Scottsdale, AZ
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning desert landscape through hiking and horseback riding in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or taking a leisurely stroll along the Arizona Canal. For art and history aficionados, Scottsdale is home to a multitude of museums, including the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West.
With over 330 days of sunshine each year, Scottsdale's climate provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Scottsdale offers a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveler.
What to do in Scottsdale, AZ
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale is the heart of the city, offering a charming blend of the old and the new. Visitors can explore the historic streets lined with adobe buildings while also enjoying trendy boutiques, art galleries, lively bars, and top-notch restaurants. The area is also home to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, making it a cultural hub with plenty to offer for every visitor.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden offers an immersive experience in the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can wander along trails that lead through various themed exhibits, showcasing the diversity of desert plants and landscapes. The garden also hosts seasonal events, art exhibitions, and educational programs, making it an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Outdoor Adventures in McDowell Sonoran Preserve
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve presents an outdoor playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With over 200 miles of well-maintained trails, the preserve offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities amidst stunning desert scenery. From leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, the preserve caters to all skill levels, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience for all who visit.
Taliesin West
Taliesin West, the winter home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright, is a must-see for architecture and design enthusiasts. Guided tours provide an insight into Wright’s innovative design principles, showcasing how the buildings seamlessly integrate with the desert landscape. The site also hosts various events and workshops, making it a haven for those interested in architecture, design, and the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright.
Spa and Wellness Retreats
Scottsdale is renowned for its luxurious spas and wellness retreats, offering a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can pamper themselves with a wide range of indulgent spa treatments, from massages and facials to holistic wellness therapies. Many resorts in the area feature world-class spa facilities set against breathtaking desert backdrops, allowing visitors to unwind and revitalize in a serene and tranquil environment.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Start your day at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a sprawling desert park with numerous hiking trails. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna as you explore the area.
Late Morning: Take a short drive to Taliesin West, the former winter home and school of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Join a guided tour to learn about Wright’s innovative designs and see how the desert influenced his work.
Afternoon: Head to the Old Town Scottsdale district for a leisurely stroll through the many art galleries, boutiques, and southwestern-inspired shops. Don’t miss the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art for a taste of the city’s creative side.
Evening: Conclude your day by experiencing the beauty of the desert at sunset on a hot air balloon ride. Drift gently over the Sonoran Desert and take in the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the horizon.
Day 2:
Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, home to thousands of species of cacti and desert plants. Wander through the various themed trails and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Sonoran Desert.
Late Morning: Make your way to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. This family-friendly attraction features train rides, a carousel, and a variety of historic railroad exhibits, perfect for train enthusiasts of all ages.
Afternoon: Enjoy some leisure time at the Scottsdale Waterfront, a picturesque area with shopping, dining, and scenic views of the Arizona Canal. You can also opt for a peaceful gondola ride along the water for a relaxing experience.
Evening: Conclude your visit with an evening at the Musical Instrument Museum, where you can explore exhibits featuring musical instruments from around the world. End your trip with a live music performance at one of the many venues in the Scottsdale area.
Wine Tasting
Explore the Arizona wine country with wine tasting tours in and around Scottsdale, sampling a variety of local wines amidst stunning vineyard settings.
Vortex to Vineyard Tour (Sedona/Verde Valley Vineyards)
Your journey will begin with a view of the legendary red rocks such as Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Rock, this will be followed by visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This is the only city tour that includes a visit to one of the world-famous vortexes. Find out what the vortex energy can do for you! This will be followed by visiting two award-winning wineries with your complimentary personal charcuterie platter.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a minimum number of 4 passengers to ensure the tour will take place. If we haven't reached the minimum number of guests, you will be contacted with options. If you are booking a "last minute" tour for less than 4 guests in the 48 hour cancellation period, please call to confirm we have met the minimum before reserving the tour.
Cheers and we look forward to giving you a day to remember!
