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Scottsdale Stories

Memorial Day 2023 in Scottsdale

There's no better way to kick off summer than by spending Memorial Day weekend in Scottsdale! From pool parties and desert adventures to breathtaking sunrise hikes, there's plenty of fun to be had this holiday weekend!

 


Head to a Pool Party

Hotel Valley Ho Summer 2023

Check out OH Pool at Hotel Valley Ho and the legendary Wet Deck at W Scottsdale, both of which offer DJ-spun tunes and a see-and-be-seen atmosphere. Another great option is Talking Stick Resort, which offers weekly Vibe Ultra Pool Parties and top-name entertainment at their spacious main pool. This year’s lineup includes headliners like Above & Beyond, deadmau5, Zedd and Black Tiger Sex Machine.

 


Indulge in Some Retail Therapy

Scottsdale Quarter

Ready to splurge on some new summer fashions? Check out Scottsdale’s premier shopping centers, including Scottsdale Fashion Square, Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, for the season's cutest on-trend designer goods. 

 


Stroll the Arizona Boardwalk

Odysea_Dad and Daugther

Explore the rivers and oceans of the world at OdySea Aquarium, visit with butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland, experience the impossible at the Museum of Illusions, or travel back to pre-historic times at Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs. It’s all in a day’s play at Arizona Boardwalk!

 


Explore the Sonoran Desert 

Kayak

Have an itch for some adventure? Explore the Sonoran Desert on an early morning off-road tour, sunrise hot air balloon ride or a water-based adventure like kayaking or river rafting.

 


Browse the Old Town Farmers Market

Farmers Market_2

Stop by the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market for fresh produce, free-range beef, locally made sauces and salsas, and other fixings for your family’s holiday celebration. The market is open Saturdays in May from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. In June, market hours change to 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

 


Hike in Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve 

Family Hiking

From easy walks to challenging summit climbs, Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve has just the hike you’re looking for to burn off those extra Memorial Day barbecue calories. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset daily, though we strongly recommend hiking as early as possible to avoid hot midday temperatures. Access to all trails in the Preserve is free! Check out the "know before you go" tips in our hiking safety guide.

 


Check Out Scottsdale’s Public Parks

Train at McCormick Stillman

Ride the train and carousel at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, enjoy a sunrise hike and stunning scenic views at Pinnacle Peak Park, or stroll the newly renovated Scottsdale Civic Center, home to numerous public art installations, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.  Scottsdale’s public parks are ready and waiting for you to explore!

For more Memorial Day festivities, check out our online event calendar