Arizona summers are HOT, but you can still have an amazing Scottsdale weekend with a little planning.Plan outdoor activities wisely. During the summer, schedule activities such as ATV/UTV excursions, pedal taverns and Jeep tours during the cooler parts of the day, preferably early morning. Save the hottest part of the afternoon for the pool, indoor activities or other ways to stay cool.Choose water activities. Pool parties, lake charters and Salt River tubing are great ways to enjoy Arizona during the summer without spending the day in the desert heat.Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Arizona's dry climate can sneak up on you, especially when alcohol is involved. Drink water regularly throughout the day and consider beverages containing electrolytes.Watch out for each other. Heat-related illness can become serious quickly. If someone appears confused, weak, dizzy or unusually unwell, get them out of the heat and seek appropriate medical assistance. Review the CDC's current guidance on heat-related illness before your trip.Don't forget the sunscreen. Apply it before heading out and reapply throughout the day. Arizona sunshine does not play. ☀️

Surprise! Arizona isn't hot year-round. During the cooler months, temperatures can vary dramatically between warm, sunny afternoons and chilly evenings.Pack layers. From October through March, bring sweaters, jackets and pants in addition to your warm-weather clothes. One of the most common things we hear from visitors is, “No one told us it gets this cold!”Heat the pool. If your Airbnb offers pool heating, we highly recommend adding it. Sunshine doesn't necessarily mean warm pool water, especially after cool desert nights.Have a backup plan for pool parties. Scottsdale can have beautiful pool weather during the cooler months, but temperatures aren't guaranteed. If you're planning a pool party, have an indoor Plan B just in case Mother Nature doesn't cooperate.Plan water activities accordingly. Lake cruises can still be beautiful during cooler weather, but swimming may not be comfortable. Salt River tubing is seasonal and generally operates during the warmer months.Heading to Sedona? Pack warmer clothes. Sedona is significantly cooler than Scottsdale and can receive snow during the winter. If Sedona, ATV/UTV excursions or Jeep tours are on your itinerary, bring extra layers and check the forecast before your trip.Bottom line: Don't let the palm trees and sunshine fool you. Check the forecast before you pack and bring layers. Arizona weather loves keeping visitors guessing!

Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, which can make planning your trip a little confusing!Here's the easiest way to remember it:Spring & Summer = California timeWhen most of the country observes Daylight Saving Time, Arizona is on the same clock as California.Fall & Winter = Colorado timeWhen Daylight Saving Time ends, Arizona is on the same clock as Colorado.If you're traveling from the East Coast, Arizona can be up to 3 hours behind, so keep the time difference in mind when scheduling activities on your arrival day.Party Tripper Tip: Don't worry about remembering the time-zone rules. Just check the current Phoenix time when planning flights and reservations. Arizona stays on MST year-round while everyone else moves their clocks around us. 😉

Scottsdale has incredible restaurants and dining experiences, but popular spots book quickly and large parties often have additional requirements. A little planning goes a long way!Be on time. Many restaurants have strict reservation policies and limited grace periods. Arriving late could mean losing your reservation or being placed on a lengthy waitlist.Large groups may have special requirements. Depending on your party size, restaurants may require a deposit, minimum spend, prix fixe or limited menu, or other group-dining arrangements.Check the dress code. Some Scottsdale restaurants enforce dress codes, which can be especially important for themed bachelorette outfits, hats, costumes or party accessories. Check directly with the restaurant before planning your group's attire.Know your table time. Many restaurants limit how long a table is reserved, particularly during busy periods. Confirm the allotted dining time when making your reservation so you can plan the rest of your itinerary accordingly.Party Tripper Tip: Always review the restaurant's current policies when booking. A quick check beforehand can prevent a lost reservation or last-minute scramble once you're in Scottsdale.

