VISIT SCOTTSDALE

Things to Do in Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a unique part of Arizona that's known as a playground for the rich and famous, but also as a historic Old West town. It has everything from glamorous resorts to guest ranches. It's located in the heart of central Arizona and there are lots of things to do in Scottsdale if you're visiting the area.

Old Town Scottsdale – The Place to Explore

When you visit Scottsdale, your first stop should be historic Old Town. Old Town Scottsdale is full of quaint shops, nice restaurants, and brick buildings that were built a century or more ago. This area is great for a stroll, some shopping, or a couple of good meals. Downtown, you'll also find the Indian Wash Greenbelt, a park with a sports field, ramadas, fishing lakes and more that connects the city's other major parks.

Experience the Old West

Sure, Scottsdale is upscale. But you can also stand on the boardwalk and watch a real Old West gunfight. Okay, maybe not real, but it sure looks real! The Scottsdale calendar of events gives you a number of chances to see what the Old West was really like such as its Parada del Sol, which includes trick roping, pony rides, and old-fashioned games for kids.

History and Culture

The Old West may be gone, but history lives on in the museums, galleries and other cultural Scottsdale attractions. The city has a lively performing arts scene that makes it a mecca for entertainers. If you're into the history of America's railways, you'll really enjoy the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, one of the largest and most famous of its kind.

The Upper Sonoran Desert

If you want peace and quiet away from the city, you've got miles of Upper Sonoran desert spreading out in every direction. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve has plenty of outdoor activities, unique geography, cactus forests, and diverse wildlife. You can experience the scenery on horseback or from a hot air balloon hundreds of feet above the desert floor.

Scottsdale Restaurants Offer a Wealth of Flavors

There are over 600 Scottsdale restaurants that offer fare from all over the world. Acclaimed chefs serve up regional specialties as well. With so many Scottsdale restaurants to choose from, you don't have to worry about going hungry, whether you're into international fine dining or downhome cowboy grub.

World-Class Scottsdale Shopping

The Phoenix area is a mecca for shoppers and Scottsdale shopping is a big part of it. Its downtown district and many modern shopping centers offer everything from upscale high fashion goods to unique Old West artifacts. No matter what you're looking for, you'll find it here.

Scottsdale Golf Courses

There are fifty different Scottsdale golf courses, including TCP Scottsdale where the yearly Phoenix open is held. Courses like Troon North Golf Club offer great courses with some of the world's most majestic scenery in the background.

Whether you're an avid golfer, a shopaholic, or a history buff, there are so many things to do in Scottsdale, you never have to worry about getting bored!