Theresa Padilla
May 12, 2026
Scottsdale, Arizona is one of the Southwest’s top vacation destinations thanks to its mix of luxury resorts, desert landscapes, golf courses, hiking trails, nightlife, and family-friendly attractions. Known as “The West’s Most Western Town,” Scottsdale blends outdoor adventure with upscale dining, arts, and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, golf trip, family vacation, or extended stay, Scottsdale offers something for every type of traveler.
Why Vacation in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale is famous for:
Sunny weather nearly year-round
Luxury spas and resorts
Desert hiking and outdoor recreation
Championship golf courses
Old Town shopping, restaurants, and nightlife
Family-friendly attractions and activities
The city is also conveniently located about 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, making travel simple and accessible.
Best Areas to Stay in Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale is the heart of the city and one of the most popular areas for visitors. It features walkable streets filled with restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, nightlife, and local boutiques. Staying in Old Town gives travelers easy access to entertainment without needing to drive everywhere.
Visitors staying in Old Town can enjoy:
Local restaurants and rooftop dining
Art galleries and museums
Nightlife and cocktail bars
Shopping and Western-inspired boutiques
Easy access to Scottsdale Stadium and spring training events
Popular dining spots include Pinyon, known for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and rooftop patio dining.
North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale is ideal for travelers looking for luxury resorts, golf courses, scenic desert views, and quieter surroundings. This area is popular for couples’ trips, golf vacations, and wellness retreats.
North Scottsdale is home to:
High-end golf resorts
Desert hiking trails
Spa experiences
Scenic mountain views
Upscale shopping and dining
Golf enthusiasts often visit Grayhawk Golf Club and The Phoenician Golf Club for championship-level golf and stunning desert scenery.
Top Things to Do in Scottsdale
Explore Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale offers a mix of Southwestern charm and modern entertainment. Visitors can spend the day shopping, dining, visiting museums, or exploring the local art scene. The area is especially lively during weekends and spring training season.
Hike the Sonoran Desert
Scottsdale is surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes and hiking opportunities. One of the best places to explore is Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which offers scenic desert trails for all skill levels. The preserve features miles of hiking and biking trails with incredible views of the Sonoran Desert.
Enjoy Scottsdale’s Golf Scene
Scottsdale is considered one of the best golf destinations in the country. Travelers can choose from dozens of beautiful courses surrounded by desert mountains and luxury resorts. Popular options include:
Scottsdale’s golf season is especially popular during fall, winter, and spring when temperatures are ideal.
Visit Family-Friendly Attractions
Families visiting Scottsdale can enjoy attractions like Butterfly Wonderland, one of the largest butterfly conservatories in the country. The area also offers aquariums, parks, and interactive museums for children and adults alike.
Relax Outdoors
For travelers who enjoy walking, biking, or relaxing outdoors, Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt provides miles of green space, lakes, parks, walking paths, and golf access through the center of Scottsdale.
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale
The most popular time to visit Scottsdale is from October through April when temperatures are warm and comfortable. This season is ideal for:
Golf trips
Hiking
Outdoor dining
Spring training baseball
Poolside relaxation
Summer offers lower accommodation prices, but visitors should prepare for extreme desert heat.
Why Vacation Rentals Are Perfect for Scottsdale Vacations
Vacation rental homes are one of the best ways to experience Scottsdale because they offer:
More space for families and groups
Full kitchens for longer stays
Private pools and patios
Dedicated workspaces for remote workers
Easy access to golf courses, hiking trails, and Old Town attractions
Many visitors choose vacation rentals in Scottsdale because they allow travelers to experience the city like a local while enjoying more comfort and flexibility than traditional hotels.
Scottsdale Travel Tips
Rent a Car
While Old Town is walkable, having a car makes it easier to explore hiking trails, golf courses, and nearby attractions throughout Scottsdale and Phoenix.
Stay Hydrated
The Arizona desert climate is dry year-round. Visitors should always carry water, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors.
Make Reservations Early
Scottsdale is extremely popular during winter, spring training, and major golf events. Booking accommodations and restaurants early is recommended.
Plan Your Scottsdale Getaway
Scottsdale combines luxury, outdoor adventure, nightlife, family activities, and desert beauty into one unforgettable destination. Whether you want to spend your days hiking scenic desert trails, relaxing poolside, golfing on championship courses, or exploring Old Town, Scottsdale offers the perfect vacation experience for every traveler.