Scottsdale Bachelorette Party: A Complete Guide with Itinerary & Activities
Are you considering planning a bachelorette party in Scottsdale, Arizona? YOU’VE LANDED IN THE RIGHT SPOT.
I recently hosted my bachelorette party in Scottsdale and it was an absolute blast — everything I could have hoped for and then some! My sister even said she wanted to replicate our trip for her own bachelorette extravaganza. (Yes, please!)
Scottsdale has emerged as a premier choice for bachelorette parties, and it’s easy to understand why. The city offers the perfect blend of desert landscapes, nightlife, spas, and outdoor activities, making it the ideal location to celebrate any bride-to-be.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan a memorable Scottsdale bachelorette party. From choosing the right accommodations and activities to picking the best restaurants and nightlife spots, I’ve got all the insider tips and recommendations to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Disclaimer: Say Yes to the Trip contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Affiliate Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale for a Bachelorette Party
When planning a bachelorette party in Scottsdale, the first thing to consider is the time of year. While the city is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the fall and spring months.
The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching over 110°F (43°C) 🥵️, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities, unless you are in the pool all day.
From late September through November and from March to early May, you’ll experience ideal weather for outdoor activities and pool parties.
Closest Airport to Scottsdale
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the nearest major airport to Scottsdale, Arizona, located just 7 miles away from downtown Scottsdale.
The travel time to reach downtown Scottsdale from the airport is approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Transportation Options for Getting Around Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a popular city for both bachelor and bachelorette trips alike. The most convenient way to get around Scottsdale is through ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, which are readily available, particularly if you’re staying near Old Town.
If you anticipate participating in multiple activities outside the city center, renting a car might be a more cost-effective option in the long run. In our case, we opted to rent a car through Turo for convenient transportation to and from the airport, especially with some of the girls arriving at different times. It also saved us valuable time and money during our Jeep tour and other excursions.
Scottsdale Bachelorette Party Itinerary
Below is the personally curated itinerary I arranged for my group of gals, giving you a glimpse into the wide array of experiences available in Scottsdale.
Day 1 – Travel Day with Private Chef
Your initial day will likely be dedicated to travel. Unless Scottsdale is already home for you and your friends, it’s best to allow everyone to arrive, especially those traveling from out of state. Make this a relaxed day without a strict timeline, as travel delays are always a possibility.
Afternoon
While you wait to check into your chosen accommodations, head over to The Montauk for brunch, lunch, or cocktails. The atmosphere is fantastic and is a great place to kick off the weekend!
Afterward, reconvene at the Airbnb/VRBO and decorate it according to the chosen bachelorette party “theme”, creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.
If decorating isn’t your forte, you can enlist the services of the skilled teams at Scottsdale Bachelorette, Girl About Town, or The Bach. Additionally, set aside some time for a trip to the grocery store to buy snacks and breakfast essentials.
Evening
After a full day of travel, book in-home private chef services with Privato Chef to prepare a delicious dinner exclusively for your group. It’s a great way to ease into the weekend and allow the girls to get to know one another, especially for those who hadn’t previously met. Plus, the food is absolutely DELICIOUS!
Optional: End the night with a lingerie shower to give the bride some new, flirty pieces.
Day 2 – Adventure and Night Out in Old Town
Today is when the real fun begins! After a restful night’s sleep, begin the day with an outdoor adventure, followed by a lively evening in Old Town. Don’t worry, there’s ample time in between for a rejuvenating nap if needed.
Morning
Start the day off with some adventure by going on an off-road jeep tour or this private Sonoran Desert jeep tour. Enjoy a bumpy, low-speed ride while you explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours. P.S. The tour has a BYOB policy, so we brought some seltzers along with us. (glass bottles are not allowed)
Alternative Option: For those seeking more of an adrenaline-fueled experience, the guided ATV tour is the perfect choice. Take the wheel and hop on your fully automatic ATV while you venture through the Sonoran Desert.
Afternoon
Grab a bite to eat at Postino where you pick from a wide variety of bruschetta boards and enjoy $6 wine and beers (available before 5 pm). Or, for a casual setting with a playful take on Mexican classics, head to Diego Pops, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere on their open-air patio.