Book Today on Viator From $225.00
Verde Valley Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix/Tempe
Your tour will begin at one of our convenient Scottsdale locations. Your journey will include a visit to 3 award-winning wineries, in the Verde Valley. Your tour includes exclusive discounts on tastings and bottles, a picnic with your personal charcuterie of assorted artisan cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, gourmet chocolates and French bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a minimum number of 4 passengers to ensure the tour will take place. If we haven't reached the minimum number of guests, you will be contacted with options. If you are booking a "last minute" tour for less than 4 guests in the 48 hour cancellation period, please call to confirm we have met the minimum before reserving the tour.
Cheers and we look forward to giving you a day to remember!
Book Today on Viator From $199.00
Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour
Ride in a lovely Mercedes van for a scenic drive up to Cottonwood and/or Cornville, Arizona to visit beautiful vineyard(s) with a tour as the schedule permits, and enjoy wine tastings and hors d'oeuvres. Lunch at restaurant bought separately. Pick up from hotel or residence by calling Mercedes Van Tours by Laura Hanson in Arizona
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $525.00
Haunted Jerome Wine & Brewery tasting from Scottsdale
Your tour will depart from one of our convenient locations in Scottsdale where we will start our journey to Jerome one of the wickedest towns in the west, which was once the fourth largest city in Arizona with it's population seeking 15,000 in the 1920's. Find out the history through the rise and the fall of this old copper mining town. As we stroll through the legendary streets of Jerome you will be guided through the the once thriving mining camps full of miners, bootleggers, gamblers and prostitutes, now a bustling tourist destination full of artists, musicians and gift shop proprietors. There will be plenty of time to explore the shops and have lunch at once of Jerome's famous restaurants. You will then be taken to Cottonwood where you can choose from your assortment of local wine tastings and or a brewery tasting. This tour will include Maynard Keenan's front man of the band Tool's vineyard when it opens Oct. 6th.
Please note the duration to Jerome is Approximately 2 hours.
Book Today on Viator From $225.00
Outdoor Adventures
Engage in outdoor activities like biking, rock climbing, and hot air ballooning in the beautiful desert surroundings of Scottsdale.
Jumping Cholla (Choya) Jeep Tour
Each tour is a unique journey through the American West. Sit back and enjoy the ride or get active and ask questions. Flora, Fauna, Geology and Native American way of life are included. The trail is not too bumpy but is definitely full of Adventure.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $145.00
Hole in the Rock Hike & Bike
Great views from the Valley of the Sun famous Hole in the Rock as you bike and then Hike! Enjoy the Scottsdale Greenbelt Park system and head into the Rio Salado Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park as we meet and take you for a fun 12-mile 1.45-hour tour. Your tour includes a history of Tempe Town Lake, Papago Park, the Valley of the Sun, and the Rio-Salado Salt River development project.
Included: Guided tour, bikes, neck gaiter & backpack to use for your water and personal items. We will ride on some dirt paths.
Required: Good riding ability and ability to control a bike on a dirt path and enjoy a short hike.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Old Town Scottsdale - FAT Tire Electric Bike Rentals
Experience Old Town Scottsdale on our brand-new fleet of Fat Tire Electric Bikes, NO PEDALING REQUIRED! After your private 1:1 training session and practice time where guests become comfortable riding the Fat Tire E-Bikes, you head out on the ultimate Scottsdale adventure! Head into Old Town Scottsdale for luxurious shopping, and restaurants, explore the stunning Scottsdale art walk showcasing millions of dollars of public art, and visit the world-renowned Scottsdale Waterfront. Additionally, you can hit the Scottsdale Greenbelt pathway which is a gorgeous 11.5-mile bike path that takes you to 10 of the most photographed locations in the entire valley including The Desert Botanical Gardens, Papago Park, Camelback Mountain, Hole In The Rock, Tempe Town Lake, The Phoenix Zoo & more all in just 2 hours. Enjoy free parking, as all Bikes come with a key (just like a car) with a security alarm, so you can park and explore! Why settle for the mundane when you can ride AMPED!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $59.00
Affordable Private Tours From Scottsdale-Choose Your Adventure!!!
