Scottsdale Travel Guide | Best Things to Do, Top Resorts, Desert Hikes, and More!
Planning a trip to Arizona and not sure where to begin? This Scottsdale travel guide was made to jumpstart your planning! I'll take you through the best things to do in Scottsdale, top restaurants and coffee shops, the best months to visit, where to stay, and more!
Scottsdale is one of my favorite vacation getaways. With 299 sunny days a year, mild winters, perfectly perched cacti and colorful desert flowers, heavenly spas, and luxe hotels...what's not to love?
Scottsdale is the perfect size. It's small enough to offer a peaceful vacation vibe and not be overwhelming while still boasting many wonderful restaurants, bars, coffee shops, art galleries, and shops. I head here whenever I crave poolside time, good food, and the quiet desert vibe.
After 10+ visits, this Scottsdale travel guide features my favorite spots and is perfect to jumpstart your vacation planning. Discover the best things to do in Scottsdale, top restaurants, scenic hiking trails, when to visit, and more!
How to get to Scottsdale
A major reason Jake and I plan a Scottsdale getaway each year is because of how easy it is to get to.
Phoenix Airport (PHX) is a 20-minute drive from the heart of Scottsdale.
The airport is mid-sized and a breeze to navigate. There's a new tram that connects the airport to the car rental facilities...which is a huge (and quick) upgrade from the old bus system.
The best time to visit Scottsdale
October through April is the best time for a Scottsdale vacation.
You'll have sunny skies with ideal temperatures (60s to 80s).
Summer arrives in May with highs in the 90s. While the afternoon can be hot, mornings and evenings are pleasant with lows in the 70s. While I enjoy May weather, most visitors consider it too hot.
June through August brings guaranteed, triple-digit heat. While you can snag crazy low hotel rates, this is not a great time to visit. It's blistering in the afternoon.
The summer heat continues through September with highs around 100 degrees.
SEE MY MONTH BY MONTH GUIDE WITH EVENTS, WEATHER, AND CROWD LEVELS: THE BEST TIME TO VIST PHOENIX & SCOTTSDALE
Omni Scottsdale
Andaz Scottsdale
Best resorts in Scottsdale, AZ
Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Spa – listed as one of the world’s best new hotels in 2017 by Conde Nast Traveler. Andaz Scottsdale is set on 23 acres of pristine landscaping with views of Camelback Mountain.
The rooms are in bungalow clusters with a mid-century design. The pool has a hoppin' vibe with great music and adult floaties. Andaz is, without a doubt, one of the best resorts for a fun Scottsdale vacation.
Omni Montelucia – set at the base of Camelback Mountain with a distinct Southern Spain/Andalusian design.
There are 3 separate pools (including adult-only) and an award-winning Moroccan-themed spa. The theme of this hotel gives it a romantic feel and the views of Camelback Mountain from the pools do not disappoint.
Omni Montelucia and Andaz Scottsdale are both great for a couple's or family vacation. I would say Omni is a tad more family-friendly since there are multiple pools.
These are easily our two favorite, and in my opinion, the best luxury resorts in Scottsdale, AZ without spending over $1,000 a night.
If you want to splurge, check out the trendy, brand-new Global Ambassador Hotel. While it's technically in Phoenix, the location is great for this itinerary (14 minutes from Old Town and even closer to many restaurants/activities).
Scottsdale hotel prices have increased ridiculously over the last few years. A few alternatives that are a little easier on the budget (in order of preference) are the Hilton Canopy, Mountain Shadows, Senna House Scottsdale, and Hotel Valley Ho.
Best restaurants in Scottsdale, AZ
cafes and healthy bites
Schmooze - my top pick for pairing your morning coffee with a killer patio. This little garden oasis offers ample outdoor seating surrounded by trees and flowers.
The nitro cold brew is my go-to drink. The food here is also very good, with both breakfast and lunch options. My favorite menu item is the breakfast burrito. It's massive!
Berdena's - one of the BEST coffee shops in Scottsdale for overall quality. It's my favorite flat white in Scottsdale! The avocado toast and breakfast sandwich make for a perfect snack.
Fourtillfour - another wonderful option if you're looking for the highest quality coffee. It has a cult following with locals. They have a small patio, but it's not as scenic as Schmooze. I prefer Fourtillfour for a quick coffee.
Arcadia Farms Cafe - this boutique bistro is a must for brunch. Arcadia Farms combines a French cottage-style interior, cozy (and well-shaded) patio, and delicious food. I love the croque-monsieur crepes, wild mushroom, spinach, and leek tart, and the strawberry scones.
Kaleidoscope Juice – several locations offer healthy smoothies, green juices, coffee, smoothie bowls, toasts, bulletproof coffee, and more. There are also take-away options.
RESTAURANTS
Virtu Honest Craft – one of the best restaurants in Scottsdale! The food is always perfectly prepared, the service is outstanding, and the sticky toffee cake is one of the best desserts I've ever tasted.
If you're going to splurge on dinner, this is my top pick.
Olive and Ivy - delicious Mediterranean-inspired fare with an ideal location in the heart of downtown Scottsdale along the river canal. The place is always packed and offers a wonderful atmosphere both inside and on the patio.
The Mission – a Scottsdale classic. You’ll see an assortment of diners here: those on a date, a group of girlfriends, or a large party. The tableside guac is a must. We usually order an assortment of tacos for our mains.
Zinque - a trendy (relatively) newcomer to the Scottsdale dining scene. The menu is varied and offers everything from a hearty burger to an Alsatian flatbread (we hadn’t enjoyed that since our trip to the Alsace region in France), as well as healthy veggie bowls and salads, and plenty of shareables. This would be a great place to order a smattering of items to share.
