With its spectacular luxury resorts, incredible restaurants and cool bars, beautiful desert landscapes and hiking trails, and clear, sunny skies, Scottsdale couldn’t be a better destination for a luxurious, relaxing, and fun girl’s trip or couple’s weekend!
When I tell you this blog has been a lifetime in the making — I mean it! I’ve lived in Greater Phoenix my whole life, so I’ve spent tons of time exploring Scottsdale, AZ, and all its activities, restaurants, and attractions. I’ve wanted to put together a post of my favorite things to do in Scottsdale for years, but after a recent staycation… I was finally inspired to sit down and do it!
So, after several years of research, here is my guide to the best places to eat, where to stay, and the best things to do in Scottsdale, AZ. Let’s jump right to it!
Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Best Places to Stay in Scottsdale, AZ
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort ($$$)
If you’re looking for a place to stay that is a total “splurge” in Old Town Scottsdale, consider The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort. Though I have personally never stayed here, I wanted to recommend it because it truly is one of the best places to stay in Scottsdale!
Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician feels tucked away in the desert, but it’s actually only a two-mile drive from Old Town Scottsdale so that you can experience the best of both worlds — secluded luxury and a convenient location. The Phoenician Spa is a highlight of staying here, along with the nine swimming pools and championship golf course!
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess ($$$)
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a luxury hotel by Kierland Commons that is a phenomenal place to stay in Scottsdale. I’ve stayed here once, and I visit at least once per year during the holidays for “Christmas at the Princess,” a fun, festive holiday event hosted at the resort (I’ll share more about this later).
However, regardless of the time of year, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a spectacular place to stay. This five-star hotel is home to four award-winning restaurants, several sparkling swimming pools, and a couple of spas. If you’re a golfer, this resort is also located right next to TPC Scottsdale, one of the most popular stops on the PGA Tour!
The Scott Resort & Spa ($$)
If you’re looking for a stunning boutique resort in Old Town Scottsdale that offers the perfect blend of laid-back, island vibes and elegant luxury — you will love The Scott Resort & Spa. This trendy resort is always such a fun place to visit. I love coming here for drinks in the lobby!
Some highlights at The Scott include The Canal Club, a trendy restaurant and cocktail bar that serves Cuban-inspired cuisine, a sparkling swimming pool with a sandy beach, and beautifully decorated rooms. The décor is really “on point,” so even if you’re not staying here, stop by to grab a drink at The Canal Club and snap a few photos!

The Scottsdale Resort & Spa ($$)
The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, located in McCormick Ranch, has been around since 1976. However, this beautiful resort was recently renovated to include a fantastic spa, a swimming pool, and several spectacular dining experiences, including a speakeasy, The Madam.
McCormick Ranch is my favorite spot to stay in Scottsdale — it’s a little quieter than staying in the heart of Old Town, but it’s still only 5–10 minutes away from all the action. I’ve visited the Scottdale Resort & Spa for a “daycation” at the pool with a day pass from ResortPass, and I loved the vibes at this hotel — I would totally recommend staying for your Scottsdale vacation!
Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch ($)
If you are searching for a fantastic stay in Scottsdale that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch. I’ve had a great experience staying here twice now, and I would highly recommend it.
Sonesta Suites is located in Gainey Ranch (next to McCormick Ranch, my favorite spot to stay in Scottsdale) and offers spacious, suite-style rooms, a beautiful swimming pool and hot tub, and a charming lobby, dining area, and a deck with fire pits. One of my favorite parts about staying at this hotel is the evening “cocktail hour” — from 5–6 PM, you can head down to the lobby for a complimentary drink and snack.
Best Dining Experiences & Places to Eat in Scottsdale
Canal Club
Canal Club is located in The Scott Resort & Spa, one of Scottsdale’s best places to stay. This restaurant, inspired by Cuba in the 1930s, is vibrant, colorful, and totally Instagram-worthy.
It’s a popular spot to grab drinks (I love the Helen & Maude, made with rum, coconut, lime, and mint — it’s like a pina colada meets a mojito!), but the food is great too! My husband and I came here for drinks but ended up getting the Cubano Sandwich to split, which was delicious! I also came here for a bachelorette party, and everyone loved their food and drinks.
Fat Ox
Fat Ox is a fine-dining restaurant in Scottsdale that offers a refined twist on classic Italian dishes. As an Italian food enthusiast, I have wanted to try this restaurant for years. My husband and I recently dined here for our anniversary, and let me tell you — it did not disappoint!