Tired of tours getting cancellations because you haven't met the minimum number of people to guarantee your tour will be going! Choose your destiny! This tour is totally customizable! You will be able to choose 3-4 destinations (depending of the time spent at each destination). Options to choose from Highlights of Sedona, The best of both worlds-Vortex to Vineyard, Haunted Jerome and winery/brewery tour, Carefree/Cave Creek. Our tour includes exclusive discounts on tastings and bottles, a picnic with your personal charcuterie of assorted artisan cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, gourmet chocolates and French bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar (for tours that include wine tastings). As well as prosecco and rose for the scenic drive. Don't see an attraction on the list, don't hesitate to contact us to see if we can accommodate.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $895.00
Shopping
Shop at upscale boutiques, fashion stores, and specialty shops in Scottsdale, offering a mix of upscale brands and unique local products.
3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.
This tour runs FUN and COMFORTABLY in rain or shine.
Pick up at over 100 hotels. Even if your hotel is not listed, we may pick up. Just ask.
Google 3 Cities and Nature for large groups.
#1) Phoenix Art District
See Arizona’s most beautiful street art in the Downtown Phoenix RoRo Art District.
#2) Tacos Calafia
Enjoy a casual, complimentary meal. Local, authentic, street-style Mexican food.
#3) Views of Camelback, South, Superstition, and Papago Butte Mountain Ranges.
#4) Views of Tovrea Castle.
#5) Tempe Town Lake:
Learn why Tempe is becoming one of AZ’s most popular cities.
#6) Views of ASU Sun Devils Football Stadium
#7) Papago Park Sonoran Desert:
Guided nature trail in the Sonoran Desert. Views of Hole in the Rock.
#8)Historic Old Town Scottsdale:
Enjoy shopping, saloons & old western architecture.
*snacks, bottled water, & casual meal included in tour.
For private/ corporate/ or large groups from 13-48, contact your vendor or Google 3 Cities and Nature AZ.
Book Today on Viator From $168.00
Private Custom Sedona Tour
One of our most popular tours is a day in beautiful red rock country.
As you can see from the lists below, the possibilities are really endless.
What are you hoping to see and experience?
Let us help you coordinate the perfect adventure.
We provide luxury vehicles and our guides have a variety of interactive tools to help you discover some of Arizona’s secrets. Below are highlights from a few of our most requested Sedona area tours.
Book Today on Viator From $795.00
Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix
The ultimate bachelorette wine tasting day tour. You will be visit 3-4 award winning wineries in the Verde Valley Vineyards. Ride in style from your location in Scottsdale or one of our convenient pick up locations, as you sip on your mimosas with an assortment of fresh squeezed juices and chocolate covered strawberries. Interactive bachelorette party games and photo props will be included in a day the bride and her best pals can remember. Soak in the beauty while we provide a picnic that will include: Four gourmet artisan cheeses, salami, fresh baked french bread with olive oil and vinegar, trail mix, fresh fruit and gourmet chocolates.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $875.00
Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Scottsdale by Holly Jolly Hunt
Holly Jolly Hunt is a scavenger hunt that is played using an app on your smartphone, that brings your entire family and friends together for holiday cheer. During the adventure you’ll be seeking out all the traditional, and even the non-traditional holiday items we all see this time of year around the city. You’ll get points for each item you find. The goal is to capture as many items as you can in order to score as many points as possible and get 1st place on the leaderboard. Along the way you’ll be asked to perform silly holiday themed tasks meant to bring laughter and smiles to everyone involved. Come play with us. Young or old, this is a scavenger hunt for everyone that enjoys this time of year. We promise you will create holiday memories that you will not forget! Holly Jolly Hunt can be played in any city!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $20.00
Live Entertainment
Enjoy live music, theater performances, and cultural events at venues in Scottsdale, featuring a mix of local talent and nationally renowned artists.
Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour
Showcasing Scottsdale’s thriving food scene and the 5th Ave shop district, this is something to be experienced! On this tour, you will enjoy delicious handmade pizza & wine, a variety of Asian-fusion items with a tasty cocktail, authentic Mexican street tacos & margarita, and an award-winning dessert paired with a refreshing tea sample. Town. This tour is perfect for girls'/guy's weekends, anniversary trips, and foodies visiting Scottsdale who are overwhelmed by all the great food options and 3 different alcoholic beverages.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $95.00
Fine Dining
Experience gourmet cuisine at upscale restaurants in Scottsdale, known for their diverse culinary offerings and elegant dining experiences.
Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour
Showcasing Scottsdale’s thriving food scene and the 5th Ave shop district, this is something to be experienced! On this tour, you will enjoy delicious handmade pizza & wine, a variety of Asian-fusion items with a tasty cocktail, authentic Mexican street tacos & margarita, and an award-winning dessert paired with a refreshing tea sample. Town. This tour is perfect for girls'/guy's weekends, anniversary trips, and foodies visiting Scottsdale who are overwhelmed by all the great food options and 3 different alcoholic beverages.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $95.00
Cultural Attractions
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Scottsdale by visiting museums, galleries, and historical sites that showcase the city's history and art.
2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights
Our favorite tour to offer during our favorite time of year! The award-winning “Scottsdazzle Holiday Lights Tour" takes you on an illuminated, festive, holiday adventure perfect for families, friends, tourists & locals alike. Ugly sweaters are encouraged!
See all of Downtown Scottsdale during the most beautiful time of year with warm weather and thousands of lights decorating the Downtown Scottsdale area. Best of all, you get to experience Scottsdale’s world-famous waterfront holiday light exhibit “Scottsdazzle”. A beautiful, professionally designed holiday light show spanning nearly one mile, is a must-see by Segway. With ample photo opportunities taken by your personal tour guide, this two-hour adventure is a perfect way to get in the holiday spirit before enjoying one of the hundreds of great restaurants in downtown Scottsdale.
Book Today on Viator From $75.65
Scottsdale Segway Tours - 2 Hours
Discover the historic charm of Old Town Scottsdale by Segway on this 2-hour tour, the easiest and most fun way to see this vibrant part of town. Though its name harks back to the town’s early days, this is not a sleepy neighborhood. Old Town pulses with loads of creative energy, art installations, performances and alfresco dining options. Let an informative guide lead you through the best parts of town and then continue to explore at your leisure after the tour. This small-group tour is limited to 6 people per tour guide, ensuring you’ll receive personal attention from your guide.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $65.45
Hiking
Explore the numerous scenic trails in and around Scottsdale, offering breathtaking views of the desert landscape and surrounding mountains.
Half-Day Sonoran Desert Hiking Tour
Venture into the lush desert and mountains surrounding Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, on a half-day guided hiking tour with REI Co-op Experiences. Learn all about the unique flora, fauna, geology, and history from knowledgeable, professional guides.
Each hiking tour is about 2 hours in duration. Tours can be made private for an additional fee otherwise you will be grouped with like-minded adventurers during your guided hike.
Book Today on Viator From $85.00
Scottsdale Desert Classic Hiking Adventure
Experience the Scottsdale Classic Hiking Adventure in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We’ll customize the hike to your mileage, terrain and grade preferences.
- Hike for about two hours.
- Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert.
- Relax at an incredible viewpoint with trail snacks and beverages provided by - your guide.
- We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you secrets of the area that only a few know about.
- 2-3 hours on the trail
- Meet your guide at the trailhead
- Difficulty scale: Easy to strenuous—you choose the level!
We provide everything you need for your hiking adventure:
- Use of backpacks
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water
- Sports drinks
- Trail snacks
- Plus, cold beverages after finishing your hike.
Our number one priority is your safety. We guarantee a safe, enjoyable and memorable Sonoran Desert experience.
