Today, we will discuss the best activities to do while in Scottsdale. We will also discuss nearby experiences for a day trip within the state, activities to do outside, inside, and wherever. We hope this can make a difference in your trip. Let’s start!

Being outside!

For our outdoor people, we have a list of the top trails that are beginner-friendly and some that are more intense. We will also be introducing off-roading. This is more for our daredevils: taking a nice guided off-roading trip in the desert.

Hikes and Trails:

First is Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail. This trail is one of the more difficult ones. It is about a 14-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale. The trail is 2.6 miles long and very popular, so you’re most likely to see others while hiking. The best time to visit this trail is October through May. One thing about this trail is that dogs aren’t allowed. A disclaimer is that the last half mile is rocky terrain; please wear proper footwear. Next is Big Butte Loop. This trail has a considerably easy route. It is a 12-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale, 2.2 miles long, and about a 45-minute hike. Dogs are welcome but need to be on a leash. This trail is very popular with mountain bikers. It is rocky, but there are some caves and beautiful views.

Guided ATV Tours in Phoenix, Arizona

Now let’s talk off-roading. ATV guided tours in the Sonoran Desert. The times depend on which tour you choose, but the average can be 2-3 hours long. This tour respects and honors the origins of the land we are touring. This means that your tour will include some knowledge and history about the Native Tribes. All tours will also be available to peek into a local abandoned mine shaft. This tour will have 360 panoramic views of 75 miles of the Phoenix Valley, including a view of Lake Pleasant.

Shopping and galleries:

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Scottsdale Fashion Square is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. It has over 240 stores, including high-end stores such as Neiman Marcus, Prada, Cartier, Jimmy Choo, and more. Art Galleries, Here are a few galleries in the greater Scottsdale area. Let’s start with Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Located in the Middle of Old Town Scottsdale. This museum covers the culture and history of the American West, Western Canada, and Mexico. Next is the Celebration of Fine Art. This gallery showcases distinguished artists. They showcase over 100 artists, and you can also purchase their art. Endless shopping and art experiences await!

Our ideal day trips:

Grand Canyon. As we know, this state is also known for one of the world’s greatest wonders, the Grand Canyon. Only about three hours away from Old Town Scottsdale, you can see this wonder in all of its beauty. At the Canyon, you can take a guided tour, a helicopter tour, or hike along the guided trails. Sedona, only a two-hour drive away, is known for its red rocks and is a spiritual getaway.

Sedona has so many different experiences, from shopping at a small business to hiking a trail, art galleries, and upbeat dining. If you are into spiritual guidance, Sedona can be the place for you. Lastly, Flagstaff is perfect for a forest getaway. A two-hour drive away from Scottsdale. You can look at different monuments that capture the history of the land. You can also hike or bike in one of the most extensive contiguous ponderosa pine forests. For all of our star lovers, we have the Lowell Observatory.

Air tours:

First is Hot Air Balloon Rides. Hot Air Expeditions has been family-owned and locally operated for over 30 years. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this will be the perfect opportunity. You start off with a ride above the Sonoran Desert and glides through to see the beautiful views of the desert and the city. The ride is about a 45-to 60-minute hot air balloon ride. can also do a helicopter tour. SunState Helicopters offers exclusive flights tailored to your dream adventure. They also provide 360-degree aerial tours and more. One package includes a 3-course dinner with a 15-minute sunset for 2! Some tours fly over north Phoenix and off to Squaw Peak then to the famous Camelbsck Mountian to see paradise Valleys more impressive homes, and green golf courses. There are different tours for your style.

Golfing:

Photo Credit: The Estancia Club and TPC Network

Scottsdale is prominent in the golf community. Here are some recommendations for our golfers. First is TPC Scottsdale, a 36-hole golf complex that is the home of the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open. It is open to the public. This course is ideal for beginners. Next, the Estancia Club, an 18-hole championship golf course, is renowned for its challenging yet playable desert landscape, dramatic elevations, and pristine bent grass greens. Its various features of uphill and downhill shots change the directions of almost every hole, making it challenging. Lastly, Troon Country Club, this course has breathtaking views, is well-maintained, and is designed for luxury and leisure. It is known for its prestigious events. This course offers world-class fairways, a state-of-the-art practice complex, and GPS-equipped golf carts to enhance players’ experiences.

Arizona is a desert with many adventures. These experiences can help create unforgettable memories.