This past weekend our little family had the privilege of heading out to Scottsdale Arizona to experience Christmas At The Princess at The Fairmont Hotel. As our trip approached, and I looked at all the photos on social media, I grew more and more excited for this winter wonderland adventure…. but didn’t know what to expect. What we experienced was beyond expectations, a truly magical Christmas atmosphere that was enjoyed by every member of our family (yes, you could even see the amazement in Camille’s eyes as she took in all the lights + music….).
For those who aren’t familiar with Christmas at The Princess, it’s a decade long tradition that features over four million lights (truly spectacular, puts The Griswold Christmas lights to shame) around the resort (including a “Who-ville” which was extra special for us this year), ice skating rink made with real ice, train rides, a carousel, Ferris wheel, ice slides (one of Harper’s personal favorites), holiday characters, photos with Santa (Harper passed on this one… she’s still afraid of him…), letters to Santa (despite her fear of the guy, this was something Harper happily did), a holiday themed Build A Bear workshop,, and a beautiful winter wonderland with live music (think Michal Bublé cover). They have so many amazing events during the month of December so if you’re looking for something festive for you + your friends, significant other, or family be sure to check them out!
Aside from the holiday magic we were lucky enough to partake in, there were several supreme dining experiences as well. We had two personal favorites. One was our lunch at Toro Latin Restaurant + Rum Bar, an Asian/Mexican fusion cuisine that sits on the 18th hole of the TPC golf course. I indulged in the Angry Tuna roll (perfectly spicy) + the Crunch Roll… some of the best sushi I’ve ever had… and TJ opted for the steak torta… which he said was equally as amazing. We also ate at La Hacienda, their on property Mexican Food restaurant (which has been voted Best Mexican Restaurant in Scottsdale for the past 7 years)… which has a beautiful outdoor ambiance with hanging lanterns (something I’m always a sucker for)… a perfect spot to sit when you have a high energy toddler. We sipped on margaritas. I opted for the Serrano Margarita, which is akin to a spicy margarita, + TJ had the black currant margarita, think Cadillac margarita with a cabernet float in place of grand mariner. Ironwood American Kitchen also had a delicious Sunday brunch, complete with a donut wall, little miss’ personal favorite.
Something TJ + I always look for when we travel with the kiddos is that the hotel has enough amenities for everyone in the family. The Fairmont has multiple pools: an adult pool, several family friendly pools (one with an impressive 200 foot twisting waterslide), and a white sand beach pool open to everyone. All pools are heated to the mid 80’s so a fun winter activity for the kiddos. They have a kids club for kiddos 5 + older, as well as vetted + certified babysitters in case you want to sneak away to the spa as a couple (they do have a rooftop pool) or just out for a leisurely dinner. I snuck in a quick stair master workout in their well appointed gym… complete with spin bikes, treadmills, elliptical, a rowing machine, and several weight machines.
Aside from all of that, the service was impeccable. Respectful, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile without having to be asked. So, if you’re heading to the Scottsdale area I can’t recommend the Fairmont more… whether it’s a romantic getaway with your significant other or a fun family vacation… it literally has something for everyone….
We enjoyed a fire-pit rink side for our first night… a cocktail, a s’mores kit, some ice skates + you had the makings of a pretty memorable evening.
Little miss might not be a fan of Santa, but she didn’t hesitate to write him a letter letting him know what she’d like for Christmas….
(Lunch at Toro Latin Kitchen…. that sushi was delicious!
(A little adult time while the girls nap!)
(Christmas lights everywhere you turn… seriously was so spectacular!)
(The Christmas train was adorable… and a quick ride to take you around the property to see all the amazing lights….)
(Such a beautiful sunset….)
(Beautiful ambiance at La Hacienda…. the drinks + food were both delicious)
(En route to Winter Wonderland + the most amazing Michael Bublé cover I’ve ever heard!)
(Such a beautiful, crisp, Sunday morning….)
(One last meal before heading back home… the view + food at Ironwood Kitchen were excellent)
(So sad to have to say goodby to this Christmas Wonderland… until next time!)
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Thank you to Fairmont Princess Scottsdale for hosting our family