Barrio Queen – authentic Mexican with awesome tacos and margaritas.
Diego Pops - ultra-casual and always packed. It has a fun atmosphere, great happy hour specials for both food and drinks, and excellent tacos and brussels sprouts nachos.
The Henry - the Gatsby vibe and the all-day dining options from coffee and croissants to dinner and cocktails make this a hit.
Lon's at Hermosa Inn - voted Best Patio Restaurant in Phoenix New Times, this is one of my favorite spots for an elevated brunch. Besides the absolutely vast and spacious grounds, you'll find several large outdoor fireplaces and pristine landscaping. The atmosphere is serene and absolutely beautiful.
Herb Box – regional fresh fare with a focus on locally sourced and organic ingredients and a great pick for brunch or lunch. Try the red velvet pancakes, short rib enchiladas, or the sweet potato avocado baja bowl.
North Italia - casual, family-friendly Italian fare. I prefer the Acadia location to the Kieland Commons one.
The handmade bolognese pasta and the fig and goat cheese pizza never disappoint and the all-day Sunday happy hour specials (food too) are a great deal.
Nobu - new to the Scottsdale dining scene, if you're looking for upscale sushi, this is your spot.
Théa - located in the new Global Ambassador hotel, this stunning rooftop restaurant was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the Best New Hotel Restaurants in the World. Book your reservation for sunset... the views are incredible, with a front-row look at Camelback Mountain. The dips, pressed yellowtail roll, skewers, carrots, and brussels are my favorite items.
Best cocktail bars in Scottsdale, AZ
Century Grand PHX is hands down one of my favorite cocktail bars on the planet. It’s an innovative and immersive cocktail experience. You have three themes (or bars) to choose from.
Undertow is a nautical-themed bar featuring rare rums from around the world in a pirate ship atmosphere. Port holes showing various ocean scenes, thunderstorm light shows, and tiki music complete the experience.
Hop on a Pullman-inspired train car at Platform 18. The atmosphere is incredible. You really do feel like you're on a moving train. The seats even vibrate slightly...talk about details!
The large "windows" (video screens) show various scenes as you travel through the Rocky Mountains.
Grey Hen RX is a New Orleans apothecary-themed cocktail bar. Though I prefer the atmosphere at Undertow and Platform 18, Grey Hen RX offers some of the best and most unique cocktails (in my opinion).
Old Town and the Entertainment District have many bars to choose from. Beverley on Main is my favorite option in Old Town.
Hiking trails in Scottsdale
Camelback Mountain (Cholla Trail) - one of the more popular desert mountain hikes along the iconic Camelback humps. Be prepared for this hike because it’s a steep climb with some scrambling (think climbing up large rocks using both hands and feet).
The sense of accomplishment and the views of the desert city below are worth it. Plan on at least 2 hours for a round-trip hike.
Camelback Mountain has two trails:
- Cholla is the “easier” of the two and the one I recommend.
- Echo Canyon would be a challenging option for experienced hikers.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail - offers amazing views and is shorter (around 1.5 hours) and a bit easier than Camelback.
Papago Park - perfect if you prefer a nice jog or easy walk in the midst of the Arizona desert landscape.
Best things to do in Scottsdale, AZ
Jake and I love Scottsdale because it's a great place to relax, enjoy your hotel/resort pool, check out some restaurants, and slow down. While there isn't a long list of things to do in Scottsdale from a tourist perspective, there are a couple of places/activities worth noting.
Golf - Scottsdale is a golf destination with its year-round golfing weather. TPC Scottsdale and Troon North are two popular courses.
Shopping - Fashion Square Mall and Kierland Commons are the top two areas to shop. While Fashion Square Mall has a better location, I prefer Kierland Commons with its open concept (Fashion Square feels like a regular mall).
Spa - I recommend Joya Spa at Omni Montelucia, Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, the Phoenician Spa, and the Spa at the Four Seasons.
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market - open on Saturday mornings (closed in summer due to the heat), this makes for a fun, quick stop with its location in the heart of Old Town.
Main Street Arts District - several art galleries line Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale. Check the schedule to see if a themed art walk is scheduled during your visit.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West - personally, I don't find this the most entertaining museum, but if you need an indoor activity to beat the heat, this is a good option.
Desert Botanical Garden - technically in Phoenix, this is a worthwhile stop just 10 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale. Try to time the end of your visit during sunset.
Musical Instrument Museum - music lovers should consider visiting this museum in north Phoenix (30 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale).
In summary
I hope this Scottsdale travel guide helped with planning your upcoming trip. With 299 sunny days a year, mild winters, luxurious resorts, pristine golf courses, top-notch restaurants/bars/coffee shops, a diverse art scene, and desert landscape, Scottsdale makes for a wonderful vacation.
**Scottsdale Hotel Recommendations**
Luxury:
- Andaz Scottsdale - my favorite
- Omni Montelucia
- The Global Ambassador - brand-new, trendy, stunning
- The Phoenician (Marriott/Bonvoy family)
- Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale
Midrange
SHARE THE LOVE AND SAVE THIS POST ON PINTEREST!
Scottsdale Travel Guide | Top Restaurants, Resorts, Hikes, and More!
Do you have recommendations for restaurant/bars in Scottsdale, AZ
Thanks !
Hi Ruben. The Mission, Virtu, North Italia, and Barrio Queen are my favorite restaurants. Undertow is an awesome bar (read about it above). Otherwise, there are a lot of bars in Old Town and the Entertainment District. Beverly on Main and Coach House are two good options in Old Town.
Great detailed information for anyone visiting Scottsdale. Maybe we can partner on something in the future.
Thank you! Would love to think something up in the future 🙂