12 Top Tourist Attractions in Scottsdale, AZ & Things To Do
Scottsdale Arizona, known for its sun-drenched climate, golf, and luxurious resorts, offers many activities and is considered a good tourist attraction. Moreover Scottsdale's many natural retreats and artistic scenes invite protracted stays. In winter, visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's former home. It is now an architectural academy, revealing his legacy.
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November 6, 2023
Scottsdale, Arizona Most Well Konw Attractions and Things To Do in 2025/2026
Scottsdale, Arizona, known for its sun-drenched climate, golf, and luxurious resorts, offers many activities and is considered a good tourist attraction. Moreover, Scottsdale’s many natural retreats and artistic scenes invite protracted stays. In winter, visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s former home. It is now an architectural academy, revealing his legacy.
While strolling through Old Town Scottsdale, you’ll see many art installations. Visit the city’s museums and galleries to see stunning Western art. Remember the outdoors’ joys. Spend some time hiking the McDowell Sonoran Desert Preserve and adjacent forests. Visit the Botanical Gardens to learn about arid-region flora and wildlife. Travel across Scottsdale and explore the best attractions with our list.
1. Taliesin West Scottsdale, Arizona
Taliesin West, Scottsdale, Arizona, once the winter abode of the illustrious architect Frank Lloyd Wright, stands today as the epicenter of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling campus offers a captivating glimpse into the genius of this renowned architectural luminary. The towers have undergone a continuous metamorphosis and have been meticulously restored to their original splendor.
In Taliesin West as a tourist attraction, Participation in guided tours is mandatory for those desiring to explore the property. These guides exude an unwavering passion as they unravel the narrative of this site, enriching your experience with intriguing insights while maintaining a delicate balance, sparing you from an inundation of minutiae. Through these tours, you can unravel the architect’s conceptual innovations underpinning these structures, granting you a deeper comprehension of the sights that unfold before you.
2. Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale’s lively atmosphere in Scottsdale, Arizona, makes it ideal for a relaxing afternoon or evening. Sheltered walkways decorate rustic, Western-themed buildings along the promenade. Shops in these lovely buildings sell everything from Mexican fabrics, clothing, and curiosities to Native American art, handcrafts, and superb jewelry. Additionally, the district has top art galleries displaying world-renowned artists’ works.
If your promenade makes you hungry, Old Town Scottsdale is a tourist attraction with many fine restaurants and outdoor patios. East Main Street and North Scottsdale Road are Old Town Scottsdale’s hub. Nearby, the Civic Center Mall and a public area with art pieces like the LOVE sculpture surround a cluster of restaurants and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Thursday nights in Old Town reveal the colorful Scottsdale Artwalk when galleries welcome the public. The Experience Scottsdale events calendar lists many additional events in this district.
3. Golf Courses In Scottsdale, Arizona
When thinking about golf, Scottsdale, Arizona, comes to mind. Many ardent golfers visit Scottsdale, especially in winter, just for its world-class golfing. The city has many beautiful courses for all skill levels and budgets.
Troon North Golf Club and TPC Scottsdale are golfing icons. Troon North has two masterpiece golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf. The desert landscape beautifully frames these courses with its granite boulders, ravines, and hills. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North guests enjoy free shuttles and exclusive golf club prices.
TPC Scottsdale, the city’s only PGA Tour course, allows amateur golfers to play on legendary grounds. The Stadium, designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, and The Champions, designed by Randy Heckenkemper, are two superb courses at this prominent facility.
4. Desert Botanical Garden In Scottsdale, Arizona
The Desert Botanical Garden Scottsdale, Arizona, a short drive from Old Town Scottsdale, showcases desert life. The gardens blend creative sensibilities and strategically put unique art pieces throughout the vast expanse. Expect butterflies dancing on the breeze, hummingbirds fluttering, woodpeckers landing on saguaros, and other birds flying about the lush flora.
The Sonoran, Chihuahuan, Mojave, and Great Basin deserts of the southwest United States are represented in the gardens. Each zone has a complex thematic structure with informational placards to explain key points and guide your investigation.
5. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum in Scottsdale, Arizona of the West, honors the 19 western states, their adjoining Canadian counterparts, and a few Mexican states‘ historical and cultural contributions. This modern, elegant building is in downtown Scottsdale, near Old Town, a perfect tourist attraction destination.
The American West’s rich history is told through historical items, artistic masterpieces, cultural objects, and thematic exhibitions. The museum’s Hopi ceramics and antique cowboy film posters are particularly impressive. The quirky outdoor central courtyard, with its diverse sculptures, is not to be missed.
6. Pinnacle Peak Park In Scottsdale, Arizona
Pinnacle Peak Scottsdale, Arizona, a cone-shaped rock formation with large rocks, is a popular Scottsdale hiking spot. The moderate 1.75-mile single-direction track climbs 1,300 feet to Pinnacle Peak as a tourist attraction. You may see stunning views of Scottsdale’s northern expanse and the Troon North Golf Club’s emerald fairways from here. Which also is a must-visit tourist attraction. If you don’t want to finish the trek, the spectacular vistas start at about one-third of the way up so you can retrace your ways. The route begins with a well-staffed visitor center with exhibits, picnic spots, covered ramadas, and restrooms.
Along the park’s winding trail, placards explain the Sonoran Desert’s unique vegetation and animals. The 90-vehicle parking area fills quickly each morning, but street parking is plentiful.
7. McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Scottsdale prides proud on its natural beauty, especially the McDowell Sonoran Scottsdale Arizona Preserve. Having recently expanded to 36,000 acres, this preserve covers one-third of the city’s acreage. It is the largest urban park in North America and is known for its 225 miles of easy-to-use paths for hiking, biking, and equestrian riding.
