Share on Twitter

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a popular desert city renowned for its golf courses and spa treatments. The warm sunny weather throughout the year makes Scottsdale a perfect destination for golf and spa lovers. However, there’s much more to enjoy as a couple in Scottsdale.

For instance, if you are on the lookout for romantic restaurants, Scottsdale is home to one of the best, most popular restaurants in the U.S. for the ultimate modern Mexican steakhouse experience. There's also vast ground for private off-road adventure, scenic lookouts, thrilling climbs, and ample desert flora and fauna to explore. If you are ready to enjoy some splurge-worthy experiences, check out our suggestions below for the top romantic spots in Scottsdale.

1. Enjoy High-End Dining at Toca Madera Scottsdale (Arizona)

If you are searching for your next date night restaurant, how does an upscale modern Mexican Steakhouse sound? Toca Madera Scottsdale is the fine dining restaurant you were looking for. The highly acclaimed modern restaurant is renowned for its immersive ambiance and menu featuring the boldest flavors and best ingredients (high-quality, organic, and sustainable fresh produce). Enjoy fine dining while listening to live music and watching fire performers.

Indulge in culinary delights crafted for everyone (thanks to the pescatarian, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices available) and refreshing farm-to-glass cocktails made with premium tequilas and mezcals. While every single menu item stands out, couples must try their new Toca Tuesday offering. This menu offers the perfect weekday fine dining date for couples.

The Toca Tuesday menu is available all hours, every Tuesday. It features two specials: guacamole and a noble burger made with an A5 wagyu blend with mushroom and white cheddar. There's also a Taqueria offering (tacos and burritos). Select between 4 mouthwatering offerings i.e., sea bass (pictured above), truffle mushroom, carne asada, or chicken Tinga (pictured below).

Enjoy two tacos or burritos per order, and butter lettuce wraps (on request). Accompany your meal with any one of six specially crafted Toca Madera cocktails. Enjoy Toca Madera's very own version of Margaritas with the finest Blanco tequila or mezcal. Must haves include the guava margaritas (pictured below).

To secure this amazing couple’s fine dining experience, you need to make a reservation. Other offerings fit for couples include Sunday Brunch and Happy hour on Monday to Friday – 4 pm to 6 pm.

2. Couples Golf at TPC Scottsdale

Ready for a high-end golfing experience with your significant other? Head over to TPC Scottsdale, nested amidst the breathtaking McDowell Mountains. TPC Scottsdale is a spectacular 36-hole world-class golfing complex with championship courses designed to offer the most exhilarating experience for golfers regardless of skill level. The Champions Course offers a perfect spot away from the crowds. Escape and embrace the course's tranquility. The scenic masterpiece offers challenging play and breathtaking mountain vistas, which you can enjoy on a nice golf cart ride. For couples that love a challenge, a round of golf at the Champions Course (popular destination for special events) is bound to be a fun time, perfect for bonding and enjoying the breathtaking desert landscape. You can celebrate your accomplishments later with a high-end dinner at Toca Madera, which is approximately 19 minutes away (10-14 miles).

3. Private Hot Air Balloon Tour Over Sonoran Desert

Imagine floating above the Sonoran Desert with your loved one and enjoying panoramic views of the breathtaking Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Companies like Firebird Balloons and Rainbow Ryders can offer private flights for two, complete with champagne toasts and snacks. Enjoy experiences from $500 per person with options to customize the entire experience.

Liftoff should coincide with the first rays of sunlight peeking over the horizon to create the perfect romantic mood. While lifting off, experience as Scottsdale awakens below, revealing its majestic golf courses, expansive landscapes, and charming neighborhoods. You can let the vastness of the desert awe you as you settle into the tranquility and listen to the pilot's narration of the region's history, landmarks, and hidden gems.

As the sun rises steadily and paints the sky orange, this may be a perfect time for a champagne toast before landing back with grace. For the most memorable experience, couples can hire a professional photographer/videographer to capture the moment. Romance can also be tailored with surprises for your loved one. Either way, you are bound to have an enjoyable time.

4. Luxurious Private Jeep Tour

Scottsdale is at the center of Sonoran Desert's rugged beauty and there's no better way to enjoy it firsthand than through a luxurious jeep ride. Adventurous couples will love to unveil hidden gems as they enjoy breathtaking landscapes.

There are many jeep tour companies offering a wide range of day trips ranging from stargazing escapades to sunset panoramas and off-road thrills through dramatic Tonto National Forest Canyons. Luxurious tours feature custom itineraries, snacks, and the latest in transportation. Expect to pay approximately $500 for a couple of hour's experience.

You can conclude your Jeep tour at sunset with breathtaking sunset views over Pinnacle Peak. This experience can be combined with the hot air balloon ride for the ultimate outdoor romantic adventure in Scottsdale.

Additional adventurous recommendations

Hiking at Pinnacle Peak Park: enjoy the outdoors and renew your connection through fresh air.
Visiting Scottsdale Fashion Square: turn it into a romantic adventure of buying each other surprise gifts!
Take a tour through Frank Lloyd Wright's home and allow the beautiful architecture to bring new light into your relationship. This is perfect for art lovers.

Ready For a Romantic and/or Adventurous Time in Scottsdale, AZ, with Your Loved One?

There you go! We've listed some exciting things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona. While there may be other memorable things to do with your loved one, we suggest you try our list first. Consider combining two or more perfect spots or activities to make the experience even better. For instance, a day of adventure in the Golf course, air, or desert can be topped off with a high-end dinner at Toca Madera.