Things to Do in the Phoenix & Scottsdale Area

Whether you're here for the weekend or turning the trip into a mini vacation, there’s so much to explore!

Local Attractions

Old Town Scottsdale – Great shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.

Desert Botanical Garden – Gorgeous desert plants and trails, especially beautiful at sunset.

Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece.

McDowell Mountain Preserve or Phoenix Mountain Preserve – Popular hikes such as the Gateway Trail, Piestewa Peak, Camelback Mountain and trails for all hiking experience levels.

Phoenix Art Museum & Heard Museum – Perfect for art and Native American history lovers.

Relaxation & Fun

Resort Spas – Try The Phoenician, Sanctuary Camelback, or Civana for some pampering.

Golf – Play at courses like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club.

Scottsdale Wine Trail – Local wine tasting rooms all walkable in downtown Scottsdale.

Fountain Hills Area - The Fountain – One of the world’s tallest fountains, shooting water up to 560 feet. A scenic spot for a walk or picnic in Fountain Park.

Scenic Drives - the drive to Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat offer stunning views of the Superstition Mountains and desert scenery.

Day Trips

Have a little more time? These make perfect day trips from the Phoenix/Scottsdale area:

Sedona (2 hours north)

Red rock hiking, energy vortexes, spas, and stunning views. Don’t miss Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, or a Pink Jeep tour.

Flagstaff (2.5 hours north)

Charming mountain town with forests, cool weather, and a laid-back vibe. Great for hiking, breweries, and shopping. Head to Buffalo Park for beautiful walking paths with snowcapped mountain views of Humphrey's Peak.

Grand Canyon (3.5–4 hours north)

Bucket-list worthy! Head to the South Rim for breathtaking views, hiking, and visitor centers. Start at the East Rim and drive to the South Rim for less crowds.

Extended Adventures

If you’re turning this into a longer trip, check out these epic Southwest destinations:

Kanab, Utah (5 hours)

A hidden gem for outdoor lovers. Explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Slot Canyons, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, or Buckskin Gulch.

- Try booking local tours with Coral Cliffs Tours in Kanab for short- or all-day adventures. They offer the best guided trip to White Pocket in AZ.

Zion National Park (5.5 hours)

One of the most stunning parks in the U.S. Hike Angels Landing (permit required) or The Narrows for a truly unforgettable experience. Stay in nearby Springdale for easy access.

Add in Bryce National Park if you are going to Zion. Only about an hour and a half away!