I’ve written about Scottsdale, Arizona before; about how it’s so much more than just a golf destination, and about how it actually makes for a good summer getaway.

But my previous trips to Scottsdale were all girls’ trips (which makes sense, since Scottsdale is becoming a popular spot for bachelorette parties!). So on my most recent visit, I brought my husband Elliot along so we could explore the more romantic side of Scottsdale.

And what we found was the perfect mix of activities, food, and sights for a slightly adventurous (but still very relaxing) couples trip.

Whether you’re planning a mini desert honeymoon, an anniversary in Scottsdale, or just looking to have a fun couples getaway, here are some of the best romantic things to do.

3 romantic things to do in Scottsdale

1. Go on a sunrise hot air balloon ride

While waking up at 4 a.m. may not scream romance, floating above the desert in the basket of a hot air balloon as the sun rises sure does.

There are a couple companies in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area that offer hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert, and the experience is definitely memorable and romantic! It’s quiet and peaceful as you float above the desert landscape, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife and soaking in the first rays of sunlight of the day.

I’ve done a morning ride with Hot Air Expeditions, who end their sunrise flights with a champagne breakfast.

2. Stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden

If you want to get up close to some of that desert landscape you saw from your balloon, a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, just south of Old Town Scottsdale in Phoenix, is a must. This garden covers 140 acres, and celebrates everything about the desert, from history to wildlife.

There are several themed trails that explore everything from Sonoran Desert flora and fauna to how Indigenous people use native plants for food and shelter. The garden also has a wildflower trail, a butterfly pavilion, and even a restaurant called Gertrude’s.

The trails are mostly flat and easy to stroll, making this a great place to admire the desert landscape up close together.

3. Visit an art museum

Scottsdale is an artsy city, with many galleries and museums to explore. My favorite one to visit with a date, though, is Wonderspaces inside Scottsdale Fashion Square mall.

This immersive and interactive art space is filled with fun exhibits by artists from around the globe. The art is meant to be interacted with, and new exhibits are installed a few times each year.

Wonderspaces is SUCH a cool concept, and might be my favorite way to experience contemporary art. There’s also a bar inside the space, so you can sip on a cocktail or beer as you make your way through the different exhibits.

Other museums you might enjoy visiting together include the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West.