From opulent wine cellars to artsy settings and island-inspired spots, there’s no shortage of small meeting venues in Scottsdale. If you’re looking for the perfect place to host an intimate gathering, you’ll want to start here.
Alpio’s at Troon
Looking for a small event space that’s truly out of the ordinary? Host your next Scottsdale gathering at this classic 1950s-style diner. Surrounded by owner Alpio Barbara’s ever-changing personal collection of classic cars and motorcycles, your group of up to 200 attendees can enjoy a fun yet fancy atmosphere complete with arcade games, pinball and pool—not to mention the large-scale models of military aircraft and cheeky, life-sized mannequins of Old Hollywood celebs like the Rat Pack and Marilyn Monroe. With a wrap-around patio, unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak and Troon Mountain, and onsite gourmet catering, your event is sure to dazzle even the most discerning of guests.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one-time winter home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Taliesin West is tucked into the cooling foothills of the McDowell Mountains and features sweeping Sonoran Desert vistas. For small corporate events (120 guests or fewer), this national treasure and historic landmark offers myriad unique venues, including the Cabaret with its original Wright-designed chairs and elaborate Asian motif, plus an adjoining terrace surrounded by Wright’s signature organic architecture. Then there’s The Kiva, named for an underground ritual chamber used by Pueblo Indians, and the Music Pavilion, which first opened in 1957 and has hosted many a concert, exhibition and festive fete.
The Hermosa Inn, A Boutique Hideaway
Famed Artist Lon Magargee’s 43-room resort in the shadow of Camelback Mountain is the ultimate Southwestern escape. Secluded and luxurious—with historic architecture, authentic furnishings and original Western artwork—this boutique hotel is one of the Scottsdale area’s best small group meeting places and ideal for those seeking an intimate retreat. Event locales include The Stetson Room with its hand-painted ceilings (reception capacity: 60), the charming Boardroom and lush patio (reception capacity: 20), and The Library (reception capacity: 60) for relaxed fireside dining, as well as the flexible Adobe Room (reception capacity: 24) and The Wine Cellar (banquet capacity: 12) for an unforgettable private dining experience.
Christine and Ted Mollring Sculpture Courtyard at Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West
In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale sits an iconic collection of Western art—from Navajo chiefs’ blankets to Old West cowboy gear and a Hopi pottery exhibit spanning six centuries. The museum’s open-air sculpture courtyard is a favorite among meeting planners for its stunning desert environs, contemporary architecture and eye-catching displays of American West artwork. Here, you’ll find an ever-evolving array from the likes of Allan Houser and Cynthia Rigden. With space for up to 117 attendees, the multifunctional venue is a model of earth-conscious design; its centerpiece, the “weeping wall,” collects rainwater from the roof that aids in landscaping.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar
Get on island time! Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar is at once posh and laidback with an upscale beachy vibe and second-story lanai-style dining room; it’s definitely among Scottsdale’s top small-party venues. From bridal showers to rehearsal dinners and corporate mixers, this Kierland Commons haunt can do it all and planners love that it’s a refreshing alternative to hotel ballrooms and stuffy steakhouses. A customizable menu dishing out fresh seafood and local produce, live music, unique floral design and table settings—it’s all part of the experience at Tommy Bahama, where you can choose from 7 venues for seated or reception-style gatherings.
Katarina Kovacevic is an Arizona-based writer, traveler, wife and mom who is always on the hunt for her next big adventure. Her favorite Scottsdale gems are the Valley views from the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, hydrotherapy at Civana Spa and the kid’s pool beach at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch.