I think a little girls weekend fun is necessary to stay sane, especially for moms. I shared my fun weekend in San Diego a few months ago, this time I am sharing a great option much closer to Tucson. My friend Becca and I headed up to the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale, which is only 2 hours north of Tucson and offers an awesome girls weekend experience.
1. Shopping
Both Biltmore Fashion Park and Scottsdale Fashion Square are just minutes away making it easy to spend a day on retail therapy if you want. With great shopping, also comes great dining options, I recommend checking out Culinary Dropout and True Food Kitchen.
2. Dining
Not that you need to go off property to find great food. We enjoyed both dinner and brunch at Rita’s Kitchen. Rita’s Kitchen is clearly enjoyed by guests and locals alike. With live music and a relaxing atmosphere, the patio is the perfect place to enjoy an evening meal. I highly recommend the table side guacamole to start the meal.
My sweet tooth demanded I finish my meal with their fresh churros. I was so full from dinner that I couldn’t finish all of them. Don’t worry though with a fridge and microwave back in our room, I knew I would be able to finish the churros the next day!
Speaking of the next day, we also enjoyed Sunday Brunch at Rita’s Kitchen. There was an amazing spread of food, seriously you name it and they had it. From eggs, cereal and french toast to quesadillas, carved meats and salads. They even had turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy. I am not a breakfast food person, so I dug right into the Thanksgiving fixings! There were also plenty of choices on the dessert tree… Though we were stuffed, we managed to taste a bit of each–they were amazing!
Other dining options at the Camelback Inn include BLT Steak, R Bar, Acacia and options at both the spa and pool.
3. Spa
The Spa at Camelback Inn was one of the first of its kind in the southwest when it opened in 1989. It’s very popular with resort guests and local valley residents and I now know why. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space to relax between spa treatments, you could easily spend a full day without a care in the world.
Becca and I both had pedicures and body wraps during our stay. My Desert Nectar Honey Wrap was simply fabulous, it was very relaxing and perfect for my dry skin. I was glowing afterwards from insanely moisturized skin! There are three chairs in each pedicure room, making it easy to chat with friends during a spa day. Afterwards you can spend time in the ladies lounge or outdoor patio area.
Photo Credit: The Camelback Inn
4. Pools
After a relaxing spa treatment, you can spend time lounging around the pool. The main pool is large with lots of chairs and a whirlpool. Or you can stay at the spa and utilize their private pool. It’s available for all spa customers or anyone that purchases a day pass. The best option I think would be to round up several girlfriends and splurge on one of the 2 bedroom/bath suites that include a private patio and pool!
5. Fitness
There is a fabulous little hiking trail at the base of Mummy Mountain, head through the old west facade to find the trail. It’s an awesome way to get a little fresh air, and take in the beautiful desert including awesome views of Camelback Mountain.
If your more ambitious you could take the 3.8 mile power walk through the adjoining neighborhood or even venture to hike Camelback Mountain itself. Tennis, golf, swimming and bike rentals are also great options at the Camelback Inn.
Disclosure: We were guest of the Camelback Inn for review purposes. Our experience was awesome and basically that’s what I am sharing with you. As always, all opinions are my own.
Kelly Stilwell says
We love the Camelback! Can’t wait to visit again!