Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona, where the desert sun meets vibrant city life in perfect harmony! Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie craving culinary delights, an art aficionado seeking inspiration, or simply in pursuit of relaxation under the azure skies, Scottsdale has something for everyone. Join us on a journey as we uncover the best ways to make the most of your time in this desert oasis, where adventure and tranquility go hand in hand. Let’s explore Scottsdale together!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Known as “The West’s Most Western Town,” Scottsdale is a vibrant desert city located in the northeastern region of the Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona. With an estimated population of over 270,000, Scottsdale covers 185 square miles of land.
Scottsdale enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. Its elevation of 1,500 feet above sea level provides pleasant winter temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Summer brings hot dry heat with highs between 100-110 Fahrenheit.
Scottsdale has a rich history tracing back to its founding in the late 1800s. It began as a small farming community and later became a popular tourist destination. Its culture celebrates the Old West, Native American heritage, and connection to the natural Sonoran Desert environment.
Today, Scottsdale is known for world-class resorts, golf courses, spas, art galleries, restaurants, and high-end shopping. It provides easy access to outdoor activities with miles of hiking trails winding through the McDowell Mountains. From cowtown roots to contemporary culture, Scottsdale offers an inviting desert escape in the heart of Arizona.
Things to do in Scottsdale – Old Town
The heart of Scottsdale is the Old Town district, located just east of Scottsdale Road. This pedestrian-friendly area features Southwestern-style buildings housing over 100 restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries.
It’s a delight to wander around Old Town’s tree-lined streets and alleyways. You’ll find boutiques selling Native American crafts, Western wear, and fine art. There are also jewelers, home furnishing stores, and galleries displaying photography, paintings, and sculptures. Stop for a margarita or craft beer at one of the many patios lining the district.
When the sun goes down, Old Town comes alive. Hit the dance floor at brands like Bottled Blonde and Riot House, or go bar-hopping along Craftsman Court. Keep an eye out for events like free concerts at Canal Convergence and Native Trails. Don’t miss special evenings like ArtWalk on Thursdays and Saturday Nights Downtown.
Hiking
Scottsdale is home to some fantastic hiking trails that wind through the Sonoran Desert. One of the most popular hikes is Camelback Mountain, with two challenging trails that reward you with spectacular views from the summit. For a slightly easier hike with similar panoramic views, head to Pinnacle Peak Park in North Scottsdale. This iconic mountain with its signature red sandstone pillar offers trails for all levels.
For a more immersive desert hiking experience, spend a day exploring the vast McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Spread across 30,500 acres, this preserve contains over 225 miles of diverse trails through unique desert landscapes. Look for signs of wildlife like jackrabbits, coyotes, and roadrunners as you make your way through the cacti. With nearby parking lots and trailheads, as well as maps available online, the preserve makes it easy to find the perfect hiking adventure.
With mountains to summit and desert to explore, Scottsdale has no shortage of trails to satisfy hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can choose the challenge, views and scenery they desire for an unforgettable desert hiking experience.
Golf
With nearly 200 gorgeous golf courses, Scottsdale is a true golfer’s paradise. Blessed with sunny weather and stunning desert scenery, it’s no wonder golfers flock to Scottsdale year-round.
The city boasts courses designed by acclaimed architects like Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish. You’ll find everything from traditional greener-than-green resort courses to rugged desert tracks carved into the Sonoran landscape.
Troon North offers two 18-hole courses cutting through the high Sonoran Desert. The Monument Course is known for its natural beauty and elevation changes while the Pinnacle Course features lush fairways and bunkers for a classic golf challenge.
Grayhawk Golf Club has two top-tier courses, the Talon and Raptor, set against the McDowell Mountains. Both combine parkland-style holes with native desert areas. The Raptor Course has hosted professional golf events.
TPC Scottsdale is home to the PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open and the Stadium Course where the tourney takes place. The course has a festive, lively atmosphere and an island green on the par-3 16th hole.
For traditional Scottish-style links golf, head to the Boulders Club and stroll its fairways lined with thousand-year-old rock formations. Or check out We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, named Best New Public Course when it opened in 2006.
With so many amazing layouts, excellent conditions year-round, and breathtaking desert scenery, it’s easy to see why Scottsdale ranks as a bucket-list golf destination.
Rejuvenate at Scottsdale’s Top Spas
Scottsdale is home to some of the most luxurious spas in Arizona, perfect for pampering and total relaxation. After a day of hiking or shopping, treat yourself to a customized spa treatment at one of these top spots:
The Spa at Camelback Inn
This Spanish colonial-style spa offers Recovery Rituals like the Agave Nectar Radiance Wrap and massage with blue agave extracts and oils. Get the signature Luminous Facial for glowing skin. The spa patio has beautiful views of Camelback Mountain.
