Scottsdale’s cultural roots run deep, from the area’s first inhabitants, the Hohokam, to the cowboys, ranchers and farmers that followed in the late 1800s. Discover the area’s rich Western and Native American heritage through live performances, thrilling adventures, seasonal events, and outstanding art and museum exhibitions.
The Hermosa Inn
Hand-crafted in the 1930s by cowboy artist Alonzo "Lon" Megargee, the Inn's adobe architecture has kept its old-Arizona charm while offering luxurious accommodations and amenities. The Inn also boasts one of the largest collections of Megargee's original works, plus the on-site Blue Door Art Studio & Gallery, where guests can enjoy regularly scheduled painting classes.
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
This award-winning resort is a haven of Southwestern hospitality and charm, from its hacienda-style entry and lobby to its luxurious guestrooms and Camelback Mountain views. Take a stroll around the property and admire monumental bronze sculptures by the late Western artist Dave McGarry.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch
Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture and stunning McDowell Mountain views are among the first things you’ll notice at this luxury resort. Those interested in the region’s cultural background won’t want to miss the Friday evening cultural performances featuring seven-time World Hoop Dance Champion Derrick Suwaima Davis (Hopi/Choctaw).
Heard Museum
Founded in 1929, the Heard Museum is renowned as one of the country’s finest museums of Native American art and culture, both contemporary and historical. In addition to permanent and rotating exhibitions, the Heard hosts the annual World Championship Hoop Dance Competition and Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
This Old Town gem, recognized as the “Nation’s Best Western Museum” by True West Magazine, celebrates the pioneer spirit of the American West through changing exhibitions of fine art, rare historic artifacts and cultural treasures. Be sure to check out the museum’s event calendar for exhibit openings and other special events.
Native Art Market
Native-owned and -operated, this Old Town marketplace features authentic, handmade arts, crafts and jewelry by more than 300 Indigenous artisans. Be sure to check their calendar of weekly events, including tribal dance performances and Sip ‘N Shop experiences with Native artists and musicians.
JOYRIDESAZ “BEST OF THE WEST” TOUR
There’s plenty of Western history to discover in Old Town, from its rich cultural heritage to its historic buildings. JoyRidesAZ will take you on an open-air vehicle journey to the city’s best Western sites and attractions, including the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum and Old Adobe Mission.
Rusty Spur Saloon & Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon
These Scottsdale Country Western bars are known for their live music and colorful ambiance. Old Town’s Rusty Spur offers live music every day and night by local talent like the Psychobilly Rodeo Band. A few minutes north of Old Town, Handlebar J features live music six nights a week headlined by the famous Herndon Brothers Band (Wed.-Sun.).
Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn
Before dinner, stop by the adjacent Last Drop bar to grab a cocktail and take a gander at “The Last Drop from His Stetson,” Lon Megargee’s iconic painting we mentioned above. Then mosey over to Lon’s for farm-fresh Arizona cuisine by Chef Jeremy Pacheco. For a romantic setting, reserve a table by the fireplace on Lon’s spacious, tree-lined patio.
Bryan’s Black Mountain Barbecue
Got a cowboy-sized hunger that only great barbecue will satisfy? Chef/Owner Bryan Dooley’s award-winning specialties at this hotspot in nearby Cave Creek include beef brisket, pork ribs, barbecue chicken and vegetarian “pulled” squash. Be sure to try Bryan’s famous Baked Potato Salad – you’re welcome!
COURTYARD CAFÉ AT THE HEARD MUSEUM
The Heard Museum’s shady central courtyard is the setting for this bistro that specializes in modern Southwestern and Native-influenced cuisine for lunch. The seasonally changing menu features highlights like Tepary Bean Hummus & Frybread, slow-roasted pork Posole and the Sonoran Sunset salad tossed in prickly pear vinaigrette.
