If you’re usually a frequent flier to sunny Los Angeles or you typically love to warm up in Florida, consider Scottsdale for a change of scenery this year.
Located Northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, Scottsdale is a rapidly growing desert destination that offers chic, up-to-date dining and shopping options (always served with a healthy side of Southwestern culture).
Scottsdale is walkable and offers a diverse range of activities, making it perfect for trips with family and friends.
The heart of the city is its downtown area, commonly referred to as Old Town Scottsdale, where you’ll find dining, shopping, arts, historical landmarks, and local culture.
Booking a gorgeous vacation rental with a pool and saving your outdoor adventures for the morning or early evening can help you stay cool and get the most out of your Sonoran Desert expedition.
There’s something for everyone in Scottsdale– whether you’re indoorsy, outdoorsy, or a little bit of both, you’ll be able to craft the perfect vacation for yourself and your loved ones.
Here are some 100 Collection-approved suggestions to kickstart your planning process!
Scottsdale stands out across Arizona for its exceptional shopping scene, blending distinctive Southwestern artistry with carefully curated boutiques that reflect the desert lifestyle.
While Fashion Square features well-known national retailers, the real discoveries lie in exploring the center's mix of regional brands and unique specialty shops you won't find elsewhere. This open-air retail mall offers a shopping experience beyond the typical mall.
You'll find distinctive boutiques specializing in Western-inspired fashion, local Arizona designers creating contemporary desert wear, and specialty stores offering Southwestern home goods and décor that blend modern design with traditional motifs.
The center's elevated dining options range from upscale steakhouses to creative sushi spots, making it easy to fuel up between shopping excursions.
For gifts and artisan items with authentic Southwestern flair, browse the 5th Avenue Shops district in Old Town, where Arizona's creative spirit comes alive. This charming shopping area features dozens of locally owned boutiques, Native American art galleries, turquoise jewelry specialists, and stores specializing in handcrafted leather goods, where you'll find one-of-a-kind pieces like hand-tooled cowboy boots, custom sterling silver belt buckles, Navajo weavings, and contemporary Southwestern home décor.
The area truly comes alive on Thursday evenings during the weekly ArtWalk, when galleries stay open late with complimentary wine and appetizers. Many shops offer shipping services for larger purchases, making it easy to bring home everything from pottery and paintings to handwoven textiles and desert-inspired jewelry that captures the essence of your Southwestern experience.
Scottsdale's culinary scene rivals any major metropolitan destination, offering everything from innovative farm-to-table breakfast spots to upscale steakhouses and authentic international cuisine.
4455 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
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Start your day at The Henry, a sophisticated yet approachable all-day bistro with a beautiful Scottsdale location. The airy, light-filled space features floor-to-ceiling windows, marble countertops, plush banquettes in rich jewel tones, and an impressive bar backed by shelves of premium spirits.
Weekend brunch draws crowds for their legendary avocado toast topped with watermelon radish and microgreens, brioche French toast with seasonal berries and maple butter, and shakshuka served bubbling in a cast-iron skillet. You can enjoy the breakfast from their beautiful patio.
3000 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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This farm-to-table gem in Old Town champions local ingredients and creative preparation. The industrial-chic interior features exposed brick, reclaimed-wood tables, Edison-bulb chandeliers, and an open kitchen where you can watch chefs at work.
Weekend brunch features their famous chilaquiles with house made salsa verde and cotija cheese, impossibly fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, and the Southwest Benedict with chorizo and chipotle hollandaise.
The coffee program uses single-origin beans from local roasters, and their pastry case displays fresh-baked goods delivered that morning. Reservations recommended for groups of four or more.
7014 E Camelback Rd #1822, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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Snooze has perfected the art of creative breakfast with a playful, energetic vibe. The colorful interior bursts with retro-modern décor, vinyl records on the walls, and a soundtrack of feel-good classics.
Their menu rotates seasonally but always includes inventive pancake flights featuring flavors like pineapple upside-down and sweet potato with candied bacon. The breakfast pot pie comes in a skillet with biscuit crust, sausage gravy, and cage-free eggs. Health-conscious diners love the quinoa power bowl with roasted vegetables and tahini drizzle.
Their cocktail program shines with creative morning drinks, such as the Blueberry Pancake cocktail, and house-made Bloody Marys. Expect lines during peak weekend hours, but turnover is relatively quick.
