Another weekend means another staycation and this time we packed up and ventured about 2 miles down the street to the Scottsdale Hyatt at Gainey Ranch. The luxury resort is in full bloom with flowering summer cacti framed by the majestic McDowell Mountains, providing stunning views no matter if you are gazing out the window of your hotel room, sipping drinks in the courtyard, or reclining by one of the myriad of swimming pools on the property.
The resort’s summer theme is “Chillin’ at the Hyatt” which is apparent with the giant (fake) snowman and accompanying winter themed decor throughout the lobby. The staff is always pleasant and the front desk staff provided an activities sheet with all of the daily and weekend resort activities along side a pink fruity cocktail that I had to chug real quick since JZ proclaimed he “wanted one too.” There is so much to do at the property, however we found a shady spot near the gorgeous swimming pools and real sand beach to spend most of the day. The 2.5 acre water playground with the 30-foot, 3-story high water slide, Regency Club lounge, restaurants, live music, luxury spa, authentic gondola rides and family movie night at the pool are amazing options for guests of all ages if you’re looking to do more than lounge around.
If the spa is more your thing, (which is totally my thing but sadly didn’t fit in this trip), you will swoon over the relaxing and rejuvenating Spa Avania. There is even a salt room with all sorts of healing properties that I’m dying to visit! Rooms range from standard guest rooms to luxurious suites with balconies and terraces offering breathtaking sunsets, mountain, or golf course views. All accommodations include the plush Hyatt Grand Bed, free Wi-Fi, large-screen HDTVs, iHome stereos with iPod docking stations, and a refrigerator. When traveling with kids, you know I can appreciate all these amenities that make life easier! Something I didn’t appreciate? When JZ woke up at 3am and decided he wanted to go home to check on our dogs…sure enough, we packed up and headed home in the middle of the night because it was either that or negotiate with a 3 year old until the sun came up… I don’t recommend leaving under the cloak of darkness but if you have to, the 24 hour valets are ready to assist!
One more thing…let’s talk about the grub! The food at the Hyatt Scottsdale is amazing- The “Wine me Dine me” chef’s dinner is a highlight where chefs prepare 4 courses made to order right in front of you. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, this makes an amazing date night! (Insider tip: this is on special for $89 for two on Travelzoo HERE) Don’t forget to stop by the lobby bar for a cocktail- my recommendation? A Brandy Alexander (made with REAL ice cream) and the hot pink prickly pear margarita. Happy Summer ya’ll!
To check out all the resort specials click HERE