The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch

By Tim Cotroneo

When visiting The Scottsdale Resort for the first time, it’s hard to believe this sparkling 18-acre resort is over 40 years old. The progressive look of this timeless property was enhanced by a recent $10-million renovation that infused new energy and features. What hasn’t changed at The Scottsdale is the resort’s forward-thinking design, world-class facilities, and picturesque setting in the Sonoran Desert.

Flash back to the mid-70s, and the city of Scottsdale was a mere glimmer in the minds of golfers, retail property developers, and transplants desiring upscale living with year-round sunshine. In 1976, the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch became the first hospitality destination in the U.S. to present itself as a meeting and conference site.

Fast forward to today and America’s first all-in-one conference center is also one of Scottsdale’s premier hotels for couples and families desiring a sun-splashed getaway. The Scottsdale’s two-fold conference and vacation allure is due to its premium accommodations, as well as extraordinary business, dining and excursion offerings. This is all available from a site that’s just a 20-minute drive from Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport.

Multi-Million-Dollar First Impression

The curb appeal of The Scottsdale is apparent as soon as your car keys are handed to the valet at the front entrance. Meticulous landscaping, a lush green courtyard, and a glimpse of The Scottsdale’s array of 50 meeting rooms are evident as you’re welcomed by the cordial staff.

The multi-million-dollar renovation gleams in the hacienda-style reception area, convenient concierge station, architect Bennie Gonzales’ outdoor patio, and the new Bar Six40 that’s a Happy Hour must. As you’re accompanied to your room, The Scottsdale’s classic layout exudes a quietness in the hallways which is amazing for a hotel whose occupancy is brimming with guests.

Your AAA Four Diamond accommodations feature a southwestern ambiance, easy ergonomics, and round-the-clock room service. Choose from a golf course view, a pool view, or if you stay in the Stillman Suites, an added layer of seclusion.

Scottsdale Awaits

Whether you’re at The Scottsdale for a meeting, wedding, reunion, golf getaway, or well deserved vacation, you’ll delight in the fingertip convenience this legendary resort offers. For conference attendees, The Scottsdale’s team makes a point of threading continuity for your scheduling, meeting, and dining needs. Arizona’s premier indoor and outdoor conference site offers a plethora of packages for groups ranging in size from 10 to 1,200.

Regardless if you’ve chosen The Scottsdale for business or pleasure reasons, the resort prides itself in presenting a wealth of amenities on property and beyond. The Scottsdale’s concierge can connect you with one of their excursion specialists to see which Scottsdale-area outdoor diversion makes your heart sing. She can also arrange for a massage, facial, or body treatment at their Luna Spa.

The Scottsdale is home to 11 miles of paved hiking, biking, or running trails, a dozen convenient art and shopping venues, and Scottsdale’s renowned golf. Right next door you’ll find The McCormick Ranch Pine and Palm Golf Courses. These two 18-hole layouts deliver desert golf at its finest.

After your day of meetings, hiking, shopping, or golf, The Scottsdale is a great retreat for indoor or outdoor dining. Before requesting a signature Maude’s Mule cocktail or craft beer, take a peek at some of the photographs tracing Scottsdale’s history and the story behind the Bar Six 40 name. Then ask your server what entrees Alaskan-born Chef Rick Dupere has on special this week.

Looking Back and Looking Forward

Today’s version of The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch is a tribute to its history, ongoing legacy of meeting excellence, and an enduring brand of southwestern-style hospitality. For your next meeting or sunny vacation, The Scottsdale is looking forward to meeting your needs.

https://www.destinationhotels.com/en/scottsdale-resort

Tim Cotroneo is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer specializing in travel, business, and golf.