The hike to Tom’s Thumb offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Lost Dog Wash Trailhead offers many trailheads with southern views for easier access. The well-marked trails have restrooms, maps, and friendly volunteers at numerous trailheads. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a tourist attraction in northern Scottsdale that welcomes visitors from dawn to sunset to enjoy its natural beauty.
8. Scottsdale Civic Center
Nestled in the heart of downtown and seamlessly connected to Old Town Scottsdale lies the Scottsdale Civic Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. A splendid open-air expanse unfolds, graced by tranquil water features, amiable ducks, inviting sitting nooks, and resplendent rose gardens. In 2023, this beloved public haven is poised for a rejuvenating transformation to enhance the visitor experience. Consequently, specific sections may temporarily be inaccessible to the public due to ongoing construction endeavors.
Within this scenic precinct, the iconic LOVE sculpture, crafted by the late artist Robert Indiana, reigns supreme, accompanied by a collection of captivating public art installations. This cultural enclave also houses pivotal institutions, namely the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
Throughout the seasons, the Scottsdale Mall Amphitheater in Scottsdale, Arizona, a serene grassy enclave just to the north of the central square, serves as the backdrop for an array of captivating performances and events.
9. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park promises a delightful family excursion, mainly catering to those with young children. The foremost highlight is the open-air mini train, which embarks on scheduled journeys around the park, captivating visitors with its whimsical charm. However, the park offers an array of additional attractions for your enjoyment. A prominent feature is the vibrant 1950s carousel, a masterpiece crafted by Allan Herschell, serenading its riders with melodies from that era. Near, an expansive 10,000-square-foot model railway edifice unveils an assortment of miniature railways, each of varying gauges. This complimentary attraction allows you to set the trains in motion by simply pushing buttons.
The Railroad Museum is another captivating feature within the park, replete with exhibits and a vintage steam engine, as well as accessible rail cars, inviting you to step back in time.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has numerous play areas, open meadows, picnic tables, and majestic trees that bestow ample shade. While park admission is complimentary, a modest fee is levied for train rides, carousel spins, and access to the Railway Museum.
10. OdySea Aquarium
Visiting a massive aquarium in the desert may seem odd, but the OdySea Aquarium is a magical place. This stunning attraction shows off aquatic wonders, justifying its admission charge. Explore 70 immersive displays with over 6,000 marine residents in the 200,000-square-foot building. The aquarium’s central theme is raindrops falling from the sky to the ocean.
Interactive exhibits abound, but one of the five simulated submarines is the centerpiece. Experience an unmatched aquatic adventure on this 20-minute subaquatic journey through four of the most prominent attractions. Helmet diving costs extra for a more intimate experience. In a diving suit, you enter a pool full of marine life for an unforgettable experience.
11. Butterfly Wonderland
For a delightful family outing, make your way to Butterfly Wonderland in the northern reaches of Scottsdale. This enchanting destination ranks among the top choices for a visit on crisp winter days or as a retreat from the scorching summer sun.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant array of butterflies gracefully fluttering through the air. Additionally, the venue offers captivating exhibitions dedicated to the diligent endeavors of honey bees, the realm of edible insects, the enchanting world of rainforest reptiles, and an exploration of arthropods. To further enliven your experience, a 3D theater screens an engaging film centered on insects, creating an illusion that these tiny creatures are ready to leap off the screen. Butterfly Wonderland is conveniently nestled within the Arizona Boardwalk entertainment complex, offering an all-encompassing, family-friendly escapade.
12. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
A mere saunter away from Old Town, nestled within the Civic Center Mall district, lies the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, affectionately known by the acronym SMoCA. This cultural haven caters to the discerning tastes of art enthusiasts, offering an extensive array of four galleries replete with artistic, architectural, and design marvels.
Complementing the permanent collections, a ceaseless stream of transient exhibits, both local and from afar, constantly graces the museum’s hallowed halls. SMoCA boasts a vibrant events calendar featuring a diverse array of intriguing happenings, including one that extends a warm welcome to your canine companions.
Things To Do in Scottsdale, Arizona:
- Visit Old Town Scottsdale for shopping, dining, and nightlife
- Check out the Scottsdale Museum of the West.
- Explore the numerous art galleries and studios.
- Enjoy a meal or drink at one of the many restaurants and bars.
- Take a hike or bike ride through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
- More than 30,000 acres of protected land with over 200 miles of trails.
- Great opportunity to spot wildlife such as deer, javelina, and birds.
- Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio
- Take a guided tour of the property and learn about Wright’s architecture and design philosophy.
- Explore the gardens and walk around the complex to admire Wright’s buildings.
- Shop at Scottsdale Fashion Square
- Upscale outdoor mall with high-end retailers and restaurants.
- Great place to spend an afternoon browsing and shopping.
- Attend a spring training game at Salt River Fields
- Watch Major League Baseball teams practice and play games during the spring season.
- Enjoy the warm weather and scenic views while cheering on your favorite team.
- Explore the vibrant arts scene
- Scottsdale has a thriving arts community with numerous galleries and studios.
- Check out the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts for concerts, plays, and dance performances.
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert
- See the beautiful landscape from above and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the area.
- Typically takes place early in the morning for optimal weather conditions.
- Play golf at one of the many courses in the area
- Scottsdale is known for its world-class golf courses, including Troon North, Grayhawk, and TPC Scottsdale.
- Challenge yourself on the links and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding desert.
- Relax and rejuvenate at a luxury resort or spa
- Many upscale resorts and spas in the area offer a range of treatments and amenities.
- Perfect way to unwind and pamper yourself during your visit to Scottsdale.