Will Write 4 Travel: 5 Things to Do in Scottsdale, Arizona

I have always thought of Scottsdale as merely an extension of the Phoenix metro area. Despite having visited Phoenix many times, I never spent much time in Scottsdale until recently.

Scottsdale has much to offer, including plenty of eating and drinking options, opportunities to explore the great outdoors and even take in some culture.

Taliesin West

This is a must do for those who appreciate architecture. Taliesin West was the winter home and architecture school of Frank Lloyd Wright. It still serves as the campus of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture.

The property is accessible to the public by guided tours, which provide great insight into, not only the design of the buildings, but also into the man who was Frank Lloyd Wright.

Visit Old Town Scottsdale

Downtown / Old Town Scottsdale offers plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife options in the heart of the city and all in an easy walkable area.

Go for a Hike

From easy strolls to difficult climbs, Scottsdale has a huge variety of hiking trails to explore and take in the amazing desert views.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve is made up of six different trailheads, each with something unique to offer. The Lost Dog Wash Trail is a moderate 5 miles in length and culminates in an expansive view of the valley.

Hiking on the Lost Dog Wash Trail

View from Taliesin Overlook in McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Pinnacle Peak Park is another hiking trail that is favored by locals and visitors alike.

This 3.5 mile hike also provides spectacular views of the valley.

View on Pinnacle Peak Hike

Beer Tasting

Craft beer is yours for the tasting in Scottsdale. Fate Brewing Co. and Papago Brewing Co. are two such places that specialize in local, small-batch beers.

Four Peaks also has a taproom located in Scottsdale, where you can order a beer flight while enjoying some pub grub.

Beer Flight at Four Peaks Grill and Tap

Eat and Drink

You can find just about any type of cuisine you desire in and around Scottsdale. True Food Kitchen hit the spot after some outdoor activity. They offer healthy, fresh dishes. The Herb Box in Downtown Scottsdale is another hip restaurant with an inventive international menu.

Salad and Matcha from True Food Kitchen

Bonus: Musical Instrument Museum

Although technically in the city of Phoenix, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is very close to Scottsdale and is one of the top rated things to do in Phoenix on TripAdvisor.

MIM have over 6,500 instruments on display from 200 countries. Many of the exhibits are enhanced with audio and video displays that allow you to see and hear the instruments being played. There is so much to see that it took us about two and a half hours to make our way through the exhibits.