These signature Scottsdale experiences might be a bit off the beaten path, but they’re worth seeking out! Pick one or try them all for a memorable Scottsdale getaway.
COSANTI
Cosanti is one of Scottsdale’s most eclectic treasures and an Arizona Historic Site. This small compound, tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, showcases the innovative architecture and melodious bronze wind bells of the late Italian architect Paolo Soleri. Call ahead for bronze pour times and experience the creative process in action!
The Merchantile of Scottsdale
Tucked away in Historic Old Town Scottsdale, The Merchantile offers a wide variety of clothing, jewelry, home decor and gift items handcrafted by Arizona artisans. In addition to shopping for unique items, you can sign up for one of The Merchantile's DIY classes and create your own treasure to take home as a memento of your time in Scottsdale.
BUTTERFLY WONDERLAND
As if thousands of free-flying butterflies in a lush rainforest setting couldn't get any more fun, Butterfly Wonderland offers a host of special events to enhance your experience. Past events have included Yoga in the Rainforest, Butterfly Brushstrokes painting classes, Waking Up with the Butterflies photo hours and Flight for the Future conservation speaker series. Check their online calendar for current offerings.
MACDONALD’S RANCH
Saddle-up and explore the Sonoran Desert like the cowboys did! MacDonald’s Ranch offers horseback, hay wagon and stagecoach rides, as well as a petting zoo, games and free pony rides for cowpokes under 5 years old. You can even enjoy the serenity of the desert after dark on a romantic moonlight horseback ride!
THE STORE @ SCPA
This gem of a boutique at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts features artist-made jewelry, imaginative toys, fair-trade global crafts, world music, stylish accessories for home and office, and much more. Plus, all purchases are tax-free, and proceeds benefit the non-profit Scottsdale Cultural Council.
SCOTCH LIBRARY AT THE WESTIN KIERLAND
Let the Westin Kierland's Scotch Library Ambassadors guide you through more than 300 whiskey labels in a private tasting experience. The Library’s collection includes scotches from more than half the operating distilleries and all regions of Scotland. It features Scotch whiskies ranging from the most widely recognized 10-year-old blends to 40-year-old and older single-malt whiskies including the rare Balvenie 50-year.
SPHINX DATE CO. PALM & PANTRY
As the name implies, juicy Arizona dates take center stage at this legendary Scottsdale landmark. But you’ll also find an enticing variety of other locally sourced gourmet treats, including desert honey, prickly pear jam and syrup, handcrafted pasta, and salsas and sauces. Don’t leave without trying one of their legendary date milkshakes.
HANDLEBAR J
This cozy restaurant and saloon has been owned and operated by the Herndon family since 1975. You’ll go for the juicy ribs (prepared with house-made spice rub and zippy chipotle barbecue sauce) and stay for the live entertainment featuring country music star Ray Herndon and other local performers.
FASHION BY ROBERT BLACK
Nestled amid the galleries and restaurants of the Old Town Arts District, Fashion by Robert Black is a veritable treasure trove of vintage haute couture. From daywear and accessories to red-carpet designer pieces, this stylish boutique is a fashionista’s dream.
OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE WINE & ALE TRAILS
Old Town Scottsdale is a hub for tasting rooms from some of the state’s most acclaimed vineyards and craft breweries. Download the Scottsdale Wine Trail or Ale Trail maps, then spend an afternoon or evening sampling the fruits of their labor.
SCOTTSDALE PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR
This self-guided, 60-minute walking tour through Old Town Scottsdale introduces you to 10 of the most-celebrated Scottsdale public artworks, including striking bronze statues, dramatic fountains and interactive installations.