Things to Do in Scottsdale Your Personal Desert Getaway

In the heart of the Old Town Scottsdale Entertainment District, indulge yourself with dozens of local eateries, nightlife, spas, and shops. Feel yourself becoming reenergized by nature with a stroll along the Arizona Canal Trail and visit Scottsdale Fashion Square or the art museums downtown. No matter where you go, you'll always find things to do.

Experience Scottsdale Explore Phoenix
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Camelback Mountain


As a hiking destination for both tourists and locals alike, Camelback Mountain sits at an elevation of 2,704 feet, is a relatively quick hike, and offers stunning views of Phoenix Valley. There are only two hiking trails to choose from, the steeper Echo Canyon and the longer Cholla trail. Be on the lookout for wildlife as well as common flora found on the mountain, like cholla, saguaro cactus, palo verde, ocotillo, and barrel cactus. Parking is available during the park’s operating hours from sunrise to sunset, so plan accordingly.

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Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art


The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) building was designed by architect Will Bruder, known for its minimalist design and four galleries (it was previously a movie theater). The museum is dedicated to architecture, design, and showcasing contemporary art. As an educational institution, SMoCA offers arts enrichment programs for the community, school field trips, residencies and masterclasses, and more.

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Papago Park


Papago Park is home to the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Golf Course, the Phoenix Zoo, golf courses, and various museums, lakes, and parks. Hiking trails are generally easy with little to no elevation and trails are open from sunrise to 11 p.m. (do note that parking areas and roadways close at 7 p.m.). One of the most intriguing and popular hikes leads to the Hole in the Rock trail overlooking the city skyline and nearby lagoons. Both westside and eastside trails are great for trail running, mountain biking, walking, and hiking.

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Old Town Scottsdale


Old Town Scottsdale features live entertainment, dining, shops, boutiques, spas, salons, and nightclubs. Peruse art galleries and historic museums, dine at a delicious steakhouse, or pick up a fresh cup of coffee if you’re just starting your day. Old Town offers something to do for everyone, from family-friendly fun at the Farmers Market to relaxing spa services for a little “Me Time.” Treat yourself to a day of fun at Old Town and explore all four districts — the historic, shopping, entertainment, and art gallery districts — by complimentary trolley.

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Fashion Square


Scottsdale Fashion Square is the premier shopping destination . Shop at all your favorite and exclusive stores like 7 for All Mankind, All Saints, Express, and Louis Vuitton, and dine in style at a variety of restaurants, quick service cafes, and eateries. Receive complimentary incentives, special offers, and discounts when you take your shopping experience to the next level at Fashion Square. For a more luxurious and customized experience, book the Fashionable Luxury Shopping Experience that includes a red carpet, champagne toast, access to three private shopping experiences, and dining reservations.

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Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West


Adventure photographer Edward Curtis devoted his life to capturing photographs, motion pictures, and audio clips of the Native Americans at the turn of the 19th century and for almost two decades in the 1900’s. The Western Spirit Museum of the West showcases his life work and was nominated as the nation’s Best Western Museum. Allow yourself at least two hours to explore and see all the artifacts, photographs, and audio recordings on exhibition at the museum.

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Spring Training Baseball


Every day for the month of March and the duration of Spring Training, baseball fans can catch up to eight MLB games at a baseball stadium within a 30-minute drive from Scottsdale. Cheer on the Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, and many more teams at one of the multiple stadiums across town. Tickets may sell out for select game days.

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Wonderspaces Arizona


Wonderspaces is a year-round, evolving, and immersive art experience showcasing phenomenal talent from around the world. New installations are added periodically. Wonderspaces is open five days a week and tickets must be bought in advance.

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Taliesin West - Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation


Taliesin West is a National Historic Landmark and an official UNESCO World Heritage site. Established in 1937, it was carefully created, diligently built, and maintained by architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his apprentices for over two decades. Today, it is known for its low-slung buildings, natural-looking rock formations, interior accents, and desert landscape.

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Penske Racing Museum


The Penske Racing Museum showcases a tremendous collection of cars, racing memorabilia, trophies, and career highlights from over the last 50 years. With over 500 major race wins, various replicas (and actual) cars are on display for race enthusiasts to admire and see up close. Stop on by and see these beautiful and legendary automobiles.

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McDowell Sonoran Preserve


The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a protected and sustainable desert habitat featuring over 10 unique and diversified trails. Trails can be traversed by bike, walk, and horseback. Electric bikes and motorized vehicles are prohibited from the trails, unless you park your vehicle in one of the designated parking areas. Dogs are allowed on a leash and the preserve is open year-round, rain or shine, free to the public.

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