Things to Do in Scottsdale AZ

Whether you’ve just moved to North Scottsdale, Arizona, or are a long-time resident looking for something new, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun while exploring our beautiful city. Here are some of our favorite places and activities nearby.

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Beauty

Embrace the outdoors with options for both adventure and relaxation.

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is perfect for hiking and exploring. It sits on 30,000 acres of desert and has 225 miles of hiking and cycling trails ranging from easy breezy to hardcore rugged terrain. Guided tours are available, or you can explore the area solo. If one day isn’t enough, consider staying overnight at the nearby McDowell Mountain Regional Park, which offers camping.

For golf enthusiasts, Scottsdale. boasts many world-class courses for all experience levels. When you’re ready to unwind, visit one of the many spas that offer outdoor spa and wellness experiences. For instance, the Sanctuary Spa at Camelback Mountain is scenic and includes a Meditation Garden where you can relax after your luxurious spa treatment.

Family-Friendly Fun

Scottsdale is an excellent place for families of all ages and sizes. There’s something for everyone at Scottsdale Fashion Square, which features luxury shopping experiences and a movie theatre.

If you’re looking for outdoor family fun, check out Odysea in the Desert (aka Arizona Boardwalk), which includes an aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, laser quest, UFO experience, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, and Pangea, a dinosaur encounter. This one-stop destination might be the only place your kids want to hang out during your stay in Scottsdale! And you won’t have to leave for dinner – there’s a Johnny Rocket’s on-site for delicious burgers and milkshakes.

Wildlife enthusiasts may also enjoy a day at the zoo or want to partake in a wildlife encounter at the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center, which offers year-round tours and even some evening and full-moon tours.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Opportunities abound to enjoy a night on the town! Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene at Wasted Grain, Coach House Entertainment, or Old Town Tavern. Or, try your luck at Casino Arizona or Talking Stick Resort.

In addition to bars, clubs, and casinos, Scottsdale, Arizona, has several theatres for the performing arts. Check out a live concert, comedian, or play at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy dinner at one of the city’s many upscale restaurants and lounges before or after the show! Make sure to check out the Cafe Monarch in Old Town, which Trip Advisor recently featured as one of the top three fine-dining restaurants in the nation.

Check out Optima Kierland Apartments, One of the Best Places to Live in North Scottsdale

If you visited Scottsdale on vacation and decided you wanted to live here, we have just the place for you. Optima Kierland Apartments features luxury living in North Scottsdale. Whether you’re in the mood for drinks, dancing, or a casual dinner after a long day exploring the sights, visiting a museum, or playing a round of golf, our community is in the center of it all.