Nestled in the scenic Sonoran Desert, the Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton provides a luxurious hideaway. The tranquil atmosphere allows you to take in all this outstanding resort – ranked as a U.S. News & World Report Best Hotel in Arizona – has to offer.
Feel the love in Phoenix. View hotels.
The Perfect Getaway: A couple’s weekend in Phoenix
Wintry weather throughout much of the country means it’s the perfect time to plan a cozy getaway for you and your partner. Get ready to discover all there is to love about Phoenix — and each other. (Image credit: Visit Phoenix/photographer Jeff Berting) | By Alina Dizik | February 9, 2023
Desert landscapes, outdoor adventure and intimate dining spots that highlight local Southwestern cuisine make Phoenix the ideal spot for a romantic getaway. Pick a weekend in February or March — to enjoy sunny days and temps in the 70s — and let Phoenix take your breath away.
Take to the skies: Cozy up in a sunrise hot air balloon ride for spectacular desert views as far as the eye can see
Butterfly kisses: Visit the Desert Botanical Garden’s butterfly pavilion to experience lush garden plantings, a water feature and thousands of live butterflies
Spa date: Unwind with a relaxing couple’s massage before dinner for two
FRIDAY
Morning
A hot air balloon ride belongs on every romance bucket list — and it makes for the ultimate couple selfie. With light winds and clear skies, the Phoenix area is known to have some of the most ideal conditions for this activity in the country.
Hot air balloon ride
Set an early alarm (and grab your camera!) for a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Glide over the otherworldly Sonoran Desert and take in some of the best views over Phoenix. The experience typically lasts between three and four hours, so you’ll have plenty of one-on-one time. (Image credit: Rainbow Ryders/MaeWood Photography)
Some tour operators offer packages that include being greeted at the landing spot with snacks or a Champagne breakfast after the ride for the ultimate finale.
Afternoon
Back on land, take it easy at Palo Verde with a relaxing Southwestern lunch overlooking the 6th fairway of the award-winning 18-hole South Course at Boulders Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton. The Scottsdale resort is hidden in the area’s spectacular Sonoran Desert, and includes a spa, tennis and pickle ball courts, four pools (including a 24-hour one for late-night dips) and plenty of outdoor recreation, such as rock climbing, horseback riding, a Grand Canyon air tour or stargazing with a professional astronomer.
Evening
The Phoenix metro area, which includes Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa, has plenty of destination dining. One standout: Scottsdale’s FnB restaurant located inside a former glass art studio with soaring ceilings. The gastropub works with local farms and wine purveyors to present guests with a creative seasonal menu in a vintage space. After dinner, stroll the downtown Scottsdale area and grab a drink at Olive & Ivy, a Mediterranean-style waterfront restaurant with an extensive variety of signature cocktails, craft beers and more.
SATURDAY
Morning
Enjoy the natural romance and calm of the Southwest with a morning hike. The Phoenix Sonoran Preserve offers clearly marked hiking paths across more than 9,600 acres (3,885 hectares) to appeal to a variety of fitness levels. The 36 miles (58 kilometers) of trails make it easy to explore at your own pace without the crowds. Experience closeup views of the tree-like saguaro, the nation’s tallest cactus that is native to Arizona and protected by state law.
Afternoon
Join the locals for brunch at Vovomeena near downtown Phoenix. The spot features plenty of outdoor seating and menu items like savory crepes, a Mexican benedict, tortilla Espanola, omelets and more. Once adequately fueled, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden, which includes over 4,300 species of plants and a butterfly pavilion.
Evening
Head to Roosevelt Row, downtown Phoenix's walkable arts district, to enjoy a date night. Be sure to stop in at The Churchill, an indoor-outdoor gathering space for an all-in-one experience that you’ll both enjoy.
The Churchill
Spend an evening at The Churchill, a community gathering space that offers a mix of bars, restaurants, shops and live music. The popular spot is a favorite with both locals and tourists who enjoy listening to bands and feasting on casual bites and cocktails in the 9,000-square-foot courtyard. (Image credit: Visit Phoenix/photographer Winona Grey)
As part of The Churchill’s commitment to sustainability, its structure was formed using reclaimed shipping containers. Inside, the communal courtyard space is intended to inspire connections, so don’t miss the opportunity for your own romantic moment at this trendy spot.
SUNDAY
Morning
Start your day at The Henry, an elegant space offering some of Phoenix’s best pastries and avocado toast. Don’t forget to order one of the restaurant’s killer brunch cocktails like the Grapefruit Spritz, Hanks Espresso Martini or keep it simple with a mimosa.
Afternoon
After a morning in town, take time to unwind back at Boulders Resort and Spa. Visit the resort’s 33,000-square-foot spa for a side-by-side Swedish couples' massage in a spa suite with two therapists who will customize the treatment based on your specific needs. Continue your wellness journey at the outdoor mediation labyrinth, shamanic tipi, pool and whirlpool, organic garden and reflecting pond.
Evening
Don’t leave Phoenix without a trip to the Pemberton PHX. The downtown 1920s landmark building is a food, beverage, retail and art collective, and one of the best places to wander around, sample local specialties, browse artwork and enjoy a drink or two.
The Pemberton PHX
Explore the Pemberton PHX, an entertainment hub on the grounds of the historic Sarah H. Pemberton House, a 1920s mansion surrounded by lush greenery and paved paths. Now a vibrant community and private event space, Pemberton PHX offers an ever-changing roster of food and beverage concepts, local artwork and retail vendors. (Image credit: Visit Phoenix/photographer Winona Grey)
Discover some of the town’s most popular food concepts, including local favorite Moiselle, a Parisian-inspired street cafe specializing in French wine and charcuterie.
A romantic getaway in Phoenix will not only inspire love, but also a sense of adventure. The desert surroundings and peaceful landscape offer a tranquil repose for reconnection and discovery. Fill your days with warmth under the sun and light up your night under the desert sky with endless entertainment and dining options perfect for two.
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends and dining. Her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian and other top publications. She lives in Chicago and has spent time living in New York, Europe and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. She has visited more than 50 countries.
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