Four Seasons Offers Fun for All Reasons

Trying to plan a vacation can be a really stressful time for anyone, especially if you have kids. Finding a place that will have something for everyone individually and then also allows ample opportunity for quality family memories to be created can be a challenge. Luckily there is an answer for families of all sizes just in time for summer at the Four Seasons Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Located in the Troon North neighborhood in Scottsdale, the Four Seasons is set against the backdrop of Pinnacle Peak Park, offering gorgeous views at all times of the day. I was highly impressed not only with the normal amenities you expect at a resort, but also by the extra offerings geared specifically towards welcoming families. As we are preparing for the first baby of our own, it was nice to have a “babymoon” and find out that luxury and relaxing vacations does not have to end when the kids come.
Relaxing is highest priority, and there are many opportunities to do so all around the resort, and for all ages. Four Seasons Scottsdale offers a Kids for All Seasons program daily from 9am-5pm where kids can go and have a day full of supervised activities on site with peers, from games to hikes to crafts, swimming, and movies. Another bonus to this program is that for a small fee, lunch can be included in the program, which otherwise is complimentary to guests.
While the kids are away, the parents can play at the various offerings at Four Seasons. For those who relax through physical activities, options include golfing at the Troon North Golf Course, hiking some of the many trails in the surrounding desert, and utilizing the 24 hour fitness center and some of the yoga, stretch, and aerobic classes the resort offers. After a day of exertion, it is highly recommended to explore the full service spa at Four Seasons. They boast a relaxation room, saunas and steam rooms, as well as 14 treatment rooms and 2 private spa suites. Their latest specialty massage is called the “Sticks and Stones” and incorporates bamboo sticks and Himalayan sea salt stones in a truly unique and stress melting experience. They even have options and adjustments to their regular treatments for those who are pregnant, which made my experience that much easier and more enjoyable.

One of my favorite parts of the resort was the pool area. With plenty of seating around the lagoon style pool, it was also a welcome treat to find out that they have complimentary cabanas available as well. Adjacent to the main pool is a children’s pool, where it was fun to watch the kids splash about and play, while allowing a more serene pool area for those wanting to relax at the big pool. There is a poolside bar, the Saguaro Blossom, and besides refreshing drinks while under the Phoenix sun, they also have a tasty menu to choose from. Throughout the summer, you can also partake in the complimentary “Dive In Movies” poolside every Saturday evening.

Now, onto the food. It is highly recommended to treat yourself to a romantic night out, with or without the kids, at Talavera, Four Seasons’ steakhouse at the resort. Get a table outside and watch the sunset over the valley and the city lights twinkle on as you feast. Our favorites were the Lobster and Corn Bisque and the Heirloom Carrots to start with, followed by their signature dishes of Chilean Sea Bass and Bacon Wrapped Buffalo Tenderloin. Both the sea bass and tenderloin were cooked to perfection, sealing in the flavor that were paired perfectly with the shareable side dishes you can choose from. It will be hard, but save room for dessert and try the Chocolate Grasshopper Tart, a more adult and delectable version of a Thin Mint.

For breakfast and more casual dining throughout the day, stop into the Proof Canteen. There was no better way to start the day than with the comfort food at Proof Canteen. We could not decide what was better, their menu options including an egg white frittata with asparagus, tomato, turkey sausage, goat cheese, and avocado, or their extensive breakfast buffet that had everything from fresh fruits and cheese plates to fresh waffles and an omelet bar. No matter what you get to eat, try the Hit Venice Beach Smoothie to help power through the day. Dinner at Proof Canteen is equally as appetizing, and there is no better way then to start with the favorite Truffled Duck Fries. We had the Chicken and Waffles as well as the Grilled Pork Chop which was accompanied by a smooth bourbon carrot puree, creamy garlic, wheat berries, and roasted heirloom carrots. Wear forgiving pants, because you are going to want dessert from their old fashioned down home desserts including ice cream floats, make your own ice cream scoops, shakes, pies, cakes, cookies, and even candy by the pound. They have a special “Sundaes on Sundays” where their sundaes are by one get one free, which is good because you probably won’t want to share.

There truly are no “bad” rooms at the resort as they all have spectacular views and easy access to all the amenities. What is great for families this summer are the special prices that Four Seasons will be running, including weekday nights starting at $179 June 1-September 1. What will definitely be bringing my family back to the Four Seasons was the incredible hospitality throughout our stay. Staff in all locations at the resort were happy, helpful, and willing to go above and beyond to ensure that the stay was memorable and special in every way, including wishing my husband a happy birthday everywhere he went on his birthday. Their genuine smiles and offers to meet any needs, friendly conversation, and overall cheerfulness made it clear that they were not only happy to be there, but to truly make a stay at the Four Seasons special for all their guests.

Kim Alsumiri

Kim Alsumiri is a Senior Writer who focuses on baby products and travel. A proud California native, she has a deep understanding of the needs of families with young children. With over 10 years of experience in the writing industry, Kim has a passion for finding and sharing the best products and experiences for parents and their little ones. She has also developed a strong interest in social issues related to parenting and child-rearing. As a mother of three young children, Kim knows firsthand the joys and challenges of raising a family. Her personal experience and love for travel allow her to offer valuable insights to her readers on the best places to go and things to do with kids in tow.