Welcome to Athingstodo.com! 🌵 If you’re searching for the most exciting things to do in Scottsdale, you’ve come to the perfect place. At Athingstodo.com, we make it easy and fun to discover all the amazing things to do in Scottsdale, from breathtaking desert adventures to delicious local eats and vibrant cultural experiences.
Whether you’re planning a sunny weekend escape, a family adventure, or a romantic getaway, our guide to things to do in Scottsdale will help you make the most of every moment. Let’s explore Scottsdale together and find the best spots, hidden gems, and unforgettable activities that will make your trip truly special! ✨
Things to Do in Scottsdale This Weekend
Scottsdale is a lively city with plenty to offer every weekend. Whether you want to enjoy outdoor activities, explore local art, or savor delicious food, Scottsdale has something for everyone.
| Activity | Location | Entry Fee | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town Scottsdale Art Walk | Old Town Scottsdale | Free | Thursday evenings |
| Scottsdale Farmers Market | Scottsdale Waterfront | Free | Saturday mornings |
| Desert Botanical Garden | Papago Park | $30 (adult) | Morning / Late afternoon |
| Scottsdale Stadium Baseball Game | Scottsdale Stadium | $15 – $30 | Weekend evenings |
| Live Music at The Rusty Spur | Old Town Scottsdale | Free (food/drink) | Friday & Saturday |
On weekends, Old Town Scottsdale comes alive with its famous Art Walk every Thursday evening, where galleries open their doors for free viewings. The farmers market is perfect for fresh local produce and crafts. For nature lovers, the Desert Botanical Garden offers beautiful desert flora and peaceful walking trails. Sports fans can catch a Scottsdale Stadium baseball game, and music lovers will enjoy live country music at The Rusty Spur.
Fun Things to Do in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is packed with fun activities that suit all interests and ages. From outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences, here are some top picks.
| Activity | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Air Balloon Ride | Scenic desert views at sunrise | Various Launch Sites |
| McDowell Sonoran Preserve Hikes | Beautiful desert trails for all skill levels | North Scottsdale |
| Butterfly Wonderland | Indoor butterfly conservatory | Scottsdale Waterfront |
| Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art | Modern art exhibits and installations | Downtown Scottsdale |
| Topgolf Scottsdale | Interactive golf games and food | Scottsdale Quarter |
Free Things to Do in Scottsdale
Exploring Scottsdale on a budget? There are many free activities that let you enjoy the city’s charm without spending a dime.
| Attraction | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Old Town Scottsdale | Art galleries, shops, historic sites | Everyone |
| Scottsdale Waterfront | Scenic walking paths, fountains, public art | Couples, Families |
| Pinnacle Peak Park | Free hiking with stunning desert views | Nature lovers |
| Scottsdale Public Library | Events, workshops, and quiet reading spaces | Families, Solo visitors |
| Scottsdale ArtWalk | Weekly gallery openings and artist meet-ups | Art enthusiasts |
Best Things to Do in Scottsdale
For those wanting the top-rated experiences, Scottsdale has iconic attractions and activities that define the city’s unique character.
| Attraction | Why Visit? | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Taliesin West | Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio | $30 |
| Desert Botanical Garden | Unique desert plants and seasonal events | $30 |
| Scottsdale Fashion Square | Upscale shopping and dining | Free to enter |
| OdySea Aquarium | Marine life exhibits and interactive displays | $40+ |
| Scottsdale Stadium | Spring training baseball games | $15 – $30 |
Taliesin West offers a fascinating insight into the work of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Desert Botanical Garden showcases stunning desert flora. Scottsdale Fashion Square is a premier shopping destination. OdySea Aquarium is a family favorite with interactive exhibits, and Scottsdale Stadium hosts exciting baseball games during spring training.
Things to Do in Scottsdale with Kids
Scottsdale is very family-friendly, with plenty of activities that kids will love.
| Activity | Highlights | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Butterfly Wonderland | Walk among thousands of butterflies | $20 |
| OdySea Aquarium | Interactive marine exhibits | $40+ |
| McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park | Train rides, playgrounds, and carousel | Free entry, rides extra |
| Scottsdale Civic Center Park | Splash pads, playgrounds, and picnic areas | Free |
| Arizona Boardwalk | Shopping, dining, and entertainment complex | Free |
Things to Do in Scottsdale for Adults
Adults can enjoy Scottsdale’s vibrant nightlife, fine dining, and cultural experiences.
| Activity | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Wine Tasting Tours | Explore local vineyards and tasting rooms | Various locations |
| Scottsdale Nightclubs | Dance and enjoy live DJs | Old Town Scottsdale |
| Spa Day | Relax at luxury spas like The Spa at Camelback | Scottsdale resorts |
| Fine Dining | Award-winning restaurants with diverse menus | Downtown Scottsdale |
| Art Galleries | Contemporary and Native American art | Old Town Scottsdale |
Things to Do in Scottsdale for Couples
Scottsdale offers many romantic spots and experiences perfect for couples.
