The Best Summer Staycations in Scottsdale: A Boutique Escape at Hotel Valley Ho

Sip + Shop Summer Market Series: A Delicious Indoor Summer Activity in Scottsdale

One of the Best Indoor Summer Activities in Old Town Scottsdale

When summer temperatures soar, finding memorable ways to stay cool becomes part of the adventure. If you’re searching for the best indoor summer activities in Scottsdale, look no further than the Sip + Shop Summer Market Series at Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale.

This two-part culinary event combines chef-driven dining, local shopping, wine and spirit tastings, and live entertainment—all in an air-conditioned setting. Whether you’re a local looking for a unique weekend outing or a visitor seeking things to do indoors this summer, Sip + Shop offers an experience that’s equal parts food festival, tasting event, and community gathering.

A Summer Event for Food Lovers

The Sip + Shop Summer Market Series brings together acclaimed chefs, local purveyors, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and artisan vendors for three special weekends. After kicking off in June with Gio Osso of Virtù Honest Craft and Pizzeria Virtù along with Bernie Kantak of The Gladly, Citizen Public House, Beginner’s Luck and Minnow, we’ve got two weekends of foodie fun remaining.

UP NEXT

July 17 + 18 | Chef Jonathon Sawyer
August 14 + 15 | Chef Beau MacMillan + Mixologist Jason Asher

Tickets Available Here

Friday Night Celebrity Chef Dinners

Looking for a unique Scottsdale dining experience? The Friday evening Celebrity Chef Dinners offer an intimate culinary event featuring Executive Chef Russell LaCasce alongside renowned guest chefs.

Hosted in the Sands Event Venue, each dinner begins at 6 p.m. with a meet-and-greet reception, followed by live cooking demonstrations and a thoughtfully curated three-course menu with pairings.

Even better, 25% of proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona, making each dinner a meaningful way to support the community while enjoying an exceptional meal. Tickets are $149++.

Saturday Market: Shop, Sip & Discover

The festivities continue on Saturday mornings with a free public market event in the SoHo Ballroom from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Guests can enjoy:

• Six complimentary wine, beer, and spirit tastings
• Live music from a DJ
• Pastry Chef Maria’s famous XL cookies
• Bites from guest chefs
• Local artisan vendors
• Specialty food products
• Unique gifts and handcrafted goods

Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, the market offers a fun way to discover local makers, sample Arizona wines and spirits, and explore one of Scottsdale’s most iconic boutique hotels.

For visitors seeking indoor summer activities near Scottsdale, the event delivers the perfect combination of entertainment, shopping, and food—all without the Arizona heat. Tickets are free.

July 17: Chef Jonathon Sawyer

In July, we welcome Chef Jonathon Sawyer, winner of Last Chef Standing and recipient of a James Beard Award.

Known nationally as a Food & Wine “Best New Chef,” Sawyer has worked in some of the country’s most celebrated culinary cities before returning to Chicago, where he now leads the acclaimed restaurant Kindling. Guests can expect inventive flavors, wood-fired inspiration, and an unforgettable collaborative menu with Chef Russell.

August 14: Chef Beau MacMillan & Mixologist Jason Asher

The season concludes with two names familiar to Arizona’s culinary community: Chef Beau MacMillan and Mixologist Jason Asher.

A two-time James Beard Award nominee and television personality, Beau MacMillan is celebrated for his bold approach to ingredient-driven cuisine. After reaching national recognition as Executive Chef of elements at Sanctuary, he’s gone on to create memorable culinary experiences across the country.

Joining him is Jason Asher, who was named GQ Bombay Sapphire’s Most Inspired Bartender while working at Sanctuary’s Jade Bar. He later opened his own establishments including Century Grand, which was honored with the title of “Best U.S. Cocktail Bar” at the Tales of the Cocktail Awards. He now runs Juniper & Jigger, offering his expertise on marketing and beverage program development for bars and restaurants.

Together with Chef Russell, they’ll create a memorable evening featuring standout cuisine and expertly paired craft cocktails.

One of the Best Things to Do in Scottsdale During Summer

While Scottsdale is famous for outdoor adventures, summer is also an ideal time to discover indoor experiences that showcase the destination’s creativity and culture.

The Sip + Shop Summer Market Series is perfect for:

• Couples planning a weekend date
• Foodies looking for unique culinary events
• Groups of friends seeking summer activities
• Scottsdale residents looking for local events
• Visitors searching for indoor things to do in Scottsdale this summer
• Anyone interested in supporting local makers and businesses

With chef appearances, curated tastings, artisan shopping, and live entertainment, the event offers far more than a traditional market experience.

