When travelers head to Arizona’s Valley of the Sun, they’re in for a treat no matter what time of year they happen to arrive. Here, top-rated golf courses are never out of reach, and gorgeous desert landscapes continue to inspire in every season. While some come for the luxury spas, others come for the world-class dining and shopping. However, when you’re heading this way and looking for something entirely unique and new to add to your list, the following are 10 hidden gems in Scottsdale and Phoenix to check out on your next vacation!
1. Mystery Castle
A little mystery can always go a long way towards the fun of your stay in Phoenix. When you’re looking for some intrigue, we suggest heading to Mystery Castle during your stay. This one-of-a-kind and hand-built mansion sits at the foothills of South Mountain and dates back to the 1930s. This is when Boyce Luther Gulley designed the mystery castle for his daughter and today, it’s still open for touring. Stepping inside, you’ll find 18 rooms and no less than 13 fireplaces, but it’s the many secret passageways and quirky design features made from old car parts that might have you lingering longer than you originally planned.
2. Cosanti
When you find yourself in Scottsdale looking for a unique residence to rival Mystery Castle, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Cosanti. Located at 6433 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Cosanti served as the home of architect Paolo Soleri until 2013. Today, it’s open to the public to tour and its collection of earth-formed structures, sculptural wind-bells, and eye-catching landscaping never fails to inspire. Many find this landmark to be a moving testament to the power of sustainable urban landscapes that blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings.
3. Anticus Fine Arts & Bookstore
If you’re a traveler who is always looking to admire local art, you’ll love your time at Anticus Fine Arts & Bookstore in Scottsdale. You’ll find this unique stop at 3922 N Scottsdale Road, and inside, the shop hosts a curated collection of books, local art, and handmade jewelry as well. It’s a hub of opportunity for curious minds and a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon when temperatures are on the rise.
4. The Madam
Yet another hidden gem in Scottsdale, when you could use a drink with friends, is The Madame. Located at 7700 E McCormick Parkway, The Madame is a speakeasy-style bar that leans into Prohibition-era glamour and serves up top-rated cocktails to match. The décor here includes flickering candles and velvet drapes, setting a fun and inviting scene for a nightcap.
5. Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop
When cravings come calling and you’re in the mood for a slice, heading over to Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop in Phoenix is always the right choice. Situated at 401 W Van Buren Street, Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop is loved for its retro vibes, neon flooring, and collection of vintage pinball machines to check out when you’ve finished your meal. It’s a fun place for a family night out, but just as suitable for a quirky date night for two.
6. Roosevelt Row
If you find yourself looking for creative inspiration, Roosevelt Row in Phoenix is very likely where you’ll find it waiting for you. This is the name given to downtown’s walkable arts district, where you can spend endless hours checking out unique galleries as well as revolving art installations. There are First Friday Art Walks to attend in this area, and artistic festivals hosted here throughout the year, too. Murals can even be found plastering the walls of tucked-away alleys and side streets, making every visit to Roosevelt Row a colorful mystery to be solved.
7. Butterfly Wonderland
In Scottsdale, you’ll find a hidden gem destination waiting to be explored in the form of Butterfly Wonderland. Located at 9500 East Via de Ventura, Butterfly Wonderland is a place where you and your traveling crew can encounter thousands of free-flying butterflies on-site. There’s a 3D theater to check out, a café to enjoy, and a gift shop to browse as well. Be sure to check the event calendar before you go to see if your trip aligns with an activity like yoga, a painting workshop, or a conservation talk that might be showcased here.
8. 36 Below
When you want to enjoy some exclusive vibes during your stay, make your way to 36 Below in Phoenix. This cocktail lounge is found at 3620 Indian School Road, but to reach the door, you’ll need to take the stairs down below Sip Coffee & Beer Garage. 36 Below is a chic and definitely unique place to enjoy drinks served up in flowerpots, and even mushroom caps. The experience is designed to be ultra-sensory, and the aesthetic is decidedly mystical and earthy.
9. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Don’t be fooled by the family-friendly name, because this park is a hidden gem for visitors of all ages heading to Scottsdale. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a fascinating place to get up close to the vintage carousel and full-size trains on display, but there are a lot of magical moments waiting to be discovered on a smaller scale here, too. The park’s newest attraction is a 10,000 square foot model railroad building that you won’t want to miss. It houses four model railroad clubs, hands-on amenities, and three fascinating layouts! From the intricate dioramas to the full, tiny town recreations, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in another world entirely.
10. Window Coffee Bar
Whether you’re looking to start your day on the right note or you need an energizing boost in the afternoon, the Window Coffee Bar in Phoenix is worth experiencing for yourself. Sitting at 903 W. Camelback Road, this coffee shop is a great place to pick up espresso drinks, pastries, and small bites in a trendy and welcoming setting. Whether you settle in or take your fare to go, don’t be surprised when you return a time or two during your getaway to Arizona.
Book Your Next Vacation in Comfort and Style
When you can’t wait to enjoy time away in Phoenix or Scottsdale this year, the team at Manor Retreats is ready and waiting to help you get settled into a gorgeous rental property to elevate your stay in style. Reach out today to learn more about our incredible property options, our personalized levels of service, and our five-star amenities, too. We can’t wait to see you in Arizona soon!