Maura’s guidebook

Maura
Maura’s guidebook

Hiking

**Trail Re-opened ** The Cholla Trail is accessed on foot from Invergordon Drive on the East Side of Camelback Mountain. It is a short walk from the condo (heard north on 68th st, east on Chaparral, then north to on Invergordon to Cholla Road. There is no parking, or dropping off on Cholla Road, or near the trailhead. There are no restrooms or water resources available at this trailhead. Cholla Trail is rated a double-black hike and is considered to be extremely difficult. It is 1.2 miles in length and ascends just over 1,200 feet on the East Side of Camelback Mountain. The first mile of the Cholla Trail is a series of challenging, but rewarding switchbacks that offer some short climbs, and rough terrain. At the end of the first mile hikers end up at the rescue Helicopter Pad on a ridgeline with some great views. Some consider this a great place to turn around and finish their hike. In the last 1/3 of the Cholla trail, climb hikers will encounter 50% or more steep grades, technical sections with drop-offs and low visibility of the trail. This part of Cholla is probably the most feared section of the mountain because of the steep drop offs on both sides. If you have a fear of heights you may want to take this section very slowly and turn around when you feel uncomfortable. Besides that, this side is also well worth the climb and the physical exertion. Hikers will encounter various types of wildlife such as Chuckwalla lizards, Roadrunners, Chipmunks, and, at times, snakes. This trail epitomizes the beauty of desert landscape offering an assortment of visible Cacti and Desert Plants. This challenging hike takes visitor hikers to the same breathtaking summit of Camelback Mountain, with 360 degree views of the city.
116 locals recommend
Cholla Trailhead Camelback Mountain
5150 E Cholla Ln
116 locals recommend
**Trail Re-opened ** The Cholla Trail is accessed on foot from Invergordon Drive on the East Side of Camelback Mountain. It is a short walk from the condo (heard north on 68th st, east on Chaparral, then north to on Invergordon to Cholla Road. There is no parking, or dropping off on Cholla Road, or near the trailhead. There are no restrooms or water resources available at this trailhead. Cholla Trail is rated a double-black hike and is considered to be extremely difficult. It is 1.2 miles in length and ascends just over 1,200 feet on the East Side of Camelback Mountain. The first mile of the Cholla Trail is a series of challenging, but rewarding switchbacks that offer some short climbs, and rough terrain. At the end of the first mile hikers end up at the rescue Helicopter Pad on a ridgeline with some great views. Some consider this a great place to turn around and finish their hike. In the last 1/3 of the Cholla trail, climb hikers will encounter 50% or more steep grades, technical sections with drop-offs and low visibility of the trail. This part of Cholla is probably the most feared section of the mountain because of the steep drop offs on both sides. If you have a fear of heights you may want to take this section very slowly and turn around when you feel uncomfortable. Besides that, this side is also well worth the climb and the physical exertion. Hikers will encounter various types of wildlife such as Chuckwalla lizards, Roadrunners, Chipmunks, and, at times, snakes. This trail epitomizes the beauty of desert landscape offering an assortment of visible Cacti and Desert Plants. This challenging hike takes visitor hikers to the same breathtaking summit of Camelback Mountain, with 360 degree views of the city.
A popular hiking spot in the city. Can be quite crowded on the weekends. They have expanded parking, but still try and go early, as it does fill up. There is a bit of bouldering, especially towards the top, so hands free water is nice. Definitely not a beginner hike.
1752 locals recommend
Echo Canyon Trail and Recreation Area
East McDonald Drive
1752 locals recommend
