The city of Scottsdale has become a beacon for travelers looking for a warm Western vacation with plenty to see and do. Enjoy art, hiking, golf and a bit of history.
Appreciate the art and architecture of Scottsdale. Frank Lloyd Wright established his winter home here, Taliesin West, in 1937 in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. The site continues to operate as a training ground for architectural students and has become a national historic monument.
Take a walking tour to view some of Scottsdale’s nearly 100 pieces of permanent public art, ranging from the artistic and functional Soleri Bridge and Goldwater Bell to abstract objects and life-like human forms. Horses of the Old West are depicted in numerous statues across the city. Look for temporary art as well, including colored light installations along the Arizona Canal. Check to see what public workshops are being offered at the Scottsdale Civic Center during your trip.
In Old Town Scottsdale visit Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West to learn about the history of the 19 states of the American West. Nearby the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art displays the dynamic world of art, architecture and design with intriguing exhibits and interactive workshops.
Appreciate the dry heat in this part of the country, offering exquisite opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Golf is very popular here. Select from more than 200 courses, including famous Troon North and Grayhawk Golf Club.
Explore the hundreds of miles of trails in and around the city. Northwestern Scottsdale has the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a permanently preserved 30,000-acre (12,000-hectare) desert habitat with over 170 miles (274 kilometers) of trails for hiking, biking or horseback riding. Arrange a tour of the area on ATV or rent a boat, Jet Ski or paddleboard to enjoy the waters of Lake Pleasant.
The Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is centrally located to Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tempe. Fly here and rent a car to study the arts, nature and history of south central Arizona.
