Scottsdale, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever dreamed of visiting a desert oasis full of top attractions, luxury resorts, and endless outdoor fun? Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona. It's a city that mixes the desert's wild beauty with modern comforts and cultural spots. But what makes Scottsdale a top spot to visit? Let's find out the best things to do that will thrill you and spark your adventure spirit.

Key Takeaways

• Discover Scottsdale's diverse array of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion
• Explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert and historic Old Town district
• Indulge in world-class golf, luxurious resorts, and vibrant dining and shopping
• Uncover the hidden gems that make Scottsdale a premier travel destination in the Southwest
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts, music, and culinary scene of this dynamic city

Explore the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Get ready for adventure in the 225-mile McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This urban oasis in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the nation's largest, covering over 30,500 acres. It's perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders of all levels.

Start with the ADA-accessible Bajada Nature Trail for a calm walk. Or, try the Windgate Pass Trail for a bigger challenge. The Gateway trailhead is a great spot to start your journey through this amazing preserve.

Trails for Every Outdoor Adventurer

The Preserve has trails for everyone, from easy walks to tough climbs. Here are some highlights:

• Hike the challenging Tom's Thumb trail, a 4.4-mile route that takes about 2 hours to finish.
• Check out the Granite Mountain area with its 3-mile Scenic Trail and 6.1-mile Granite Mountain Loop Trail for stunning views.
• Try the 2.9-mile Bootlegger Trail to Granite Mountain Loop to see the Preserve's beautiful saguaro cacti.

Looking for a relaxing walk or an exciting hike? The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is your go-to spot in Scottsdale for outdoor fun.

"The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a true gem, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert landscape."

Stroll Through Old Town Scottsdale

Exploring Old Town Scottsdale is a must for visitors. This historic area has a lot to offer, from art galleries to nightlife. You can walk around or take a tour on golf carts with JoyRidesAZ to see the city's history.

Walking down Fifth Avenue shopping is a big highlight. This street is full of shops, galleries, and places to eat. It's perfect for a day of fun and shopping.

Old Town Scottsdale has something for everyone. You can enjoy the historic buildings, the lively entertainment, or just take in the atmosphere. It's a top spot for anyone visiting the city.

"Old Town Scottsdale is a delightful blend of the past and present, where history meets modern-day vibrancy. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the art galleries, indulge in the shopping, and immerse yourself in the lively nightlife – all within a charming, walkable setting."

Visit Taliesin West

Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright fell in love with the Sonoran Desert's beauty. He picked Scottsdale for his winter home and architecture school, Taliesin West. Today, visitors can take daily tours of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. They get to see Wright's amazing designs and how he merged indoor and outdoor spaces.

Thanks to new ADA-compliant upgrades, Taliesin West is easier to visit than ever. Guests can dive deep into the property's history and its architectural importance. The School of Architecture at Taliesin and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation are also here.

"Taliesin West is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Frank Lloyd Wright's designs."

With Camelback Mountain nearby, Taliesin West lets you see the genius of a famous architect. It's perfect for architecture fans or anyone wanting a unique cultural experience. A trip here is a must in Scottsdale.

Discover SMoCA and Knight Rise

In the heart of Scottsdale's vibrant arts scene, you'll find the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA). It's a place for cutting-edge exhibitions and immersive cultural experiences. Opened in 1999, SMoCA is part of the Scottsdale Arts organization. It brings contemporary art and programs to the city.

The Knight Rise is a highlight of SMoCA. It's a skyspace designed by James Turrell. This structure has an elliptical opening in the ceiling that shows the sky. It creates a mesmerizing mix of light and space.

When you enter, you'll feel like you're in a world of deep thought and wonder. The natural and the built blend together here.

"The experience of light and space is so rare, it becomes a very personal thing." - James Turrell

If you love contemporary art or enjoy architectural wonders, SMoCA and the Knight Rise are a must-see in Scottsdale. They will inspire you, challenge you, and take you on a journey of artistic expression and thought.

Indulge in Outdoor Adventures

Scottsdale's sunny skies and lush Sonoran Desert are perfect for outdoor fun. You can find everything from thrilling activities to peaceful nature walks. Scottsdale's outfitters offer a wide range of experiences for every adventurer.