My husband and I split an appetizer, pasta, entrée, and dessert, and it was the perfect amount of food (although I wish I had more of the Cacio E Pepe… it was so good that I forgot to take a picture of it!). We each ordered a hand-pressed “oxtail” (cocktail). My husband loved The Spice Queen, and I enjoyed the Peach Pit. If you want to dine at Fat Ox, be sure to snag reservations!
Citizen Public House
Citizen Public House is one of the best restaurants in Old Town Scottsdale that serves refined New American dishes and barrel-aged cocktails. My husband and I went on a date here and loved it! As we were leaving, we were already talking about how we couldn’t wait to come back.
I ordered the Fair Trade Short Ribs, and the meat was tender and delicious. The drinks here are also spectacular — coming in during “Social Hour” from 4–6 PM for bar snacks and cocktails would be a great idea! I enjoyed the Manhattan, and my husband liked his barrel-aged cocktail. I don’t have a photo from Citizen Public House because I was enjoying the experience — so you’ll have to take my word for it and see what it looks like for yourself!
Postino
If there is one place I have eaten more than anywhere else in Scottsdale, it is Postino. Postino is a fun, trendy wine bar with two locations in Scottsdale (Kierland Commons and Old Town Scottsdale) that is known for its selection of wines and delicious bruschetta boards.
I highly recommend visiting Postino for lunch to grab a bruschetta board and a glass of wine! Postino can get super busy in the evenings (the wait is usually pretty long), and, as a bonus, you can snag $6 glasses of wine before 5 PM. If you’re a wine person, take my word for it and go to Postino — you won’t regret it!
Diego Pops
Diego Pops is my favorite place to grab Mexican food in Old Town Scottsdale! While it’s definitely a “trendy” spot, I feel like the food is just as good as the vibes.
Diego Pops has a fantastic happy hour from 3 PM – 6 PM daily, so I highly recommend stopping in during the afternoon for half-off appetizers and $6 margaritas! If you’re visiting with a larger group, you can order pitchers of sangria, beer, or margaritas (I’ve done this before — 100% recommend). The House Burrito is my go-to, but the tacos and bowls are great, too!
Etta
If you find yourself in North Scottsdale, by Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, I highly recommend stopping at Etta for a delicious Italian dinner. The restaurant’s atmosphere is stunning (it feels like you’re eating outside!), and the food is just as spectacular.
Etta has changed the menu since the last time I dined there, but I’m keeping my eye on the House Baked Focaccia and Spicy Rigatoni for next time. Their cocktails are also excellent — I particularly loved the branded ice cube in my drink!
El Encanto
My last restaurant recommendation for a trip to Scottsdale isn’t actually in Scottsdale, but it’s nearby and worth the drive! It’s called El Encanto, and in my opinion, it’s the best spot for authentic Mexican cuisine (a must during a visit to Scottdale!).
Though El Encanto has a few locations, I highly recommend the original one in Cave Creek. The restaurant is set around a lake and features old-world, mission-style architecture. It is stunning and romantic! Be sure to try the Pollo Fundido, my favorite dish on the menu. And I’m not usually a frozen margarita person, but I always make an exception for the frozen margaritas here. They’re strong, refreshing, and delicious!
Top Brunch Spots & Coffee Shops in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a brunch lover’s paradise. There are tons of trendy places to grab breakfast with incredible food! I have an entire blog dedicated to the best brunch spots in Scottsdale and Phoenix, so I’ll highlight a few of my favorites here (check out the blog for more inspiration!):
The Eleanor
The Eleanor is one of the newer brunch spots in Old Town Scottsdale that has gained a lot of popularity. I have been a few times now, and I’ve been super impressed with the service, food, and experience each time — the staff is super attentive, and the atmosphere gives off chic, trendy diner vibes. It would be a cute spot for a bachelorette party!
Any of the pancakes here are delicious. They come with maple butter, which is basically maple syrup and butter wrapped up into one delightful topping (my dream). My husband was a big fan of the steak and egg burrito. They also have an espresso bar and serve breakfast cocktails!
Prep & Pastry
Prep & Pastry is another great brunch spot in Old Town Scottsdale. It has a refined, upscale ambiance, and the food is delicious. The restaurant is considered New American, but in my opinion, many of the dishes feel Parisian-inspired.
The Classic French Toast is my favorite item to get here (you can’t go wrong with (macerated berries, candied almonds, and chai butter, right?). They also serve fresh-baked pastries and have a full espresso bar. Personally, I recommend ordering a mimosa. The “Strawberry Honey” and “The Cure” (with blueberry and lemon) are both spectacular!