Optional: Before the sun sets, make your way to the Desert Botanical Garden and capture timeless memories with your friends through picturesque photos. If you want to be a little “extra”, consider hiring a professional photographer who will take photos of your group, so you won’t need to rely on the kindness of strangers.
Evening
Treat the bride-to-be to dinner at SumoMaya, where you can enjoy the fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine, bursting with bold and exciting flavors. Any groups over 5 must call the restaurant directly at 480-397-9520 to make a reservation.
For those seeking an upscale experience, plan a dinner at The Mission, a Scottsdale favorite renowned for its modern Latin cuisine. Make sure to secure your reservations well in advance, as it books up quickly.
Late PM
IT’S TIME TO PARTY! Enjoy a fun-filled night out in Old Town at popular spots like Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, El Hefe, Hi Fi Kitchen & Cocktails, Riot House, or Bottle Blonde. Avoid wearing flip-flops or sneakers as these venues enforce a semi-strict dress code.
TIP: Be prepared for long lines after 10 pm; you can choose to tip the bouncer to skip the line (we opted for this after waiting for 45 minutes) or pay extra for VIP bottle service for immediate entry and top-notch service throughout the night.
Day 3 – Relax and Recover
Dedicate today to rejuvenation and relaxation. Spend quality time by the pool, basking in the sun and recovering from the night before. In the evening, you can either choose to enjoy a second night out at a local bar or opt for a cozy night in.
Morning
Cure your hangover with brunch at Hash Kitchen. Home of the original bloody mary bar, Hash Kitchen offers an eclectic menu from banana split french toast to cannoli pancakes to the best hangover hash. If you require some recovery time before beginning the day’s activities, you can also opt for placing a to-go order.
TIP: Saturdays usually come with extended waiting times. Consider sending one or two of the girls in your group ahead to put your name down for a table.
Afternoon
Book a private shaded cabana at Hotel Valley Ho’s retro OH Pool. Here, you can enjoy light snacks, cocktails, and entertainment every weekend (DJ spins Friday-Sunday, 1 to 5 pm) from March to October. The pool at the resort offers a laid-back atmosphere, which was just what my group needed after a wild night.
However, for those seeking more of a daytime “club scene”, I highly recommend checking out Maya Day Club or WET Deck instead.
P.S. If you already have a pool at your VRBO/Airbnb, then plan a pool party at your place and hire Scottsdale Cabana Boys who will act as your bartender, DJ, photographer…you name it!
Alternative Option: Enjoy a rejuvenating spa day at the Well & Being Spa located at the Fairmount Scottsdale Princess. They offer a special “Spa’rty” package tailored for groups of five or more, making it an ideal choice for bachelorette parties. The package includes a complimentary lunch and access to the spa’s amenities, such as a sauna and adult-only rooftop pool.
Evening
Cap off the weekend with a final dinner at Craft 64. Located across the street from Hotel Valley Ho, you can easily head straight there after your day at the pool. Craft 64 offers a laid-back atmosphere and features made-from-scratch wood-fired pizza.
For a trendy AND relaxed atmosphere, consider checking out Zinqué, a new addition that serves French-inspired dishes. The menu features small plates, making it an excellent choice if you wish to sample a variety of items and share them with your group.
Late PM
If you want to have one last hoorah but are looking for something a bit more laid-back, try Boondocks Patio & Grill (casual spot with indoor/outdoor bars, games, and live music), Pattie’s First Avenue Lounge (no-frills neighborhood bar), or Kazimierz (swanky cocktail bar).
Where to Stay in Scottsdale for a Bachelorette Party
When it comes to accommodation options, Scottsdale has something for every budget and preference, from luxury resorts to vacation home rentals that offer some privacy.
Best House Rentals for a Bachelorette Party
For large groups celebrating a bachelorette party, I would recommend you stay near Old Town, which is the center of Scottsdale’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife! By doing so, you can also cut down on your expenses for Uber/Lyft rides.
