From luxury desert resorts and unforgettable dining experiences to Old Town nightlife and mountain adventures, here's everything you need to know before visiting Scottsdale, Arizona.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is one of those destinations that truly has a little bit of everything. Whether you're looking for a luxurious desert escape, a weekend filled with shopping and incredible restaurants, or a girls' trip with some of the best nightlife in the Southwest, Scottsdale delivers.
What makes Scottsdale so special is the contrast. You can spend your morning hiking through the mountains, your afternoon lounging beside a beautiful resort pool, and your evening enjoying dinner with live entertainment before heading out in Old Town. It's the perfect combination of relaxation and excitement, all wrapped up in Arizona's beautiful desert landscape.
And while Scottsdale is known for its upscale resorts and lively atmosphere, there are plenty of ways to experience the city without spending a fortune.
From where to stay and what to eat to the experiences you shouldn't miss, here's my ultimate guide to Scottsdale, Arizona.
Getting to Scottsdale: What You Need to Know
If you're flying into Scottsdale, you'll want to book your flight into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
One of the things I appreciate most about flying into Phoenix is how easy the airport is to navigate. Despite being a major international airport, it's relatively straightforward to get through, making it a convenient starting point for your trip.
Depending on where you're staying, you can expect to reach central Scottsdale in approximately 15–25 minutes. If you're heading to one of the luxury resorts farther north, plan for a longer drive.
My recommendation is to rent a car. While Uber and other rideshare services are widely available, Scottsdale and the surrounding Phoenix area are fairly spread out. Having your own vehicle makes it much easier to explore different restaurants, resorts, hiking trails, and shopping destinations without constantly arranging transportation.
Trust me, you'll appreciate the flexibility.
Where to Stay in Scottsdale: 5 Hotels Worth Booking
When it comes to choosing a hotel in Scottsdale, location is everything.
Unlike some destinations where most hotels offer a similar experience, Scottsdale has two very different sides. There are the peaceful, luxurious desert resorts surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery, and then there are the trendy hotels in Old Town that put you steps away from restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Neither is necessarily better than the other. It all depends on what kind of trip you're planning.
Here are five hotels I recommend, ranging from ultimate luxury to more approachable boutique accommodations.
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North: For the Ultimate Desert Luxury Experience
If your idea of a Scottsdale vacation involves beautiful mountain views, peaceful surroundings, and impeccable service, the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North should be at the top of your list.
While technically located in Scottsdale, this property sits farther north than the city's main shopping and entertainment districts. However, I actually think that's part of what makes it so special.
Rather than feeling like you're staying in the middle of a busy city, you're completely immersed in the Arizona desert. The resort is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, making it an incredible option for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty of the Southwest.
The accommodations are designed in a casita style, giving the resort a more private and intimate feel than your typical luxury hotel. Guests can also enjoy hiking trails, guided hikes, and outdoor experiences that make the most of the property's incredible location.
And, of course, you're getting the level of service and attention to detail that Four Seasons properties are known for. The concierge can also help coordinate transportation and local experiences, making it easy to explore beyond the resort.
This is the type of property where you could spend an entire weekend without ever feeling the need to leave.
The Stay Edit Take: Book the Four Seasons if you're looking for a truly luxurious, relaxing getaway and don't mind being farther from the action. It's especially perfect for couples, anniversaries, or anyone who wants to experience Arizona's mountain scenery without sacrificing luxury.
Arizona Biltmore: For Classic Luxury With Endless Amenities
Another incredible luxury option is the Arizona Biltmore, located in Phoenix, just northwest of the main Scottsdale area.
If the Four Seasons is all about escaping into the desert, the Arizona Biltmore is about enjoying the full luxury resort experience.
This iconic property offers a beautiful combination of upscale accommodations, incredible amenities, and convenient access to the surrounding city.
One of the biggest draws is just how much there is to do on the property. With seven pools, multiple restaurants and bars, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and access to the famous Arizona Biltmore Golf Club, you could easily spend an entire day enjoying the resort.
It's especially appealing for travelers who love having plenty of options without constantly needing to leave their hotel.
Spend the morning playing golf, grab lunch by the pool, and finish your day with an elevated dinner and cocktails. It's the kind of resort that makes relaxing feel like an activity of its own.
The location is also a great middle ground. You're not directly in the heart of Scottsdale's nightlife, but you're close enough to explore the city without making an entire day out of it.
The Stay Edit Take: Choose the Arizona Biltmore if you want a classic luxury resort with plenty of amenities. This is a particularly great option for couples, golf lovers, or anyone who wants a mix of relaxation and city exploration.
The REMI Scottsdale, Autograph Collection: For Luxury in the Heart of Old Town
If you're heading to Scottsdale for the restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, The REMI Scottsdale is one of the best places to stay.
