Scottsdale, Arizona is a desert city located east of the state capital of Phoenix. It is renowned for its spas, golf courses, and TPC Scottsdale. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a stunning desert landscape of hills, rock formations, and cacti. Taliesin West, the former home and studio of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is also nearby.
The historic downtown area of Scottsdale has buildings from the 1920s and olive trees from the 19th century. Butterfly Wonderland is a popular attraction with a 3D educational film “Flight of the Butterflies”, laboratories that host community workshops, nature programs, and a charming coffee shop. The Scottsdale Performing Arts Center is one of the most renowned performing arts salons in the western United States. It hosts more than 1,000 performances each year and its educational and outreach programs involve more than 20,000 adults and children annually.
There is also a gift shop and several restaurants offering outdoor dining in the immediate vicinity. The city also has an impressive modern art museum. If you're planning a trip to Scottsdale, don't miss out on my other useful guides such as my list of the 10 best restaurants in Scottsdale or my detailed Scottsdale travel guide. Watching the sunrise or sunset over the desert from 5,000 feet in the air is an experience you won't forget.
Taliesin West was the home of Frank Lloyd Wright which you can now tour and it's known for its impressive organic architecture. Scottsdale is only 12 miles away from Phoenix making it a short 20 minute drive. Arizona Cowboy College offers activities that teach you how to be a true Scottsdale cowboy. The Scottsdale Stadium is surrounded by many of Scottsdale's top attractions and often hosts special events such as concerts and festivals.
The Scottsdale Civic Center mall is located in downtown Scottsdale and offers plenty of shopping and dining options. Scottsdale Fashion Square is also located in downtown Scottsdale and has over 200 stores for your shopping needs. Experience Scottsdale was founded in 1987 as the tourist information center for the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce. Chocolate Tour of Scottsdale is owned by Gwendolyn McKay who knows all the best chocolate spots in Old Town as much as she knows chocolate.
Arizona Outdoor Fun offers ATV and UTV tours of some of the best places in Scottsdale.