The City of Scottsdale has strict policies regarding noise disturbances and imposes fines accordingly. Prior to booking a home rental in Scottsdale, make sure to carefully review the property description to ensure it aligns with your group’s noise preferences and follows local regulations.
All the recommendations below are situated within a 5-minute Uber ride to Old Town and welcome bachelorette parties (though still remain mindful of the noise level).
🏠 Level up your Old Town stay- Walk to bars- 2 Kings (sleeps 10)
This is where my group of gals stayed during our time in Scottsdale and it was one of the highlights of the trip! This newly remodeled 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom bungalow is located on a quiet street 1 mile from Old Town restaurants and nightlife.
🏠 Lavish Scottsdale Oasis: Game Room Veranda + Pool! (sleeps 8)
Nestled just outside Old Town, this chic 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom Scottsdale vacation rental boasts modern-boho accents, a high-end kitchen, and plenty of outdoor entertaining space, complete with a pool, ping pong table, cornhole, and a beautiful veranda.
🏠 Luxe Scottsdale Retreat w/ Pool & Hot Tub! (sleeps 8)
This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom bright Scottsdale vacation rental includes a fully equipped kitchen with a stocked coffee bar, pool, hot tub, and outdoor games.
🏠 Dashing New Build Old Town Scottsdale Heated Pool (sleeps 12)
This home features 4 bedrooms with king beds + 4 1/2 bathrooms and a backyard that includes an 82°F heated pool (optional at $75 per night), outdoor dining for 10, and a gas grill.
Best Hotels for a Bachelorette Party
If you have a smaller group or prefer to be pampered during your stay, below are recommended hotels that cater to all budgets. No matter which accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance, as popular resorts and hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
BUDGET
Aloft Scottsdale
Aloft Scottsdale offers pet-friendly accommodations within walking distance of popular clubs and bars within the AZ Entertainment District such as Riot House and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row. The hotel features a fitness center, parking on site, and an outdoor pool.
BOOK HERE
MID-RANGE
W Scottsdale
This vibrant, contemporary hotel is located right in the heart of Scottsdale’s AZ Entertainment District. W Scottsdale offers a Bachelorette Bash package which includes a $50 B+F credit to the W Lounges, an “I Do” celebration starter kit, and 25% off AWAY Spa services. Guests will also be welcomed with a bucket of beer or a bottle of bubbly. Use code 11P.
BOOK HERE
LUXURY
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
This 5-star hotel offers stunning views of the Sonoran Desert and a variety of amenities, including the brand-new Bachelorette Bash package which includes margaritas and manicures at the newly opened Salon, as well as a private cabana by the two-tier saltwater pool. Guests will also be welcomed with sparkling wine in the comfort of their casitas.
BOOK HERE
Best Restaurants in Scottsdale for a Bachelorette Party
With so many amazing restaurants in Scottsdale, deciding where to dine that will please everyone can be quite a challenge. I’m here to help! Here are my suggestions for the best spots for brunch, lunch, and dinner, each offering good food and an atmosphere perfect for bachelorette parties.
Best Brunch Spots
- Acadia Farms Cafe ($$) — A cozy cafe serving breakfast staples and organic New American dishes in a stylishly rustic setting.
- Hash Kitchen ($$) — A breakfast spot like no other that offers over-the-top menu items such as “billionaire’s bacon” that’s topped with 24K gold flakes.
- Prep & Pastry ($$) — Known for its “Instagrammable” ambiance, Prep & Pastry’s brunch menu features modern cocktails, flavorful dishes, and warm flaky pastries.
Best Lunch Spots
- Barrio Queen ($$) — A trendy spot serving authentic Mexican cuisine from scratch, paired with an extensive tequila list.
- Culinary Dropout ($$) — British-style gastropub chain offering inventive cocktails, comfort food, and an outdoor patio with lawn games.
- Diego Pops ($$) — A stylish Old Town cafe dishing out creative Mexican fare with an excellent happy hour menu 7 days a week from 3 – 6 pm.
- The Montauk ($$) — A beach-inspired venue serving American & New England fare with daily live music.
- Postino ($$) — Located in a historic 1960s building, Postino is perfect for sharing a bottle of wine and sampling its wide variety of bruschetta boards.