A popular hiking spot in the city. Can be quite crowded on the weekends. They have expanded parking, but still try and go early, as it does fill up. There is a bit of bouldering, especially towards the top, so hands free water is nice. Definitely not a beginner hike.
Some nice hikes on the easier side. Great city views. Don't miss Hole in the Rock at sunset. https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park/trail-map
543 locals recommend
Papago Park
625 N Galvin Pkwy
543 locals recommend
Some nice hikes on the easier side. Great city views. Don't miss Hole in the Rock at sunset. https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park/trail-map
**Temporarily Closed** Different levels of hikes throughout park. Easy access off the 51. Dog friendly.
68 locals recommend
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
2421 E Northern Ave
68 locals recommend
**Temporarily Closed** Different levels of hikes throughout park. Easy access off the 51. Dog friendly.
One of my favorite city hikes. Less crowded than Camelback. Parking is a small lot that can fill up fast.
48 locals recommend
Phoenix Mountain Preserve - 40th St. Trailhead
9200 N 40th St
48 locals recommend
One of my favorite city hikes. Less crowded than Camelback. Parking is a small lot that can fill up fast.
Lookout Mountain Summit Trail in Phoenix Mountains Preserve: 1.2 miles out and back. In just under a mile on this short trail, you’ll climb more than 450 feet, but the burst of breathlessness is worth the views up top. The summit looks out south over the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, and is a less crowded and more moderate hike than popular summits of Camelback and Piestewa (see the “hard” section for details on these). The trailhead is accessible from 16th street. If you’d like to continue your hike, join up with the Circumference Trail that runs a 2.6-mile route through the rocky desert at the mountain’s feet. https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1kTs0N6u5hqGHOFJUrCyhvXRGJCc&ll=33.61305568135921%2C-112.04030025000003&z=14
25 locals recommend
Lookout Mountain
25 locals recommend
Lookout Mountain Summit Trail in Phoenix Mountains Preserve: 1.2 miles out and back. In just under a mile on this short trail, you’ll climb more than 450 feet, but the burst of breathlessness is worth the views up top. The summit looks out south over the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, and is a less crowded and more moderate hike than popular summits of Camelback and Piestewa (see the “hard” section for details on these). The trailhead is accessible from 16th street. If you’d like to continue your hike, join up with the Circumference Trail that runs a 2.6-mile route through the rocky desert at the mountain’s feet. https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1kTs0N6u5hqGHOFJUrCyhvXRGJCc&ll=33.61305568135921%2C-112.04030025000003&z=14
South Mountain is one of the most notable mountains in the East Valley due to its different trailheads in Ahwatukee, Chandler, and Phoenix. The most popular trail in Ahwatukee is the Telegraph Pass Trail. Its end connects with many other trails, including the National Trail and Kiwanis Trail, that all boast stunning views of the mountain and towns from different sides of the mountain. Trail lengths: 2.2 mi for Telegraph, 2.1 mi for Kiwanis, around 0.3 mi for the Stone House Telegraph Pass: Due to its proximity to a dense community of Ahwatukee Foothills houses, Telegraph Pass trail is a very popular route for both locals and tourists alike. The first third of the trail is on paved road for easy walking and weaves closer to the mountain. At the end of the pavement, hikers can either turn a slight right to enter the Desert Classic Trail, or continue left to the end of Telegraph Pass (signs clearly mark the intersection). From here, the trail gains steady elevation over boulders, with the last 0.1 mile ascending by stone steps. Throughout the trail, saguaro cactus, ocotillo, and wildflower