There’s really no bad view in Scottsdale. It’s a place that has mastered the art of rest and relaxation, offering a unique blend of arts, culture, glam, and classic desert quirks. Just a quick drive from Phoenix, it’s like Arizona’s own Palm Springs, attracting Hollywood crowds and now becoming a top wellness destination.
Friendly locals outnumber glammed-up tourists, and bars are not afraid to get rowdy. The food scene combines the best of the Southwest with culinary concepts worthy of any major metropolis, and the endless expanse of cacti framed by craggy mountains is as photogenic as some of our country’s most stunning national parks. Spend enough time here, and you might even find yourself sporting a Stetson hat.
In Scottsdale, you can let a trip quickly turn into a jam-packed itinerary filled with fun activities or simply do nothing at all and relax. The city is home to stellar spas that should definitely be incorporated into any visit. From Asian-inspired wellness at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain to healing stones at Joya Spa, there are plenty of options to soothe the muscles.
Hiking is also a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. There are numerous fabulous hiking trails that wind around the city, offering opportunities to find inner peace in the great outdoors. Several resorts have trails accessible from the property, and you can also tackle popular hikes like Pinnacle Peak or Camelback Mountain.
Scottsdale is serious about shopping, with high-end retail at Scottsdale Fashion Square and unique boutiques and vintage shops at the 5th Avenue Shopping District. Don’t miss out on the Native Art Market in Old Town, where you can support Native businesses and artisans.
Golf enthusiasts will find plenty of courses to choose from in Scottsdale, including TPC Scottsdale for a taste of the WM Phoenix Open and Troon North for a gold standard of desert golfing. And for a custom fit session for golfers of any level, stop by the PXG Scottsdale headquarters.
While sipping cocktails or soaking up the luxuries at the spas is enjoyable, being in Scottsdale is also about getting outside. There are several solid hikes around town, but be prepared for some strenuous trails. From scenic horse trail rides at MacDonald’s Ranch to cowboy cookouts and learning to ride and understand a 700-pound horse at the Arizona Cowboy College, you can experience the true heart of Scottsdale and its western roots.
Scottsdale has a great selection of restaurants and bars, from iconic dive bars to modern Italian and creative cuisine. The Hotel Valley Ho has been serving guests since the mid-50s, offering a mid-century design with a contemporary twist. The JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa has a luxurious bend with a nostalgic feel, and Senna House Hotel is a perfect homebase for nights out.
Tiana Attride, Thrillist’s former associate travel editor and a cowboy at heart, shares her experiences and recommendations. Follow her on Instagram at @tian.a. So, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of the Wild West, Scottsdale has it all.