Berdena’s
Berdena’s is my favorite local coffee shop in Old Town Scottsdale! This charming coffee shop is always packed, and after tasting their coffee, it’s easy to see why. Berdena’s makes all its syrups in-house, so they’re especially delicious, and it also serves light bites for breakfast.
Other places I love to grab a coffee in Scottsdale are Cartel Coffee and Press Coffee (both have multiple locations in Scottsdale).
Best Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ
Okay, now that you know where to stay and eat in Scottsdale, let’s talk about all the best things to do! From outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, upscale shopping, and thrilling events — Scottsdale has it all! Here are my top recommendations for things to do in Scottdale:
Hiking
Greater Phoenix is home to some of the best urban hiking in the country. There was a point in my life when I lived within walking distance of a hiking trail, so I could literally wake up, walk across the street, and hike a mountain, all before starting my workday!
That said, hiking a trail or two during your trip to Scottsdale is a must (as long as you visit from October to May — otherwise, it’s too hot to hike safely!). Here are my favorite trails in or near Scottsdale (find more trails in my post about the best hikes in Phoenix and Scottsdale).
- Tom’s Thumb — Tom’s Thumb is a challenging four-mile hike with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. This out-and-back trail offers stunning views at the top and is worth the climb!
- Pinnacle Peak — Pinnacle Peak is another four-mile hike with an elevation gain of just over 1,000 feet. In the spring, the blooming wildflowers make this trail particularly lovely!
- Gateway Loop Trail — This moderate hike in the McDowell Sonoran Desert Preserve is just over four miles and offers plenty of opportunities to snap a photo with a saguaro cactus (a bucket list item in Scottsdale, right?).
- Piestewa Peak Summit Trail — Piestewa Peak is about ten miles from Old Town Scottsdale, but if you’re looking for a challenging climb and don’t mind the drive, the spectacular views from the top are totally worth it. It’s a stunning hike!
- Camelback Mountain — Camelback Mountain is a “bucket list” hike in Phoenix and Scottdale and offers spectacular views of Greater Phoenix. However, both trails are very challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers!
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
Aside from hiking, you can embark on several other outdoor adventures to enjoy more of the stunning desert views in Scottsdale. As a local, I’ll be honest and admit I haven’t tried a lot of these, but I do know they’re popular with tourists, which is why I am recommending them here!
- Hot Air Balloon Rides —A hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert is a bucket list experience you shouldn’t miss in Scottsdale. If you’re looking for a tour, check out this Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne with Rainbow Ryders (my husband has been on a hot air balloon ride in Scottsdale with this company and had a great experience!).
- Horseback Riding — Riding horseback is another great way to experience the beautiful sunshine and gorgeous desert views while tapping into the town’s “cowboy culture.” I did this years ago in Scottsdale, and it was a ton of fun! For a trip to Scottsdale, MacDonald’s Ranch is an excellent option for high-rated horseback rides.
- Golfing — Golfers come from around the country to play at Scottsdale’s world-renowned golf courses, so I feel a little embarrassed not to have an entire section dedicated to golf. However, I’ve never golfed in my entire life (unless mini-golf or Topgolf counts?), so I am no golf expert. I do know some popular courses to check out are TPC Scottsdale (home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open), Troon North Golf Club, and Grayhawk Golf Club, so check those out if you’re interested in golfing in Scottsdale!
Speakeasies & Cocktail Lounges
In addition to the list of restaurants above, there are several great places to grab drinks in Scottsdale. If you’re looking for the nightlife scene, head to Scottsdale’s Entertainment District in Old Town Scottsdale (it’s a ton of fun!), but since speakeasies and cocktail bars are more my vibe, here are a few of my favorites to check out in Scottsdale and Phoenix!
- Century Grand — Century Grand is an immersive cocktail experience that houses three unique cocktail concepts. I recommend checking out UnderTow, a tropical experience that feels like being below deck on a pirate ship, and Platform 18, a glamorous ride on a “moving” train car from the 1920s. Don’t forget to make reservations — they’re required!
- The Goose — The Goose is a new speakeasy in Scottsdale that I recently checked out with my husband, and we loved it! Our server was so attentive and friendly, and the cocktails were top-notch. The Down Comforter was delicious (and came with a piece of chocolate to enjoy after… yum!), and my husband loved his bourbon flight!
- Poppy’s Office — If you’re in the Cave Creek area (maybe to visit El Encanto, hint!), I also recommend stopping at Poppy’s Office. This hidden speakeasy has a laid-back vibe and feels like you’re stepping into someone’s home office, with bookshelves and historic relics scattered around the room. The Silver Fox and Island Time were both great!
