Arizona is one of my favorite states. Though, call me biased because every state is my favorite (USA! hehe). You will not regret coming to this beautiful desert. I lived here for an entire month during my 4th-year dermatology rotations. So, I got to know Scottsdale and Tempe well. Below are some of my favorite sightings during my month-long trip, and I highly recommend trying out EVERYTHING. Be gone with the wind.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Other than needing to wake up early in the morning, there were no downsides to seeing Arizona in clouds. It was my aunt’s birthday, and to this day, she calls it one of her best birthdays. Apart from the aerial views, your tour guide will teach you a little bit about the history of Arizona and what makes this state so unique. The only downside of hot air balloons is that they are hot! It feels even hotter, given the heat index during the summer. If you do, I recommend trying to go during the winter months if possible.
Horseback Riding
The trail ride I embarked on was with Cave Creek Outfitters. The drive alone was stunning. I had to keep stopping my car because the scenery was so different from what I used in Florida. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a couple of cowboys. Everyone was super welcoming and friendly. They made me feel very comfortable and paired me with another rider that was also alone. We basically had a private tour. It was awesome!
Different Pointe of View
Are you feeling romantic or fancy? Then this restaurant is a must! Being a Florida girl, I was not used to driving up the steep incline to get here, but the food and, of COURSE, the views did not disappoint. My steak was cooked to perfection, and the wine pairing was excellent. The servers and staff are very attentive to the guests. Also, the prices are reasonable, given the ambiance, excellent service, and delicious food.
Stay and Stroll in Downtown Tempe
The Airbnb I stayed at was a newly constructed building near the railroad tracks. Each morning I would wake up to the sounds of the train and sip my coffee while looking out at the gorgeous mountains. I am unsure what constitutes a mountain, but it is not flat in Tempe!
I am a Florida State girl, so downtown Tempe gave me cute college-town vibes. They have a ton of eateries to choose from, especially if you are the “granola-crunchy” type, with tons of juice and smoothie shops to choose from.
Floyd Wright Architectural School
All I can say is, wow! This place is all inspiring for creative minds that can appreciate the whimsical side of architectural design. At some point during the academic year, enrolled students are assigned to create their own homes using the natural elements that surround the land. You can only imagine the natural elements in the hot arid Arizona desert. I encourage anyone to come visit this unique oasis. You will be impressed by what our species in capable of!
A Medical Blog by Dr. Megan Arielle 