Book Today on Viator From $145.00
Private Sedona Red Rock Country and Native American Ruins Day Tour
Immerse yourself in the crimson cliffs of Sedona and spend a day exploring ancient Native American ruins, gorgeous natural formations, and art galleries bursting with incredible original pieces made by local and national artists.
Your first stop will be at Montezuma Castle National Monument, a multistoried Puebloan cliff dwelling. After the first stop, your tour moves further into the desert. Stop to see the towering Bell Rock, the expansive Airport Mesa, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. We may also stop to view Cathedral Rock, Snoopy Rock, and Submarine Rock. Leave the desert behind as you head toward Sedona, where you can wander through the many art galleries and shops, get your fortune told by a psychic, and enjoy the serene views while sipping a glass of wine on one of the town’s many balconies. When it’s time to depart, the amazing orange, yellow, and red vistas you’ve been seeing all day are sure to have imprinted themselves forever in your mind.
Book Today on Viator From $300.00
Iconic Tom's Thumb Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale
Visit an iconic landmark in the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve. See Geological features and well as flora and fauna that are unique to the Sonoran Desert. Amazing views of the McDowell Mountains and surrounding areas.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $145.00
Art Galleries
Discover the vibrant art scene in Scottsdale by visiting numerous art galleries that feature a diverse range of artwork from local and international artists.
Creative Soul Scavenger Hunt (Lost Dog Trailhead, Scottsdale)
This unique creative adventure is a collaboration between, Tara-your game designer and host, Scottsdale itself, with its history, color and nature, and you, the hunters who being an unexpected element to the creation process. Be ready for something new.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $35.00
Desert Tours
Embark on guided desert tours to explore the unique flora, fauna, and geological formations of the Sonoran Desert around Scottsdale.
Small-Group or Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix
Experience the scenic beauty of Arizona on this small-group or private day trip from the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Visit one of the world’s wonders, the Grand Canyon, and experience Sedona's Red Rocks on a full-day trip. Take in unforgettable views of classic southwestern landscapes with your knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the small-group tour limited to just 13 people in our custom van with high ceilings allowing for standing - OR - a luxury SUV for private groups.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $235.00
2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour
Journey Rides is not only the first tour company to offer electric bike tours in Arizona. We are also the only E-Bike tour company that specializes in off-road Sonoran desert electric bike tours.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $134.67
Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour at Sunset
Our rigorous Sunset Desert Jeep Tour is a bumpy off-road sightseeing tour through the scenic Jeep trails of the Tonto National Forest, north of Scottsdale, Arizona.
Experience a world-famous Arizona sunset (weather dependent) as our professional tour guides teach you about the Sonoran desert flora, fauna, and Native American history. At sunset, we will stop at our panoramic lookout point overseeing the historic Great Western Trail.
This is a public tour (not private). Public tour vehicles: Modified open-air vertical-row (sideways) seating Jeep Gladiator (14 seats) and Jeep YJ (7 seats).
Total duration of this tour ranges from 2 to 3 hours depending on the time of year. Confirm the exact end time with your tour guide before the tour.
Scottsdale Adventure Tours is a special recreation permit-holder through the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Cave Creek Ranger District.
Book Today on Viator From $175.50
1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration
Experience everything Scottsdale has to offer as we take you to see Scottsdale’s breathtaking scenery, numerous multi-million dollar art installations, Camelback Mountain, America’s Original Artwalk, and of course, The World Renowned Scottsdale Waterfront District. This tour also provides plenty of information about the historical background of Old Town Scottsdale and the western culture which still remains. Leave behind the stress of learning to ride a Segway and our professional tour guide will take you on one of the highest acclaimed and reviewed tours in the country! With more than 30 points of interest on this 10+ mile route, you will walk away from the tour with several suggestions for local food, activities, and places to visit ensuring you experience Scottsdale and everything it has to offer.
Book Today on Viator From $79.00