Scottsdale is one of the Southwest's most fashionable, upscale cities. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to pull together an itinerary that allows you to experience the unique charms of the city. Luckily, you don't have to do it alone.
Get the day started with breakfast at Orange Table, a favorite breakfast spots for locals. On the menu you'll find regional takes on breakfast classics such as Jalapeño Pecan Pancakes, a stack of flapjacks stuffed with jalapeños and pecans, topped with jalapeños and pecans, and then drizzled with–yup, you guessed it–jalapeño pecan pan syrup. Even if the idea of eating jalapeños for breakfast makes your stomach churn ever so slightly, the intriguing pairing works. You'll also find egg dishes, hash and flannels, omelets and scrambles, and French toast on the menu.
Soak up the local history at the Rusty Spur Saloon, Scottsdale's oldest watering hole. — Photo courtesy of Rusty Spur Saloon
Next, take a late morning stroll around Old Town Scottsdale, the city's historic quarter and the heart of downtown. Browse the art galleries and Old West souvenir shops then take your picture next to one of the many sculptures decorating the streets.
For lunch, mosey into the Rusty Spur Saloon, the oldest saloon in Scottsdale. This venerable saloon (which was originally a bank) has hosted the likes of Clint Eastwood and Vince Vaughn. The crushed peanut shells on the floor and dollar bills tacked to the walls speak to the saloon's fun-loving patrons.
If you have time, detour from downtown Scottsdale to visit the nearby Musical Instrument Museum, which celebrates music and culture by documenting the history of musical instruments from around the world. This fun, interactive museum offers guests wireless headsets that they can use to hear instruments being played at each station, as well as flat-panel monitors throughout the exhibits that give guests the opportunity to see instruments being performed live. The museum amphitheater also hosts a steady stream of national touring acts.
Cowboy Ciao in Scottsdale delivers on flavor and creativity with its unique fusion of Old and New World flavors. — Photo courtesy of Cowboy Ciao
For dinner, head back to downtown Scottsdale for a truly unique dining experience. There are several great places to eat around downtown, but a stop at Cowboy Ciao is mandatory. You won't find another restaurant that fuses Mexican, European and American influences so masterfully–and with so much fun in the process. If you're so inclined, try the pork chop from the big plates menu. It is grilled to medium and served with a mouth-watering white cheddar and Yukon mashed potato, with a side of jalapeño and apple butter.
