The Scottsdale Resort & Spa is nearing completion of a $40 million property-wide renovation, the largest in the iconic resort’s 50-year history. Guests can soon look forward to a host of new experiences and amenities, including revitalized rooms and three brand-new culinary destinations that will open next month ahead of the renovation’s completion in January 2024.
Nestled within McCormick Ranch, The Scottsdale Resort & Spa’s heritage dates back to 1976 as the country’s first conference resort. Driftwood Hospitality Management, a leader in providing solutions-based services for the domestic and international hotel industry, acquired the legacy conference resort in 2022.
In an effort to elevate, restore and refresh all aspects of the property, Driftwood expanded the original scope and budget of the renovation, making it one of the highest-priced renovations currently underway in the Phoenix metro area. Upon completion, the Scottsdale Resort & Spa will boast 278 spacious guest rooms and suites across almost 17 acres and will join Curio Collection by Hilton, a global set of remarkable upscale hotels hand-picked for their unique character and personality.
Taking inspiration from the property’s rich history, The Scottsdale Resort’s residential-style guest rooms intertwine the resort’s legacy with contemporary allure for a fusion of modern sophistication and signature Southwestern charm. Each room features rich textures with leather accents, intricately embroidered headboards and hand-carved wood. Pops of modern patterns and Southwest flair complement each space, including the bathrooms which boast a modern, desert-chic aesthetic.
One of the most notable aspects of the resort’s transformation is the conversion of The Stillman Building into 12 two-story luxury villas, which are the first of their kind in the market—each offering their own private pool and expansive golf course views.
The resort’s massive renovation also features a culinary evolution led by renowned Valley Chef Ken Arneson, who serves as the area executive chef for Driftwood Hospitality and will be partnering with esteemed Arizona-based purveyors in a commitment to bring resort guests local, sustainable and healthy cuisine.
Guests will enjoy three new dining experiences, including Barnaby’s Café, an inviting upscale café and wine bar serving wellness-oriented cuisine with a holistic approach while highlighting local purveyors and a global wine list; The Madam, a speakeasy harkening the Roaring Twenties and offering riffs on classic cocktails alongside modern creations; and La Fogata, the resort’s signature restaurant that embodies the essence of Sonoran fare with locally sourced ingredients, open flame creations and outstanding Southwest flavors. Barnaby’s Café and The Madam will be the first to open in early December, followed by La Fogata in late December.
“With the property’s storied history as our guide, we’re preserving its legacy while authoring a new chapter that brings a revived lifestyle destination to Scottsdale,” says Alan Klein, regional director of operations for Driftwood Hospitality Management. “As we reach this significant milestone in our renovation, we’re excited to welcome travelers and the community to experience the property like never before.”
For more information, or to book the newly renovated guest rooms, visit TheScottsdaleResort.com.
Photos courtesy The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Jeff Zaruba
