Scottsdale
Population 246,170 · "Desert Elegance and World-Class Culture"
Why Scottsdale?
Scottsdale is where the raw beauty of the Sonoran Desert meets refined living. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, spanning 30,500 acres of protected wilderness, offers world-class hiking and biking just minutes from luxury resorts, award-winning restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.
Old Town Scottsdale pulses with energy, from First Friday art walks to the nightly hum of restaurants and bars. The Scottsdale Waterfront adds a modern dimension with upscale shopping and public art. And for golfers, the city boasts more courses per capita than almost anywhere in the country.
While Scottsdale carries a reputation for luxury, the city offers a range of neighborhoods from family-friendly communities in North Scottsdale to affordable pockets near Old Town. The quality of life is hard to beat.
Fall in Scottsdale
Canal Convergence
Scottsdale's internationally renowned 10-day light-art festival returns to the Scottsdale Waterfront November 6-15 with massive interactive installations, live performances, and free nightly programming.
Arizona Fall League Baseball
MLB's top prospects take the field at Scottsdale Stadium through mid-November. Affordable, intimate fall baseball minutes from Old Town, with a rising star in every lineup.
Old Town Fall Evenings
First Friday and the weekly Thursday Gold Palette ArtWalk keep Old Town buzzing, and the new Kuza, Los Milic's Tasting Room, and Vecina give more reasons than ever to dine out as the desert cools down.
Kierland Fine Art & Wine Fall Festival
The inaugural juried art and wine festival at Kierland Commons (Nov 7-8) brings fine artists, tastings, and live music to North Scottsdale for a refined fall weekend.
Scottsdazzle & Holiday Lights
Old Town's monthlong holiday celebration (late Nov-Dec 31) brings tree lightings, concerts, and nearly 45 free activities, while McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park runs its holiday train nightly Nov 28-Dec 30.
Where to Eat in Scottsdale
Din Tai Fung
Scottsdale Fashion Square
The world-famous Michelin-starred dumpling house opened its first Arizona location at Scottsdale Fashion Square in April 2026. Signature soup dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and xiao long bao. Expect a wait — and it's worth every minute.
Vecina — Now Open in McCormick Ranch
8300 Hayden Rd, McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale
The acclaimed James Beard semifinalist Latin-inspired restaurant opened its second location in late August 2026 at McCormick Ranch. Expanded menu with lunch, brunch, happy hour, private dining, and a lakeside patio. Now open and welcoming guests.
BOA Steakhouse
Scottsdale Waterfront (Southbridge)
Innovative Dining Group's award-winning modern steakhouse opened at Scottsdale Waterfront in 2026. Waterfront views, premium beef cuts, and an upscale dining experience.
Il Bracco
6160 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
A Texas-based neighborhood Italian restaurant that opened its first Arizona location in North Scottsdale in March 2026. Handmade pasta, Neapolitan pizza, and a curated wine list.
The Mission
3815 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale
Latin-inspired cuisine in Old Town with a stunning courtyard, hand-crafted tableside guacamole, and an extensive tequila list.
Farm and Craft
4302 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
Healthy, farm-to-table dishes in a bright, airy Old Town setting. Known for wellness-forward menu, cold-pressed juices, and a shaded courtyard.
FnB Restaurant
7125 E 5th Ave, Scottsdale
Award-winning wine bar and restaurant celebrating Arizona agriculture. Seasonal menu changes weekly. A local institution.
Bourbon & Bones
4200 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
Upscale chophouse known for prime steaks, an extensive bourbon selection, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Jing
10605 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
An upscale Asian restaurant known for sushi, steak, and seafood that opened its first Arizona location in Scottsdale in early 2026.
La Miel de Agave
6107 N Scottsdale Rd (Hilton Village), Scottsdale
A modern Mexican restaurant serving aguachile, green chile enchiladas, quesabirria tacos, and elote. Opened at Hilton Village.
