SEARCH |
Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ
Local Area Visitors Guide
Saturday, October 15, 2022
The Erin Hanson Gallery's new Arizona location is located on bustling Main Street in the heart of Scottsdale’s Old Town. This area is the hub of the western art scene in Arizona and is surrounded by beautiful vistas, championship golf courses, luxurious resorts, incredible spas, and historical sites like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West.
Whether you are looking to explore the gorgeous natural spaces found in the western United States or want to taste your way through Scottsdale’s diverse food scene, you’ll enjoy your visit to Scottsdale, AZ.
What to Eat
Whether you are a foodie or are simply looking for a delightful meal during your visit to Scottsdale, try some of these restaurants and bars for a singular experience.
J&G Steakhouse at the Phoenician
This hidden gem features over 300 whiskies along with an inspired cocktail menu. The food is not your typical “bar fare” but includes seasonal dishes like crispy brussels sprout salad and roast chicken with wild mushrooms.
Second Story Whiskey Bar and Restaurant
The views from this steakhouse are one of a kind, as is the food. Enjoy dinner under the stars while dining at the base of Camelback Mountain. If you plan a dinner at J&G, we recommend enjoying a spa visit at the Phoenician before your meal. The entire experience is one-of-a-kind.
An excellent choice for those who want delightful, healthy food, Santé' is a favorite of Scottsdale locals.
Located in the heart of Scottsdale, Francine is a French restaurant that is perfect for brunch or dinner. Order favorites like the Croque Madame or Salade Nicoise for a taste of France in the middle of Arizona.
Francine Restaurant
Locally owned and operated, this Italian restaurant and bar is a favorite of Scottsdale natives. The menu is delicious, and you may just meet the owner during your visit.
Discover a piece of the Mediterranean coast in Scottsdale by visiting Cala for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks. Here you will find organic Mediterranean-inspired dishes filled with local ingredients.
Another delightful breakfast, lunch, or brunch spot, Arcadia Farms Cafe is a local favorite. This combination market and cafe boasts menu items like its Brunch Board, Wild Mushroom Crepe, and Carmelized Brie and Apples.
Located within walking distance of Old Town, Aridus is a cozy, welcoming space perfect for anyone who enjoys the combination of art and wine. Taste any of their dozens of current vintages and ask the knowledgeable staff about your pour, then walk out to Old Town and explore the many art galleries and shops the area has to offer.
Renowned chef Matt Carter fuses fine dining and modern Latin cuisine to create a delicious experience. Enjoy homemade tortillas, sauces, and salsas with meals prepared on a Plancha in the indoor dining room, or cozy firelit outdoor space, or get casual at the community table in the lounge.
This bar cum art gallery features delightful cocktails, nightlife, and rotating art displays. It is positioned near local art installations and public artworks as well.
Favorite of locals, this gastropub has a classic public house vibe, along with an uncommonly delicious dinner and dessert menu.
Well known for its stunning views, Orange Sky is a fine dining experience not to be missed. The restaurant features an award-winning wine selection, an elevated steakhouse menu, and delicious custom cocktails.
Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant
The Sugar Bowl is a Scottsdale staple and a family favorite. This 1950’s soda fountain serves a traditional diner fair along with the best ice cream sundaes in town. If you’re feeling nostalgic, the Sugar Bowl is the place to go!
For artisan ice cream, look no further than Sweet Republic. The menu is filled with seasonal flavors, fan favorites, and delightful sundaes.
Where to Stay
There is a variety of unique places to stay in and around Scottsdale. Use this list and find the perfect place to book your romantic getaway, team retreat, or friend’s trip.
Created for urban dwellers, friendly strangers, and corporate teams, Noam Hospitality hosts intimate groups in thoughtfully designed basecamps across Arizona and beyond. An alternative to common glamping, Noam is nomadic. Traveling to various locations, they utilize high-quality, nimble equipment for outdoor living to bring a sense of modern nostalgia. The team intentionally selects locations near local points of interest, such as scenic wilderness, sustainable farms, and trailing vineyards, and partners with subject matter experts highlighting craft, exploration, and wellness.
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows
Do you want to stay somewhere that allows you to bring along your favorite furry friend? Andaz is not only a unique place to stay, but it is also pet friendly! This luxury resort is located on 23 acres of Sonoran desert and is just a stone's throw away from Scottsdale.
