Things To Do in Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is known for abundant sunshine, lush golf courses, and a wealth of nature. Residents of the area know that they live in a desirable city filled with culture, food, and adventure that offers a range of activities to suit anyone's tastes and preferences. As a town that boasts something for everyone, Scottsdale real estate is certainly in demand. Here is just a small sampling of the exciting things to do in Scottsdale:

McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the largest urban preserve of its kind in the country. Spanning over 30,000 acres, the preserve offers plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Nature enthusiasts will love spending as much time as possible here, as the sustainable desert habitat offers interconnected trails that are accessible from multiple trailhead locations. With amazing views and a range of hiking opportunities, McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a treasured natural retreat that residents visit over and over again.

Don't let the name fool you. Old Town Scottsdale is a trendy yet quaint shopping neighborhood with an old-town feel. Here, you'll find an art gallery and a weekly farmers' market that will keep you coming back every time the chance arises. The experience is like no other, and you can come here to shop for antiques, flowers, and more. If you aren't in the mood for shopping, take the time to enjoy events such as the historic old-town tour, the Scottsdale Wine Trail, or the Public Art Walking Tour. The opportunities at Old Town Scottsdale are endless.

Aquatic lovers will be mesmerized by this multi-level facility that combines entertainment with informative presentations so that you can get the most out of the experience. Featuring more than 65 exhibits and 370 species, the OdySea Aquarium is as unique as any venue can be. Visitors can don a wetsuit and helmet and walk underwater with fish, stingrays, and sharks for an experience like no other. Learn all about the life of penguins and sloths and visit the stadium-style seating theater for the signature "revolving aquarium experience."

At McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, visitors can enjoy railroad cars and an antique carousel. Visit Hartley's General Store for delicious ice cream or head over to the Model Railroad Building to check out the four model railroad clubs. Children can play at one of several playgrounds or at the Western Town play structure, and families will enjoy coming back throughout the year to take in revolving, unique events, such as the annual Railfair, summer concerts, Halloween Spook-Track-ula, and holiday lights.

A truly one-of-a-kind attraction, Butterfly Wonderland is a rainforest experience that allows visitors to observe up to 70 different species of butterflies. You'll also see plenty of beautiful Koi fish, tropical finches, and two hilarious chickens and watch live chrysalis as they emerge into butterflies and fly around the conservatory. Don't leave without stopping by the 3-D theater, where you will learn all about the life of a butterfly in the featured short film "Flight of the Butterflies." As if that weren't enough, visitors can also enjoy the Rainforest Reptile Exhibit, where reptiles and amphibians coexist with butterflies in the rainforest. Finally, stop by the Edible Insects Station to learn about entomophagy — or the process of eating insects. Here, you'll get a chance to taste exotic things you won't find anywhere else, such as coconut-brittle mealworms, cricket protein, and scorpion lollipops.

When it's time for a bite to eat in Scottsdale, you won't want to miss out on the Blue Clover Distillery. Here, you will find unique and scrumptious dishes such as margherita pizza, green chile cheese fries, a decadent breakfast burrito, and more. Just want to sit and sip a few drinks? You've come to the right place because, at Blue Clover Distillery, you'll find selections that include strawberry vodka, pineapple gin, and the Scottsdale espresso martini.

At RNR Gastropub, you'll find yourself in a casual and welcoming setting, all set to enjoy one of the most amazing brunches you've ever had. Choose from Chambord French toast with fresh raspberries, Chambord-infused cream cheese, and chantilly cream or mouthwatering vanilla pancakes served with fresh berries and apple butter. Those who come in for lunch and dinner will find a selection of menu items, including a roasted turkey sandwich, blackened Atlantic salmon, rock shrimp tacos, and much more. You'll be just as impressed by the drink menu, which features items that include mango, peach, strawberry, watermelon, or Chambord-flavored margaritas, a classic old-fashioned, or a mega espressotini, a one-of-a-kind drink made with Absolut Vanilla, Kahlúa, and Irish creme.

The time will surely come for some rest and relaxation, and Scottsdale offers plenty of places to do just that. Pop into the Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms Resort and Spa for a tranquil experience that will leave you perfectly refreshed. From massages to facials and signature citrus body therapies, the variety of luxe spa therapies offered will have you coming back for more. At the end of your treatment, you can unwind next to a cozy, crackling fireplace. Choose from plenty of soothing treatments that will provide exactly what you need to feel your best.

At the AWAY Spa, conveniently located at the W Scottsdale Hotel, you can enjoy signature cocktails and specialty drinks made with local ingredients before your treatment. Every service includes a signature W opening ritual to prepare each client for the amazing experience that comes next. Whether you want to rent the spa out for your own private party, enjoy the sip and spa happy hour, or indulge in a facial or massage, AWAY Spa is the perfect place to meet your needs. You'll leave feeling perfectly pampered and taken care of after receiving luxurious services, such as a de-stress massage, an ultimate styling hair treatment, a luxe mani/pedi, or an array of waxing services.

If you require real estate services in Scottsdale, Arizona, reach out to a trusted and experienced real estate professional who knows the area. Local insights can help guide you toward properties that best suit your needs and interests. For more information, or if you have any questions about the area, please contact Trish Gore today. Our team of real estate professionals is excited to help you discover everything Scottsdale has to offer as you begin your home-buying journey.