The Spa at Sanctuary on Camelback
Feel like royalty at this award-winning spa set against dramatic mountain vistas. Signature treatments incorporate indigenous ingredients like Hopi salt stones and Arizona clays. Opt for a couples massage in a private spa suite.
Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms
With Moroccan-influenced architecture, this spa oozes sophistication. Relax in the co-ed grotto steam room before a Citrus and Sage Detox Wrap. Couples can reserve the private Alvadora Suite for side-by-side treatments.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa
European-inspired and luxuriously appointed, the spa offers treatments incorporating ingredients from around the world. Try the Agave Nectar and Desert Minerals Scrub for smooth, hydrated skin. Unwind in the co-ed whirlpool together afterward.
Revive Spa
Get your glow on with advanced treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser skin tightening, and more. This medical spa customizes facials to suit your skincare needs. Follow your treatment with time in the eucalyptus-infused steam room.
With soothing amenities and indulgent services, Scottsdale’s top spas offer much-needed pampering and relaxation. Melt away stress and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Museums
Scottsdale is home to some of Arizona’s top museums, offering a range of experiences from exploring global musical instruments to learning about the Wild West. Music lovers will especially enjoy the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), which has an impressive collection of over 15,000 instruments and music-related artifacts from around the world. Wander through MIM’s global galleries to see rare instruments, experience live demonstrations, and listen to global music.
For a dose of Southwestern culture, check out the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. This museum celebrates Western heritage through exhibits on cowboys, Native Americans, artists, and more. See a floral parade saddle gifted by Mexican general Pancho Villa, learn about Western films at the museum’s supper club theater, and admire art by Frederic Remington. You can even watch a gunfight reenactment in the museum’s courtyard.
The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) features modern art exhibits and events. This innovative art space was founded in 1999 and hosts rotating exhibits highlighting contemporary artists.
For art lovers, be sure to also visit the Scottsdale Arts District. This neighborhood is home to more than 100 art galleries, studios, and art-focused shops. Every Thursday evening, the district hosts ArtWalk, allowing visitors to explore the galleries for free.
With its impressive collection of museums, Scottsdale is a top destination in Arizona to experience culture, history, art, and more. Its museums offer activities and exhibits for visitors of all ages and interests.
Art Galleries
Scottsdale is home to a thriving arts scene, with over 100 art galleries located throughout the city. The Scottsdale Arts District features a high concentration of acclaimed galleries showcasing works by local, national, and international artists.
Every Thursday evening, the neighborhood comes alive for the weekly ArtWalk. From 7-9 pm, the galleries open their doors to the public to enjoy special exhibits, meet artists, and take in the energetic atmosphere. In addition to the many permanent galleries, ArtWalk also features pop-up exhibits, live music, and food vendors.
Some of the top galleries to check out include Bonner David Galleries, which carries modern and contemporary works from artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró. Wilde Meyer Gallery focuses on contemporary southwestern painting and sculpture. And Overlook Gallery exhibits Native American art and artifacts.
Beyond the galleries, Scottsdale is home to incredible public art installations. The Scottsdale Public Art Program oversees more than 125 permanent and temporary pieces located throughout the city. One signature work is Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture displayed outside the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
With its vibrant gallery scene and dynamic public artworks, Scottsdale offers many ways to engage with compelling works by talented artists from across the region and around the world.
Restaurants
Scottsdale is home to over 800 restaurants, offering something to please every palate and budget. Here are top picks for the best places to eat in Scottsdale:
Luxury Dining
For fine dining and special occasions, consider Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa. The seasonal new American cuisine is beautifully presented with stunning views of Camelback Mountain. Reservations are recommended for the elegant indoor dining room or outdoor terrace seating.
Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn is the signature restaurant of famed chef Lon Morgan. Housed in a historic hacienda, the romantic ambiance matches the contemporary American cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients. Specialties include the sea bass and filet mignon.
Cowboy Ciao offers an eclectic globally inspired menu in a vibrant setting. Chef Peter Kasperski puts his spin on dishes like the pan-seared salmon with forbidden rice. Go for the weekend brunch on the patio.
Casual Fare
For delicious burgers and fries in a retro 1950s-style diner, head to The Pink Pony. The signature pink dip sauce for the fries is addictive. Other menu highlights include patty melts, malts, and homemade ice cream.
At Sugar Bowl, enjoy ice cream, sandwiches, and candies served up in a kitschy mid-century building. The Superman ice cream with rainbow sprinkles is a favorite.
Global Flavors
For authentic Mexican food, Los Sombreros serves up tasty tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and more in a casual cantina setting. The margaritas are strong and affordable.
