Top 10 Things to See & Do

TOP 10

THINGS TO SEE & DO

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned regular, there are some quintessential Scottsdale experiences you simply shouldn’t miss. From our breathtaking Sonoran Desert to the lively streets of Old Town – and everywhere in between – these are our picks for the top 10 things to see and do in Scottsdale.

ONE

SCOTTSDALE’S MCDOWELL SONORAN PRESERVE

This vast urban preserve in the McDowell Mountain foothills is the largest of its kind in the nation, spanning more than 30,500 acres and boasting 225+ miles of shared-use trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The Gateway (pictured), one of 11 Preserve trailheads located throughout the city, is a great place to start your explorations. Here you’ll find trails for all skill and ability levels, from the ADA-accessible Bajada Nature Trail to the thigh-burning Windgate Pass Trail.

TWO

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S TALIESIN WEST

Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright was so captivated by the Sonoran Desert’s natural beauty and sunny climate that he chose Scottsdale as the location for his winter home and architectural school, Taliesin West. Tours at this UNESCO Heritage Site offer an insider’s look into Wright’s designs and his ability to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces.

THREE

SCOTTSDALE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

SMoCA, an ingenious renovation of an old movie theater by architect Will Bruder, celebrates the modern art, architecture and design of our time through thought-provoking changing exhibitions. The museum also is home to Knight Rise (pictured), a public “skyspace” by acclaimed artist James Turrell (one of only a handful in the world!).

FOUR

OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE

Take one look at Old Town Scottsdale and it’s easy to see what makes the vibrant heart of our city so original. Nestled within nine walkable neighborhoods you’ll find a unique collection of boutiques, restaurants, galleries and nightclubs, as well as public art installations, worldclass museums and historic sites from the late 1880s. It’s this effortless blend of urban chic and Old West charm that gives our city’s downtown its one-of-a-kind flair and makes it a can’t-miss stop on any Scottsdale itinerary.

FIVE

ARTWALK

Scottsdale’s ArtWalk, the longest-running event of its kind in the nation, takes place every Thursday evening (except Thanksgiving) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is free and provides a wonderful opportunity to meander through Scottsdale’s art galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way while enjoying live music and special exhibitions. In addition to the regular weekly ArtWalk, the Gold Palette Series presents special themes throughout the year, such as Native Spirit, Western Week and holiday Scottsdazzle.

SIX

SONORAN DESERT ADVENTURES

We may be partial, but we think Scottsdale’s great outdoors is greater than most. Our sunny skies and lush Sonoran Desert create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like hot air ballooning, horseback riding, off-road tours, river rafting and more. And thanks to our professional guides and outfitters, there’s no experience required to enjoy the best outdoor activities in Scottsdale.

SEVEN

WONDERSPACES ARIZONA

Wonderspaces Arizona is a fascinating exploration of the idea that art is for everyone. The captivating, interactive displays allow you to experience art through sight, touch, sound, movement and even virtual reality. Exhibitions change frequently, so there’s always something new to explore.

EIGHT

WESTERN SPIRIT: SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST

Have you ever dreamed of being a cowboy? If so, you’ll feel right at home inside this Smithsonianaffiliated Old Town gem that celebrates the American West through changing exhibitions of fine art, rare historic artifacts and cultural treasures. Don’t miss the Abe Hays Family Spirit of the West Collection, which features a Western-town ambiance and themes like Wild West shows, saloons, working cowboys, outlaws and lawmen.

NINE

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM

Discover unique instruments and music from around the world at MIM, the world’s only global musical instrument museum. High-tech headphones and multimedia displays immerse you in global musical traditions, while the handson Experience Gallery lets aspiring musicians of all ages try their hand at instruments like guitars, gongs and gamelans.

TEN

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

The Garden’s paved thematic trails introduce you to thousands of arid-land plants from around the world, as well as changing exhibits of largescale art. Must-see events include Las Noches de las Luminarias and the Music in the Garden concert series. Don’t miss the unique gifts at the Garden Shop and check out the seasonally inspired lunch and dinner options at Gertrude’s.