Travel Guides
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- IHG’s Complete Guide to Scottsdale Hotels & Happenings
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In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is a desert paradise offering a blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and upscale activities. Known for its luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and thriving arts scene, Scottsdale is a premier destination for travelers seeking relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation. Rest and recharge with your beau in Scottsdale or hit the town for a fun-filled bachelor or bachelorette party. If your family loves exploring the great outdoors, Scottsdale is the perfect weekend (or week-long) getaway, too.
Hotels in Scottsdale, AZ
Enjoy a relaxing stay at the upscale Holiday Inn Club Vacations Scottsdale Resort, with spacious one- to three-bedroom villas, resort-style amenities, and convenient access to top attractions in Scottsdale. Unwind in the pool or hot tub (there’s even a water slide for the kiddos!), then grab a bite to eat at the hotel’s ArteZania Kitchen & Cantina. The Mexican-Southwestern restaurant uses locally-sourced ingredients for lunch and dinner daily, except Mondays and Tuesdays.
Immerse yourself in urban luxury at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix, just 15 minutes from Scottsdale, in the heart of downtown. Tucked away at CityScape (great for shopping, dining, and more), the hotel features gorgeous city and mountain vistas in the guest rooms in addition to contemporary designs and the very best amenities (a fitness center, poolside cabanas, and free morning coffee and tea). Relax in your bed with room service or head to the third floor outdoor pool and Eden Rooftop Bar for some sun, fun, snacks, and cocktails with a view. Dine in at Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails on the lobby level and visit the Phoenix Art Museum if your schedule allows—the Kimpton provides discounted admission to the museum to hotel guests.
Feel at home during your stay at Staybridge Suites Scottsdale – Talking Stick. The extended-stay hotel offers apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens and complimentary breakfast, perfect for the business traveler. Walking distance to Salt River Fields, where the Arizona Diamondbacks play, the hotel features a fitness center, laundry room, outdoor pool, and even hosts a free social hour with drinks and snacks every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 5:30 pm.
Things to Do in Scottsdale
Experience the charm of the Southwest in Old Town Scottsdale, where you can stroll along historic streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and Southwestern eateries. Don't miss the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) for a dose of culture, and if you feel like shopping, Scottsdale Fashion Square is an upscale mall featuring designer brands, more than 200 trendy boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater.
Outdoor Adventures
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Sonoran Desert with outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve offer scenic trails for all skill levels.
Take a guided Jeep or Hummer tour and learn about the region’s delicate ecosystem, geology and cultural history during your off-road adventure. If you’re more interested in seeing the city from above the Sonoran Desert, opt for a hot air balloon ride and marvel at panoramic views of the rugged landscape and colorful sunrise or sunset.
Visit Taliesin West, the former winter home and studio of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who spent time there seasonally between 1937 and 1959 (when he passed away at the age of 91). Take a guided tour to learn about Wright's innovative design principles and explore the stunning desert campus.
Discover the beauty and diversity of desert flora at the 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix (a 20-minute car ride away). Here you’ll find thousands of plant species from around the world, themed gardens, nature trails, and seasonal exhibitions.
The Scottsdale area boasts more than 200 golf courses, including championship layouts designed by legendary architects. Tee off at prestigious courses like TPC Scottsdale or Troon North Golf Club for an unforgettable golfing experience with gorgeous desert vistas as your backdrop. If you’re a baseball fan, catch a game at Chase Field, home to the Arizona Diamondbacks since 1998.
Fishing, Kayaking, River Rafting, and More
There are eight lakes and rivers within an hour’s drive of Old Town Scottsdale, which makes it really convenient to plan activities on the water when the weather heats up (Scottsdale temps can soar over 100º Fahrenheit in the summer). Lookout for wild horses near the Salt River and other area wildlife found near bodies of water like coyotes, red-tailed hawks, javelina, and eagles.
Trip Extras
Are you an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Scottsdale and earn points toward future travels. A few fun ones include a Small-Group Deluxe Grand Canyon Day Trip that includes Sedona, a Red Mountain Paddle on the Lower Salt River, and a Fat Tire E-Bike Tour and Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure.
Where to Eat & Drink
Enjoy seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients in a cozy setting at FnB Restaurant, where James Beard award-winning Chef Charleen Badman showcases creative dishes inspired by the flavors of Arizona, like cauliflower adobo, heirloom red beans, and a chicory salad. Treat yourself to upscale Latin cuisine at The Mission, featuring dishes influenced by the culinary traditions of Mexico and South America. The Old Town restaurant feels rustic and sophisticated, and the menu includes everything from tostadas and street corn to a bone-in ribeye for two. Go for some modern American fare and craft cocktails at Citizen Public House, a stylish gastropub in Old Town Scottsdale. Order the original chopped salad, which is pretty famous here, in addition to the Amaro Meatloaf or French Onion Burger paired with a draft or barrel-aged cocktail. Other wonderful restaurants worth visiting include ShinBay for omakase, Fat Ox for modern Italian food, and Chula Seafood for poke bowls.
Travel Tips & Seasonality
Scottsdale enjoys a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Plan your visit accordingly and pack sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing for protection against the sun. Be sure to carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. Peak tourist season takes place during the winter months (November to April) when the weather is most pleasant. Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during major events like the Waste Management Phoenix Open, a professional golf tournament in the area.
How to Get Around
Scottsdale is conveniently located just a short drive away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), offering domestic and international flights. You can take a shuttle to reach your destination in Scottsdale, but renting a car is probably the most convenient way to explore Scottsdale and its surrounding attractions. Rideshare services are also available for transportation within the city. Scottsdale has bike-friendly pathways and walking trails, as well, making it easy to explore the city on foot or by bicycle. Consider renting a bike from local shops or using bike-sharing services for eco-friendly transportation.
Pro Tip: Utilize the free Scottsdale Trolley system to explore key areas like Downtown Scottsdale and Old Town without worrying about parking. The trolley offers three fare-free fixed routes ( but also connects to nine regional-fare bus routes).
Take a Day Trip
Phoenix
Spend some time in Arizona’s bustling capital city, less than a half hour drive from Scottsdale, With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and diverse dining options, Phoenix is a fun and easy trip that doesn't have to take all day.
Sedona
Immerse yourself in the mystical beauty of Sedona's red rock landscapes, art galleries, and spiritual retreats, two hours by car from Scottsdale. Spend a day visiting places like Red Rock State Park, Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona Arts Center, or some of the best vortex sites in the area like Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon.
More
Discover the charm of Gilbert with its lively downtown, family-friendly activities, and array of dining options. Located just 18 miles from Scottsdale, it offers a peaceful escape with easy access to the city. Or experience the excitement of Glendale, home to professional sports, cultural events, and tons of shopping. Situated 20 miles northwest of Scottsdale, it's a dynamic destination with something for everyone.
Mesa offers some diverse attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Just over 20 minutes east of Scottsdale, it provides a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty within easy reach. And then there’s Tempe, known for its lively downtown scene, scenic Tempe Town Lake, and proximity to Arizona State University. A mere 10 miles to Scottsdale, Tempe is an easy day trip from the city.
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