Born and raised in Arizona, I have an insider opinion to help you plan the most unforgettable trip. This list includes places I often frequent that you can't just search up and know about all of them! You will feel like a local to Scottsdale followin...
Sections
4
Morning Ideas
Afternoon Ideas
Nightlife
Hidden Gems
Morning Ideas
Start your day with any of these recommendations and you will not be disappointed!
LOVE this hike in the AM. It is an intense one, however, the final view is worth it. Unbeatable views and a core part of Arizona history
Climb Camelback Mountain
Best breakfast and coffees, a wonderful place to stop after a hike local to OT.
Berdena's
Such a cute intimate brunch spot. Unique menu items and close and central to OT district
Prep & Pastry
Kid friendly! A cute way to start the day
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Yes it is real - yes it is the best thing ever. Hard to have a bad day starting with these cuties and moving your body!
Arizona Goat Yoga
Bring your cup of coffee here and let this wake you up. Stunning views.
Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden
Afternoon Ideas
We all need a recharge and change of pace in the afternoon on vacation, right? Let me recommend some things!
Such a beautiful aquarium and a great indoor activity if the weather is too hot!
OdySea Aquarium
Another great spot to have lunch, drinks, play arcade games, and beat the heat!
Mavrix
Frank Lloyd Wright’s home & studio. A personal favorite. Inspiring mix of desert + design.
Taliesin West
This place makes you feel alive. Well priced ticket options as well.
Butterfly Wonderland
Spiritual, magical, peaceful, healing. Don't skip this one
Cosanti Originals
Shop til you drop and enjoy some great eats and drinks as well!
Scottsdale Fashion Square
I love to bike this trail. You can rent bikes close by and not a bad way to get around OT!
Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt | City of Scottsdale
FAV LUNCH SPOT! Great happy hour
The Montauk
Iconic, right? Perfect for a midday treat
Sugar Bowl
Love the patio and amazing Happy Hour
The Mission Old Town
Nightlife
I will give you the best spots to check out as AZ is rich in night life!
Wine and Relaxing vibes for the pregame!
Rift Wine Bar & Taphouse
Galleries stay open late, free entry, fun wandering with street music. Free.
Scottsdale Art walk
Packed, but a classic and fun spot, close to the bar and club strip of OT
Pattie's First Avenue Lounge
The upstairs patio is such a vibe
Rockbar Inc.
Make a res before hand! My fav speakeasy
Tell Your Friends
I mean, we all love a good club crawl, right? Hifi, Casamigos, El Hefe, Cake Nightclub, and Almost Famous are all walkable distance to each other and all offer fun experiences
13 Best Old Town Scottsdale Bars | 2025 Nightlife Guide
Farm to table food, unique dishes, delicious
FnB Restaurant
Get the fire shots - yes, you heard that right. Great place to dress up for photos too!
Toca Madera Scottsdale
A classy speakeasy that truly takes you back in time
The Goose
Hidden Gems
Scottsdale is more than eats and partying, even though that's great and a part of the experience! Here is how I like to recharge
Huge expanse of desert preserve; tons of trails (hiking, mountain biking), beautiful views. Great for escaping, getting fresh air and perspective.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve | City of Scottsdale
Rotating art + design exhibits, architecture, good for inspiration, slows you down in a different way.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Big aquarium, lots of exhibits; indoor so good if it’s too hot outside during your stay!
OdySea Aquarium
If you want something quiet, nature + water views
Chaparral Lake - Fishing
Reconnecting and recharging your battery with nature - highly recommend
THE 5 BEST Scottsdale Horseback Riding Tours (2025)