Soar Above the Desert in a Hot Air Balloon

Begin your day with a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Sonoran landscape. Hot Air Expeditions offers guided tours for this unique view. You'll see the desert's beauty from above and spot wildlife as the sun rises.

Saddle Up for a Horseback Riding Adventure

Take horseback through Scottsdale's vast desert trails with experienced wranglers. Guided horseback riding tours let you connect with majestic animals and enjoy the scenery. These tours are great for all riders, beginners and experts alike.

Conquer the Wilderness on an Off-Road Tour

For an exciting off-road adventure, try an off-road tour into Scottsdale's rugged wilderness. You'll ride in special vehicles over rocky paths and dramatic landscapes. These tours are a fun way to see the area's natural beauty.

Paddle Down the Salt River

Leave the city behind with a river rafting trip from Arizona Outback Adventures. Float down the Salt River, near Scottsdale, and look for wild horses. This activity is a peaceful way to enjoy the desert's calm beauty.

Scottsdale has outdoor activities for every adventurer, from hot air balloons to off-road tours. Enjoy the city's beautiful nature and make lasting memories with these guided adventures.

Experience Wonderspaces Arizona

Get ready for an amazing art adventure at Wonderspaces Arizona. This place is a mix of new technology and stunning visuals. It's in Scottsdale and offers a unique experience that makes art, light, and interaction blend together.

When you enter Wonderspaces, you'll see incredible art that goes beyond the usual. You'll find light sculptures that move with you and illusions that make you question what's real. Each piece is made to spark your imagination and connect you with the art on a deeper level.

Wonderspaces is known for showing art from both famous and new artists. The exhibits change often, so there's always something new to see. You'll find a wide range of art styles and mediums. It's perfect for art lovers and those curious about art and technology.

There's more to do at Wonderspaces than just looking at art. Enjoy food from local places at the café or check out the art-themed gifts in the shop. It's a full experience that celebrates creativity and innovation.

If you want to explore art in a new way, don't miss Wonderspaces Arizona in Scottsdale. It will amaze you, inspire you, and change you with its unique art experience.

"Wonderspaces is an art experience unlike any other, blending cutting-edge technology with breathtaking visuals to create a truly unforgettable journey." - The Arizona Republic

Scottsdale, Arizona: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a vibrant desert oasis full of exciting experiences. It's perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, cultural sights, or just relaxing. This city shines with attractions that make it a top spot for travelers.

Begin your journey in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast area with over 225 miles of trails. It's ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the desert and see the unique plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert.

Next, visit Old Town Scottsdale to experience its history and arts. You can shop at Scottsdale Fashion Square, check out local art, and enjoy the nightlife. It's a lively area that captures the essence of Scottsdale.

Don't miss Taliesin West, the winter home and school of Frank Lloyd Wright. This UNESCO site is a must-see for architecture lovers. It shows how Wright combined indoor and outdoor living in his designs.

1. Check out the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) and the amazing Knight Rise installation. It's a mix of light, shadow, and architecture that's truly fascinating.
2. Try exciting outdoor activities with professional guides. Options include hot air ballooning, horseback riding, off-road tours, and river rafting.
3. Explore Wonderspaces Arizona, a place where art meets technology and creativity. It's an interactive experience you won't forget.

There's more to see in Scottsdale than just these highlights. You can visit the Western Spirit Museum, enjoy music at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), or see the desert plants at the Desert Botanical Garden.

Scottsdale offers natural beauty, culture, and fun activities. It's the perfect place for an unforgettable trip. Start planning your visit to this desert oasis and see what it has to offer.

"Scottsdale is a place where you can enjoy the great outdoors, explore world-class art and culture, and indulge in exceptional dining and shopping - all under the warm Arizona sun."

Explore Western Spirit Museum

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, the Western Spirit Museum celebrates the American West's rich culture. It covers 43,000 square feet, filled with art, history, and the pioneering spirit. This museum honors the region's past for generations.

The museum shows off Native American jewelry and stunning paintings of Western landscapes. It takes visitors on a journey through the American West, Western Canada, and Mexico. The goal is to inspire and teach, sharing the tales of brave people who shaped this area.

