Scottsdale Adventures on a Shoestring Budget

Experience the culture and beauty of Scottsdale without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the natural beauty of Scottsdale by hiking the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or taking a bike ride along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt. Enjoy a free art walk through downtown Scottsdale's galleries and museums every Thursday evening. Save money on accommodation by booking a budget hotel or Airbnb outside of the city center.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Old Town Charm

  • Check-in at the Holiday Inn Express Old Town Scottsdale, a budget-friendly hotel with convenient access to Old Town.
  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, a cozy spot with delicious pancakes and omelets.
  • Take a stroll through Old Town Scottsdale, admiring the charming architecture and browsing local shops.
  • Learn about the region's cowboy history at the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West.
  • Take a break for lunch at the rustic Cowboy Ciao, serving up Southwestern-inspired dishes.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful and serene Desert Botanical Garden, showcasing native desert flora and fauna.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures

  • Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery.
  • Head to Camelback Mountain for a morning hike, enjoying stunning views of the city and the desert landscape.
  • Cool off with a refreshing swim at the nearby Big Surf Waterpark.
  • Grab lunch at The Gladly, offering elevated bar food and an extensive whiskey list.
  • Visit Taliesin West, the former winter home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright, for a guided tour of the architect's iconic desert structures.
  • End the day with a sunset horseback ride at MacDonald's Ranch, experiencing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert on horseback.
  • Scottsdale may be known for its luxurious resorts and spas, but with this budget-friendly itinerary, you can experience the city's rich history and natural beauty without breaking the bank.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Scottsdale, United States by plane is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport which is located 10 miles away from Scottsdale. There are many airlines that operate frequent flights to Phoenix from major cities around the world.

Car

The best way to reach Scottsdale by car would be to rent a car and drive to the city. Scottsdale is located in Maricopa County, which is connected to major highways like I-10, I-17, and Loop 101.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Scottsdale. The nearest Amtrak station is in Maricopa, which is 38 miles south of Scottsdale. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car.

Boat

Since Scottsdale is an inland city, there are no boat services that connect to it directly.

Bus

Scottsdale is well-connected by bus. Greyhound operates regular services to Phoenix from many cities around the US. From Phoenix, you can take local buses to reach Scottsdale.

Destination

Scottsdale

Welcome to a place where the sun never seems to take a break, and the cactus probably outnumbers the residents. Yep, we're talking about the land of luxury, Scottsdale.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Scottsdale Safari: A Wild West Family Adventure in 4 Days

Scottsdale offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, with its wide range of activities and attractions. Families can explore the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden, go hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Children's Museum of Phoenix. With its sunny climate and bustling shopping and dining options, Scottsdale guarantees a fun-filled and memorable experience for the whole family.

Scottsdale on a Budget: Outdoor Adventure and Art

A trip to Scottsdale on a limited budget can be a memorable experience. With plenty of free outdoor attractions, visitors can hike through scenic trails, explore world-class art exhibitions, and relax in public parks. Affordable accommodations can be found in downtown Scottsdale or nearby areas, and budget-friendly dining options are available throughout the city.

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Scottsdale: Desert Adventure on a Budget

Scottsdale offers a plethora of affordable activities for budget-conscious travelers. One can take a hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, stroll through the Old Town, and visit the free Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly dining options such as The Stand, The Mission, and La Hacienda.