Scottsdale Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert of Arizona, Scottsdale is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. With its warm weather, stunning landscapes, and rich history, Scottsdale is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
One of the main highlights of Scottsdale is its stunning desert scenery. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert through various hiking and biking trails, where they can immerse themselves in the beauty of the desert flora and fauna. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 30,000 acres of pristine desert landscape to explore.
For those seeking a cultural experience, Scottsdale has a thriving art scene. The city is home to numerous galleries and museums, including the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world. The city also hosts the annual Scottsdale Arts Festival, where visitors can explore and purchase artwork from local and international artists.
In addition to its art scene, Scottsdale is known for its luxurious resorts and spas. The city boasts some of the finest accommodations in the region, offering world-class amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. Travelers can indulge in relaxing spa treatments, rejuvenate in lavish pools, and enjoy gourmet dining options at the resorts' renowned restaurants.
For history buffs, a visit to Old Town Scottsdale is a must. This historic district is filled with beautifully preserved buildings from the early 20th century, housing boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll down the charming streets, browse through unique shops, and dine at local eateries that offer a taste of the Southwest's culinary delights.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Scottsdale offers a wide range of recreational activities. Golfers can tee off at one of the city's many world-class golf courses, while adventure seekers can explore the desert on ATV tours or hot air balloon rides. The nearby Camelback Mountain provides a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the city.
Scottsdale Attractions - What to See and Explore
Scottsdale offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Taliesin West, Scottsdale Stadium, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Scottsdale by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Scottsdale.
Culture
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Old Town, ScottsdaleMuseum Art gallery Art museum Monterey Arcadia 
Scottsdale Comedy Spot Comedy Club
Old Town, ScottsdaleComedy club Concerts and shows Nightlife Monterey Arcadia 
The Venue Scottsdale
Old Town, ScottsdaleConcerts and shows Bars and clubs Nightlife Monterey Arcadia 
Legacy Gallery
Old Town, ScottsdaleMuseum Art gallery Shopping Monterey Arcadia 
Gebert Contemporary On Main
Old Town, ScottsdaleMuseum Art gallery Monterey Arcadia
Shopping
Scottsdale Fashion Square
Old Town, ScottsdaleShopping Shopping centre Monterey Arcadia Legacy Gallery
Old Town, ScottsdaleMuseum Art gallery Shopping Monterey Arcadia 
Xanadu Gallery
Old Town, ScottsdaleMuseum Shopping Monterey Arcadia
Active
TPC Scottsdale
North ScottsdaleGolf Outdoor activities Sonoran 
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
ScottsdaleSport complex Baseball Sport venue 
Scottsdale Stadium
Old Town, ScottsdaleArenas and stadiums Sport venue Sport Monterey Arcadia 
CrackerJax Family Fun & Sports Park
North ScottsdaleGolf Sport complex Entertainment Airpark 
Chaparral Lake
South ScottsdalePark Baseball field Indian Bend
Other categories
MuseumNightlifeScottsdale – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Scottsdale, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Westgate Entertainment District (Glendale), Enchanted Island Amusement Park (Phoenix), Phoenix Zoo (Phoenix).
Best Time To Visit Scottsdale
Learn when is the best time to travel to Scottsdale weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Lox
Lox is a type of brined salmon typically enjoyed on a bagel with cream cheese. It is often accompanied by toppings such as tomato, sliced onion, cucumbers, and capers. The word "lox" originates from the Yiddish "laks" which itself comes from the Germanic word for...
Cornbread
Cornbread is a cherished quick bread made from cornmeal, typically leavened with baking powder. It has deep roots in Native American cuisine, where corn has been a staple for millennia. When European settlers arrived in the New World, they learned to prepare corn-based...
Cupcake
A cupcake is a delightful, single-serving cake typically baked in a small, thin paper or aluminum cup. These tasty treats have a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, with the term "cupcake" first appearing in the early 19th century.
Slider
A slider is a small, steam-grilled American sandwich, typically about 2 inches in diameter and served on a bun. The term "slider" originated from White Castle restaurants, where these miniature burgers were steamed with onions.
Cracker
Crackers are beloved for their flat, crispy texture. Primarily made from flour, they are often enhanced with a touch of salt, herbs, seeds, or cheese for added flavor. You can enjoy them straight from the package or pair them with cheese, dips, or spreads.
Cracker
Arizona