The Guest House
Scottsdale Quarter, Scottsdale
Elevated New American cuisine at Scottsdale Quarter featuring a standout Wagyu steak program, craft cocktails, and an elegant dining room.
Cielito Rooftop
7117 E 3rd Ave, Scottsdale
A stunning rooftop dining experience atop the AC Hotel Scottsdale Old Town. Latin-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains.
Wayward
Old Town Scottsdale
A brand-new restaurant and bar taking over the former Liquor Pig space in Old Town Scottsdale. A stylish new reason to explore the neighborhood's dining scene.
Ni Hao Bao
N Shea Blvd, Scottsdale
A new spot on North Shea Boulevard in Scottsdale, the latest addition to the North Scottsdale dining scene.
Kuza
North Scottsdale
A Japanese robata grill, raw bar, and craft cocktail lounge from Clive Collective that opened in September 2026. Live-fire robata skewers, fresh sashimi, and an intimate modern room make it one of the season's most anticipated new tables.
Los Milic's Scottsdale Tasting Room
Old Town Scottsdale
This Arizona wine tasting room opened in Old Town Scottsdale in late September 2026, pouring locally crafted wines with a sharing menu and two patios. A relaxed new way to taste Arizona terroir.
Telefèric Barcelona
Scottsdale Fashion Square
The acclaimed Spanish tapas and pinxtos restaurant opened at Scottsdale Fashion Square, bringing its lively Barcelona-style dining room, sangria, and shareable small plates to the Eastside.
Things to Do in Scottsdale
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
30,500 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert wilderness with over 225 miles of trails. The largest urban preserve in the United States. Summer strategy: arrive at the trailhead by 5:30 a.m. for the coolest, most peaceful hiking.
Old Town Scottsdale
The cultural heart of Scottsdale with art galleries, boutiques, nightlife, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. The dining scene is buzzing — Din Tai Fung, Il Bracco, and Drake's Hollywood are all new arrivals in 2026. First Friday art walks continue all summer.
Scottsdale Waterfront
A revitalized canal-front district with upscale shopping, dining, and public art installations along the Arizona Canal. Evening strolls along the canal are a summer staple.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
A curated collection of contemporary art, architecture, and design in a converted movie theater in Old Town. Cool, quiet, and thought-provoking — ideal for a hot summer afternoon.
Events in Scottsdale
First Friday Art Walk
The first Friday night of every month, Old Town Scottsdale transforms into a massive open-air art experience with gallery showings, street performers, and dining specials.
"That's What I Like" Tribute Show
A lively musical tribute show was held at the Casino Arizona Showroom. Check back for upcoming shows.
Reba McEntire & Dolly Parton Tribute
The special tribute show celebrating two country music legends at the Casino Arizona Showroom has concluded.
NE-YO & AKON: Nights Like This Tour
R&B icons NE-YO and AKON performed at the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre. Check back for future shows.
Gene Simmons Band
KISS legend Gene Simmons brought his solo band to the Talking Stick Resort Showroom. Check back for future shows.
Fan Halen - Van Halen Tribute
The ultimate Van Halen tribute band performed at the Casino Arizona Showroom. Check back for future shows.
Gold Palette ArtWalk
Old Town Scottsdale galleries stay open late with artist meet-and-greets, complimentary refreshments, and new exhibitions every Thursday evening.
Collective Soul
90s rock favorites performed at the Talking Stick Resort Showroom. Hits like "Shine" and "December" lit up the Scottsdale stage. Check back for future shows.
Air Supply
Soft rock legends brought their classic hits to the Talking Stick Resort Showroom. Timeless ballads and desert romance.
Arizona Taco Fest
A weekend at Salt River Fields celebrating the taco. Live music, tequila garden, Lucha Libre wrestling, and dozens of taco vendors.
Night Trip Festival Arizona
An electronic music festival at WestWorld of Scottsdale with multi-stage DJ sets, immersive production, and desert vibes.
