Things To Do in Scottsdale
We are SO excited to have you in our town! There are so many things that made us fall in love with the Phoenix valley -- from the hiking and mountain biking to the great shopping. Check out some of our favorite Scottsdale activities for your trip!
Hike - Papago Park Butte Loop
Papago Park is located 10 minutes south of Old Town Scottsdale! It has great view of classic Buttes that are all around the valley. Papago Park Butte Loop is a 1.5 mile easy trail in the park that is a great way to see the area.
Hike - Camelback (Cholla Trailhead)
One of the most classic Scottsdale hikes! It gives you incredible views of the Phoenix valley for 360 degrees. It is not an easy hike, but has some stopping points on the way top. You can hike from Cholla side or the Echo side (Echo is much harder).
From the Cholla Trailhead, it is a 2.9 mile in-and-out hike rated as hard on AllTrails. Make sure you are hydrated if you decide to undertake it! We are planning on hiking it Wednesday morning is anyone would like to join :)
Shopping - Fashion Square
Shopping - 5th Avenue Shops in Old Town
5th Avenue in Old Town is one of Scottsdale’s cutest spots for a relaxed afternoon of wandering, shopping, and snacking. The area is lined with local boutiques, artisan jewelry shops, Southwestern décor stores, and little galleries tucked between fountains and palm trees. It’s the perfect place to stroll with an iced coffee, pick up a unique souvenir, or simply enjoy the artsy, laid-back vibe that makes Old Town so fun to explore.
Spa Day in Scottsdale!
If you’re up for a little serious pampering while you’re in town, Scottsdale is full of amazing spa-day spots where you can indulge in desert-inspired luxury. From day spas to resort-based wellness sanctuaries, there are treatments for every vibe — think deep massages, hydrating facials, mineral baths, and even yoga with a view. Many resorts offer beautiful poolside lounges, steam rooms, and serene outdoor patios perfect for unwinding. If you are interested in a full spa day experience, consider Omni Montelucia, The Scottsdale Princess, The Phoenecian (a splurge but my favorite!), or Andaz Scottsdale. If you want a short visit for a pool day, consider Resort Pass for a more affordable option
Spring Training in Scottsdale!
Spring Training in Scottsdale is one of the most popular activities in the area! There are 15 MLB teams that do Spring Training in the area, with the Diamondbacks, the Giants, and the Rockies being in Scottsdale. Games start on February 20th, and the D-Backs and Rockies play on Saturday, February 21st if you're looking for a fun outdoor activity on Saturday!
Desert Botanical Garden
Located just a short drive from Old Town, the Desert Botanical Garden is one of the best places to see the unique plants and landscapes that make the Sonoran Desert so special. You can wander through scenic trails, see giant saguaros up close, and enjoy peaceful garden paths perfect for photos. It’s gorgeous at sunset and a super relaxed way to spend a couple of hours.
Scottsdale Wine Trail
Scottsdale has a surprisingly fun wine-tasting scene, with several tasting rooms all within walking distance in Old Town. Whether you are a wine lover or just looking for a laid-back afternoon activity, the Wine Trail is a great way to sip locally made Arizona wines and enjoy a little mini-winery-crawl without needing a car.
Golf at One of Scottsdale’s Many Courses
Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise, and there’s a course for every type of player — from scenic beginner-friendly spots to championship-level greens. Even guests who aren’t hardcore golfers will appreciate the mountain backdrops and sunny weather. It’s a relaxing, classic Scottsdale way to spend a day. There are club rental places in thea rea too in case you don't want to bring your clubs out!
Day Trip to Sedona
If you have extra time, a day trip to Sedona is totally worth it. Just under two hours away, it’s full of red-rock views, scenic trails, vortex spots, cute shops, and great lunch patios. It makes for a beautiful mini-adventure and a fun way to see more of Arizona’s outdoorsy side.