Located right in the heart of Old Town, this hotel puts you within walking distance of some of the city's most popular bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
And while the location is a huge selling point, the property itself is just as impressive.
The REMI offers a stunning rooftop experience, beautifully designed accommodations, and dining options ranging from casual diner-inspired food to Japanese steakhouse dining. It's also pet-friendly, which is always a nice bonus.
What I particularly like about this property is that it gives you an elevated hotel experience without necessarily having the same price tag as Scottsdale's most exclusive desert resorts.
You can spend your day shopping, head back to your room to get ready, and walk to dinner and drinks without ever needing to call an Uber.
There is one thing I would keep in mind, though. The REMI is located directly in Scottsdale's busy entertainment district, where restaurants and bars can stay open late into the night. If you're a light sleeper or prefer a quieter atmosphere, this is something to consider.
The Stay Edit Take: This is one of my top recommendations for a girls' trip, birthday weekend, or anyone who wants to experience Scottsdale's nightlife. You really can't beat the location.
Scottsdale Marriott Old Town: For Convenience Without the Luxury Price Tag
If you love the idea of staying in the middle of Old Town but want something a little more budget-friendly, the Scottsdale Marriott Old Town is a great option.
Similar to The REMI, this hotel puts you within walking distance of the restaurants, bars, and shops that make Scottsdale such a popular weekend destination.
The property features on-site dining, an outdoor pool, and comfortable accommodations, along with additional perks for eligible Marriott Bonvoy members.
While it may not have the same boutique atmosphere or elevated design as some of the other properties on this list, it offers something equally valuable: convenience.
If you're planning to spend most of your time exploring Scottsdale rather than lounging around your hotel, this is a great place to save a little money without sacrificing location.
Just like The REMI, however, you'll want to keep the surrounding nightlife in mind. The area can get lively, especially on weekends, so it's worth requesting a quieter room if that's important to you.
The Stay Edit Take: Stay here if you want to be close to everything and would rather spend your money on restaurants, shopping, and experiences than an expensive hotel room.
Hotel Adeline: For a Boutique Stay Near the Action
For travelers who want a mix of boutique charm, a great location, and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, Hotel Adeline is one of my favorite options.
Located just outside the busiest part of Old Town, this hotel offers easy access to Scottsdale's restaurants and nightlife without putting you directly in the middle of the late-night crowds.
The property has a stylish, boutique feel with a beautiful 3,000-square-foot zero-edge pool that serves as one of its main attractions.
There's also a hidden whiskey-focused speakeasy, which adds a fun and unexpected element to the hotel.
What I love about Hotel Adeline is that it feels like a destination of its own. It's trendy without being over the top, and the atmosphere is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Scottsdale without feeling like they're staying in the middle of a nightclub.
While you can reach parts of Old Town on foot, it's worth remembering that the hotel is a little farther from the main entertainment district than The REMI or Marriott.
The Stay Edit Take: I especially recommend Hotel Adeline for couples visiting Scottsdale. It's a great combination of boutique style, convenience, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Where to Eat in Scottsdale: Restaurants Worth the Reservation
One thing Scottsdale does exceptionally well is dining.
The city has an incredible restaurant scene, and many of its most popular spots are just as much about the atmosphere as they are about the food.
From dramatic dinner experiences with live entertainment to upscale steakhouses and casual neighborhood favorites, there's no shortage of places worth trying.
If there's one piece of advice I can give you, it's to make your dinner reservations early. Scottsdale is a popular weekend destination, and some of the best restaurants fill up quickly.
Here are five places I recommend adding to your itinerary.
Toca Madera: The One Restaurant You Can't Miss
If I could recommend only one restaurant in Scottsdale, it would be Toca Madera.
This is one of those places where dinner becomes an entire experience.
Think incredible food, dramatic interiors, music, fire dancers, and some of the best margaritas you'll ever have.
The atmosphere is energetic and upscale, making it the perfect place to dress up and enjoy a memorable night out.
Whether you're visiting for a birthday, girls' weekend, or romantic getaway, Toca Madera is the kind of restaurant that feels like an occasion.
And while the entertainment is certainly a major draw, the food is equally worth visiting for.
My tip: Make your reservation as early as possible, especially if you're planning to visit on a Friday or Saturday evening. This is one of Scottsdale's most popular dining destinations for a reason.
Élephante: Southern Italian Dining With a Lively Atmosphere
For a little taste of coastal Italy in the Arizona desert, head to Élephante.
Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this restaurant brings together Southern Italian-inspired cuisine, beautiful interiors, and a lively dining atmosphere.
It's the perfect combination of a restaurant where you can enjoy an excellent meal while still feeling like you're part of Scottsdale's social scene.
Some dishes worth looking for include the caviar toast, whipped eggplant, and burrata with stone fruit, depending on the current menu.
