Scottsdale Travel Guide: top wellness recommendations from your city insiders

Jul 24

Scottsdale has become a perfect and easy getaway for events in the US! We’ve worked with so many events that just want good girl time by the pool, which naturally pairs extremely well with a morning yoga sesh or evening soundbath — and it’s also why Scottsdale has become one of our biggest markets in the last couple of years!

Your Scottsdale Wellness Insiders:

In today’s wellness insider series, you’ll read about some of the top spots recommended by your local tour guides (aka Scottsdale’s very own healers — ranging from astrologers, tarot readers, and yoga teachers). Skip down below to start reading.

Stephanie R.

Stephanie Riel is a 15-year entrepreneur, investor, speaker, branding consultant to 6-and-7-figure businesses turned holistic business mentor, healer and energetics guide. This former marketing agency owner and branding expert took her own life from Burnout to Bliss™. She’s passionate about helping others tap into their intuition, refresh their energy and Rebrand Your Life™ (or business)! @amstephanieriel

Gianna F.

Gianna is a Scottsdale-based yoga instructor and is currently studying integrative medicine to become a health and wellness coach. Gianna completed her 200-hour yoga instructor certification through Sacred Paths Yoga in Costa Rica. Gianna works with breathe, movement, and sound in her sessions to cultivate a yoga practice that elevates the mind, body, and soul. @innerGalignment

Kat G.

Kat is a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) who loves sharing authentically with people. She loves to support others on their journey and watch them grow and sparkle through teaching yoga, tarot readings, pranayama (breathwork) sessions, and guiding healing ceremonies. Her gentle and soothing presence definitely helps connecting deeply within. @rainbowdotspirituality

Sierra J.

Sierra is a wellness guide and leader in the wellness space based in Scottsdale, AZ. She holds a space for others to embark on a journey back home to themselves as a Crystal Alchemy Sound Healing Practitioner, Mindfulness Guide and Reiki Practitioner. Living with unwavering intention is the cornerstone of her practice, holding the intention to hold a sacred space for others to feel supported and accepted within each of her offerings.@mindful_resonance

Scottsdale Travel Recommendations:

What is your favorite way to unwind in the city?

“A day trip to Sedona is my favorite way to unwind and reconnect to nature. There are so many beautiful hikes, restaurants, and fun 'witchy' shops / activities. I love a farmer's market morning and then having a pool lounge day. This is my favorite way to spend my weekends.” ~Gianna

“I love going on a mindful walk at McDowell Sonoran Preserve or Papago Park during sunset. It's such a serene experience that really grounds me in the moment and sparks my creativity. Arizona's sunsets are some of the most beautiful I've ever seen! There's something magical about being surrounded by the serene desert landscape, mountains, and those beautiful pink and orange hues.” ~Sierra

If it was someone’s FIRST time to Scottsdale - what are your top 3 ‘must-see’ things?

“Begin your day with an early hike up Camelback Mountain. Trust me, the panoramic views of the city from the top are absolutely breathtaking, and the feeling of accomplishment afterward is priceless! Next, escape the afternoon heat and immerse yourself in the art at Wonderspaces. Prepare to have your mind blown by the incredible exhibits that will leave you mesmerized. Finally, wrap up your day with a wellness workshop at Abundant Space to rejuvenate your mind and body.” ~Sierra

Where do you go when you want the best juice?

“Hands down Kaleidoscope Juice they have multiple locations in the valley and the best juices and matcha. I love an iced coconut milk matcha with maple and peppermint all year long!” ~Stephanie

“My spot for healthy food / juice is Kaleidoscope Juice (the Cherry Pitch smoothie is the BEST!)” ~Gianna

What are some of your favorite fitness classes and wellness hotspots in the city?

“I'm obsessed with The Workshop Pilates heated mat pilates at The Arcadia Improvement Club and reformer pilates at their Scottsdale location. Can't beat hot yoga and a cold plunge at Radi8 Hot Yoga Desert Ridge either.” ~Stephanie

“I love The Portal AZ and Abundant Space for events like sound healing, breathwork and reiki!” ~Stephanie

What are your favorite outdoor experiences or hikes?

“I am a nature and hiking girl! My top 3 favorite hikes in Scottsdale are Tom's Thumb, Camelback, Piestewa Peak.” ~Gianna

“Phoenix Mountain Preserves trails for a good reflective hiking meditation. I love how they have so many different trail options and access points. It's a choose your own adventure. I always see something new and love that it isn't super crowded!” ~Stephanie

“Piestewa peak is stunning and with many trail options - there’s something for everyone! There’s a morning flute player you might catch and great, clean bathrooms with a nice sink to wash your hands” ~Kat

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Where do you go when you want to be a little witchy?

“I love Fantasia for witchy vibes and spiritual supplies” ~Kat

What are your favorite outdoor experiences or hikes?

“Desert Botanical garden is gorgeous and so fun! And you can toast with a prickly pear mimosa at Gertrude’s (their restaurant) afterwards” ~Kat

“If you have the time to head up north, Sedona is absolutely worth the 2-hour drive! Hiking an energy vortex there is an unforgettable experience. The red rocks are so breathtaking as you drive into Sedona—it really feels like entering a magical portal. There are so many stunning hikes and walks. Plus, sitting on the terrace of The Chai Spot with a cup of hot chai and soaking in the beautiful views is pure bliss!” ~Sierra

Any other travel tips for the area?

“Bring a lil sweater with you if you’re visiting in our warmer months - outside is warm and inside with the powerful ac will be freezing!” ~Kat

If you were doing a staycation, where would you stay?

“For me, it would have to be Civana Resort in Carefree. This property is a wellness oasis nestled in one of the most breathtaking parts of Arizona. Their programming schedule is packed with every wellness activity you could imagine, making it the perfect place to feel totally recharged and rejuvenated.” ~Sierra