6 Reasons Why Scottsdale, Arizona Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

From Las Vegas to Santa Fe, there are lots of must-see destinations in the southwest corner of the country. You may be wondering, “why Scottsdale?” Though Scottsdale’s neighbor, Phoenix, might hog the spotlight when it comes to getaway spots in Arizona, Scottsdale has a variety reasons to visit all on its own.

One notable attraction is REBL’s collection of vacation homes with pools in Scottsdale, offering a luxurious and relaxing way to enjoy your stay in this beautiful city.

Stunning natural beauty

Set at the foot of Camelback Mountain and adjacent to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale puts the epitome of desert beauty at your fingertips. Within a short drive, you can hike, bike, climb, hunt, or ride on horseback while enjoying the picturesque scenery. With over 180 miles of trails at the Preserve, you can return again and again for new experiences. Looking for a day trip? The Tonto National Forest and Prescott National Forest are easily accessible by car.

Paradise for shoppers

Besides packing your sunglasses, you’ll want to leave plenty of empty space in your suitcase if you’re coming to Scottsdale to shop. Outdoor retail and dining hub Scottsdale Quarter is one of the city’s favorite destinations, and if you want to stay near the action, Stay Alfred at Broadstone Scottsdale Quarter is just steps away from the shops. For more upscale boutiques (and refreshing air conditioning), check out Scottsdale Fashion Square, or head to Phoenix Premium Outlets for some amazing deals.

World-class golf courses

It’s not only the beautiful weather conditions (330 days of sun per year) that make Scottsdale at attractive golf destination, but also the quality of the area’s courses. In Scottsdale you’ll find not only award-winning golf resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale and the Boulders Resort & Spa, but also courses like Southern Dunes Golf Club, Grayhawk Golf Club, and We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, which are designed some of the best in the industry.

Fabulous restaurants

When staying in Scottsdale, Arizona, you certainly won’t go hungry! Scottsdale’s Old Town neighborhood is packed with delicious eateries that range from casual family establishments to gourmet restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to taste authentic Mexican fare at Old Town favorites like Barrio Queen and Carlsbad Tavern, and for late-night tacos, Mr. Mesquite Taqueria is open until the wee hours. For a tasty breakfast, head to Alo Cafe or Breakfast Club or grab coffee at Regroup Coffee or Cartel Coffee Lab. And for a dinner to impress, make a reservation at Virtu Honest Craft or Ocean 44.

Five-star spas

In need of some rest and relaxation? Scottsdale is the perfect place to find spa treatments of any kind, which often include desert-inspired details and local herbs or minerals. Day spas like New Serenity Spa and Hawaiian Experience Spa offer convenient options for massages or facials. Or, for a more luxurious experience, indulge in a wellness retreat at a Scottsdale spa resort like The Phoenician, Royal Palms Resort and Spa, or Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

Exciting annual events

The Scottsdale area has a jam-packed event calendar from January to December every year. The year kicks off with the “Greatest Show on Grass,” a segment of the PGA Tour held at the Tournament Players Club. The spring season brings horse shows, the Parada del Sol Parade & Rodeo, and art exhibitions. The Scottsdale Culinary Festival is always a highlight during April, and once per month, Scottsdale ArtWalk offers a fun way to experience local art galleries. Wrapping up the year are holiday activities (holiday lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and Phoenix ZooLights and ) and bowl games (the Insight Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl).

With so much to do, see, eat, and experience, Scottsdale is an easy choice for a weekend away or an extended vacation.