fun weekend in Arizona?! Need your help! Kinda long....

cressett7

Hello everyone!!  I am from Chicago and I am trying to plan a weekend girls trip to Arizona.  My best friend was supposed to be getting married over Labor Day weekend (which also happens to be when her bday is) and she had to call off the wedding because she found out her FI was cheating on her.  She kicked him to the curb (omg do people even say that anymore?!  lol ) and now I want to do something to lift her spirits.

I thought it would be fun to have a weekend getaway with a few of our girlfriends.  I have never been to Arizona before so if anyone can give me some advice on fun areas, I would REALLY appreciate it!  We would like to stay somewhere that has fun bars and good restaurants within walking distance.  We don't want to rent a car because we are on a tigh budget.  Thanks in advance for all the feedback!  Love from Chicago!   

lcarp203

I would try to stay in old town Scottsdale area.  It is a 20 dollar cab ride from the airport and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping within walking distance.

There is a Hilton Garden Inn and a Marriott right in the old town area which should be moderately priced.

It will be HOT that weekend - still about 115 degrees or so.  Scottsdale does have a free trolley that runs around the down town area which can get you to the Scottsdale Fashion Square.  There you can shop, eat or catch a movie.
http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/trolley/downtown.asp

Good Luck and Have Fun!

acnahm

I second Old Town, but if you're looking for a different scene, you could always check out Tempe/Mill Ave.  It's full of college age kids, so if that's not your scene then I wouldn't plan on staying around there.  However, Mill is fun (one long street with tons of bars and restaurants) and there are low key bars, really busy bars, clubs and restaurants all within walking distance.  There is also a hotel just down the street.  I think it's called Mission Palms or Tempe Palms but I can't remember it's exact name.  It's supposed to be pretty nice I guess and they have a pool.  Tempe is a 10 minute ride from the airport.  Hope that helps.  Good luck!

applemarie

Scottsdale would be fun! Many of the hotels host pool parties and they are alot of fun!  I would check out Valley Ho, The W!,...I've heard their pool parties are insanely fun!  You don't have to stay there to attend, I think there's a cover charge and pay for your drinks!  Basically like going to the club at night but its during the day by the pool! There's a DJ and all!!!

FutureMrsL.R.Allen

I am jumping on the Old Town band wagon!  There is a ton to do there, lots of great shopping, bars, restaurants and spas!  We stayed at the Valley Ho for an in-town bachelorette party 2 summers ago, it was the perfect place for a girls weekend, the pool was so fun and we were able to walk everywhere. 

NillaWafer10

I agree to all the pp's!  Old town is a great way to feel spoiled from start to finish!

As for budget ideas, here are a few that I would do.

Host a champagne brunch in the hotel room.  Buy lots of champagne and orange juice for mimosas and pick up a catered breakfast from one of the local restaurants.  There are some great places nearby.  You can also pick up a fruit plater at the grocery store to top it off.  Some trendy girl music, and all the girls will feel pampered!  To look like a super hostess, you can wet some of the hotel washcloths in hot water and almond extract.  These are great moist hand towels when rolled up.

Call the hotel spa and ask for a group discount.  They are desperate for service during the summer time.  If it's still too pricey, buy some mani/pedi kits and do your nails while watching a chick flick.

Before going out, you can make signature martinis for everyone.  This can save loads on the bar bill if you "pregame" like in college haha. 

In the meantime, look for groupon specials for dinner.  Scottsdale restaurants are pretty popular on the site.  Be watchful for the fine print on the groupon.

Hope that helps!

chargiss

Can't really add much besides Old Town Scottsdale is the way to go!

Check out AZCentral.com under their Events & Nightlife section... It usually shows which bars have featured DJs, live bands, and themed nights.

Oh and the best mall is Scottsdale Fashion Square right down the road with good restaurants around it like The Yardhouse and The Grand Luxe and a brand new Barneys New York.

HAVE A BLAST IN AZ!

NillaWafer10

These might be a fun favor for the girls who come.  They are super simple to make!

http://www.marthastewart.com/article/natural-beauties-bath-snowballs

Martha Stewart has some other really great DIY spa gift ideas.  They are great gifts.

cressett7

WOW!!!!  Thanks so much everyone!!!  I really appreciate your suggestions.  I am so glad I posted on here!!