A luxury resort, The Phoenician is an iconic experience. Nestled at the foot of the Camelback Mountains, this resort is right in the center of Scottsdale. It has a delightful restaurant and spa, and this hotel also boasts incredible views, access to fantastic golf courses, and luxury accommodations.
We love a pet-friendly hotel, and Bespoke Inn is just such a place! Located in the Arts District of Old Town, this Scottsdale hotel provides luxurious, boutique accommodations, along with iconic Arizona musts, like a 43-foot-long infinity pool.
Nestled below the Camelback Mountains, this resort provides luxury accommodations and meals to human visitors along with their furry friends. Relaxing in a villa or casita in the shadow of the glorious Camelbacks, you can be sure that your and your pet’s needs are taken care of by the hotel’s offerings, including the Royal Paws program.
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale Troon North
Find stunning desert views, luxury accommodations, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities at the Four Seasons Resort. At the Four Seasons, you can book a hot air balloon ride culminating in a champagne breakfast in the desert and a guided camping trip for your kids all in one place.
Combine golf and gorgeous natural landscapes with luxury, and you get The Boulders. This resort not only features a world-class golf course, but it is also set on 1,300 acres of Sonoran Desert foothills. With panoramic views of natural desertland, pickleball, golf, tennis, rock climbing, swimming, and more, this resort has plenty to offer any visitor.
Award-winning resort and spa, Civana, is set on 20 acres of Sonoran Desert. The focus here is wellness, rest, and communing with nature. Everything from the lovely accommodations to the health and wellness retreats is designed to create a feeling of well-being for all guests.
ZaZa's in Hotel Valley Ho
The iconic Hotel Valley Ho is a classic Arizona hotel with a palm-studded pool - and a star-studded past. Once the haunt of celebrities like Bing Crosby and Zsa Zsa Gabor, this hotel has a cool, mid-century feel with all of the modern amenities.
Situated in the serene Sonoran Desert, Inn at Eagle Mountain offers beautiful views, a highly-rated golf course, a spa, delightful dining, and more.
Sitting on 53 acres, the Sanctuary is nestled at the base of the Camelback Mountains. Not only does this luxurious hotel and spa offer incredible views, it’s also home to an award-winning spa.
Things To See
Scottsdale is filled with art galleries, museums, preserves, and more. Here are some of the top places to visit in Scottsdale. Because Scottsdale is a premier golfing destination, we have created a separate category for golf courses.
Visit local galleries, join the monthly Artwalk, explore museums, or discover your new favorite eatery in the Arts District.
Hiking Camelback Mountain is an absolute must for any hikers and climbers visiting Scottsdale. The views of Camelback from surrounding resorts and restaurants are stunning - and the views from the top of the mountain itself are incredible.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
Experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic vision at Taliesin West. This UNESCO Heritage Site was handcrafted by Wright - and was his beloved winter home. Get intimate with Wright, his work, and how his philosophy lives on in modern architecture.
Explore the Sonoran Preserve. Nature buffs, young and old, will love the incredible diversity of flora, fauna, and geology found in the preserve. Go on hikes, learn about the Sonoran Desert, or join an expedition to explore this beautiful area.
Several amazing companies provide delightful hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert. Hot Air Expedition offers a culinary experience at the end of your journey that includes a gourmet meal from Vincent’s at Camelback.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Immerse yourself in western art at the Western Spirit. This museum features beautiful exhibitions of native and local art, as well as art depicting past events in the American West.
Look up at towering saguaro cactus, lean down to inspect delicate desert flowers, and get lost down trails surrounded by more flora than one would believe a desert can hold. The botanical gardens are the perfect place for people of any age to visit, with activities for kids and adults alike.
The Salt River can be both a calm float or a white water adventure - depending on which section you tackle. Tubing, canoeing, kayaking, SUPing, whitewater rafting, and fishing are all welcome on the river.
Enjoy immersive art installations and signature cocktails in the ever-changing Wonderspaces venue. The art changes frequently, so you are likely to see something new each time you visit Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Center for The Performing Arts
Scottsdale features a bustling art scene, which includes performing arts, art installations, and more! Find a local show or enjoy a public art event by seeing what is on the calendar at the Scottsdale Center for The Performing Arts.
