Scottsdale
· US

Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, United States

Scottsdale: Where the Sonoran Desert Meets City Chic Scottsdale, Arizona, is more than just a desert escape – it's an experience. Here, the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert collides with a vibrant, cosmopolitan spirit…

#Desert landscape#Luxury resorts#Golfing destination#Art galleries#Spa retreats
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Scottsdale.

Top Hotels in Scottsdale

Top Flights to Scottsdale

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Scottsdale.

Tours

Desert Botanical Garden Visit

Explore the stunning displays of desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park.

Shopping

Old Town Scottsdale Shopping

Discover a diverse range of art galleries, boutiques, and souvenir shops in Old Town Scottsdale.

Outdoor

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Hiking

Enjoy a hike through the vast McDowell Sonoran Preserve, offering an array of trails for all levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Scottsdale.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Scottsdale, Arizona, is '0.2 million'.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Scottsdale
Jan
clear
19°5°
Feb
clear
21°7°
Mar
clear
24°10°
Apr
sun
29°14°
May
hot
34°18°
Jun
hot
39°23°
Jul
hot
41°28°
Aug
hot
40°27°
Sep
hot
37°23°
Oct
sun
31°16°
Nov
clear
24°9°
Dec
clear
19°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Scottsdale.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Scottsdale, Arizona:

  1. Outdoor activities: Scottsdale offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, biking, and horseback riding due to its beautiful desert landscape and sunny weather.

  2. Art and culture: Scottsdale is known for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing contemporary art, Native American art, and Western art.

  3. Shopping and dining: The city is home to upscale shopping centers, boutiques, and fine dining restaurants, offering visitors a variety of options to indulge in retail therapy and culinary delights.

  4. Spa and wellness: Scottsdale is a popular destination for wellness retreats and spa experiences, with many luxury resorts offering top-notch spa treatments and relaxation amenities.

  5. Events and festivals: Throughout the year, Scottsdale hosts various events and festivals, including art fairs, food festivals, and cultural celebrations, providing visitors with opportunities to immerse themselves in the local community.

Overall, Scottsdale offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, shopping and dining opportunities, and relaxation options, making it a versatile and appealing destination for travelers.

What to know

Traveling to Scottsdale, Arizona, has many advantages, but there are some potential cons to consider as well. Some of the cons of traveling to Scottsdale include:

  1. Hot weather: Scottsdale is located in the Sonoran Desert, so it can get extremely hot, especially during the summer months. The high temperatures can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and may limit the time you can spend outside.

  2. Limited public transportation: Scottsdale is a car-dependent city, and public transportation options are limited. This can make it challenging to get around if you don't have access to a car.

  3. High cost of living: Scottsdale is known for being an affluent area with a high cost of living. This can make accommodations, dining, and activities more expensive compared to other destinations.

  4. Tourist crowds: Scottsdale is a popular tourist destination, especially during the winter months when visitors from colder climates come to enjoy the warm weather. This can lead to crowded attractions and restaurants, making it difficult to fully enjoy the city's offerings.

  5. Lack of natural shade: The desert landscape in and around Scottsdale means that there is often a lack of natural shade. This can make outdoor activities more challenging, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Overall, while Scottsdale offers many attractions and amenities for visitors to enjoy, it's important to consider these potential cons when planning your trip to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Scottsdale, Arizona, located in the eastern part of Maricopa County, has a rich and diverse history that reflects its growth from a small farming community to a bustling urban center known for tourism, art, and culture.

Early History

  • Native American Presence: Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Hohokam people, who developed extensive irrigation systems. Their descendants, the Akimel O'odham (Pima) and the Tohono O'odham, were later joined by the Yavapai and Apache tribes.

  • 19th Century Settlement: In the late 1800s, the area was settled by U.S. Army Chaplain Winfield Scott, who purchased 640 acres for farming. Scott's influence was significant in the development of the town that would eventually bear his name.

Incorporation and Early Development

  • Incorporation: Scottsdale was officially incorporated in 1951, with a population of about 2,000 people.

  • Agricultural Roots: Initially, Scottsdale's economy was driven by agriculture, particularly citrus farming, cotton, and ranching.

Post-World War II Growth

  • Population Boom: After WWII, Scottsdale experienced rapid growth due to its warm climate and the expansion of the greater Phoenix area.

  • Tourism and Resorts: The development of luxury resorts and hotels began to draw tourists, which significantly impacted the local economy.

Cultural and Artistic Development

  • Arts and Culture: Scottsdale became known for its vibrant arts scene, with the establishment of the Scottsdale Arts District. Notable is the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

  • Taliesin West: In 1937, famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright established his winter home and architectural school, Taliesin West, in Scottsdale. This landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important cultural attraction.

Significant Events and Landmarks

  • Old Town Scottsdale: This area preserves the city's Western heritage and is a popular tourist destination with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

  • Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show: Begun in 1955, this annual event is one of the world's largest Arabian horse shows and reflects the city's equestrian traditions.

  • Thunderbird Field II: Originally a World War II airfield, it became Scottsdale Airport and is now a significant general aviation hub.

  • McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Scottsdale places a strong emphasis on preserving natural spaces, and this preserve is one of the largest urban wilderness areas in the U.S.

  • The Scottsdale Culinary Festival: One of the longest-running culinary festivals in the country, highlighting the city's diverse food scene.

Modern Scottsdale

  • Economic Development: Scottsdale has developed a robust economy with high-tech, healthcare, and service industries. The Scottsdale Airpark is one of the largest employment centers in Arizona.

  • Civic Initiatives: The city has invested in infrastructure and cultural initiatives, enhancing its reputation as a desirable place to live and visit.

Scottsdale's history is a tapestry of indigenous heritage, agricultural roots, and modern growth, making it a unique and dynamic part of Arizona.