What is there to do in Scottsdale, Arizona?

Scottsdale, Arizona has all of the elements needed for a great vacation or day trip! If you’re looking for a place to explore, eat, drink and make memories along the way, this is definitely a top destination choice. Scottsdale is an interesting city with a great blend of cowboy western scenery, stylish city attractions and natural beauty. Whether you like the outdoors, shopping, restaurants or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Scottsdale!

Outdoor Activities

Scottsdale is home to many outdoor activities set against some beautiful backdrops. For starters, you have the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which houses dramatic rugged hills and trails to explore nature. You can go hiking, biking, or even rock climbing in this natural area. Another great outdoor spot is Tonto National Forest where you can go camping, white water rafting or explore hundreds of miles of trails that meander through Ponderosa Pine and Oak forests. If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, Tombstone Monument Guest Ranch offers horseback rides along picturesque paths.

Restaurants + Shopping

If you’re looking for some fun and delicious places to eat and shop, Scottsdale is also home to many restaurants, boutiques, and malls. The Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall offers many designer retailers including Bloomingdales, Macy’s and Gucci. If you’re looking for something more unique, Downtown Scottsdale holds just that. Old Town features vintage stores, dozens of great restaurants and one-of-a kind art galleries. If you want to get your grub on, there are many specialty restaurants to choose from like The Mission Old Town and FnB.

Nightlife + Entertainment

If you’re looking to explore the nightlife of Scottsdale, the city offers plenty of bars, breweries and even karaoke spots. Main Street just south of downtown Scottsdale has some interesting places such as Bottled Blonde and Thumbzilla Karaoke. If you want to get fancy The Talking Stick Resort has clubs and a large music venue with live DJs and local artists. You could even go on a Scottsdale Wacky Bar Crawl courtesy of Let’s Roam to experience some of the best happy hours in the city.

Conclusion

Scottsdale Arizona is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away and explore nature, eat delicious food and enjoy the nightlife. With all of the activities mentioned here, you’re guaranteed to experience your most memorable vacation in Scottsdale yet! Make sure to check out The Talking Stick Resort and Scottsdale Wacky Bar Crawl hosted by Let’s Roam and explore everything that this beautiful city has to offer!

The Insider’s Guide to Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is a desert city located in Maricopa County, Arizona, and is known for its luxurious resorts, plush golf courses, and world-class spas. Apart from that, the city has a rich history, an abundance of natural beauty, and a diverse and thriving arts scene. If you are planning a trip to this city, here’s everything you need to know to make your stay memorable.

Explore the Local Attractions

Scottsdale is home to some of the most popular attractions in Arizona, including the iconic Camelback Mountain and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Camelback Mountain is one of the most photographed spots in Scottsdale and offers breathtaking views of the city. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a protected desert habitat that spans over 30,000 acres and has an extensive network of hiking trails.

The Musical Instrument Museum is another must-visit attraction in Scottsdale. If you are a music lover, you’ll be amazed by the vast collection of historic and contemporary instruments from all over the world.

Dine at Scottsdale’s Top Restaurants

Scottsdale has a vibrant culinary scene, with an array of restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets. The city is home to some of the most renowned chefs in the country, and their restaurants offer delectable cuisine from all over the world.

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, you’ll find Cafe Monarch, a restaurant known for its contemporary American cuisine and romantic ambiance. For traditional Southwestern cuisine, try The Mission, an upscale restaurant that offers a modern twist on classic dishes. If you’re a fan of Italian food, check out Pomo Pizzeria, which serves authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.

Immerse Yourself in Scottsdale’s Culture

Scottsdale has a rich history and culture, which is reflected in its museums, art galleries, and public art installations. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the city’s gems and features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, architecture, and design.

The Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is another must-visit attraction for history buffs. It showcases the history and culture of the American West through a combination of art, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

For outdoor art enthusiasts, Scottsdale’s public art program, the Scottsdale Public Art, offers an exciting collection of permanent and temporary installations by local, national, and international artists.

Learn About Scottsdale’s Rich History

Scottsdale is steeped in rich history, dating back to before the city was even founded. You can learn about the city’s history at the Scottsdale Historical Museum, which is located in a historic schoolhouse. The museum showcases artifacts and photographs that tell the story of Scottsdale, from its early settler days to its rise as a popular tourist destination.

Another great way to learn about Scottsdale’s history is by taking a walking tour of Old Town Scottsdale. The tour takes you through the city’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks, such as the Little Red Schoolhouse and the Rusty Spur Saloon.

Off-the-Beaten Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little outside the norm when it comes to Scottsdale attractions, here are a few off-the-beaten-path activities to consider.

You can take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert, which is an unforgettable experience. During your flight, you’ll see stunning views of the landscape, wildlife, and the majestic desert sky.

Another fun activity is to visit the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The park has a mini-train ride, a carousel, and a museum that showcases the history of railroading in Arizona.

Finally, don’t miss the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, one of the largest horse shows in the world. The event showcases the beauty and grace of the Arabian horse, with a range of competitions and exhibitions.

Conclusion

Scottsdale is a vibrant city with a myriad of attractions, dining experiences, and cultural offerings that will appeal to travelers of all tastes and interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Scottsdale has something for everyone.