Things to do in and Around Scottsdale
Recreation
Papago Park
Papago Park – Explore scenic desert trails, picnic areas, and unique rock formations.
Hole-in-the-Rock Trail – A short, easy hike leading to a stunning natural rock formation with panoramic views.
Papago Park Trail Map – Various trails in Papago Park offer great routes for runners and cyclists.
Outdoor Attractions
Desert Botanical Garden – Discover over 50,000 desert plants in a beautifully curated setting.
Phoenix Zoo – One of the best zoos in the U.S., featuring over 3,000 animals, interactive exhibits, and conservation programs.
Papago Golf Club – A premier public golf course with stunning desert and mountain views.
MLB Spring Training – Cactus League
Papago is centrally located near several Cactus League stadiums for Spring Training:
- Scottsdale Stadium – Home of the San Francisco Giants
- Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – Home of the Arizona Diamondbacks & Colorado Rockies
- Sloan Park – Home of the Chicago Cubs
- Hohokam Stadium – Home of the Oakland Athletics
- Tempe Diablo Stadium – Home of the Los Angeles Angels
Cultural Attractions
Arizona Heritage Center – Learn about Arizona’s history, from early settlers to modern developments.
Hall of Flame Fire Museum – Showcasing the world’s largest collection of firefighting equipment and history.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West – Discover the rich history and culture of the American West.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) – A museum dedicated to contemporary art, architecture, and design.
Explore Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale – A lively district filled with shops, dining, and entertainment.
Shopping & Arts
Scottsdale Fashion Square – Shop luxury brands and unique boutiques at one of the largest and most upscale malls in the Southwest.
Scottsdale Arts District – Stroll through the art galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way, especially on Thursday nights during the Scottsdale ArtWalk.
Outdoor & Nightlife
Scottsdale Waterfront – Walk or bike along the scenic Arizona Canal, lined with shops, restaurants, and public art installations.
Experience Old Town’s Nightlife – Enjoy craft cocktails at speakeasies like Second Story Liquor Bar, or dance the night away at one of the many lively bars and clubs.
