Matt Tannenbaum

Scottsdale Travel Guide

The South West United States is one of the most beautiful areas of the country and Scottsdale, Arizona is one of the best destinations to visit. Once you arrive you will quickly understand why people call it the Beverly Hills of the Desert. It has everything you could need for a family getaway, a bachelor or bachelorette party destination, a golf trip, or an outdoor adventure.

ABOUT SCOTTSDALE

The City of Scottsdale is only 20 minutes away from Phoenix and just a short drive from Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). Filled with cacti, palm trees, and mountain backdrops, Scottsdale’s landscape is one of the gems of Arizona. Whether you’re looking for shopping, dining, or some fun in the sun, Scottsdale has you covered. With so much to do and see in the city, be sure to save time to visit some of the other amazing Arizona destinations like the Grand Canyon, Sedona, or Prescott.

WHEN TO VISIT SCOTTSDALE

Arizona is very well known for its extreme summer heat but the other 8 months of the year make for a perfect visit to the desert. The weather is perfect for enjoying those beautiful golf courses, hikes, or resort pools. Spring is arguably the best time to visit when the temperatures are perfect and the desert begins to bloom. If you are looking to score deals at some of the more luxury resorts, the prices drop as the heat rises in the Summer. Be prepared for Summer Monsoon season which brings quick rain and thunderstorms to the area.

THINGS TO DO

Old Town Scottsdale

Historic Old Town brings some of the flavor and flair from the 1800s.

Scottsdale Fashion Square is the hub for shopping and a great location for grabbing lunch or dinner

Scottsdale Waterfront (yes, there is water) is a scenic spot perfect for some great fine dining.

The Entertainment district has loud music and party atmosphere from afternoon to well past midnight.

Art District is a hub for the art galleries and live entertainment

Hot Air Balloon

A sunrise or sunset Hot Air Balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert should be on everyone’s bucket list. The peace and quiet from the sky allows you to truly enjoy some of the breathtaking views of Arizona.

Hike

McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a huge area filled with hikes and views. Latigo-Sidewinder Loop, Basalt Ridge Overlook, and Scorpion Point are some of the best places inside the park.

Camelback Mountain is one of the iconic hikes with 360 degree views of the city. Be sure to check out Echo Canyon Trail & Chola Trail.

Golf

There is no shortage of Golf Courses with some of the world’s best like the TPC Scottsdale home to the iconic Waste Management Open. This golf tournament is not your traditional golf event with its raucous crowd making for a fun event. Other great courses to try are are Papago and Boulders Club.

Spa & Wellness

Treat yourself and take care of your body at one of the many amazing spas found at the resorts in Scottsdale. The Sisley-Paris Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is one of the best. Don’t forget to check out the spas at the Phoenician or Hyatt Regency.

Pools

Whether you’re looking for a beautiful and pristine Spa Pool, a Family Fun Pool, or just a pool party, Scottsdale surely has you covered.

The Best Spa Pools in Scottsdale: Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Princess, The Phoenician Spa, Spa Avania at Hyatt Regency

The Best Hotel Pools in Scottsdale: Fairmont Princess, The Arizona Biltmore (You can buy a day pass to enjoy the waterslides!)

The Best Pool Party Pools in Scottsdale: Saguaro Scottsdale & Hotel Valley Ho surely make for an interesting and fun crowd

Bike Ride

Scottsdale is home to tons of great mountain bike trails but there are also tons of great flat road paths perfect for a bike, or even better, an electric e-bike ride around town!

Family Fun Activities to beat the heat

Butterfly Wonderland is an Indoor Rainforest and largest butterfly conservatory is a fun and informative place for the family.

Phoenix Herpetological Society is a great place to learn about all the reptiles!

OdySea Aquarium is a great place to visit and even better to beat the heat.

Road trip to Sedona

A 2 Hour trip out of the city will take you to the beautiful lands of Sedona. You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures and some of the best views and outdoor adventures. Check out everything you need to know about planning a perfect trip to Sedona.

Road trip to Grand Canyon

A 3 Hour trip north to the Grand Canyon is a must visit. One of the most beautiful National Parks has some of the most awe inspiring views. Check out everything you need to know about planing a perfect trip to Grand Canyon National Park.