Are you looking for the best things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona? Look no further! Scottsdale is full of amazing places to explore and activities to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, there is something here for everyone. We have put together a local’s guide to the best things to do in Scottsdale so you can make the most of your time here. Whether you’re looking for places to stay or just things to do, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable experience in Scottsdale.
1) Hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
For anyone looking to explore the outdoors while visiting Scottsdale, AZ, a visit to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a must. The preserve is the largest urban land preserve in the United States, with over 200 miles of trails for activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and plenty of interesting attractions along the way, it’s a great spot for sightseeing and exploration.
The preserve offers many guided tours, including hikes, history tours, and night sky tours. During the tours, you’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are also numerous educational activities, such as geology lessons, plant identification workshops, and interactive birding programs. No matter what you’re interested in, there is something for everyone at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
2) Visiting Taliesin West
If you’re looking for an architectural masterpiece, Taliesin West is the perfect destination. Taliesin West was built by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright as his winter home, studio, and architectural school. Today, the Taliesin West complex is open for public tours and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
On your tour, you’ll explore Wright’s workspace and living quarters. You’ll be able to see where he drew inspiration from the surrounding desert landscape and how he incorporated those elements into his designs. The tour includes visits to Wright’s private quarters, which have been preserved exactly as he left them.
In addition to the living quarters, Taliesin West also features a theater, dining room, and garden. The theater is the perfect place to relax and take in a movie or play. The dining room is a masterpiece of mid-century modern design, complete with Wright’s signature furniture pieces. The garden, filled with native Arizona plants and trees, is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Overall, a visit to Taliesin West is a truly unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just someone who appreciates good design, this attraction should be at the top of your list of things to do in Scottsdale. As you explore Taliesin West, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder at Wright’s genius. The unique combination of natural elements and modern design creates a striking and unforgettable atmosphere. It’s a place where creativity and innovation are palpable, and you can’t help but be inspired.
3) Exploring Old Town Scottsdale
If you’re looking for a vibrant, exciting place to explore and experience the flavor of Scottsdale, look no further than Old Town Scottsdale. Located in the heart of the city, Old Town Scottsdale is home to a wide array of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. This area is great for day or night adventures and is often bustling with people looking to enjoy the unique atmosphere.
When you visit Old Town Scottsdale, be sure to check out the iconic Waterfront District along the banks of the Arizona Canal. Here, you can find a variety of shops and restaurants as well as public art displays and sculptures. The district also features an urban park called Soleri Plaza, which offers plenty of space for enjoying the natural beauty of the desert landscape.
Another must-see destination in Old Town Scottsdale is the historic Main Street Arts District. This district is full of unique galleries, shops, and other cultural attractions that make for a great day out. While there, be sure to check out the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, which showcases Western culture and history through various interactive exhibits.
Old Town Scottsdale is also home to a variety of events throughout the year. From food festivals and music concerts to art shows and theatrical performances, there’s always something happening in this vibrant district. Additionally, the city offers plenty of public transportation options making it easy to get around.
4) Going to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is an exciting destination for an ultimate Scottsdale getaway. Located in the heart of downtown, the museum offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and events for visitors to enjoy. The museum is home to more than 4,000 works of art from around the world, featuring artists from all walks of life and backgrounds. From visual arts to video installations, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an interesting way to spend your day in Scottsdale, the museum is a great option. It’s open seven days a week and admission is free, so it’s easy to pop in for a few hours and explore the exhibitions. Plus, the museum offers educational programs and events that give visitors the opportunity to gain insight into the world of contemporary art. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for something new and exciting to do on your visit, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is worth a visit.
5) Taking a Wine Tasting Tour
Wine-tasting tours are a great way to learn about different types of wines. Not only can they be educational, often providing information on the history and production of the wines, but they can also be a fun social activity, as you’ll be sampling different types of wines with other guests. Wine tasting tours can also be a great way to explore a new region or country, as you’ll often have an opportunity to visit some local wineries and vineyards. Additionally, wine-tasting tours are great for finding new wines to add to your collection, as there will usually be an opportunity to purchase wines directly from the wineries.
6) Playing Golf at Troon North
Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise, and Troon North Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in the area. This top-notch facility offers breathtaking views, challenging fairways and greens, and unparalleled service.
Troon North Golf Club offers two championship courses – Monument and Pinnacle. Both courses offer unique challenges and are rated as some of the best courses in the country.
The Monument Course is the signature course at Troon North, featuring rugged desert terrain and undulating fairways. Players can challenge their skills on this 7,004-yard course, which offers a wide variety of shots. The Pinnacle Course is slightly shorter, at 6,811 yards, but features tight fairways and plenty of water hazards.
In addition to the two championship courses, Troon North also offers practice facilities, an on-site restaurant and bar, and luxurious accommodations. The clubhouse is designed with an Arizona Territorial style, adding to the club’s natural beauty.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, Troon North Golf Club is sure to provide an enjoyable golf experience. With its world-class facilities and breathtaking views, it is one of the best places to golf in Scottsdale.