3815 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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The Mission elevates Latin cuisine to an art form in a stunning space that feels like a modern Spanish hacienda. Soaring wood-beam ceilings, wrought-iron chandeliers, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and a massive Day of the Dead mural create dramatic ambiance.
The covered patio with misters and fire pits is prime real estate year-round. Start with their legendary tableside guacamole, prepared to your specifications, and add pomegranate seeds, bacon, or mango for unique twists. The aguachile features fresh shrimp in citrus marinade with cucumber and chiltepin peppers.
For mains, the carne asada is perfectly charred, the sustainable fish tacos showcase daily catches, and the mole poblano chicken offers complex, layered flavors. Their margarita list spans 40+ options, from classic to exotic fruit infusions. The dessert menu includes churros with Mexican chocolate and dulce de leche dipping sauces. Reservations are essential, especially for dinner.
9393 N 90th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
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Despite Scottsdale's desert location, Hiro Sushi delivers authentic Japanese cuisine that rivals coastal cities. This intimate restaurant features minimalist décor with blonde wood, clean lines, paper lanterns, and a sushi bar where you can watch master chefs work with precision.
The omakase experience ($85-120) lets the chef select the freshest fish flown in daily from Tokyo's Tsukiji Market. Individual rolls range from $8-18 and include classics like spicy tuna and more adventurous options like the Scottsdale roll with shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, and jalapeño.
Their sake list features over 30 premium selections, with knowledgeable staff happy to guide pairings. The atmosphere is quiet and refined, perfect for date nights or business dinners.
7135 E Camelback Rd #130, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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This upscale steakhouse redefines the genre with bold flavors and theatrical presentation. The space dazzles with a massive open kitchen, floor-to-ceiling wine displays storing 1,200+ bottles, leather booths, and moody lighting that creates an energetic yet intimate atmosphere.
Start with the tableside Caesar salad or Alaskan king crab legs. Steaks are dry-aged in-house for 45+ days, and each steak comes with M&A steak sauce, bordelaise, and chimichurri. Sides are shareable and include truffle mac & cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, and duck fat potatoes.
The wine list is extensive, with knowledgeable sommeliers available for pairings. Save room for the deconstructed s'mores prepared tableside.
9301 E Shea Blvd #110, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
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This veteran-owned brewery honors Arizona's political legacy while serving exceptional craft beer in a casual, patriotic-themed space. Exposed ductwork, corrugated metal accents, a long communal table, and rotating art from local veterans create a welcoming taproom vibe.
The beer list rotates seasonally but always includes their flagship Barry Blonde Ale, a crisp, easy-drinking option perfect for the desert climate, and the Purple Heart IPA with bold citrus and pine notes. More adventurous drinkers should try seasonal offerings like the prickly pear wheat or coffee porter made with locally roasted beans. The food menu offers elevated bar fare, including street tacos, loaded nachos, and rotating flatbreads.
Live music on Friday nights draws a mixed crowd of locals and tourists. The dog-friendly patio features misters and mountain views. Happy hour runs Monday-Friday, 3-6pm, with $2 off pints.
7295 E Stetson Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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This gastropub and brewery in Old Town combines serious brewing credentials with upscale comfort food. The industrial-modern space features exposed brick, Edison bulbs, a gorgeous copper-clad bar, and an open kitchen producing sophisticated pub fare. Their house-brewed beers include the Ripped Blonde (citrus-forward), Hop Trip IPA (West Coast-style), and rotating seasonals.
They also offer 20+ guest taps from regional breweries. The food menu impresses with dishes like short rib mac & cheese, duck confit poutine, and their signature burger topped with bacon marmalade. Weekend brunch pairs breakfast dishes with beer cocktails.
The covered patio with fire pits and string lights creates a lively atmosphere, especially on weekend evenings when it fills with a stylish crowd. Reservations recommended for big groups.
7340 E Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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This high-energy nightlife destination transforms from pizza spot to party central as the evening progresses. The massive space includes a sprawling beer garden with oversized games (beer pong, cornhole), a DJ booth, multiple bars, and plenty of seating that fills with a young, energetic crowd.
The pizza menu offers New York-style slices and whole pies with creative toppings like the Blonde BBQ Chicken or Meatlovers. The beer selection spans 50+ draft options from light lagers to heavy stouts, plus spiked slushies in rotating flavors. After 9 pm on weekends, expect DJ sets, packed dance floors, and a nightclub atmosphere with bottle service available.
