Scottsdale in 5 Days: A Perfect Southwest Getaway

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Scottsdale.

22 April 2023

Scottsdale is a charming city located in the heart of Arizona, offering visitors an abundance of cultural, natural and outdoor attractions. With its sunny weather, stunning desert landscapes, top-rated golf courses and luxurious resorts, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Whether you want to hike in the nearby mountains, browse the numerous art galleries or simply soak up the desert scenery, Scottsdale is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Scottsdale

  • Check into Hotel Valley Ho, a retro-chic hotel with mid-century modern design.
  • Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home, for a guided tour of the architectural masterpiece.
  • Take a stroll around Old Town Scottsdale, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Savor a Southwest-inspired meal at The Mission, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
  • Indulge in a nightcap at the popular speakeasy, The Beverly, hidden behind a stainless-steel door.
Day 2

Hiking and Spa Day

  • Start with a hike at Camelback Mountain for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Relax and rejuvenate with a spa treatment at Sanctuary Spa, known for their signature Asian-inspired therapies.
  • Enjoy lunch at FnB, a locally-sourced restaurant featuring seasonal dishes and a curated wine list.
  • Visit the Heard Museum, showcasing Native American art and culture.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop (or two) of artisan ice cream at Sugar Bowl.
Day 3

Arts and Culture Tour

  • Explore the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive installations.
  • Take a guided walking tour of the Scottsdale Public Art collection, showcasing over 100 pieces of contemporary art.
  • Have lunch at The House Brasserie for a farm-to-table experience in a charming historic home.
  • Discover the Western spirit at the Museum of the West with exhibits on cowboys, Native Americans, and Western art.
  • End the day with dinner at Maple & Ash, known for their wood-fired steaks and seafood.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventure Day

  • Start with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert for an unforgettable experience.
  • Go on a horseback ride at MacDonald's Ranch, a working cattle ranch with scenic trails.
  • Enjoy a casual lunch at The Horny Toad, a Western-themed restaurant with classic American fare.
  • Explore the Desert Botanical Garden, showcasing cacti and other desert plants from around the world.
  • Dine at Elements, featuring farm-to-table cuisine and panoramic views of Camelback Mountain.
Day 5

Shop and Dine in Paradise Valley

  • Drive to neighboring Paradise Valley for a luxurious shopping and dining experience.
  • Shop for designer labels at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona's largest mall.
  • Savor a modern American brunch at Elements at Sanctuary Resort, featuring seasonal and organic ingredients.
  • Drive along Camelback Road and enjoy the stunning scenery of Paradise Valley.
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at Lon's at the Hermosa, a historic hacienda with farm-to-table cuisine and an intimate atmosphere.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Discover the Best of Scottsdale in 4 Days

Scottsdale, United States is a charming desert oasis that is a perfect tourist destination. The city offers a vast range of activities and attractions that cater to all ages and interests, such as outdoor adventures, world-class golf courses, exquisite shopping, and fine dining experiences. With its year-round warm climate and hospitable community, Scottsdale is undoubtedly a must-visit location for any traveler.

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.

Scottsdale Unleashed: 2 Days of Family Fun!

Scottsdale, located in the beautiful state of Arizona, offers a perfect family-friendly destination with a myriad of attractions. The city boasts picturesque desert landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant cultural scene. Families can enjoy exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, taking a scenic hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and engaging in a variety of water activities at the nearby Salt River.

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.