Weekly & Seasonal Events
Depending on when you’re visiting Scottsdale, there are some weekly and seasonal events I highly recommend checking out. In fact, some of them might be the reason you find yourself planning a trip to Scottsdale in the first place!
- Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market — Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is one of my favorite farmers markets in Phoenix… and that says something because I think I have been to all of them now! This market is open on Saturday mornings from October to May, so grab a coffee and walk around if you’ll be in Scottsdale for a weekend.
- Cactus League Spring Training — MLB spring training is one of the biggest reasons people visit Scottsdale in February and March. If you’ll be here during this time (which is also the best time to visit, in my opinion!), grab tickets to a game at Scottsdale Stadium or Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. They’re inexpensive and a lot of fun!
- Waste Management Phoenix Open — The WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is one of the most anticipated events on the PGA Tour. While I’ve yet to attend, I think quite literally everyone I know who lives in Phoenix has been (not exaggerating), so I can vouch that this event in early February is worth the trip!
- Christmas at the Princess — If you are in Scottsdale during the holiday season, I recommend attending Christmas at the Princess at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This is the best holiday attraction in Scottsdale, with colorful lights, train rides, ice skating rinks, sweet treats, and other holiday festivities! My family goes every year!
Wine Tasting
Wine tasting during a trip to Scottsdale is a must! Though most of Arizona’s vineyards are located near Sedona on the Verde Valley Wine Trail or near Tucson in Wilcox, you can visit several tasting rooms serving local Arizona wine in Old Town Scottsdale.
I’ve been to Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room and loved my tasting experience. Their vineyard is located in Wilcox. Other popular tasting rooms in Scottsdale include Carlson Creek Vineyard Tasting Room and Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room. If you like wine and are looking for a cute, trendy place to grab a glass, I recommend checking out Wine Girl in Old Town Scottsdale (this would be perfect for a girls’ weekend or bachelorette party in Scottsdale!).
Relaxing Pool and Spa Time
If you’re staying at a luxury Scottsdale resort, I recommend taking at least a day (if not more!) to enjoy the hotel’s amenities. Most resorts in Scottsdale have beautiful swimming pools, and some have world-class spas where you can unwind with massages, spa treatments, or facials.
If you’re staying at a vacation rental or are a local who still wants to experience the amenities at a Scottsdale resort, I highly recommend checking our ResortPass. ResortPass allows you to book a “daycation” with pool and spa time at several popular resorts in Scottsdale, including the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and The Scott Resort & Spa. I did this once for my birthday at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, and it was a ton of fun!
Shopping
There aren’t many places better to have a luxury shopping spree than in Scottsdale. Scottsdale is home to the largest shopping mall in the American Southwest — and that is just one of the options! Here are my top recommendations for shopping in Scottsdale:
- Scottsdale Fashion Square — Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Fashion Square is home to 200+ brand-name stores and luxury retailers. It is by far the nicest indoor shopping mall in Greater Phoenix and is honestly a shopper’s paradise!
- 5th Avenue Shops — If you’re looking for charming boutiques and local retailers, that’s what you’ll find at the 5th Avenue Shops in Old Town Scottsdale. Along this stretch, you’ll find 80+ one-of-a-kind shops selling everything from artwork to souvenirs!
- Scottsdale Quarter — Scottsdale Quarter is a nice outdoor shopping center in North Scottsdale that offers retail shops, restaurants, a splash pad, and events. My favorite retailer at Scottsdale Quarter is Restoration Hardware (I love looking at all the beautiful, expensive furniture I will probably never buy). The rooftop here is gorgeous!
- Kierland Commons — Kierland Commons is another outdoor shopping mall that is right across the street from Scottsdale Quarter. In addition to some great dining options, like Postino and North Italia, Kierland offers some excellent boutique and name-brand shopping. Madewell and Anthropologie are a few of my favorite retailers here.
Family-Friendly Activities
Scottsdale may be known as a high-end destination for a couple’s getaway or a lively location for a bachelorette party, but it’s also a phenomenal spot for a family vacation! There are tons of family-friendly activities in Greater Phoenix that will appeal to kids and adults of all ages. Here are a few of my favorite family spots in and around Scottsdale.
- Arizona Boardwalk — If you catch a rare rainy day in Scottsdale, head to the Arizona Boardwalk, which is, in fact, not a boardwalk but an entertainment venue that offers eight attractions and museums for kids. We especially love visiting OdySea Aquarium, and I’ve been wanting to check out Butterfly Wonderland!
