Top 26 Things to Do in Scottsdale: Your Ultimate Guide

Venture into Scottsdale's Papago Park, a nature lover's paradise in the middle of the city. Experience a landscape dotted with distinctive sandstone formations that enhance the beauty of the desert. Explore the Hole-in-the-Rock, an ancient geological formation. Hike, bike or fish for all you're worth. If you're interested in flora and fauna, be sure to visit the nearby Desert Botanical Garden. Also, don't forget to discover the park's secret: Governor Hunt's pyramid tomb, a tantalizingly unusual attraction.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Botanical Garden in Scottsdale. This unique destination features 50,000 desert plants on five unique trails. Explore the wildflower trail in spring, when the blooms are at their greatest, and take great photos. Nearby are Papago Park, with its breathtaking sandstone cliffs, and the Phoenix Zoo, where you can enjoy a day of adventure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant desert landscape, a unique hallmark of Scottsdale!

Get your vacation going at the Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale! A must-see for music fans, the museum exhibits over 8,000 instruments from 200 countries around the world and offers a unique experience. The Artist Gallery is a highlight that lives up to its reputation. Try the wireless GuidePort and headphones - they play the instruments' melodies as you approach them! And don't forget that the wonderful "Mayo Clinic Scottsdale" is only a 14-minute drive away and offers unique architectural splendor. Explore, enjoy, encore!

Get ready for a wild adventure at the Phoenix Zoo, a radiant oasis with more than 3,000 fascinating animals. Discover activities and exhibits suitable for all ages. Enjoy exclusive nighttime experiences with "Prowl & Play" events. And it's not just about animals, the park's beautiful flora and fauna will enchant you on your journey. Just a stone's throw away is Papago Park, which offers breathtaking desert landscapes, hiking trails and a fishing lagoon.

Immerse yourself in an exciting oceanic adventure at OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale - the largest aquarium in the Southwest! This magnificent 2-million-gallon attraction is home to more than 30,000 aquatic creatures with 370 unique species. Get up close and personal with sea turtles, sharks and playful otters. The aquarium offers interactive experiences unlike any other, with a remarkable Living Sea Carousel. Nearby attractions include the Butterfly Wonderland and the Dolphinarium, guaranteeing a full day of discovery!

Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale is the largest butterfly pavilion in North America. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of thousands of butterflies from around the world gently fluttering around you in a tropical rainforest. Don't miss watching the captivating 3D film about the life of a butterfly! Just a stone's throw away, you can explore the OdySea Aquarium - a perfect family-friendly day of adventure and learning in this desert town!

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a little paradise for railroad fans! Delightful outdoor mini-landscapes and a historic carousel await you on the 15-inch railroad track. History buffs can visit the museum with a collection of antique trains. The historic Merci Train car adds a little touch of magic to your day. Just north of the park, you can admire the impressive McCormick Ranch lake system, a striking reminder of Arizona's beautiful natural landscape.

Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Tempe Beach Park, one of the best places in Scottsdale! The park is a hub for water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Don't forget the biking and hiking trails where locals love to cool off from the Arizona sun. Grab some food from the local food trucks and enjoy the true sense of community. In the mood for some culture? The Tempe Center for the Arts is just a walk away - a must-see. Experience the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation here!

The Arizona Boardwalk in Scottsdale is an epicenter of entertainment. Its highlight is the OdySea Aquarium, America's only inland aquarium with more than 30,000 sea creatures. Dive into the Polar Play Ice Bar, an out-of-this-world experience where everything is made of ice! When you're done exploring, Butterfly Wonderland - the largest butterfly conservatory in the country - is less than a minute away. Along the way, there are also many unique restaurants that give you a real taste of Arizona!

The Heard Museum in Scottsdale is a must-see for culture and heritage enthusiasts. As a leading institution for Native American art, you'll develop a new appreciation for the deep, rich history of the region. Don't miss the Kachina doll collection on display in the Southwestern Fashion Department! The museum's serene outdoor space also offers a chance to relax among the exhibits. Conveniently, vibrant Old Town Scottsdale is just a 15-minute drive away, pulsating with stores, galleries, and fantastic food.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Scottsdale promises an evening to remember! Be transported back to the Middle Ages as knights fight and compete with swords while you dine on a four-course meal sans kitchen utensils. Get a taste of royalty and fire up your favorite knight in 11th century style. For a unique experience, arrive early for the Knights' Rally demonstration. This exciting spectacle is just minutes from the beautiful Pima Air & Space Museum, a must-see for aviation enthusiasts.

Taliesin West, the winter home and architectural institute of Frank Lloyd Wright, is a must-see in Scottsdale. The smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces offers a unique exploration of organic architecture. Look for the "Sprites," statues originally designed for Chicago's Midway Gardens that can only be seen here. Don't miss the Equational Walk, just a stone's throw away, where you can explore astronomical science. This combination of design and nature makes for an exceptional day trip.

Unravel the mystery of the region's history at the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Scottsdale! This treasure trove captivates all ages with exhibits ranging from ancient fossils to dazzling gemstones. Marvel at Dinosaur Mountain with a realistic roaring dinosaur! The flash flood simulation brings the desert to life. After your visit, check out the nearby Mesa Arts Center, known for its dynamic contemporary art exhibits and live performances. Don't miss these Scottsdale gems!