The atmosphere makes it an especially great choice for a group dinner before heading out for the evening.
If you love restaurants that feel upscale but still have plenty of energy, Élephante should definitely be on your list.
The Montauk: East Coast Beach Vibes in the Desert
If you're looking for something a little more casual but still want a fun atmosphere, The Montauk is a great option.
Imagine taking a lively East Coast beach restaurant and dropping it right into the middle of Scottsdale.
That's exactly the vibe here.
The Montauk offers live music, coastal-inspired decor, and a menu filled with comfort-food favorites. From deviled eggs to macaroni and cheese, there's something for just about everyone.
It's also a more approachable option price-wise compared with some of Scottsdale's high-end restaurants.
I particularly love this spot for a girls' night. It's lively enough to feel like you're going out, but relaxed enough that you can actually enjoy your meal and conversation.
Maple & Ash: For an Unforgettable Steakhouse Experience
If you're craving a great steak dinner, Maple & Ash is where I'd recommend going.
This upscale steakhouse is known for its incredible service, fire-roasted cooking, and indulgent menu.
You'll find everything from beautifully prepared steaks and seafood towers to Australian lamb chops and lobster dumplings.
The restaurant also offers tasting-style dining experiences for those looking to make the evening extra special.
It's elegant, polished, and exactly the type of place you'd want to visit for a special occasion.
Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want to splurge on one incredible dinner during your trip, Maple & Ash is worth considering.
Carlsbad Tavern: For Casual Southwestern Favorites
Not every meal in Scottsdale needs to involve getting dressed up and making reservations weeks in advance.
Sometimes you just want a good quesadilla, chips and queso, and a relaxed atmosphere.
That's where Carlsbad Tavern comes in.
This casual Southwestern-inspired restaurant is a great change of pace from Scottsdale's upscale dining scene.
It's a fun option for lunch or an easy dinner after a busy day exploring the city.
If you're looking for something laid-back, flavorful, and a little different from the typical luxury restaurant experience, add this one to your list.
Things to Do in Scottsdale: Shopping, Spas, Nightlife & More
While Scottsdale is known for its luxury hotels and restaurant scene, there's much more to experience beyond the resorts.
One of the things I love most about the area is how easily you can fill your days with completely different activities.
You can go from shopping at designer boutiques to hiking through the desert to spending an evening enjoying some of the best nightlife in Arizona.
Here are the experiences I wouldn't miss.
Spend an Afternoon Shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square
If you enjoy shopping, Scottsdale Fashion Square is a must-visit.
This isn't your typical shopping mall.
Fashion Square is home to an impressive selection of luxury retailers and designer boutiques, including many of the same brands you'd expect to find in Beverly Hills or Palm Beach.
Whether you're looking to make a big purchase or simply enjoy browsing, it's easy to spend hours exploring.
The surrounding area is also filled with restaurants, making it a great place to grab lunch or dinner after shopping.
I would plan to spend at least a few hours here, although you could easily turn it into an entire afternoon.
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day at The Phoenician
If there's one thing Scottsdale knows how to do, it's luxury spa experiences.
For an especially memorable spa day, I recommend visiting The Phoenician.
Located near Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, this beautiful resort offers an elevated spa experience and excellent golf facilities.
It's an especially great option for couples or travel partners who have different ideas of how to spend a relaxing afternoon.
One person can enjoy a massage and spa treatments while the other heads out for a round of golf.
The setting alone makes it worth visiting, with beautiful mountain scenery and stunning resort grounds.
If you can dedicate an afternoon to enjoying the property, I think it's well worth it.
Just be sure to book treatments ahead of time and confirm what facilities are available to non-hotel guests.
Experience the Famous Old Town Scottsdale Nightlife
Let's talk about one of Scottsdale's biggest attractions: the nightlife.
Old Town Scottsdale has become an incredibly popular destination for girls' trips, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, and weekend getaways.
And after spending a night out here, it's easy to understand why.
The area is packed with bars, music, and entertainment, with everything conveniently located within a relatively walkable district.
One of the fun things about going out in Scottsdale is seeing the golf-cart-style transportation moving people between different spots. If you get the chance, using one of the authorized services can be a fun way to experience the area.
Some of my favorite places to go out include Wasted Grain, Riot House, Hi Fi Kitchen & Cocktails, and Pattie's First Avenue Lounge.
Each offers a slightly different atmosphere, so it's worth visiting a few to see which one fits your style.
If you're someone who enjoys going out, I'd recommend dedicating at least one or two evenings to exploring Old Town.
And even if nightlife isn't normally your thing, it's still worth walking through the area in the evening to experience the energy.
Go Hiking and Experience Arizona's Desert Scenery
While Scottsdale's restaurants and nightlife get plenty of attention, I think one of the best things you can do during your visit is spend some time exploring the surrounding desert.
