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Scottsdale on a Shoestring: 3 Days of Adventure

Discover the luxury of Scottsdale on a budget - where adventure meets affordability.

21 June 2023

Scottsdale, United States offers a variety of activities for travelers on a budget. From hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to exploring local art galleries, visitors can experience the beauty and culture of Arizona without breaking the bank. Budget-friendly dining options and affordable accommodation options also make Scottsdale a great destination for those looking to save money while still having a great time.

Travel plan

• Check into the Best Western Plus Scottsdale Thunderbird Suites hotel, a well-rated budget-friendly option.
• Head to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art to see innovative art exhibits.
• Drive to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's former winter home and now a national historic landmark.
• Take a sunset hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to enjoy the desert scenery.
• End the day with margaritas and Mexican cuisine at Barrio Queen, a lively restaurant known for its fresh ingredients.

• Start the day with breakfast at the charming Sugar Bowl, a retro diner famous for its ice cream sundaes.
• Wander around Old Town Scottsdale's many galleries and shops, where you can find cowboy boots, Native American jewelry, and Southwestern souvenirs.
• Visit the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West to learn about Arizona's cowboy and Native American history.
• Take a break for lunch at the Rusty Spur Saloon, which dates back to the 1950s and serves up delicious burgers and live music.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Scottsdale Civic Center Park, a beautiful green space with fountains, sculptures, and public art.

• Get an early start with a hot air balloon ride to see the sunrise over the desert.
• Go horseback riding through the scenic Sonoran Desert at MacDonald's Ranch.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Desert Botanical Garden, where countless species of cacti and other desert plants are on display.
• Tour the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, which features antique trains, a carousel, and a museum.
• End the day with dinner at Citizen Public House, a hip gastropub that offers creative cocktails and elevated American fare.
• Note: It is important for visitors to respect Scottsdale's desert environment and follow Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out trash and staying on designated trails.