Scottsdale in 5 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun!

Scottsdale splendor on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Visiting Scottsdale on a limited budget is possible with some careful planning. Start by taking advantage of free activities, such as hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or exploring Old Town Scottsdale. Consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb outside of the main tourist areas to save money on accommodations.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Southwest Excursion

  • Check-in at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Scottsdale North
  • Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and desert laboratory
  • Wander through the Old Town Scottsdale and explore the local boutiques and restaurants
  • Admire the stunning panoramic views at Camelback Mountain
  • Have a spicy dinner at the award-winning restaurant The Mission
Day 2

Artsy Experience

  • Visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and some of the local art galleries
  • Take a tour of the Cosanti Foundation to see the unique works of Paolo Soleri
  • Attend a performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
  • Take an evening stroll through the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
  • Have a drink at the quirky Barter & Shake cocktail bar
Day 3

Wild West Adventure

  • Explore the Sonoran Desert on horseback with Ponderosa Stables
  • Visit the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West to indulge in local history and culture
  • Take a hot air balloon ride in the evening for breathtaking views
  • Dine at the Rusty Spur Saloon for classic cowboy cuisine
  • Enjoy live music and dancing at Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon
Day 4

Nature Escape

  • Walk through the Desert Botanical Garden and learn about the unique plants and animals
  • Take a hike at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve for stunning views of the desert
  • Have a picnic lunch at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
  • Take a dip in the refreshing swimming pools at the hotel
  • Indulge in Thai cuisine at the friendly Wild Thaiger restaurant
Day 5

Relax and Reflect

  • Have a relaxing morning at the hotel's hot tubs
  • Visit the Scottsdale Public Art Walk and appreciate the outdoor sculptures and installations
  • Embark on a spiritual journey at the Franciscan Renewal Center
  • Have a farewell dinner at Olive & Ivy Restaurant and soak in the charming atmosphere
  • Watch a movie at the cozy Harkins Theatres Shea 14 cinema

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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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