Arizona has such a unique landscape, and seeing the mountains, cacti, and native wildlife up close is an experience you shouldn't miss.
There are plenty of hiking trails around Scottsdale, including several that are suitable for beginners.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a great place to start, with trails offering beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscape.
For more experienced hikers looking for a challenge, Camelback Mountain is another popular option, although its trails are strenuous and shouldn't be mistaken for beginner-friendly hikes.
What I love about adding a hike to your itinerary is the contrast it creates.
You can spend one day surrounded by busy restaurants and shopping districts, then wake up the next morning and find yourself completely immersed in nature.
It's a great reminder of what makes Arizona such a beautiful destination.
One important tip: If you're visiting during warmer months, plan your hikes for early morning only when conditions are safe. Arizona's desert heat can become dangerous quickly, and many trails offer very little shade. Always check the forecast, carry plenty of water, and follow local heat-related trail restrictions.
Catch an Arizona Cardinals, Diamondbacks, or Suns Game
If you're a sports fan, consider planning part of your Scottsdale trip around a professional sporting event.
Depending on the season, you could catch an Arizona Cardinals football game, an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game, or a Phoenix Suns basketball game.
The Diamondbacks and Suns play in downtown Phoenix, making them relatively convenient options from Scottsdale.
The Cardinals play at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, which is farther west and requires a longer drive.
This is a great activity to add to your itinerary if you're looking for something beyond the usual shopping, restaurants, and resort experiences.
It's also an especially fun option for couples or groups traveling together.
Scottsdale Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go
Before you start booking hotels and making dinner reservations, there are a few things worth keeping in mind.
Rent a Car
I know I've already mentioned this, but I really do think renting a car makes a difference when visiting Scottsdale.
While Old Town is walkable, many of the area's best resorts, hiking trails, golf courses, and attractions are spread out.
Having a rental car allows you to explore at your own pace without relying on rideshare services every time you want to leave your hotel.
If you're staying directly in Old Town and only plan to shop, eat, and go out, you may be able to get by without one. Otherwise, I'd recommend it.
Pay Attention to the Time of Year
Scottsdale is a destination where the weather can completely change your experience.
Arizona is known for its dry heat, and while that might sound more manageable than humidity, don't underestimate just how hot the summers can get.
During the summer months, temperatures regularly climb above 100 degrees, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous.
If you're visiting during this time, plan to spend more time enjoying hotel pools, shopping, and indoor attractions. Outdoor hiking should be avoided during dangerous heat conditions.
Fall and spring are particularly beautiful times to visit, with more comfortable temperatures for exploring the city and spending time outside.
Winter is also a great option, especially if you're looking to escape colder weather elsewhere in the country.
While Scottsdale rarely experiences the kind of winter weather you'd find in northern states, mornings and evenings can still get chilly, so packing a light jacket is a good idea.
Make Dinner Reservations in Advance
If there are certain restaurants you're excited about visiting, don't wait until you arrive to make reservations.
Popular spots like Toca Madera, Élephante, and Maple & Ash can book up quickly, particularly on weekends.
I recommend making your dinner reservations as soon as you have your travel dates confirmed.
This is especially important if you're traveling with a larger group.
Choose Your Hotel Based on the Type of Trip You Want
This might be my biggest piece of advice for anyone visiting Scottsdale for the first time.
Where you stay can completely shape your vacation.
If your ideal trip involves lounging by the pool, enjoying spa treatments, and taking in beautiful desert scenery, you'll probably love a luxury resort like the Four Seasons or Arizona Biltmore.
If you're visiting for a girls' weekend and plan to spend most of your time shopping, eating, and going out, staying in Old Town at The REMI or Scottsdale Marriott makes much more sense.
And if you want something in between, Hotel Adeline is a great compromise.
Think about what you want your days and evenings to look like before deciding where to book.
Is Scottsdale Worth Visiting?
In my opinion, absolutely.
Scottsdale is one of those destinations that manages to feel luxurious and exciting while still offering plenty of opportunities to relax.
It's not often that you can spend your morning hiking through beautiful mountain scenery, your afternoon shopping at high-end boutiques, and your evening enjoying an incredible dinner before heading out for cocktails.
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a girls' getaway, a golf trip, or simply looking for somewhere warm to escape for a few days, Scottsdale has something to offer.
What I love most is that you can make the trip as relaxing or as exciting as you want it to be.
Stay at a beautiful resort tucked into the desert, or book a boutique hotel in the middle of Old Town. Spend your days exploring nature, or spend them lounging beside a pool with a cocktail in hand.
Either way, Scottsdale is a destination that deserves a spot on your travel list.
And if you're anything like me, you'll probably leave already thinking about your next visit.
The Stay Edit | Beautiful places, thoughtfully curated stays, and experiences worth traveling for.