Scottsdale, Arizona is a stunning desert oasis located at the foot of the picturesque McDowell Mountains. Bordered by Phoenix to the west, the Tonto National Forest to the north, the McDowell Mountains to the east, and the Salt River to the south, Scottsdale is a city that shines in many different ways. From its luxury resorts and championship golf courses to its vibrant art galleries and outdoor recreation, Scottsdale has something for everyone. Scottsdale is home to some of Arizona's best luxury resorts, many of which are clustered around picturesque Camelback Mountain.
For more moderate pricing options, there are plenty of hotels and motels in the area. The city also boasts a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife spots. The city is also home to some of Arizona's most beautiful natural attractions. The McDowell Sonoran Reserve is more than 40 square miles of permanently protected Sonoran wilderness, a natural respite just minutes from the modern hustle and bustle of the city.
The annual Parade of the Sun Rodeo is a community tradition for more than 60 years. Scottsdale also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city has several dog parks, including one of the most impressive in the country, Scottsdale's Chaparral Dog Park, which separates active and passive dogs so everyone can enjoy the fresh air and work out. There are also several trails for hiking and biking, as well as parks and playgrounds for families.
The city also offers plenty of services for residents and visitors alike. Minimum permits required for most single-family residential electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work (excluding gas lines) can be obtained online with a credit card. A new online service called Scottsdale EZ makes it easier for residents to report problems with city facilities or services. The Scottsdale Small Business Assistance Center (SSBAC) serves as a virtual one-stop shop for businesses seeking information on business support programs and resources available during the COVID-19 crisis. ChoosScottsdale is the official economic development website for the City of Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Airport is a general aviation relief facility with no commercial passenger or airline service and is home to many of the Valley's corporate aircraft. The Old Town Galleries open their doors every Thursday for collectors and occasional customers alike to enjoy outstanding artists, a cultural atmosphere and refreshments. Scottsdale is ready for millennial travelers thanks to its dining scene, great nightlife, and quirky features like golf cart taxis operating in Old Town Scottsdale. The city also offers a variety of recreational classes through its Parks & Recreational program. Online registration is available for these classes. Scottsdale may be stereotyped as exclusive and only “for the affluent and more mature traveler” but it has something for everyone.
From its luxury resorts to its outdoor recreation opportunities, Scottsdale is an oasis in the desert that should not be missed.
