Started as a modest farming community, Scottsdale has now become a premier resort destination. Browse more than 100 galleries in the downtown area. Dining, shopping and golf are just some of the favorite pastimes here. Take a stroll by the Civic Center Plaza with lovely fountains, gardens, and changing exhibits. Take in a Giants Spring training game at Scottsdale Stadium. Enjoy one of the many festivals taking place throughout the city each year including the exciting Parada del Sol, the Culinary Festival, and the Celebration of Fine Art.
Things to do in Scottsdale
Heard Museum North
A branch location of the renowned Heard Museum located in downtown Phoenix, the Heard Museum North features two full-scale exhibitions annually that draw on the outstanding collections of the Heard Museum. The North Scottsdale location offers visitors a place to look at and learn about Native artwork and an opportunity to purchase a few pieces of their own. Call 480-488-9817 for more information.
House of Broadcasting
The only historical broadcasting museum in Arizona. The museum features such displays as a 1920 era 35mm projector from 20th Century Fox. Call 602-944-1997 for more information.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Children of every age will enjoy a one-mile ride on the small scale train that traverses the park. There are also several full size railroad cars, historic exhibits, picnic and playground facilities. Call 480-312-2312 for more information.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park
At out of Africa Wildlife Park the staff actually lives with big cats and other wild animals. There are no rehearsed shows. Performances are the animal's Natural play exercise routines. They also have great food, beautiful gardens and best of all - the animals come to you. If you love animals, you will love Out of Africa. Call 480-837-7379 for more information.
Rawhide
Travel back in time to the untamed Wild West with a visit to this recreation of an 1880s western town. Experience the thrill of a stagecoach or train ride, see gunfights, stunt shows, a working blacksmith, Western shops and much more. It's a lot of fun for the whole family. Call 480-502-1880 for more information.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Located next to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts, the Contemporary Art Museum is Scottsdale's home for contemporary art, architecture, and design. There are five galleries to stroll through. On display are the works of nationally and internationally known contemporary artists as well as outstanding artists from Arizona. Call 480-994-2787 for more information.
Taliesin West
Tucked away in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, this National Landmark is the school and studio of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. From its inception, the buildings at Taliesin West astounded architectural critics with their beauty and unusual form. Taliesin West served as Wright's winter home, architectural studio, and campus for the Taliesin Fellowship. Tours are offered. Call 480-860-8810 for more information.