The Erin Hanson Gallery, Scottsdale
If it wasn’t already on your agenda, add The Erin Hanson Gallery, Scottsdale, to your “must visit” list. This gallery features iconic western art from impressionist painter Erin Hanson.
Scottsdale Golf Courses
If you want to golf in Arizona, Scottsdale is the place to go! There are dozens of high-end golf courses for golfers of all types and skill levels. Read on to find your course.
A world-class course, Boulders will test your handicap. Designed by Jay Morrish, this course is listed among the finest in the U.S.
Found at the top of many golfer’s “must play” lists, Troon North provides two scenic courses designed by British Open Champion Tom Weiskopf.
This municipal golf course is known for its stunning views and gently rolling terrain. Designed by William Frances “Billy” Bell, it has been an incredibly popular course since the 1960s.
Home to the award-winning Stadium course, TPC has breathtaking views and exciting terrains.
This eco-friendly course offers stunning views and delightful amenities. It was recently redesigned to create a challenging layout for low-handicap golfers.
Twenty-six holes of dynamic and challenging golf await at the Camelback Golf Club. With two courses at eighteen holes each, a golfer could spend their entire vacation honing their game at this golf club.
Offering two unique courses designed for different levels of play, Talking Stick Golf Club has been ranked among the top courses to play - with the North Course ranked as the top golf course to play in Arizona.
This 18-hole course showcases the beauty of the Sonoran desert. Designed by Phil Smith, it is designed for a contiguous pattern of play.
Exclusively available to guests and private club members, Gainey Ranch boasts three distinct, scenic courses.
Open to everyone, Grayhawk offers two courses that are often used in competitive tournaments.
Designed by architect Rees Jones, this course was created to be a challenging yet fair test of golfing skill.
Located in the heart of Scottsdale, this public, 36-hole facility has beautiful amenities and is open all year long.
We hope this comprehensive list has helped you plan as you find the perfect locations to visit in Scottsdale!
ERIN HANSON has been painting in oils since she was 8 years old. As a young artist, she worked at a mural studio creating 40-foot-tall paintings on canvas, while selling art commissions on the side. After getting a degree in Bioengineering from UC Berkeley, Erin became a rock climber at Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. Inspired by the colorful scenery she was climbing, she decided to paint one painting every week for the rest of her life. She has stuck to that decision ever since, becoming one of the most prolific artists in history. Erin Hanson's style is known as "Open Impressionism" and is now taught in art schools worldwide. With thousands of collectors eagerly anticipating her work and millions of followers online, Hanson has become an iconic, driving force in the rebirth of contemporary impressionism.
![]() |
Go Leaf Peeping in the Northeast with Erin Hanson [Part 1] Leaf Peeping in New England Monday, October 25, 2021 Have you ever gone leaf peeping? Seeking out the most vibrant autumnal colors among local or far-flung trees and forests can be immensely satisfying. There is something about turning a corner to find a shock of gold and red against green or stopping at a lookout to view a patchwork of fall hues. The vibrant, seasonal colors found in trees around the world can bring a feeling of renewed energy and peace to those who go looking. Read More → |
![]() |
Go Leaf Peeping in the Northeast with Erin Hanson [Part 1] Leaf Peeping in New England Monday, October 25, 2021 Have you ever gone leaf peeping? Seeking out the most vibrant autumnal colors among local or far-flung trees and forests can be immensely satisfying. There is something about turning a corner to find a shock of gold and red against green or stopping at a lookout to view a patchwork of fall hues. The vibrant, seasonal colors found in trees around the world can bring a feeling of renewed energy and peace to those who go looking. Read More → |
![]() |
Go Leaf-Peeping on Paths Less Traveled with Erin Hanson [Part 2] Go Leaf Peeping with Erin Hanson Throughout the United States Monday, October 25, 2021 Come on a journey with Erin as she explores the leaf-peeping paths less traveled around the United States. Read More → |
![]() |
Go Leaf-Peeping on Paths Less Traveled with Erin Hanson [Part 2] Go Leaf Peeping with Erin Hanson Throughout the United States Monday, October 25, 2021 Come on a journey with Erin as she explores the leaf-peeping paths less traveled around the United States. Read More → |
![]() |