blooms can be seen. The trail ends at Summit Road, which also connects to either National or Kiwanis trails. A popular detour is to take National West (to the left) up to the Stone House, which provides an excellent resting point and view of both Ahwatukee and Downtown Phoenix. Kiwanis: Kiwanis Trail can either be accessed at the Summit Road after hiking Telegraph Pass, or at the Las Lomitas trailhead. From Summit Road, the trail descends via steps into a canyon. An abundance of wildlife and cacti can be seen along the way, and keep an eye out for more Hohokam petroglyphs on the boulders bordering the trail! Towards the middle, the trail has a steeper descent over rocky passes and wooden steps. The last 0.6 miles of the trail is relatively flat and enters another trailhead. Remember, this trail is multi-purpose so be mindful of the mountain bikers! Also, hiking around sunrise or sunset will promise an almost completely shaded trail. Once the sun has risen, the trails have little to no shade.
12 locals recommend
Telegraph Pass Trailhead
14251 S Desert Foothills Pkwy
12 locals recommend
South Mountain is one of the most notable mountains in the East Valley due to its different trailheads in Ahwatukee, Chandler, and Phoenix. The most popular trail in Ahwatukee is the Telegraph Pass Trail. Its end connects with many other trails, including the National Trail and Kiwanis Trail, that all boast stunning views of the mountain and towns from different sides of the mountain. Trail lengths: 2.2 mi for Telegraph, 2.1 mi for Kiwanis, around 0.3 mi for the Stone House Telegraph Pass: Due to its proximity to a dense community of Ahwatukee Foothills houses, Telegraph Pass trail is a very popular route for both locals and tourists alike. The first third of the trail is on paved road for easy walking and weaves closer to the mountain. At the end of the pavement, hikers can either turn a slight right to enter the Desert Classic Trail, or continue left to the end of Telegraph Pass (signs clearly mark the intersection). From here, the trail gains steady elevation over boulders, with the last 0.1 mile ascending by stone steps. Throughout the trail, saguaro cactus, ocotillo, and wildflower blooms can be seen. The trail ends at Summit Road, which also connects to either National or Kiwanis trails. A popular detour is to take National West (to the left) up to the Stone House, which provides an excellent resting point and view of both Ahwatukee and Downtown Phoenix. Kiwanis: Kiwanis Trail can either be accessed at the Summit Road after hiking Telegraph Pass, or at the Las Lomitas trailhead. From Summit Road, the trail descends via steps into a canyon. An abundance of wildlife and cacti can be seen along the way, and keep an eye out for more Hohokam petroglyphs on the boulders bordering the trail! Towards the middle, the trail has a steeper descent over rocky passes and wooden steps. The last 0.6 miles of the trail is relatively flat and enters another trailhead. Remember, this trail is multi-purpose so be mindful of the mountain bikers! Also, hiking around sunrise or sunset will promise an almost completely shaded trail. Once the sun has risen, the trails have little to no shade.
Located in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Piestawa Peak Summit trail is a heavily trafficked trail that provides stunning views of the city. People flock to this peak due to its close proximity and trail of mostly paved steps. Although it is 2.2 miles out and back, the 1,151 ft elevation gain makes the trail a challenging ascent.
18 locals recommend
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail
18 locals recommend
Located in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Piestawa Peak Summit trail is a heavily trafficked trail that provides stunning views of the city. People flock to this peak due to its close proximity and trail of mostly paved steps. Although it is 2.2 miles out and back, the 1,151 ft elevation gain makes the trail a challenging ascent.