Best Dinner Spots
- FnB ($$$) — FnB is a highly acclaimed restaurant in Scottsdale known for its farm-to-table approach and focuses on seasonal ingredients. Note: Due to its adventurous and ever-evolving dishes, it may not be the best choice for picky eaters!
- Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn ($$$) — Lon’s offers creative Southwestern-infused dishes in one of Scottsdale’s top-rated patios. It exudes a classic “Arizona” vibe! However, keep in mind that it’s approximately a 15-minute drive from Old Town.
- The Mission ($$$) — Set in a cozy and inviting atmosphere, The Mission is known for its vibrant courtyard, top-notch service, and flavorful dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Latin America.
- SumoMaya ($$$) — Boasting a trendy ambiance, SumoMaya offers an innovative menu that blends Mexican and Asian cuisine.
- Toca Madera ($$$) — A modern Mexican steakhouse known for upscale, organic fare and the finest tequila. It’s a popular spot and often requires an advanced reservation to secure a table. I’m talking WEEKS ahead of time!
Scottsdale Bachelorette Party Themes
If you’re having trouble deciding on the perfect theme to celebrate your bride, here are some personal favorites that complement the essence of Scottsdale.
Final Fiesta
Think mini sombreros, bright and bold colors, and margaritas!
Scottsdale Before the Veil
Envision classic Scottsdale desert vibes infused with cactus-inspired pink and green hues!
Cowgirl
Let’s go girls! This new trendy theme features cowboy hats, bandanas, and rhinestones with pink and black touches.
Desert Disco
Picture a fusion of desert aesthetics and dazzling disco elements.
Scottsdale Bachelorette Party FAQs
Why is Scottsdale so popular for a bachelorette party?
Scottsdale is a popular destination for bachelorette trips for several reasons:
- Vibrant Nightlife: Scottsdale offers a lively nightlife scene with a wide range of bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Visitors often compare it to Vegas, but in my opinion, it’s MUCH better!
- Beautiful Weather: With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Scottsdale’s warm and pleasant climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and relaxation by the pool.
- Outdoor Activities: The surrounding Sonoran Desert provides ample opportunities for adventure lovers, including hiking, hot air ballooning, desert tours, and jeep excursions, making it an exciting and unique experience for bachelorette parties.
- Luxury Resorts and Spas: Scottsdale offers a wide array of luxury resorts and spas, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and pampering during the bachelorette getaway.
- Proximity to Airport: The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is conveniently located 7 miles from downtown Scottsdale, making it easy for guests to travel in and out of Scottsdale for the bachelorette trip.
- Bachelorette-Friendly Activities: Scottsdale caters to bachelorette parties with various establishments offering group-friendly experiences such as spa packages, dance classes, and exclusive party services.
What should bridesmaids pay for a bachelorette party?
The cost and expenses associated with attending a bachelorette party, particularly if it’s out of state, have escalated significantly (and have gotten a little out of hand IMO). Here’s a breakdown of what you can anticipate paying for during your trip:
- Travel and accommodations: Everyone pays for their own.
- Meals: Everyone pays for their own. Sometimes, the bridesmaids decide to pay for the bride’s portion of a special meal, but in no way is this expected.
- Drinks: This is the perfect opportunity for the girls to make the bride feel special by chipping in and helping to cover some of her drinks during a night out.
- Decor: The MOH and/or the bridesmaids split the cost.
- Swag and gifts: Personally, I feel like this responsibility goes to the MOH and the bride can contribute if she wants.
- Special experiences: It depends. I wanted to say “thank you” to my gals for making the trip, so any excursions or special experiences were my treat.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Scottsdale Bachelorette Party
Planning a bachelorette party in Scottsdale can be a fun and exciting experience, with something for everyone in the group. From luxurious spas and resorts to outdoor activities and nightlife, Scottsdale offers a unique blend of experiences that will make for a memorable weekend.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can create an itinerary that the bride and her squad will never forget. Happy planning!
Haven’t settled on your bachelorette trip destination yet? Another popular destination I would highly recommend considering is 30A Florida. Here’s my comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about 30A.