- Medieval Times — Become royalty for a night at Medieval Times, where you can cheer on the knight from your kingdom during a thrilling jousting competition (while enjoying a hearty feast, of course!). I’ve been to Medieval Times a couple of times, and it’s always so much fun! It’s truly a spectacular attraction for all ages.
- Phoenix Zoo — Phoenix Zoo is always a fun stop during a trip to Scottsdale! This beautiful, well-maintained zoo is only four miles south of Old Town Scottsdale in Papago Park, so it is really easy to reach and is always a hit with kids of all ages!
- Desert Botanical Gardens — Desert Botanical Garden is right next to Phoenix Zoo, so make a day out of it and visit both attractions! This is one of the best botanical gardens in the country, and it’s especially great to visit if you’re interested in seeing a wide range of desert plants from around the world, including the Sonoran Desert.
- Musical Instrument Museum — There are several museums in Scottsdale you can visit, but my favorite is the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM). This museum features more than 5,000 instruments and artifacts from around the world, including instruments from famous musicians and celebrities! I visited the MIM several years ago when they had a temporary exhibit on Taylor Swift, and it was an exceptional museum!
Country Dancing
You won’t find line dancing or two-stepping on many lists of the best things to do in Scottsdale, but I think it’s a can’t-miss activity. The country bars in Scottsdale are a great place to tap into the town’s past cowboy culture while exploring another side of the nightlife scene.
My personal favorite country bar for dancing is Buffalo Chip Saloon & Steakhouse in Cave Creek. If you’re looking for the full experience — go on Friday nights to watch bull riding before dancing the night away! If you’re looking for a place in Old Town Scottsdale, head to Rusty Spur Saloon. Two other spots in Greater Phoenix not too far from Scottsdale that I have been to and would recommend are The Stillery and Foley Ranch.
Sweet Treats
Finally, it wouldn’t be a trip to Scottsdale without a sweet treat! Here are some of my favorite places to grab dessert in Scottsdale (that all happen to be ice cream shops!).
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams — Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is my favorite ice cream joint, so I was so happy when they opened one in Old Town Scottsdale in 2024! Jeni’s just opened another location at Scottsdale Quarter, so be sure to grab Jeni’s while you’re in Scottsdale! The Gooey Butter Cake is my favorite flavor.
- That’s Amore Gelato —That’s Amore Gelato in North Scottsdale is one of my favorite spots for gelato in Greater Phoenix. The gelato is delicious, creamy, and authentic. You can also get pastries and cakes, like tiramisu, if you’re looking for something different.
- The Sugar Bowl — While I would choose Jeni’s for ice cream in Old Town Scottsdale nine times out of ten, The Sugar Bowl is an iconic, historic ice cream parlor in Scottsdale that is a must-visit during your first trip to Scottsdale! It has not changed since the 1950s and features an authentic soda fountain and retro décor.
FAQs – Best Things to Do in Scottsdale
Do you need a car in Scottsdale?
Unless you’re staying in Old Town and plan only to explore this walkable neighborhood during your trip to Scottsdale, you will need a rental car. North Scottsdale is about a 20-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale, so if you want to explore the city in its entirety, as this guide suggests — you will need a car!
When is the best time to visit Scottsdale?
The best time to visit Scottsdale is anytime but the summer, usually from late October to May. The peak season for travel to Scottsdale is winter and spring (January to March) because of snowbirds, spring training, and the WM Phoenix Open, so if you’re planning to visit during this time — plan to pay a little more and book your hotel plenty of time in advance!
A word of advice — do not visit Scottsdale in the summer unless you have to. It gets really hot, and you won’t be able to enjoy all the activities on this list, like hiking, horseback riding, etc. Fall is a good time to visit for off-season prices, smaller crowds, and lower temperatures.
How many nights should you stay in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale is a great destination to explore for a long weekend, though you could easily spend a week here and find plenty to do! Many people spend a few days in Scottsdale and then drive up north to spend a few days in Sedona, which is how I would suggest spending a week in Arizona!
Soak Up the Sunshine on a Spectacular Trip to Scottsdale, Arizona
I’m so excited you’re planning to explore my home state — I hope you love it as much as I do! Scottsdale has so much to offer, whether you’re looking for a relaxing, luxury getaway at a high-end resort or an active and adventurous vacation. In my opinion, the best trip to Scottsdale includes a little bit of both!
If you have any questions about Scottsdale, please feel free to reach out! Have fun enjoying these best things to do in Scottsdale, AZ!
Save These Best Things to Do in Scottsdale for Your Upcoming Arizona Vacation
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