Experience an Iconic Scottsdale Landmark

The Sip + Shop Summer Market Series takes place at Hotel Valley Ho, a AAA Four Diamond boutique hotel in Old Town Scottsdale. Known for its iconic mid-century modern architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and award-winning dining, the hotel has been a Scottsdale destination since 1956. The event offers a unique opportunity to experience the property while supporting local chefs, artisans, and beverage makers.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re attending a celebrity chef dinner, browsing local vendors, or sampling wines and spirits, the Sip + Shop Summer Market Series delivers a fresh take on summer entertainment.

Join us for two unforgettable weekends celebrating food, drink, community, and local creativity—all in one stylish setting.

Event Details:

• Dates: July 17–18 and August 14–15
• Friday Celebrity Chef Dinners: 6 p.m. | Sands Event Venue | $149++
• Saturday Market: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | SoHo Ballroom | free admission
• All ages welcome
• Registered service animals only
• Valet parking: $6 for 3 hours with validated ticket

Get your tickets for the dinners and the markets online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best indoor summer activities in Scottsdale?

Food festivals, culinary events, tasting experiences, local markets, spa days, and boutique hotel events are among the most popular indoor summer activities in Scottsdale.

Is the Sip + Shop Summer Market Series free?

The Saturday market event is free to attend (ticket required). Friday celebrity chef dinners are $149++.

What can I expect at the Saturday market?

Guests can enjoy tastings, live music, local vendors, artisan foods, baked goods, and chef-created bites.

Who are the featured chefs?

The series features Executive Chef Russell LaCasce alongside acclaimed guest chefs: Bernie Kantak and Gio Osso in June, Jonathon Sawyer in July, and Beau MacMillan (plus celebrated mixologist Jason Asher) in August.

Is the event family-friendly?

Yes. The Saturday market welcomes guests of all ages.

Where can I find summer events in Scottsdale?

The Sip + Shop Summer Market Series is one of Scottsdale’s premier summer culinary events, offering food, shopping, tastings, and entertainment in a cool indoor setting.

What are the best summer events in Old Town Scottsdale?

The Sip + Shop Summer Market Series at Hotel Valley Ho features celebrity chef dinners, wine and spirit tastings, local vendors, live music, and culinary experiences throughout the summer.

Where can I find food and wine events in Scottsdale?

Hotel Valley Ho’s Sip + Shop Summer Market Series brings together celebrated chefs, mixologists, wineries, breweries, and local food purveyors for one of Scottsdale’s premier summer culinary events.

What is Hotel Valley Ho known for?

Hotel Valley Ho is a AAA Four Diamond boutique hotel in Old Town Scottsdale known for its mid-century modern design, vibrant social atmosphere, award-winning dining, and year-round events.

The Best Summer Staycations in Scottsdale: A Boutique Escape at Hotel Valley Ho

Book Your Perfect Summer Escape

Looking for the best summer staycation in Scottsdale? Hotel Valley Ho delivers a colorful, mid-century modern escape with elevated amenities, standout dining, and a distinctly playful personality. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a quick overnight reset, here’s how to make the most of a summer stay at one of Scottsdale’s most iconic boutique hotels.

Why Choose Hotel Valley Ho for a Scottsdale Staycation

Recommendation: Choose Hotel Valley Ho for a staycation that blends retro charm, modern luxury, and high-energy summer programming in a walkable Old Town location.

Highlights:

• Two distinct room experiences:
  • The hotel: Classic mid-century design with bright, playful character
  • The Tower: Contemporary suites with spacious layouts and luxury finishes
• Colorful, design-forward interiors ideal for a stylish getaway
• Walkable Old Town Scottsdale location with easy access to dining, nightlife, and shopping
• On-site experiences spanning pools, dining, spa, and events
• Rewards opportunities when you stay

Scottsdale Pool Scene: Two Distinct Summer Experiences

OH Pool: Social, High-Energy, Signature Scene

Best for: Atmosphere, music, group outings

• Resident DJs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through September
• Bright, high-energy setting with a signature Old Town Scottsdale vibe
• Access options:
  • Day passes
  • Daybeds
  • Cabanas
  • Room reservations

What to expect: A lively pool experience ideal for a classic Scottsdale summer day

OHasis Pool: Relaxed, Secluded Escape

Best for: Quiet lounging and low-key afternoons

• More private and tucked away
• Full service to your chaise lounge
• Ideal for reading, unwinding, and lazy afternoons

What to expect: A contrast to OH Pool—calm, restorative, and low-key

Dining at ZuZu: Brunch, Dinner + Drinks

Daily Brunch

• Served seven days per week
• Created by Executive Chef Russell LaCasce
• Known for:
  • Bold flavors
  • Generous portions
  • Unexpected combinations

Staycation Tip: Build brunch into your arrival or departure day—it anchors the experience.

