Scottdale

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Scottdale's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Desert
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. Capture picturesque views and enjoy the native wildlife.

afternoon
:

Head to the Scottsdale Waterfront for lunch and a leisurely stroll along the Arizona Canal. Check out local shops and art installations in the area.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering views of the sunset. Enjoy a relaxing evening by sampling local craft beers.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art to absorb modern art and design. Stop by the nearby Scottsdale ArtWalk for a taste of local creativity.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a cozy café in Old Town Scottsdale, surrounded by art galleries. Explore the unique boutique shops and souvenir stands.

evening
:

Dine at a fine restaurant that showcases regional cuisine. Consider attending a local theater performance to experience Scottsdale’s arts scene.

day 3
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the Arizona Canal Trail, perfect for enjoying the morning sunshine. Stop along the way at scenic parks for a quick break.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at one of the many eateries along the trail. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden to learn about the region’s flora.

evening
:

Unwind with a sunset hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. Enjoy a celebratory toast at the landing site with stunning views.

day 4
Golfing Paradise
morning
:

Start your day with an early round of golf at one of Scottsdale's renowned Golf Clubs. Enjoy the well-manicured greens and beautiful desert scenery.

afternoon
:

Grab a post-golf lunch at the clubhouse, catching up with fellow golfers. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the resort pool.

evening
:

Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment before a sumptuous dinner. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy live music at a nearby venue.

day 5
Shop Till You Drop
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner famous for its pancakes. Then, head to Scottsdale's luxury shopping district, Scottsdale Quarter.

afternoon
:

Continue your shopping spree at Kierland Commons, an outdoor shopping venue. Enjoy a delicious lunch from one of the stylish restaurants.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy steakhouse, followed by exploring the nightlife in Old Town. Enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar to conclude your day.

day 6
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk through the beautiful Pinnacle Peak Park. Breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the morning tranquility.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch amidst nature to recharge before heading to the pool for some relaxation. Alternatively, book a guided nature tour.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro, savoring outdoor dining. Consider stargazing at a local observatory to end the day on a peaceful note.

day 7
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin with a light breakfast at a trendy cafe known for its delicious smoothies. Spend the morning taking a cooking class to learn about local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring dishes you prepared earlier. Explore the local farmers market for fresh produce and artisanal products.

evening
:

Participate in a food and wine pairing dinner to discover the flavors of the region. Finish off the evening with dessert at an acclaimed bakery.

day 8
Sunset Adventures
morning
:

Kick off the day by visiting the iconic Camelback Mountain for an invigorating hike. Take in panoramic views from the summit and snap some memorable photos.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery while sharing stories from the trail. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs in Old Town.

evening
:

Set out on a jeep tour for a thrilling ride through the desert at sunset. Experience the natural beauty as the sun dips below the horizon.

day 9
Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Start with a sunrise yoga session at one of Scottsdale’s wellness resorts. Embrace the day with meditation to align your mind and body.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a health-conscious brunch that focuses on fresh, local cuisine. Spend the afternoon at a spa enjoying massages and relaxing treatments.

evening
:

Savor a healthy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Conclude the evening with a calm stroll in one of the serene gardens nearby.

day 10
Western Experience
morning
:

Embrace the cowboy spirit with a horseback riding adventure through the desert trails. Witness the natural beauty while enjoying beautiful views.

afternoon
:

After the ride, have lunch at a ranch-style restaurant that captures the Old West vibe. Visit a local rodeo or cowboy-themed attraction for added fun.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a western-themed steakhouse, complete with live country music. Explore the local honky-tonk bars for a taste of local nightlife.

Discover Scottdale

Read more in our Scottdale 2024 Travel Guide.

Scottdale Travel Guide