When couples dream of a sun-drenched wedding surrounded by desert beauty and resort-style luxury, Scottsdale, Arizona, consistently rises to the top of the list. Known for its stunning Sonoran Desert backdrop, more than 300 days of sunshine each year, and a vibrant cultural scene, Scottsdale has become an ideal location for destination wedding couples. Among the area’s many hotels, resorts and venues, we have a few favorites that stand out and one that caught our eye more recently.

The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, a Curio Collection Resort by Hilton, has been a long-standing staple in the area (with a lineage that goes back almost 50 years), but with its new $40 million renovation, it stands out as an exceptional choice for those planning a destination wedding in Scottsdale. Once the original conference hotel in the U.S., it has become a quaint and inspired property with its versatile venue spaces, luxury spa, award-winning dining, and proximity to all that Scottsdale has to offer.

Destination Weddings in Scottsdale

Scottsdale offers breathtaking desert landscapes perfect for wedding groups to explore and enjoy. Think easy access to outdoor adventures like hiking Camelback Mountain, or meandering through desert botanical gardens, or flying in a hot air balloon over the Sonoran Desert. Scottsdale is also celebrated for its thriving arts scene, world-class golf courses, and luxury shopping districts. For destination wedding guests, this means endless opportunities for entertainment before and after the big day.

With Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport just a short drive away, couples and their guests enjoy the convenience of major flight access (and direct flight options for most major cities) paired with the tranquility of a resort town. 

Venue Options

What truly sets The Scottsdale Resort apart for a destination wedding is the wide range of event spaces available. Whether couples envision an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the resort provides versatile settings that can be tailored to fit every style.

• Outdoor Courtyards and Lawns: With Arizona’s famously sunny climate, outdoor weddings are always in high demand. The resort’s beautifully landscaped courtyards and expansive lawns allow couples to exchange vows surrounded by palm trees, desert blooms, and picturesque views. Sunset ceremonies here are nothing short of magical.
• Indoor Options for the Afterparty: For couples seeking extra party time in a climate-controlled setting, The Scottsdale Resort’s ballrooms offer refined interiors that can be customized for just about any kind of celebration. 
• Intimate Gathering Spaces: Not every wedding is grand in scale, and the resort thoughtfully offers smaller indoor and outdoor spaces for elopements, rehearsal dinners, or post-wedding brunches.

Indulgence at Luna Spa

A wedding weekend isn’t just about the ceremony…it’s also about the entire guest experience. The resort’s Luna Spa provides an oasis of relaxation for both couples and their loved ones. Brides and grooms can unwind before the big day with massages, facials, and body treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. The spa also offers customizable wedding party packages, perfect for a pampering session with friends before walking down the aisle. For guests, the spa serves as a retreat that makes the wedding weekend feel even more like a luxurious getaway.

Dining at The Scottsdale Resort

Food is often at the heart of a great wedding, and The Scottsdale Resort delivers with exceptional on-site dining options. Its restaurants feature menus that blend Southwestern flavors with modern culinary techniques, ensuring every meal feels special. Couples can work with the culinary team to design wedding menus tailored to their preferences, whether that means a sophisticated plated dinner, a vibrant cocktail reception, or a casual brunch to close out the festivities.

Guests can also enjoy daily dining experiences at the resort’s restaurants and lounges, sampling everything from fresh regional ingredients to handcrafted cocktails. The resort’s focus on culinary excellence guarantees that every meal, whether it’s the wedding reception or a casual setting, will leave a lasting impression.

One of our favorite stand-outs of the resort is The Madam. The hidden speakeasy provides craft cocktails in a tucked-away, secret location on the second level of the main building. 

A Complete Destination Wedding Experience

What makes The Scottsdale Resort ideal for a destination wedding in Scottsdale is its ability to offer a full package: stunning venues, luxury spa services, and memorable dining experiences all in one place. Add to that the unbeatable backdrop of Scottsdale’s desert beauty and vibrant culture, and couples will find everything they need for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.