Arizona has incredible hiking, but desert conditions should never be underestimated. Your group's safety comes first.Party Tripper's 100°F PolicyParty Tripper will not provide transportation to hiking trails when the forecasted daily high is 100°F or higher. The only exception is Hole-in-the-Rock at Papago Park.This policy is firm and applies regardless of the time your group plans to hike.Summer HikingWe strongly discourage planning hikes during July and August, even early in the morning. Overnight temperatures can remain extremely hot, and desert conditions can become dangerous quickly.We also strongly recommend not hiking after a night of drinking. Alcohol, dehydration, lack of sleep and strenuous activity are not a good combination in the Arizona desert.Choose a Trail for Your Entire GroupDon't choose a trail based on your strongest or most experienced hiker. Consider everyone's fitness level, hiking experience and comfort with elevation, climbing and uneven terrain.For most groups, we recommend choosing an easy or moderate trail rather than a difficult one.What About Camelback Mountain?Camelback Mountain is one of Scottsdale's most famous hikes, but Party Tripper does not recommend it for most groups. Both Echo Canyon and Cholla are strenuous trails involving steep elevation, exposed terrain and sections requiring scrambling or climbing.If everyone in your group is not an experienced, physically prepared hiker, choose another trail. There are plenty of beautiful Arizona hikes that don't require conquering Camelback.Check the Trail Before You GoWe highly recommend using AllTrails to research difficulty, distance, elevation gain, recent reviews and current trail conditions before choosing a hike.Weather and trail conditions can change quickly, so check conditions again shortly before your hike.Some Party Tripper FavoritesFor an easier outing, consider Hole-in-the-Rock or trails throughout Papago Park.For groups looking for more of a workout, Pinnacle Peak and Lost Dog Wash are popular options.Sedona also offers incredible hiking for a variety of experience levels and can be included with our Sedona add-on service.Most importantly: Know your group's limits, bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, check the weather and trail conditions, and never underestimate the Arizona desert.

Scottsdale has one of the most active nightlife scenes in the Southwest, with everything from high-energy clubs and day clubs to dive bars, cocktail lounges, sports bars, wine bars and live entertainment.The Entertainment DistrictThe Entertainment District is the heart of Scottsdale nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs concentrated within a walkable area. It's perfect for groups that want to experience several places without committing to one venue for the entire night.Old Town ScottsdaleBeyond the Entertainment District, you'll find even more bars, restaurants and nightlife throughout Old Town. Whether your group wants dancing, cocktails, karaoke, live music or a laid-back neighborhood bar, there's something for just about every vibe.One of the Best Parts? No Cover!Unlike nightlife in many other major cities, most Scottsdale bars and clubs do not charge a standard cover for general admission, making it easy to hop around and experience several venues in one night. Special events, holiday weekends, ticketed events or select performances may be exceptions, so always check ahead if you have a specific venue in mind.Plan AheadPopular venues can become extremely busy, especially during peak weekends and special events. Check current hours, dress codes and any reservation or table requirements before your trip.Want to Bar Crawl?One of the most popular ways to experience multiple Old Town bars is with AZ Party Bike. It's a fun option for groups that want the bar-crawl experience without planning every stop themselves.Party Tripper Tip: Don't over-plan your night. Pick one or two must-visit spots and leave room to explore. Some of the best Scottsdale nights happen when you simply follow the vibe!

Scottsdale has no shortage of incredible activities! Here are a few things we’ve learned from transporting groups to some of the most popular adventures.ATV & UTV ToursExpect to get very dusty and very dirty. Wear clothes and closed-toe shoes you don't mind ruining, avoid white, wear sunscreen and consider a bandana or neck gaiter for the dust.Long pants or leggings are also a good idea to help protect your legs from hot vehicle surfaces, and wearing your hair in a braid, bun or low ponytail can help prevent major tangles.Give yourself time to shower and change afterward before planning brunch, dinner or another dressed-up activity.Many ATV/UTV locations are well outside Scottsdale and rideshare availability can be extremely limited for the return trip. Plan private transportation in advance.Jeep ToursJeep tours can also get surprisingly dusty. Wear comfortable clothes, avoid white, bring sunscreen and water, and plan time to freshen up afterward before heading somewhere nice.Boat ChartersBring plenty of sunscreen and water, and confirm transportation before your trip. Many lake locations are outside normal rideshare service areas, especially when you're ready to return to Scottsdale.Salt River TubingSalt River tubing is one of Arizona's most unique summer experiences, but there are definitely some things to know before you go. Ask your Party Tripper representative for our Salt River Tips before your trip.Horseback RidingAllow extra time beyond the advertised trail ride for check-in, safety instructions, mounting, dismounting and photos. Wear appropriate clothing and expect desert dust.Hot Air BallooningThis is an early-morning activity, so keep the night before reasonable! Depending on the season, mornings can also be chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt.Balloon experiences can take several hours from check-in through completion, so avoid scheduling your next activity too tightly afterward.For Every ActivityAlways review the information provided by your tour company before your reservation. Complete required waivers in advance, confirm check-in times, bring any required identification or payment cards, and check cancellation and weather policies.Party Tripper Tip: Don't pack your itinerary too tightly. Arizona adventures often take longer than the advertised activity time once travel, check-in and cleanup are included.