An Ode to Water Lilies Tuesday, September 14, 2021 In honor of Erin Hanson's new, expansive water lilies painting, we wanted to take a moment to look back at the rich and colorful history of these luminous blooms. Read More → |
![]() |
An Ode to Water Lilies Tuesday, September 14, 2021 In honor of Erin Hanson's new, expansive water lilies painting, we wanted to take a moment to look back at the rich and colorful history of these luminous blooms. Read More → |
![]() |
Things to Do in McMinnville, Oregon Local Area Visitors Guide Monday, September 6, 2021 The Erin Hanson Gallery is nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley Wine Country and surrounded by 200 top-of-the-line wineries. The area is a hot destination renowned for its Pinot Noir, stunning vistas, delectable culinary adventures, and luxurious resorts and spas. Read More → |
![]() |
Things to Do in McMinnville, Oregon Local Area Visitors Guide Monday, September 6, 2021 The Erin Hanson Gallery is nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley Wine Country and surrounded by 200 top-of-the-line wineries. The area is a hot destination renowned for its Pinot Noir, stunning vistas, delectable culinary adventures, and luxurious resorts and spas. Read More → |
![]() |
Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea A Coastal Paradise Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Nestled in the Monterey Bay between Pebble Beach and Big Sur is the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel is internationally known for its exquisite art, idyllic views, and distinguished wine. Within one square mile you will discover five-star restaurants, nearly one hundred art galleries, countless wineries, and the beautiful Carmel Beach. Read More → |
![]() |
Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea A Coastal Paradise Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Nestled in the Monterey Bay between Pebble Beach and Big Sur is the charming coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel is internationally known for its exquisite art, idyllic views, and distinguished wine. Within one square mile you will discover five-star restaurants, nearly one hundred art galleries, countless wineries, and the beautiful Carmel Beach. Read More → |
![]() |
The California Super Bloom California Impressionist Captures the Natural Phenomena Friday, October 6, 2017 California experienced a severe drought for several years which finally broke in the winter of 2017 when torrents of rain fell from the sky and turned California the most vivid shade of green we had seen in years. The wildflowers seeds had been waiting latent in the desert floor for several years, multiplying with each year of the drought. When the heavy rains finally arrived, the deserts erupted in a natural phenomena known as the "Super Bloom". Almost overnight the California desert and hills started turning orange, yellow and purple with a Super Bloom of flowers far more abundant than the typical spring bloom. So vibrant and widespread, it was even visible from space. Read More → |
![]() |
The California Super Bloom California Impressionist Captures the Natural Phenomena Friday, October 6, 2017 California experienced a severe drought for several years which finally broke in the winter of 2017 when torrents of rain fell from the sky and turned California the most vivid shade of green we had seen in years. The wildflowers seeds had been waiting latent in the desert floor for several years, multiplying with each year of the drought. When the heavy rains finally arrived, the deserts erupted in a natural phenomena known as the "Super Bloom". Almost overnight the California desert and hills started turning orange, yellow and purple with a Super Bloom of flowers far more abundant than the typical spring bloom. So vibrant and widespread, it was even visible from space. Read More → |
![]() |
Paso Robles’s Tuscan-Style Oasis Features Erin Hanson Paintings in Their Permanent Collection Tuesday, October 3, 2017 The Allegretto Vineyard Resort currently houses eleven orignal oil paintings by California impressionist Erin Hanson. This California collection features paintings of Paso Robles’s iconic rolling hills, local wildflowers, and purple jacarandas. The hotel's vast collection of works by artists from near and far are juxtaposed by vintage furniture, slices of the natural world, and locally curated details. Read More → |
![]() |
Paso Robles’s Tuscan-Style Oasis Features Erin Hanson Paintings in Their Permanent Collection Tuesday, October 3, 2017 The Allegretto Vineyard Resort currently houses eleven orignal oil paintings by California impressionist Erin Hanson. This California collection features paintings of Paso Robles’s iconic rolling hills, local wildflowers, and purple jacarandas. The hotel's vast collection of works by artists from near and far are juxtaposed by vintage furniture, slices of the natural world, and locally curated details. Read More → |