Chef Roulette Dinner Experience

Best for: Memorable, one-of-a-kind evenings

• Six-course interactive tasting menu
• Includes:
  • Inventive dishes
  • Select beverage pairings
• Tone: Equal parts elevated and playful

Summer Market Series

Recommendation: Plan your stay around one of the hotel’s popular market weekends.

Dates:

• June 19 + 20
• July 17 + 18
• August 14 + 15

Fridays: Celebrity Chef Dinners

Location: Sands Event Venue
Time: 6 p.m.
Price: $149++

Included:

• Three-course paired dinner
• Meet-and-greet reception
• Live demos
• Collaboration between Executive Chef Russell LaCasce and guest chefs

Saturdays: Free Indoor Market

Location: SoHo Ballroom
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Included:

• Six tastings: wine, beer, and spirits
• Live music
• Local shopping:
  • House-baked goods
  • Guest chef bites
  • Local purveyors

What to expect: A fun, community-driven event featuring beloved local chefs and makers

Spa Staycation: Cactus Cool Treatments

Recommendation: Layer in a spa appointment to convert a pool day into a full reset. VH Spa is open Wednesdays to Sundays.

Cactus Flower Facial

60 minutes | $150 (normally $175)

• Focus: Brightening, hydration, and barrier support
• Key benefits:
  • Gentle exfoliation
  • Vitamin C glow boost
  • Lightweight hydration

Agave Nectar Massage

60 minutes | $150 (normally $175)

• Full-body, hydrating massage
• Features agave-based botanical oils
• Benefits:
  • Moisture restoration
  • Relaxation and tension relief
  • Lightweight finish with a gentle scent

_{20% service charge applies (based on original price)}

How to Plan the Ideal Scottsdale Summer Staycation

1-Night Reset:

• Afternoon: Check-in + OHasis Pool
• Evening: Chef Roulette dinner
• Next Morning: ZuZu brunch

Weekend Stay:

• Friday: Arrival + OH Pool cabana + DJ
• Saturday: Market event (morning) + explore Old Town on foot
• Saturday Night: Chef Roulette experience at ZuZu
• Sunday: Spa treatment + relaxed departure

FAQ: Summer Staycations at Hotel Valley Ho

What makes Hotel Valley Ho one of the best summer staycation hotels in Scottsdale?

• Unique mid-century modern design, vibrant rooms, two unique pool experiences, and a full calendar of on-site events create an all-in-one destination.

Who is Hotel Valley Ho ideal for?

• Hotel Valley Ho is ideal for adult getaways. If you enjoy mid-century modern architecture, colorful rooms and a fun vibe, this is the hotel for you. Weekends are upbeat with DJs at the OH Pool.

Do you need to stay at Hotel Valley Ho to use the pools?

• Not necessarily. Day passes, cabanas, and daybeds are available, though staying overnight provides the most seamless access.

Does Hotel Valley Ho charge a resort fee?

• No! Unlike most area hotels and resorts, Hotel Valley Ho never charges a resort fee.

What is the difference between OH Pool and OHasis Pool?

• OH Pool is social and high-energy with DJs; OHasis Pool is quieter and more secluded.

Is the on-site restaurant worth a visit?

• Yes, ZuZu is a true foodie destination, serving brunch daily and offering unique experiences like the multi-course Chef Roulette.

Are there summer events available to guests?

• Yes, including the Sip + Shop Summer Market Series, with chef dinners and a free tasting event.

Are spa promotions available during summer?

• Yes, the seasonal Cactus Cool menu offers special pricing on select treatments.

When is the best time to visit Scottsdale in summer?

• Early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor activities; midday is best spent at the pool or spa.

AZ Staycay Special

Are you an Arizona resident? Treat yourself to the ultimate staycation in Scottsdale with 25% off your room. Plus, we’ll throw in a one-time $25 food-and-drink credit to enjoy at ZuZu or at the OH Pool. Stay between May 1 and August 31, 2026 to enjoy all our fabulous amenities.

_{No deposit required. 7-day flexible cancellation to avoid penalty. Must present ID noting Arizona address. Blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with other offers.}

Not a local? Choose from our other great offers including your 3rd Night Free.

_{Click for full details and restrictions. Valid for stays through September 30, 2026.}

Final Takeaway

With layered experiences—design-forward rooms, two distinct pools, standout dining, one-of-a-kind events, and seasonal spa offerings—it delivers one of the most complete and compelling summer staycations in Scottsdale.