| Activity | Why It’s Romantic | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Air Balloon Ride | Stunning sunrise views over the desert | Early morning |
| Dinner in Old Town | Cozy restaurants with intimate settings | Evening |
| Desert Jeep Tour | Adventure through scenic desert landscapes | Morning or afternoon |
| Couples Spa Treatments | Relaxing massages and wellness treatments | Anytime |
| Sunset at Camelback Mountain | Breathtaking views and photo opportunities | Sunset |
Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or enjoy a romantic dinner in Old Town. Desert jeep tours add adventure to your trip. Couples can indulge in spa treatments, and watching the sunset from Camelback Mountain is unforgettable.
Top 10 Things to Do in Scottsdale
Here’s a quick list of the top 10 must-do activities and attractions in Scottsdale:
| Rank | Activity/Attraction | Why It’s a Must-Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taliesin West | Architectural masterpiece |
| 2 | Desert Botanical Garden | Unique desert flora and events |
| 3 | Old Town Scottsdale | Art, shopping, dining |
| 4 | Butterfly Wonderland | Magical butterfly conservatory |
| 5 | McDowell Sonoran Preserve | Scenic hiking and nature |
| 6 | OdySea Aquarium | Interactive marine exhibits |
| 7 | Scottsdale Fashion Square | Upscale shopping and entertainment |
| 8 | Scottsdale Stadium | Baseball games and events |
| 9 | Hot Air Balloon Ride | Stunning desert views |
| 10 | Spa Day | Relaxation and luxury |
Cool Things to Do in Scottsdale
For those wanting unique and offbeat experiences, Scottsdale has plenty of cool activities.
| Activity | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Art on the Rocks | Outdoor art installations and events | Various venues |
| Scottsdale Culinary Tours | Explore local food scene with guided tastings | Downtown Scottsdale |
| Desert Jeep Tours | Off-road adventure through desert terrain | Various locations |
| Scottsdale Wine Trail | Visit boutique wineries and tasting rooms | Scottsdale area |
| First Friday Art Walk | Monthly art walk with live music and food | Old Town Scottsdale |
Places for Families Near Me
If you’re looking for family-friendly places near Scottsdale, here are some favorites:
| Place | Highlights | Distance from Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Zoo | Animal exhibits and interactive experiences | 15 miles |
| LEGOLAND Discovery Center | Indoor LEGO play and rides | 20 miles |
| Arizona Science Center | Hands-on science exhibits | 18 miles |
| Butterfly Wonderland | Indoor butterfly conservatory | In Scottsdale |
| McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park | Train rides and playgrounds | In Scottsdale |
Things to Do Near Me
Things to Do in Scottsdale If you want to explore nearby, here are some top activities around Scottsdale:
| Activity | Location | Distance from Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Camelback Mountain Hike | Phoenix | 10 miles |
| Papago Park | Phoenix | 12 miles |
| Salt River Tubing | Near Mesa | 25 miles |
| Tempe Town Lake | Tempe | 15 miles |
| Desert Botanical Garden | Phoenix | 15 miles |
Things to Do
Here’s a quick overview of general things to do in Scottsdale:
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Explore art galleries and museums
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Enjoy hiking and outdoor sports
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Visit botanical gardens and parks
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Experience local food and wine tours
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Attend live music and cultural events
Things to Do Near Me Today
If you’re looking for immediate plans near Scottsdale today, consider:
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Visiting Old Town Scottsdale for shopping and dining
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Walking the Scottsdale Waterfront
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Hiking a nearby trail in McDowell Sonoran Preserve
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Catching a movie or live show in downtown Scottsdale
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Exploring local farmers markets or art galleries
Things to Do with Kids Near Me
Family-friendly activities near you include:
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Visiting the Butterfly Wonderland
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Exploring McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
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Spending time at Civic Center Park playgrounds
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Going to the OdySea Aquarium
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Checking out local libraries and community centers for events
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do in Scottsdale?
Some of the best free Things to Do in Scottsdale include exploring Old Town Scottsdale, hiking Pinnacle Peak Park, visiting the Scottsdale Waterfront, and enjoying the weekly ArtWalk.
When is the best time to visit Scottsdale?
The best time to visit Scottsdale is from October to April when the weather is mild and Things to Do in Scottsdale perfect for outdoor activities.
Are there family-friendly activities in Scottsdale?
Yes! Scottsdale offers many family-friendly spots like Butterfly Wonderland, OdySea Aquarium, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, and plenty of parks and playgrounds.
Thank you for exploring Scottsdale with Athingstodo.com! We hope this guide helps you discover the best experiences and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful desert city. Enjoy your adventure! 😊
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