Malee’s Thai Bistro offers Thai cuisine bursting with bright, bold flavors. Curries, noodles, and stir-fries provide ample choices for lunch or dinner. The panang curry with shrimp is a signature dish.
Hotels
Scottsdale offers a wide range of luxurious resorts and budget-friendly hotels to meet any traveler’s needs. Here are some top options to consider:
Luxury Resorts
- The Phoenician – This lavish 250-acre resort lies at the base of Camelback Mountain and offers multiple pools, a world-class spa, and elegant rooms with views of the mountain. Dining options include a steakhouse and Southwestern cuisine.
- The Boulders – Nestled amidst rock formations in the desert foothills, this resort provides casitas instead of regular guest rooms. Relax at one of four pools or indulge in a spa treatment. Cuisine focuses on local ingredients.
- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain – Situated on 53 secluded acres, this boutique resort boasts contemporary-style casitas and suites with mountain views. Pamper yourself at the spa or lounge by the infinity pool. Award-winning cuisine served in multiple on-site restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs – Great value with two pools, a fitness center, and spacious rooms. Located next to the TPC Scottsdale golf course. On-site restaurant and cocktail bar.
- Hyatt Place Scottsdale – Offers a free hot breakfast daily and rooms with separate sleeping and living areas. Outdoor pool, fitness center, and cocktail bar on-site. Across from Old Town and under 15 minutes from Scottsdale Airport.
- Motel 6 Scottsdale – Basic accommodations at budget-friendly rates. Outdoor pool and convenient location near Old Town’s attractions and shopping. Microwave and mini-fridge in rooms.
With high-end resorts and affordable hotel options, Scottsdale provides places to stay that cater to any style of travel and budget. The luxury resorts offer splendid pampering while the budget hotels supply comfortable rooms and amenities at lower rates.
Day Trips
Scottsdale is conveniently located near many popular destinations in Arizona, making it easy to take day trips to explore more of the state. Here are some top day trip ideas from Scottsdale:
- Phoenix – Scottsdale’s larger neighbor to the west is home to great museums like the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum with Native American art and culture, and the Musical Instrument Museum. Sports fans can catch a game or event at venues like Chase Field or Talking Stick Resort Arena. Other top Phoenix attractions include the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and restaurants, bars and nightlife in areas like Roosevelt Row and Old Town Scottsdale. It’s less than a 30 minute drive from Scottsdale.
- Sedona – Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is located about a 1.5 hour drive north of Scottsdale. Top things to do include hiking trails like Cathedral Rock, shopping the art galleries and boutiques of Uptown Sedona, grabbing a bite in one of the many excellent restaurants, or taking a Jeep tour to access backcountry scenery.
- Grand Canyon – One of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders, the Grand Canyon is a must-see located about 2.5 hours north of Scottsdale. Opt for a partial day tour by bus or helicopter, or spend a full day exploring the South Rim by foot or shuttle bus to fully admire the immensity and grandeur of this iconic canyon.
With so many outstanding destinations nearby, it’s easy to fit in memorable day trips from Scottsdale to see more of Arizona’s unique landscapes, culture, and attractions. Many tour companies offer convenient transportation options between Scottsdale and surrounding areas.
And Don’t Forget
While exploring all that Scottsdale has to offer, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the architectural brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West. This architectural masterpiece, nestled in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, offers a glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest American architects. Experience Scottsdale in a whole new light as you embark on guided tours of this iconic landmark, suitable for the whole family or groups of friends. Guided tours provide insights into Wright’s innovative design principles and his profound connection to the desert landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned architecture enthusiast or simply curious about Wright’s legacy, Taliesin West promises a captivating journey. And for those unable to visit in person, virtual tours and video experiences offer a window into this architectural gem. Become a member of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to access exclusive benefits and support the preservation of Taliesin West for future generations to enjoy. So, don’t forget to add Taliesin West to your Scottsdale itinerary for an unforgettable architectural adventure!
Conclusion
As you bid farewell to Scottsdale, Arizona, you’ll carry with you memories of strolling through the historic streets of Old Town, soaking in the breathtaking vistas on scenic hikes, perfecting your swing on world-class golf courses, indulging in luxurious spa treatments, exploring the rich cultural tapestry of museums and art galleries, and immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife.
Scottsdale’s popularity stems not only from its unparalleled beauty and recreational opportunities but also from its ability to cater to every taste and desire. So, whether you’re drawn to the serene desert landscapes or the bustling city streets, Scottsdale welcomes you with open arms, ready to enchant and inspire. As you reflect on your time here, we leave you with one lingering question: What adventure awaits you in Scottsdale next?
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