A visit to TPC Scottsdale is a golfer's paradise! Known as the site of the Phoenix Open, this course offers beautiful green landscapes and perfect fairways to complete your golfing experience. Enjoy the custom architecture and interesting terrain like the locals, and don't miss playing the famous 16th hole. Aside from the golf course, the facility is located near the Grayhawk Entertainment District, which is teeming with upscale shopping, spectacular restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. A pleasant getaway with many facets!

Experience the famous "Hole in the Rock" - a unique geological formation that promises fascinating views of the Scottsdale sunset. Easy to climb, after only 200 yards you'll find yourself in the midst of an archaeological treasure: prehistoric Hohokam Indian carvings. Nearby, explore the exotic Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases the beauty of desert flora - a perfect addition to your eventful day. This is Scottsdale like you've never seen it before!

A visit to Rio Salado Park is a must in Scottsdale! This oasis in the desert offers lush greenery and calming waters, perfect for walking, biking, or bird watching.

Bring your inner adventurer to life at Superstition Mountain - Lost Dutchman Museum in Scottsdale! A treasure trove of local lore, western art and geological wonders, the museum educates visitors about the legendary Lost Dutchman gold mine. Be fascinated by the true or mythical stories about the "Dutchman" Jacob Waltz. Stroll through the museum's historic buildings, including the Elvis Chapel, a lovingly maintained snapshot of 19th-century American frontier life. Complement your trip with a side trip to the nearby Superstition Wilderness Area, known for its spectacular hikes and rock formations.

Scottsdale Fashion Square is a luxury shopper's paradise. With the hottest boutiques and top-rated department stores, it's not just a place to shop, it's an experience. The food court offers a selection of international dishes and the art installations add extra flair. It is one of the largest shopping centers in the Southwest, a perfect place for a shopping spree. Just steps away is Old Town Scottsdale, a lively neighborhood with unique restaurants and art galleries. Don't miss it!

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert at Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale! Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and those seeking peace and quiet, this park offers well-maintained trails, breathtaking panoramas, and diverse desert flora and fauna. Let local guides tell you exciting stories about the park's history. It's not uncommon to see bobcats, coyotes, and saguaro cacti! Also just a short drive away is Troon North Golf Club, known for its breathtaking desert setting. Enjoy the Scottsdale vacation of your dreams!

A visit to the Gateway Trailhead at McDowell Sonoran Preserve is your ticket to a surreal experience of Scottsdale's unique ecosystem. Hike, bike or jog along scenic desert trails while enjoying unbeatable views of the Sonoran Desert and observing wildlife. Don't miss the Tom's Thumb Trail - a local favorite! And how about some stargazing? The nearby Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area offers stargazers a perfect view of the night sky. Pack a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking Scottsdale sunset before stargazing!

Discover tranquility at The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix in Scottsdale! This 3.5-acre garden offers an exquisite experience that brings you closer to nature with its authentic tea house, flowing streams, koi fish and beautiful Japanese flora. Don't miss the Wisteria observation deck, a popular spot with regular visitors. Just 6 miles away, you can also visit the Phoenix Art Museum, which will enrich your cultural journey. Here's your chance to experience tranquility and art in one trip!

When visiting Scottsdale, don't miss the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza. Located in the heart of the state Capitol complex, this city park is a treasure trove of magnificent monuments, rich history and lush greenery - a perfect place to relax amidst peace and tranquility. The Silent Witness statue and World War II memorial are popular with locals. Another plus is that the fascinating Roosevelt Row arts district is just minutes away - an ideal spot for your next visit!

Immerse yourself in the upscale ambiance of the Scottsdale Waterfront, a center for luxury shopping, gourmet restaurants and sophisticated art galleries. Experience breathtaking views of the Arizona Canal, which is adorned with intriguing public art installations. This hidden gem offers a vibrant nightlife that is often enhanced by live performances. Just a stone's throw away is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, adding cultural enrichment to your stay in Scottsdale. The Waterfront district promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West" is a must-see for any history or art lover. Here, the rich and vibrant culture of the American West is celebrated with impressive displays of artifacts, paintings and sculptures. Mingle with the locals at the live events or workshops. Plus, it's just a stone's throw from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, so you can get double the benefit of culture and festivities. A few blocks away, you can enjoy Southwestern cuisine at the famous The Mission Old Town.

Visit the Hall of Flame Fire Museum for an unconventional experience. The museum, which features more than 90 fully restored pieces of firefighting equipment dating from 1725 to 1969, offers not only a history lesson but also a glimpse into the culture of firefighting. Be sure to visit the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes, which honors firefighters who have died in the line of duty. Papago Park is just 5 minutes away and is perfect for a half-day outing!

If you're a nature lover, don't miss a trip to Cave Creek Regional Park. With its 2,922 acres of rugged, mountainous beauty, it offers an unparalleled desert hiking experience. Marvel at the towering saguaro and wildflowers that line many of the hiking trails. Feeling adventurous? Plan your visit during a "moonlight hike" when the park offers guided tours. Plus, the park is just minutes from Spur Cross Conservation Area - another great place for outdoor enthusiasts.