![]() |
A Profile of Borrego Springs Inspiration Comes Easily from this Vast California Desert Monday, April 25, 2016 Borrego Springs is a unique town. Surrounded by a 600,000-acre State Park in San Diego County, it is the only desert community in San Diego County. This town lays in a valley and is surrounded by desert. The land stretches out to the surrounding mountains. This makes Borrego Springs an incredible spot for beautiful color combinations. The startling blue skies are a glorious contrast to the sandy desert and wildflowers, which differ from the looming mountains. Read More → |
![]() |
A Profile of Borrego Springs Inspiration Comes Easily from this Vast California Desert Monday, April 25, 2016 Borrego Springs is a unique town. Surrounded by a 600,000-acre State Park in San Diego County, it is the only desert community in San Diego County. This town lays in a valley and is surrounded by desert. The land stretches out to the surrounding mountains. This makes Borrego Springs an incredible spot for beautiful color combinations. The startling blue skies are a glorious contrast to the sandy desert and wildflowers, which differ from the looming mountains. Read More → |
![]() |
The Inspiration of Zion National Park Erin Hanson explores the National Parks for inspiration. Monday, April 4, 2016 One of Erin’s favorite National Parks to paint is Zion National Park in Utah. This park features landscape that is truly incredible and worth capturing through brush strokes and photographs. The park features stark panoramas, vibrant rock formations, lush landscapes, and extreme biodiversity. Read More → |
![]() |
The Inspiration of Zion National Park Erin Hanson explores the National Parks for inspiration. Monday, April 4, 2016 One of Erin’s favorite National Parks to paint is Zion National Park in Utah. This park features landscape that is truly incredible and worth capturing through brush strokes and photographs. The park features stark panoramas, vibrant rock formations, lush landscapes, and extreme biodiversity. Read More → |
![]() |
Where to View Impressionism in Southern California Southern California Art Scene | Impressionism Stands Strong Tuesday, February 23, 2016 California is predominately known for its ultra-modern and deeply abstract artwork, which is surprising given its roots in the famed California Impressionism movement. Within the 163,696 square-miles that comprise this sprawling and diverse state are some of the nation's most important museums, galleries and art collections. Thankfully impressionism is alive and well. You just have to know where to look. Read More → |
![]() |
Where to View Impressionism in Southern California Southern California Art Scene | Impressionism Stands Strong Tuesday, February 23, 2016 California is predominately known for its ultra-modern and deeply abstract artwork, which is surprising given its roots in the famed California Impressionism movement. Within the 163,696 square-miles that comprise this sprawling and diverse state are some of the nation's most important museums, galleries and art collections. Thankfully impressionism is alive and well. You just have to know where to look. Read More → |
|
Erin Hanson Returns to Paso Robles Join Us on the Journey to Launch Hanson's Newest Collection Saturday, October 3, 2015 Erin Hanson's 2015 fall return to California's Paso Robles has been nothing short of spectacular! A series of events marked the commencement of her much anticipated California Wine Country: Impressions in Oil by Erin Hanson collection. Also find out whose paintings are now hanging in the new Ayres hotel resort The Allegretto in Paso Robles! Read More → |
|
Erin Hanson Returns to Paso Robles Join Us on the Journey to Launch Hanson's Newest Collection Saturday, October 3, 2015 Erin Hanson's 2015 fall return to California's Paso Robles has been nothing short of spectacular! A series of events marked the commencement of her much anticipated California Wine Country: Impressions in Oil by Erin Hanson collection. Also find out whose paintings are now hanging in the new Ayres hotel resort The Allegretto in Paso Robles! Read More → |
![]() |
Impressionistic Artist Launches an Immersive Paso Art & Wine Experience September 1st – October 25th, 2015 Wednesday, June 24, 2015 Art and wine are perfectly paired to inspire. We invite you to explore the landscapes of California wine country and to experience the paintings they inspired. Read More → |
![]() |
Impressionistic Artist Launches an Immersive Paso Art & Wine Experience September 1st – October 25th, 2015 Wednesday, June 24, 2015 Art and wine are perfectly paired to inspire. We invite you to explore the landscapes of California wine country and to experience the paintings they inspired. Read More → |