Scottsdale Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to exploring Scottsdale, Arizona. From culturally important attractions to natural wonders, hiking routes to food and drink scene, find everything you need to know in this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Scottsdale

Nestled in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, Scottsdale is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Southwest United States. Known for its warm weather, scenic views, and outdoor adventures, Scottsdale offers endless opportunities to explore and experience the beauty of the desert.

List of Places to Visit in Scottsdale

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Scottsdale:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum features rotating contemporary art exhibitions and a permanent collection of over 2,000 works.
  • Taliesin West: Designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this National Historic Landmark offers tours and showcases Wright’s distinctive architecture.
  • Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West: Learn about Western art, history, and culture at this award-winning museum.

Natural Attractions of Scottsdale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • McDowell Sonoran Preserve: This nature reserve offers over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Camelback Mountain: One of the most iconic hikes in the area, Camelback Mountain offers a challenging trek to the top and breathtaking views of Scottsdale.
  • Salt River: Take a scenic ride down the Salt River on an inner tube or kayak for a refreshing outdoor adventure.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scottsdale

Scottsdale is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Pinnacle Peak: This popular trail offers stunning views of the desert and the surrounding mountains. It’s a moderate hike, with a distance of 3.5 miles round trip.
  • Tom’s Thumb Trail: A more challenging hike, Tom’s Thumb Trail leads visitors to a dramatic rock formation at the top of the mountain. It’s a 4.2-mile hike round trip.
  • Papago Park: This park offers easy hiking and biking trails with views of unique rock formations and desert flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Scottsdale: Activities and Tours

Scottsdale offers a wide variety of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Hot air balloon ride: Take a breathtaking sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert for a unique perspective of the area.
  • Desert jeep tour: Explore the desert on a guided jeep tour and learn about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.
  • Horseback riding: Ride on horseback through the scenic McDowell Sonoran Preserve or the Tonto National Forest to experience the Old West.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scottsdale

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Scottsdale:

Day Activity
1 Visit Taliesin West, take a hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and enjoy a sunset hot air balloon ride
2 Explore the Western Spirit Museum and go on a desert jeep tour
3 Take a horseback ride through the Tonto National Forest and visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
4 Relax at one of Scottsdale’s luxurious spas and visit the Salt River for a scenic float
5 Drive to Sedona for a day trip and go on a hiking or biking adventure
6 Visit the Phoenix Zoo and enjoy a picnic at Papago Park
7 Enjoy a day of shopping and dining in Old Town Scottsdale, and take a evening stroll to catch the sunset

Food and Drink Scene of Scottsdale

Scottsdale’s food and drink scene is a melting pot of different cuisines and cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine: Try local dishes like carne asada tacos, chile rellenos, and chimichangas at restaurants like The Mission or Los Sombreros.
  • Southwestern cuisine: Enjoy dishes with a fusion of Native American, Mexican, and American influences, like green chile stew or cactus fries at Cowboy Ciao or The Salty Sow.
  • Farm-to-table cuisine: Scottsdale is known for its farm-fresh ingredients and locally sourced cuisine. Visit FnB, Cafe Forte, or Virtu Honest Craft for a taste of the local ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Prickly pear margarita: This unique margarita is made with prickly pear syrup, lime juice, tequila, and triple sec.
  • Arizona wine: The state is home to over 80 wineries, and Scottsdale offers several tasting rooms and wine bars to sample local wines.
  • Craft beer: Scottsdale has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries like Huss Brewing Company and Four Peaks Brewery.

Where to Stay in Scottsdale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Scottsdale offers a variety of options for accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some top choices:

  • The Phoenician: A luxurious resort known for its stunning views of Camelback Mountain and top-notch amenities.
  • Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows: A modern, stylish resort with bungalows and suites nestled in a desert oasis.
  • HI Phoenix Hostel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, this hostel offers shared rooms and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Scottsdale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Scottsdale, be sure to pick up some local souvenirs and products to bring home. Here are some top choices:

  • Native American art and jewelry: Scottsdale is home to several Native American tribes, and you can find unique art and jewelry at galleries like the Heard Museum or Kachina House.
  • Prickly pear products: In addition to the margarita, prickly pear is incorporated in a variety of products like jams, jellies, syrups, and even skincare products.
  • Southwestern decor: Take home a piece of the Southwest with decorative items like cowhide rugs, pottery, and woven textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Scottsdale

Scottsdale has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Native American, Mexican, and Old West traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect these cultures and customs by being mindful of their impact on local sites and attractions.

Best Time to Visit Scottsdale

The best time to visit Scottsdale is from November to April, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. May through October is the summer season, and temperatures can reach over 100 degrees, making outdoor activities less advisable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scottsdale

When visiting Scottsdale, it’s important to be respectful of the local environment and culture. Here are some things to remember:

Do:

  • Respect local cultures and customs
  • Stay on designated hiking and biking trails
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated

Don’t:

  • Remove or disturb artifacts or natural features
  • Hike or bike during extreme heat or monsoon season
  • Litter or leave trash in natural areas

Safety and Health

Scottsdale is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a high quality of healthcare. However, visitors should be aware of the potential environmental hazards of the desert, such as heat stroke, dehydration, and venomous wildlife like rattlesnakes.

Safety in Scottsdale

  • Stay on designated hiking and biking trails, and avoid hiking alone.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection for the desert environment.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

Health in Scottsdale

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in the desert heat.
  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from sunburn.
  • Be aware of venomous wildlife like rattlesnakes and be cautious when exploring natural areas.

Getting to Scottsdale: Transportation Options and Logistics

Scottsdale is easily accessible by several transportation options. Here are some of the most common:

Airports Near Scottsdale

  • Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: Located 10 miles from Scottsdale, this airport is the most popular and offers flights to destinations around the world.
  • Scottsdale Airport: A smaller regional airport with limited commercial flights.

Bus Stations Near Scottsdale

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown Phoenix, this bus station offers service to destinations throughout the Southwest.
  • Phoenix Bus Station: Another bus station located in downtown Phoenix, with service to a variety of destinations.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Scottsdale and the surrounding areas.
  • Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Scottsdale.

How to Get Around in Scottsdale

Getting around Scottsdale is easiest by car, but there are several alternative options like public transportation, ride-sharing services, and bike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Scottsdale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the area around Scottsdale, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Sedona: Just a two-hour drive from Scottsdale, Sedona offers stunning red rock vistas and top-notch hiking and biking trails.
  • Grand Canyon National Park: A three-hour drive from Scottsdale, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States.
  • Tucson: Less than two hours from Scottsdale, Tucson offers a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Conclusion

Scottsdale offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to luxurious resorts and unique cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a week-long itinerary or a quick day trip, Scottsdale is a must-visit destination in the Southwest United States.

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