7) Shopping at Kierland Commons
Kierland Commons is an open-air shopping center located in Scottsdale, Arizona. With over 70 stores and restaurants, this shopping destination is a great place to find a variety of items, from clothing and accessories to home decor and electronics. The center is open seven days a week, offering something for everyone.
Kierland Commons is not just a shopping destination – it also has a movie theater and a bowling alley. You can take your pet with you too! The center has a pet-friendly policy and even includes a designated dog park for your furry friends. Whether you’re looking for something special or just want to browse, Kierland Commons is the perfect place for an afternoon of shopping.
8) Relaxing at the Spa at The Phoenician
If you’re looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then you need to visit the luxurious spa at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona. The spa offers a range of indulgent amenities and treatments that will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed.
From massage and facial treatments to body wraps and body scrubs, there is something for everyone at the spa. The spa’s signature treatments include the Desert Rose Ritual and the Phoenician Glow, both of which will transport you to a state of blissful relaxation. You can also indulge in a variety of packages, such as the Desert Renewal or the Phoenician Escape, to really get away from it all.
When you’re not enjoying one of the spa’s signature treatments, you can relax in the lounge or take a dip in the outdoor pool. The spa also features a steam room, which is perfect for relieving stress and tension. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, the spa offers a range of beauty services, including manicures, pedicures, and waxing.
No matter what type of treatment you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at the spa at The Phoenician. From luxurious amenities to signature treatments and packages, the spa has everything you need for a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
9) Going to a Spring Training Baseball Game
Spring Training Baseball Games are one of the most exciting and fun activities to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The Cactus League has teams from all over the country come to play in Arizona during the Spring Training season.
The Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners and Texas Rangers all take part in the Cactus League.
There is something special about going to a game during Spring Training. Fans get an up-close view of their favorite players and can interact with them before and after the game. Plus, there are often smaller crowds at the games allowing for a more intimate experience.
The Arizona Diamondbacks have their home stadium in Scottsdale at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, which is located on Indian Bend Road. There are plenty of other stadiums nearby for fans to visit for the other teams as well. The home stadiums of the Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers are all within a short drive from Scottsdale.
Heading out to a Spring Training Baseball Game is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening in Scottsdale. With all of the great teams and stadiums available in the area, it is easy to find a game to attend. So get out there and enjoy some of the best baseballs that Arizona has to offer!
10) Seeing a Show at the Talking Stick Resort Arena
If you’re looking for an exciting night out in Scottsdale, then the Talking Stick Resort Arena is the place to be! The Talking Stick Resort Arena is the premier entertainment venue of Scottsdale, and it’s home to a wide variety of shows and events. Whether you’re looking to see a concert, watch a sporting event, or attend a show, the Talking Stick Resort Arena has something for everyone.
The Talking Stick Resort Arena has hosted some of the world’s most famous musicians, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, and more. There’s also no shortage of professional sports teams that call the arena home, including the Phoenix Suns (NBA), Phoenix Mercury (WNBA), and Arizona Rattlers (AFL). If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, the arena also hosts special events such as rodeos, boxing matches, and even circuses.
The arena is located conveniently in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, making it easy to access. With its large seating capacity, the arena can accommodate up to 19,000 people at once! No matter what type of show or event you’re looking to attend, the Talking Stick Resort Arena is sure to have something for you. So don’t miss out – plan your visit today!
11) Hike to the Top of Camelback Mountain
For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to the top of Camelback Mountain is a must-do activity in Scottsdale. This iconic mountain offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscapes. While it can be a challenging trek, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is well worth it.
There are several trails to choose from, with varying levels of difficulty. For those seeking a challenge, the Echo Canyon trail is a steep and rocky ascent, while the Cholla trail is a bit less strenuous but still requires some physical effort. Whichever trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.
For those who prefer guided tours, several companies offer sightseeing hikes of Camelback Mountain. These tours provide interesting information about the mountain’s history, geology, and local wildlife. However, it’s important to note that hiking with a guide may not allow for the same level of freedom and personal exploration as hiking on your own. No matter how you choose to do it, hiking to the top of Camelback Mountain is one of the top attractions in Scottsdale and an experience you won’t want to miss.
The scenery at the top of Camelback Mountain is truly breathtaking. From the summit, hikers can take in panoramic views of Scottsdale and the surrounding desert landscape. The sense of accomplishment and awe one feels upon reaching the top is hard to describe. This is why it’s no wonder that hiking to the top of Camelback Mountain is one of the top attractions in Scottsdale.
12) Explore the Desert Botanical Garden
Scottsdale, Arizona is home to some of the most breathtaking botanical gardens in the United States, and the Desert Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful. This 140-acre botanical garden boasts over 50,000 plants, including cacti, succulents, and other desert flora.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the garden or simply explore the winding pathways at their own leisure. The garden also offers several interactive exhibits, including a butterfly pavilion, which is home to hundreds of species of butterflies.