Scottsdale hosts several major events throughout the year that can dramatically increase visitors, traffic, restaurant demand and activity throughout the city.Some of the biggest weekends include the WM Phoenix Open, Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and Cactus League Spring Training, along with holiday and special-event weekends.If your trip falls during a major event, plan ahead! Make restaurant and activity reservations early, expect heavier traffic and allow additional travel time between stops.Party Tripper Tip: Before finalizing your itinerary, check Scottsdale's event calendar for your travel dates. A major event can completely change how busy the city will be that weekend.

We know you want to experience everything Scottsdale has to offer, but don't overbook your itinerary!Activities often take longer than their advertised time once you include transportation, check-in, getting ready and travel between locations. Give your group breathing room between reservations and leave some unscheduled time to relax.Party Tripper Tip: Pick a few must-do experiences and build around them. A flexible itinerary usually makes for a much better weekend than trying to squeeze something into every hour.

Don't let the Scottsdale address fool you. Scottsdale is a large city, and not every Airbnb or resort is close to Old Town.If nightlife, restaurants and Old Town activities are the focus of your trip, check the location of your accommodations before booking. Staying farther north can add significant travel time to your weekend.Party Tripper Tip: When comparing Airbnbs, don't just compare the houses. Compare their distance from the places you actually plan to visit.

Book as early as possible, especially during Scottsdale's peak season!Scottsdale's busiest months are generally January through April, when beautiful weather overlaps with some of the Valley's biggest events. Large homes that can comfortably accommodate bachelorette parties and other groups can become limited quickly, so we recommend making accommodations one of the first things your group books.Know the Big Scottsdale DatesExact dates change each year, but these major events can significantly increase visitors, traffic, accommodation prices and demand:Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction: JanuaryWM Phoenix Open: Typically early February, often around Super Bowl weekendCactus League Spring Training: Mid-February through March If you're visiting during February or March, assume Scottsdale will be busy and book early. Major-event weekends can be especially competitive for large homes near Old Town.Location matters too. Don't choose an Airbnb based on the house alone. Check its distance from Old Town Scottsdale and the activities on your itinerary before booking. A beautiful house isn't such a great deal if your group spends the entire weekend traveling back and forth.Party Tripper Tip: If you've found a house you love, in a great location, for a price your group is comfortable with, don't wait too long hoping something better comes along during peak season.

Arizona has what we like to call the “Mirage Effect.” Everything seems much closer than it actually feels once you start walking or driving!This happens even within Scottsdale and Old Town. A restaurant, bar or club may look close enough to walk to, but that short distance can feel very different when you're dressed for a night out, wearing heels, dealing with the Arizona heat or trying to keep an entire group together.The same applies when planning your itinerary. Scottsdale and the Phoenix Valley are spread out, and popular activities such as lakes, ATV/UTV excursions and hiking areas can require significantly more travel time than they appear to on a map.Party Tripper Tip: Check actual drive and walking times when planning your itinerary, and don't assume your group will want to walk just because two places appear close together.That five-minute ride may look unnecessary on the map. Your feet may strongly disagree. 👠