by GABE DONIO
The Gazette interviewed Heather D ’ Amico , owner and vacation designer of D ’ Amico Travel , about Scottsdale , Arizona , which is one of the most popular destinations in the United States . Find out what she had to say about planning a trip to Scottsdale .
What age range is Scottsdale perfect for ?
D ’ Amico : “ Scottsdale is the perfect age range for all who like to be active ! The location is perfect for kids all the way through to seniors . With hiking , golfing , tennis , resorts with waterparks and spas , everyone is entertained . Some resorts have golf , tennis and more to keep kids busy .”
What is the best time of year to go ?
D ’ Amico : “ Most resort have very nice pools and outdoor activities , so the best time of year to go is mid / late September through early May . After that the summer heat really turns it up a notch !” What is there for families to do ? D ’ Amico : “ Hiking is a must-do in Scottsdale . The views are incredible . There are some beginner hikes and some more challenging for the advanced . Hot air ballooning is also very popular and a must . Take a day trip to Sedona , it ’ s about two-hour scenic drive . Baseball lovers can go to MLB Spring Training in March and see some of your favorite baseball teams . Horseback riding is also available .”
How about for couples ?
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D ’ Amico : “ Old Towne is the place everyone talks about and the entertainment district . There are bars and restaurants on every corner in Scottsdale , the area is very walkable and the people watching is part of the entertainment . The entertainment district is made up of 20 bars and restaurants which transition from family restaurants to bachelor and bachelorette parts when the sun starts to set . It ’ s quite the scene . The Scottsdale Fashion Square is made up of high end shops and restaurants .”
What are some of your restaurant recommendations ?
D ’ Amico : “ Rusty Spur Saloon is the oldest bar in Scottsdale and like a old western country saloon . There are bars and restaurants on every corner .”
Does Philly or Atlantic City offer direct flights to Scottsdale ?
D ’ Amico : “ Currently American Airlines flies nonstop to Phoenix 5 times daily . Phoenix airport is about 20 minutes south of Scottsdale .”
Is the location good for a bachelor or bachelorette party ?
D ’ Amico : “ It ’ s been said that Scottsdale is the new Vegas , without the casino . The guys golf during the day and hit the bars at night or catch sporting events in Phoenix and the ladies enjoy the pool and the spa resorts and party at the clubs when the sun goes down . The entertainment district is amazing and popular with both bachelor and bachelorette parties .”
Are there hotel properties you recommend staying at or Airbnb ?
D ’ Amico : “ Our favorite resorts are the Scottsdale Camelback Resort , The
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess , Hyatt Regency Scottsdale and the Andaz Scottsdale Resort .”
What are the best places to golf in
THE HAMMONTONIAN | FEBRUARY 2023 | P . 15
Travel Q & A about taking a trip to Scottsdale , AZ
THE VIEW OF THE PHOENICIAN HOTEL IN SCOTTSDALE , ARIZONA FROM CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN .
Scottsdale ?
D ’ Amico : “ We-Ko-Pa Golf Club , Troon North , TPC Scottsdale and Talking Stick .”