The garden hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops. For those who love plants, there is even an opportunity to take home a piece of the garden with the annual plant sale, where visitors can purchase unique cacti and succulents for their own garden.
One of the most popular events is the annual “Las Noches de las Luminarias,” a spectacular display of 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags throughout the garden. This event offers a unique, peaceful experience that cannot be missed.
Exploring the Desert Botanical Garden is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Scottsdale and learn about the desert ecosystem. The garden offers something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned plant enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city.
The peaceful surroundings of the Desert Botanical Garden provide visitors with a serene atmosphere to connect with nature. Walking through the gardens and taking in the natural beauty of the desert can be a calming and restorative experience. The interactive exhibits and events also provide an opportunity to learn about the unique ecosystem of the Sonoran Desert.
Overall, the Desert Botanical Garden is a hidden gem in Scottsdale that offers visitors a unique and beautiful way to experience the desert. Whether you are a local or just passing through, the garden is definitely worth a visit.
13) Visit the Musical Instrument Museum
Music lovers, this one is for you! The Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale is a must-visit for anyone who has even the slightest interest in music. This museum is unique in that it houses over 6,000 instruments from all around the world, making it the largest collection of its kind in the world.
Upon entering the museum, you’ll be given a set of headphones and a wireless audio guide, which will take you on a musical journey around the world. Each exhibit is arranged by geographic region, with each country or region represented by its own unique sounds and instruments.
Not only does the museum have a huge collection of instruments, but it also hosts concerts and events, making it a vibrant and exciting hub for music lovers in Scottsdale. You can catch live performances by local and international artists in the museum’s stunning 299-seat theater.
Make sure to set aside a few hours for your visit, as there is a lot to see and explore. From a Stradivarius violin to a Kodo drum, the Musical Instrument Museum has something for everyone. This is an experience that music enthusiasts will never forget, and it’s a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by visitors to Scottsdale.
If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the live performances held at the museum, ranging from classical music to folk and world music. There are also special events like instrument-making workshops and artist talks. Tickets to the museum cost $20 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Guided tours are also available for an additional fee.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of rare instruments, including a Steinway piano that once belonged to John Lennon and a harpsichord owned by Elvis Presley. Each instrument has a story behind it, and the museum’s knowledgeable staff are happy to share them with visitors.
Don’t miss the Experience Gallery, where you can try out instruments from around the world and learn about different musical traditions. With so much to see and do, the Musical Instrument Museum is an unforgettable destination for anyone visiting Scottsdale.
14) Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Scottsdale, Arizona is the perfect place for a unique adventure and a hot air balloon ride is just that! This thrilling experience is sure to give you an unforgettable view of the surrounding Sonoran desert landscape.
The views during your ride will be absolutely breathtaking. As you gently rise up in the hot air balloon, you’ll see stunning desert views of mountains, cacti, and beautiful desert fauna. The colors of the sunrise or sunset sky will paint the horizon, creating a surreal experience. You’ll have a unique opportunity to see this beautiful city from a completely different perspective and you’ll feel a sense of peace and tranquility that you won’t find anywhere else.
When it comes to pricing, hot air balloon rides can be a little pricey, but the experience is worth every penny. Prices typically range from $200 to $500 per person, depending on the length of the ride and the company you book with. While it may seem expensive, it’s an unforgettable experience that’s truly once in a lifetime.
So, if you’re ready to take in breathtaking views of the beautiful Sonoran desert landscape from high above, a hot air balloon ride in Scottsdale is a must. Book your ride with one of the many reputable companies and prepare to have an experience that you’ll never forget!
Travel Tips for Scottsdale Arizona Tourists
While Scottsdale is a relatively safe city, there are still a few health and safety tips to keep in mind during your trip.
1. Stay Hydrated: Arizona is known for its dry desert climate, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Make sure to bring a water bottle with you and refill it often.
2. Wear Sunscreen: With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear a hat or sunglasses for extra protection.
3. Be Prepared for the Heat: Temperatures can reach up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months, so plan outdoor activities accordingly. Opt for early morning or evening hikes and wear breathable clothing.
4. Stay Alert on the Roads: Traffic in Scottsdale can get busy, especially during rush hour. Pay attention to the speed limits, traffic signs, and road rules to avoid accidents.
5. Know Emergency Services: Save the emergency services phone numbers in your phone in case of an emergency. The number for police, ambulance, and fire services in the US is 911.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Scottsdale, Arizona. In addition to health and safety tips, it’s important to be aware of any curfews or safe neighborhoods in Scottsdale. The city has a curfew in place for minors, which means they cannot be out in public without adult supervision after a certain time. Make sure to check the specific curfew times with local authorities.
When it comes to safe neighborhoods, Scottsdale is generally considered a safe place to visit. However, it’s always a good idea to do some research and stay in areas that are well-lit and have a visible police presence. Some of the safest neighborhoods in Scottsdale include North Scottsdale, McCormick Ranch, and DC Ranch. By being aware of these travel tips, curfews, and safe neighborhoods, you can enjoy all that Scottsdale has to offer with peace of mind.