There's more than just a big collection at the Western Spirit Museum. It also offers programs and events for visitors. You can meet authors, local artists, historians, and experts. They share their knowledge and views on the lasting impact of the American West.

If you love history, art, or the wild beauty of the American West, this museum is for you. It's a place where you can dive into the stories of the pioneers. The Western Spirit Museum is a top spot for cultural experiences.

The Western Spirit Museum in Scottsdale is perfect for those wanting to dive into cultural experiences and Western history of the American West. Get ready to be moved and informed as you visit this amazing place.

Immerse Yourself in Global Music at MIM

At the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Arizona, you can explore music from over 200 countries and territories. This museum is the only one in the world focused on global music. It invites you on a journey through the rich cultural heritage of music.

With high-tech headphones, you'll hear the sounds of music from all over the world. You can see and hear the diversity of musical traditions. There are interactive exhibits with rare and unique instruments, like the gongs from Indonesia and the gamelans from Africa.

The Experience Gallery lets you try playing these instruments. It's a great way to learn about the artistry and skill in each musical style.

Phoenix is a big city with a lot of culture, and MIM shows its global side. It's in a place where over 15 major league teams train in the spring. The weather is mild in February, making it perfect for visiting MIM as part of a trip to Scottsdale.

If you love music or just want to experience something new, MIM is for you. It takes you on a trip around the world through music. You'll leave with a deeper love and understanding of music as a universal language.

Discover Desert Plant Life at Desert Botanical Garden

In the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, the Desert Botanical Garden takes you on a journey into desert plants. This 140-acre oasis is home to over 50,000 desert plants from all over the world. It's a place where you can dive into the amazing world of nature's tough plants.

Five themed trails guide you through the garden, each showing off a special part of desert plants. The Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert Trail shows how desert plants and local communities have lived together for centuries. The Desert Wildflower Trail is a burst of color in spring, and the Cactus and Succulent Trail highlights how these plants survive in the desert.

The garden also has a busy calendar of events and exhibits. Highlights include the Las Noches de las Luminarias evening event, where lights guide you through the garden. And there's the Music in the Garden concert series, filling the air with music. Families will love the Flashlight Nights program, exploring the garden at night.

The Desert Botanical Garden in Scottsdale is a top spot for anyone wanting to learn about desert plants. With its beautiful landscapes, educational exhibits, and cultural events, it's a place you won't want to miss. Plan your visit to this desert oasis and see the beauty and strength of desert plants for yourself.

Tee Off at Scottsdale's World-Class Golf Courses

Scottsdale, Arizona is known as the "The World's Finest Golf Destination." It has over 200 top-notch golf courses and 330 sunny days a year. This desert spot is perfect for golf lovers. You can play on beautiful fairways and greens, with stunning desert views all around.

At places like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, and Grayhawk, golfers can have the game of their dreams. These famous courses offer a great challenge and amazing food and nightlife. This makes Scottsdale a great place for golfers.

Scottsdale welcomes golfers of all skill levels and budgets. Even though some courses cost over $250, you can get big discounts in the summer. For example, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has deals for under $300 that include a room, lunch, and golf for two.

For a top golf experience, visit the We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, run by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. It has two top-ranked courses that challenge your strategy and club choices. This place is great for thinking golfers.

Whether you're a pro or just play for fun, Scottsdale has everything for golf lovers. With its amazing courses, luxury resorts, and lively vibe, it's the perfect spot to enjoy golf. Come play in this desert paradise and make memories that will stay with you forever.

Conclusion

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a place with something for everyone. It has the stunning Sonoran Desert and the historic Old Town. Plus, it offers top-notch golfing, luxury resorts, and cultural spots. It's perfect for those who love the outdoors, art, or just want to relax.

The area is full of beautiful landscapes, like the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the McDowell Mountains. These places are great for hiking and biking. And if you're into history and architecture, check out Old Town and Taliesin West.

For a more laid-back visit, Scottsdale has amazing golf courses, luxury spas, and upscale shops. The city also has a lively arts and music scene. With museums, galleries, and places to see live shows, there's always something to do. Scottsdale is ideal for outdoor lovers, art enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys the finer things in life.