When the summer sun sets, the fun is just beginning in Scottsdale! Beat the heat of the day and take advantage of the Sonoran Desert’s clear, starry skies with these nighttime activities and adventures.
Play Night Golf at Grass Clippings Rolling Hills
Don’t let the sun dictate when you can play golf! Located just minutes from Old Town Scottsdale, Grass Clippings Rolling Hills is Arizona’s only fully lit, 18-hole executive course. With tee times as late as 10:50 p.m., you can tee it up well after sunset and make the most of night’s cooler temps. Loosen up your swing on Toptracer Range, grab a bite at Glenrosa, then hit the course for a round of golf under the stars – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Float Under the Full Moon with Yak ‘n’ Sup
Discover the beauty of Canyon Lake under the light of the full moon with Yak ‘n’ Sup Kayak & Paddleboard Tours’ monthly night paddles. As you glide through the water, you’ll see the moon and stars reflected in the lake’s glass-like surface. Each full-moon paddle has its own theme (think island luau, country cowboy, reggae and even pirates), and Yak ‘n’ Sup provides everything you need from life jackets and paddles to colorful glow stick packs.
Go Stargazing with Stellar Adventures
Your feet may be firmly planted on the ground, but when you take Stellar Adventures’ Stargazing Tour, you’ll embark on a journey through the heavens. After a short excursion away from the city lights, a professional astronomer will guide you on a tour of the night sky. The moon’s lunar mountains and canyons, Jupiter’s colorful belts and even distant Saturn’s rings and moons are among the celestial wonders you can view. If you’re looking for a more rugged adventure, Stellar’s night-vision tour takes you deep into the desert under the cloak of darkness. You’ll use high-tech night-vision equipment to view the landscape as it comes to life with nocturnal animals.
Explore the Desert Botanical Garden’s Trails
Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden (Saturday nights, June – mid-Sept.) is a longtime summer favorite among locals and visitors alike. As you explore the magic of the Garden by flashlight, you’ll see fascinating desert creatures, night-blooming plants and soak in the enchanting nighttime vibes.
Enjoy Live Music at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Tracks N Tunes is a series of free Sunday evening concerts at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (late April – May). Bring a blanket or chair, grab a bite from Hartley’s General Store or one of the onsite food trucks, and enjoy tunes ranging from country and rock to reggae, top 40 and R&B. Train and carousel rides for kids of all ages add to the fun!
Discover Public Art After Dark
Scottsdale’s renowned public art installations are beautiful to behold during the day, but these creative works of monumental art take on an extra-special glow after dark. From a 26-foot-tall steel jackrabbit and massive equine gargoyles to a graceful sculpture reflecting man’s aspiration for flight, these artworks are even more beautiful at night.