Canal Convergence
Scottsdale's internationally renowned 10-day outdoor public art festival along the Old Town Waterfront. Massive interactive light installations and live performances.
Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships
The country's most attended polo event at WestWorld, featuring top matches, fashion, luxury cars, and gourmet food tents.
Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
A massive vintage and artisan market at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Over 200 vendors with antique furniture, retro decor, and handmade goods.
BOO! Arizona
An epic Halloween EDM festival at WestWorld of Scottsdale headlined by Seven Lions, Dombresky, Kompany, and Samplifire. Costumes, immersive production, and the biggest Halloween party on the Eastside.
Decadence Arizona
The Valley's premier New Year's Eve celebration at Phoenix Raceway. Multi-stage electronic music festival and a midnight countdown to 2027.
Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza
Scottsdale's month-long holiday celebration in Old Town featuring the Jingle & Jazz Tree Lighting, Santa visits, festive markets, and nearly 45 free holiday activities.
Las Noches de las Luminarias
The Desert Botanical Garden's beloved holiday tradition with thousands of glowing luminaria bags, twinkling lights, and live music.
Christmas at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
A spectacular winter wonderland with ice skating, snow tubing, a Ferris wheel, and the "Starlights" lagoon show.
PBR Ridge Rider Days
Professional Bull Riding at WestWorld of Scottsdale wrapped October 11. The world's top bull riders competed in the ultimate test of skill. Watch for its return.
Parada del Sol
One of the largest horse-drawn parades in the world, winding through Old Town Scottsdale. Returning February 2027.
Amy Grant: The Me That Remains Tour
Six-time Grammy winner Amy Grant performed at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts with special guest Franni Cash. An evening of heartfelt classics.
Scottsdale Fall Festival
A free family-friendly fall festival at the Scottsdale Civic Center with live music, magic show, carnival games,and trick-or-treating.
Pumpkin Fest at the Princess
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess' seasonal pumpkin fest with wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, yard games, fall treats, and family photo ops.
Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
Twenty-plus glowing balloons take over Salt River Fields,with a haunted Spook Trail and 30-plus inflatables. A glowing Halloween spectacle.
Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The historic railroad park transforms with holiday lights,themed train rides,carousel caroling,and Santa visits.
Winter Waterland: SeaTREK Santa at OdySea Aquarium
Santa makes underwater appearances aboard SeaTREK at OdySea Aquarium. A one-of-a-kind holiday experience.
Meet Santa at the Old Town Farmers Market
The Old Town Farmers Market hosts Santa visits on Saturday mornings from late November through December. Snag a holiday photo in between the stalls.
Arabian National Breeder Finals
Top Arabian show horses from across the country compete at the Equidome at WestWorld of Scottsdale. A stunning display of equestrian excellence.
AZQHA Arizona Fall Championship
The Arizona Quarter Horse Association hosted its annual fall championship at WestWorld of Scottsdale with competitive western and English classes all week. See you next year.
NASCAR Playoff Weekend (Metro Phoenix)
NASCAR playoff racing returns to the Phoenix metro area for a high-octane fall weekend, just a short drive from the Eastside.
Arizona Pinners Conference
The 10th annual Pinners Conference, a hands-on DIY, crafting, and lifestyle expo, returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale with classes, shopping, and inspiration.
Goodguys Southwest Nationals Car Show
The 29th Goodguys Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals rolls into WestWorld of Scottsdale. Hundreds of classic rods, customs, and muscle cars for a car lover's paradise.
Arizona Musicfest: A Celebration of Sondheim
Arizona Musicfest opens its North Scottsdale season with a tribute to the legendary Stephen Sondheim. Broadway vocalists and a full orchestra perform songs from his most iconic shows.
Lee Brice at Talking Stick Resort
Country star Lee Brice brings his chart-topping hits to the Talking Stick Resort Showroom. A warm evening of modern country favorites.
Jay Leno at Talking Stick Resort
Legendary comedian and former Tonight Show host Jay Leno brings his timeless stand-up to the Talking Stick Resort Showroom. A fun post-Thanksgiving night out.
