Scottsdale is such a fun spot for couples in Scottsdale to sit in a booth with a sundae and enjoy the environment.
19. Shop local finds – In addition to produce, the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market has all sorts of local goodies to find and taste.
20. Visit the Arizona Science Center – Located in downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center offers interactive exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities. Couples can explore topics like solar power, climate change, and the human body, and enjoy the immersive planetarium and large-screen theater.
Adventurous Things to Do in Scottsdale for Couples: Hiking Trails
Just as much as there are so many opportunities to relax in Scottsdale, there are also so many options for couples to get out for adventure and fun in the great outdoors!
1. Go on a Jeep tour – Visit the Sonoran desert by Jeep with Arizona Off Road Jeep Adventures where couples will stop at different points along the way and to point out and explain different parts.
2. Ride horses – With so much to see in Scottsdale, there’s no way to see it all at once, but you can cover more ground and get a pretty cool experience at MacDonald’s Ranch.
3. Hike to the best views – Camelback Mountain is worth the hike where you can get some of the best views all around Scottsdale. This town is home to some breathtaking hikes that you will want to try for yourself.
4. Visit Toms Thumb Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve – There’s no shortage of hikes in Scottsdale along Toms Thumb trailhead. Couples can hike the numerous trails to experience something new each time.
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5. Explore various hiking trails – Scottsdale offers a variety of hiking trails, from casual walks to challenging hikes, providing scenic views and a connection with nature.
6. Try white water rafting – Salt River Rafting will take you through the beautiful Arizona landscape and test your paddling skills while taking in the beauty all around. They even have multi day trips available.
7. Climb some rocks – Couples can have a little friendly competition at AZ On The Rocks.
8. Go mountain biking in Sedona – Experience the stunning natural landscapes and adventurous opportunities that make mountain biking a popular outdoor activity in Sedona.
9. Go skydiving – IFly lets couples experience skydiving without the actual jumping out of an airplane part and less of the scare!
10. Catch each other – Learn to fly and test your trust at Trapezius with trapeze lessons for all levels and for first timers.
Cultural Experiences for Couples
Arizona offers a rich cultural scene, perfect for couples looking to explore and learn together. From museums to gardens, there’s something for every interest.
Visit the Heard Museum
For a deep dive into Native American art and culture, the Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix is a must-visit. This premier cultural institution boasts a collection of over 40,000 objects, including stunning artwork, intricate artifacts, and engaging interactive exhibits. Couples can wander through the museum’s many galleries, each telling a unique story of Native American heritage.
Don’t miss the serene sculpture garden, a perfect spot for a quiet moment together. The Heard Museum offers a fascinating journey through history and art, making it an enriching experience for any couple.
Explore the Musical Instrument Museum
Music lovers will find the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) an absolute delight. Home to over 6,500 instruments from around the globe, the MIM offers an immersive and interactive experience that’s both educational and entertaining. Couples can explore diverse exhibits and galleries, including the Artist Gallery, which showcases instruments played by legendary musicians.
The museum’s innovative approach allows visitors to hear and see instruments in their cultural contexts, making it a unique and memorable outing for couples.
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
Escape to a tranquil oasis in the heart of downtown Phoenix at the Japanese Friendship Garden. This 3.5-acre Japanese Stroll Garden is a haven of peace and beauty, featuring winding paths, serene ponds, and meticulously maintained desert plants and flowers. Couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the garden, taking in the calming atmosphere and picturesque scenery.
For an added touch of romance, visit the teahouse to experience traditional Japanese tea and snacks. The Japanese Friendship Garden offers a serene retreat perfect for a romantic day out.
Relaxation and Wellness for Couples
Arizona offers a range of relaxation and wellness activities perfect for couples looking to unwind and rejuvenate together. From spas to outdoor activities, there’s something for every interest.
Relax with a Spa Day
Indulge in a day of pampering and relaxation at one of Arizona’s world-class spas. Couples can enjoy a variety of treatments, from soothing massages and revitalizing facials to luxurious body wraps. Many spas also feature private pools, hot tubs, and saunas, providing the perfect setting for a romantic escape.
Some popular spas in Arizona include:
The Spa at The Phoenician: Located in Scottsdale, this spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
The Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: This spa features a private rooftop pool, hot tub, and sauna, as well as a range of treatments.
The Spa at the Biltmore: Located in Phoenix, this spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, as well as a private pool and hot tub.
More Things to Do in Scottsdale Arizona with Viator: Camelback Mountain!
Booking tours with Viator is so easy, and we absolutely love it. That’s why we’re sharing some of the coolest Viator tours that are perfect for amazing date nights!
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience breathtaking views from above with a hot air balloon ride. This tour provides a unique perspective and an unforgettable adventure.
Guided Tours to Antelope Canyon: Explore the stunning natural formation of Antelope Canyon in northern Arizona. This tour highlights its unique geological features, such as swirling orange sandstone and ethereal light beams. Note that guided tours are necessary to access the canyon, making it a must-see destination for photography enthusiasts.
Tours to the Grand Canyon: Discover the Grand Canyon, one of Arizona’s top destinations. This tour offers various ways to experience this natural wonder, including helicopter tours, hiking trails, and scenic views from different lookout points. Discover the unique features and activities at both the South and North Rims of the Grand Canyon. Embrace eco-friendly travel options to fully enjoy its breathtaking landscapes.
Romantic Things to Do in Scottsdale AZ: Final Thoughts
It might take a few trips to Scottsdale to get everything done, but it’s clear that couples will have an amazing time in Scottsdale with all the different things to do in the area. The unique and striking desert landscape of Scottsdale enhances the romantic experiences available, making each activity even more memorable.
Last Updated 5 days ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 11, 2025