It's rowdy, fun, and perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties or groups looking to let loose.
Scottsdale is beautiful, with plenty of opportunities for desert exploration. If you'd like to experience desert-like wonder, check out the Desert Botanical Garden or the Gateway Trail at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
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The Desert Botanical Garden is one of Phoenix's crown jewels and a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the incredible biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert. Spread across 140 acres, this stunning garden showcases over 50,000 desert plants from around the world, with special emphasis on the unique flora of the Southwest. Five interconnected trails wind through the property, each offering a different perspective on desert ecosystems and how humans have adapted to this harsh yet beautiful environment.
Visiting during spring (late February through May) offers the spectacular sight of desert wildflowers and blooming cacti. The garden also hosts special seasonal events, including the winter light display "Las Noches de las Luminarias" and summer concerts. The onsite Gertrude's restaurant by chef Mark Tarbell serves fresh Arizona-inspired cuisine, and the garden shop offers unique desert-themed gifts and plants. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the trails.
Or, head to the Gateway Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve for a morning hike– aim to finish early so you can have lunch inside or relax by the pool during the hottest hours of the day (around noon to 3 pm). Scottsdale also has the largest aquarium in the Southwest: plan a trip to OdySea to escape the heat and keep the little ones entertained with exciting sea creatures.
For a moderate introduction to desert hiking, try the Gateway Loop (4.5 miles) which winds through classic Sonoran landscape dotted with saguaros, palo verde trees, and seasonal wildflowers. The trail offers panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains and the valley below. More experienced hikers can tackle the challenging Windgate Pass Trail which climbs to spectacular ridge-top vistas.
The preserve is busiest from November through April when temperatures are pleasant. Summer hiking is possible but should only be attempted in the very early morning hours (before 7am) with plenty of water and sun protection. The Gateway Trailhead has ample parking, clean restrooms, water fountains, and interpretive signage. Rangers and volunteer naturalists are often available to answer questions about the desert ecosystem. Remember to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert environment and watch for wildlife including javelinas, coyotes, and desert tortoises.
The former home of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Scottsdale is known worldwide for its architecture and art.
To better understand Wright’s imprint on architecture, tour Taliesin West and the iconic Spire. Taliesin West luckily offers tours for those who want to visit the home, including audio tours, and the opportunity to spot the drafting room where Wright drew up iconic buildings. Nearby in a public park, you have the Spire and other sculptures to admire.
Every Thursday night, join the Scottsdale ArtWalk, a walking tour of various galleries and exhibitions throughout the city. Both locals and visitors enjoy the ArtWalk, which is often themed and includes refreshments.
For fantastic photo opportunities, check out the installations at the Fashion Square as well as the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, there are a variety of bright, stand-out murals and individual art pieces sprinkled throughout the city so you can document your trip through beautiful images that will pop on your Instagram grid.
If you’re a lover of history, be sure to visit Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West or the Old Adobe Mission nearby.
This museum covers every facet of historical Western life– not just in the US, but also in Mexico and Western Canada. The Museum of the West is conveniently located in Old Town Scottsdale. Here, you'll find an incredible display of history and art like visual journeys through the American west, events and programs like artist spotlights and storytelling, and continuously changing exhibitions.
For a holistic exploration of Scottsdale’s history, take a self-guided Historic Old Town Walking Tour and learn the context behind landmarks, art pieces, and more. Or, hop on a golf cart and enjoy a guided tour of the city’s historical landmarks.
Also close by is the Old Adobe Mission– a historic, Spanish Colonial Revival-style church that dates back to 1910. Originally originated as an Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, this building is rich is religious history. Over time, this Old Adobe Mission has become a place of belonging and meditation for those who need it.
Scottsdale might not be the first place you think of when you want to plan a warm, sunny getaway, but it definitely should be!
It’s got oodles of arts, culture, and great food without the saturation or chaos of other popular vacation destinations.
The 100 Collection is proud to partner with Stay Porter, a curated collection of oasis-like vacation rentals in the Scottsdale area that range from 4 to 7 bedrooms.
Stay Porter is your ideal option for crystal-clear pools, resort-style amenities (such as entertainment rooms, workout rooms, and saunas), and expansive views of lush Sonoran greenery. Book one of their vacation rentals if you want to top off your Scottsdale vacation with the perfect home to stay!