Arizona Fall League Baseball
MLB top prospects take the field at Scottsdale Stadium for six weeks of affordable,intimate fall baseball just minutes from Old Town.
Best of the West / NRHA Southwest Reining Championships
Top reining horses and riders from across the country competed at WestWorld of Scottsdale through October 11. A stunning week of equestrian athleticism.
Ghouls Gone Wild Bar Crawl
Old Town Scottsdale's Halloween bar crawl sends costumed crowds through the district's best bars on two spooky October nights.
Kierland Fine Art & Wine Fall Festival
The inaugural Kierland Fine Art & Wine Fall Festival brings juried fine artists, wine tastings, and live music to Kierland Commons in North Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Fashion Week
Four days of runway shows, designer pop-ups, and style events across Scottsdale wrapped October 11. Arizona's fashion scene took center stage. Watch for the next edition.
Oktoberwest Festival
An Oktoberfest celebration at the Westin Kierland Resort with craft beer, Bavarian bites, live music, and games on a beautiful desert patio.
Candy Coated Halloween at Allegra
A playful Halloween rooftop party in Old Town Scottsdale with cocktails, costumes, and skyline views.
Scottsdale Italian Festival
A weekend celebration of Italian food, wine, and culture in Scottsdale with pasta and pastry vendors, live music, cooking demos, and family fun.
Fleurs de Villes NOËL at Scottsdale Fashion Square
The acclaimed floral exhibition series transforms Scottsdale Fashion Square with stunning fresh-flower holiday displays and design showcases.
Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience
Chefs from Native communities across the Southwest gather for a one-day celebration of Indigenous foodways, cooking demos, tastings, and storytelling.
Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway
The richest breakaway roping event in the country returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale over Thanksgiving weekend. Top cowgirls compete for a million-dollar purse.
Scottsdale SantaCon Bar Crawl
Hundreds of Santas take over Old Town Scottsdale for the annual SantaCon pub crawl. Festive costumes, holiday cheer, and bar-hopping fun.
Britain's Finest at Casino Arizona
The acclaimed Beatles tribute Britain's Finest brings the Fab Four's timeless catalog to the Casino Arizona Showroom in Scottsdale. A joyful trip through the greatest hits.
Man of La Mancha at Arizona Musicfest
Arizona Musicfest presents a fully staged production of the beloved musical Man of La Mancha in North Scottsdale. Dream the impossible dream with a full cast and orchestra.
Revisiting Creedence at Arizona Musicfest
Arizona Musicfest celebrates the timeless catalog of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son, and all the classics, live with a full band.
Scottsdale Quarter Fall Concert Series
The Scottsdale Quarter Fall Concert Series wraps on Halloween night with free live music at The Quad. Grab a seat, do some shopping, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Frankie Moreno: Elvis for a Day at Arizona Musicfest
Arizona Musicfest presents Frankie Moreno's Elvis for a Day, a high-energy tribute to the King of Rock and Roll in North Scottsdale. A swinging night of Elvis favorites.
The Sixties Show at Arizona Musicfest
Arizona Musicfest presents The Sixties Show, a high-energy celebration of the decade's greatest hits. A nostalgic trip back in time in North Scottsdale.
Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Quarter
Free photos with Santa at Scottsdale Quarter run November 8 through December 24. A festive stop for families in one of North Scottsdale's favorite shopping districts.
M3F Holiday Concert & Toy Drive
The M3F Holiday Concert returns to The Quad at Scottsdale Quarter, 5-7 p.m., with festive live music and a toy drive for local families. A feel-good way to kick off the giving season.
A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas at Arizona Musicfest
Arizona Musicfest presents A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas with the swinging sounds of the Count Basie Orchestra playing holiday classics. A jazzy, joyful way to celebrate the season.
Dreaming of Scottsdale?
From desert retreats to Old Town condos, Tricia knows the Scottsdale market inside and out. Let her help you find your place.