Shoppping

Upscale, contemporary shopping complex with 200+ brand-name stores, high-end restaurants & a movie theater.
734 locals recommend
Fashion Square
734 locals recommend
Upscale, contemporary shopping complex with 200+ brand-name stores, high-end restaurants & a movie theater.

Food scene

A local favorite. The original is in arcadia, but now a location is within walking distance. Bruschetta, sandwiches, salads, wine, and beer.
106 locals recommend
Postino Highland
4821 N Scottsdale Rd
106 locals recommend
A local favorite. The original is in arcadia, but now a location is within walking distance. Bruschetta, sandwiches, salads, wine, and beer.
DeFalco’s Italian Deli is a delightful Italian grocery store with a counter service restaurant offering pizzas, pasta, and sandwiches. The menu is big, but we’ll make it easy for you– you’re here for the sandwiches.
74 locals recommend
DeFalco's Italian Eatery, Grocery & Deli
2334 N Scottsdale Rd
74 locals recommend
DeFalco’s Italian Deli is a delightful Italian grocery store with a counter service restaurant offering pizzas, pasta, and sandwiches. The menu is big, but we’ll make it easy for you– you’re here for the sandwiches.
A longtime staple of Scottsdale.
235 locals recommend
Breakfast Club
4400 N Scottsdale Rd
235 locals recommend
A longtime staple of Scottsdale.
If you think you can’t get fresh seafood in the desert, think again. Chula’s founder is the son of a San Diego fisherman, and he made it his mission to bring fresh seafood to The Valley. Chula started as a wholesaler to other Scottsdale restaurants (the seafood at Citizen Public House and Hush, both on this guide, are from Chula!), then opened a counter-service restaurant to the public, and we are so glad they did. You can buy fresh fish by the pound or order from the menu. Their poke is the freshest around, and the poke bowls are simple and smart, allowing the fresh seafood to shine. The green chile tuna melt is another standout; the tuna is high quality and fresh, and combined with hatch green chiles, Oaxaca cheese, and a chimichurri dipping sauce, it is simply to die for. Sandwiches come with chips or a salad, but we recommend upgrading your side to a small bowl of clam chowder.
15 locals recommend
Chula Seafood Uptown
100 E Camelback Rd
15 locals recommend
If you think you can’t get fresh seafood in the desert, think again. Chula’s founder is the son of a San Diego fisherman, and he made it his mission to bring fresh seafood to The Valley. Chula started as a wholesaler to other Scottsdale restaurants (the seafood at Citizen Public House and Hush, both on this guide, are from Chula!), then opened a counter-service restaurant to the public, and we are so glad they did. You can buy fresh fish by the pound or order from the menu. Their poke is the freshest around, and the poke bowls are simple and smart, allowing the fresh seafood to shine. The green chile tuna melt is another standout; the tuna is high quality and fresh, and combined with hatch green chiles, Oaxaca cheese, and a chimichurri dipping sauce, it is simply to die for. Sandwiches come with chips or a salad, but we recommend upgrading your side to a small bowl of clam chowder.
If you only have time to visit one Scottsdale restaurant, head straight to FnB, the best restaurant in Scottsdale. Chef Charlene, also known as “the vegetable whisperer,” is known for using unique ingredients and the best local produce to make flavorful, memorable dishes, like the pictured avocado shrimp Aguachile. Because the offerings are always changing, the wait staff does a phenomenal job at helping each diner navigate the different sections of their menu. Ever tried lobster mushrooms? What about wheat berries? Don’t be intimidated or surprised if you notice lesser-known ingredients and lean into the uniqueness of the menu at FnB, because you are truly in for a treat!
51 locals recommend
FnB Restaurant
7125 E 5th Ave
51 locals recommend
If you only have time to visit one Scottsdale restaurant, head straight to FnB, the best restaurant in Scottsdale. Chef Charlene, also known as “the vegetable whisperer,” is known for using unique ingredients and the best local produce to make flavorful, memorable dishes, like the pictured avocado shrimp Aguachile. Because the offerings are always changing, the wait staff does a phenomenal job at helping each diner navigate the different sections of their menu. Ever tried lobster mushrooms? What about wheat berries? Don’t be intimidated or surprised if you notice lesser-known ingredients and lean into the uniqueness of the menu at FnB, because you are truly in for a treat!
Another Old Town favorite, this neighborhood eatery features house-made mozzarella, fresh produce from local organic farmers, wood-fired pizzas, and more than 30 Arizona craft beers on tap.
70 locals recommend
CRAFT 64
6922 E Main St
70 locals recommend
Another Old Town favorite, this neighborhood eatery features house-made mozzarella, fresh produce from local organic farmers, wood-fired pizzas, and more than 30 Arizona craft beers on tap.
Modern Latin Cuisine. Surrounded by the breathtaking glow of the Himalayan salt block wall and flickering candlelight, guests begin their experience. Restaurant suit a variety of moods from cozy outdoor seating fireside and intimate indoor areas, to our lively community table in the lounge; while the sounds of mixed Latin and modern music resonate in perfect compliment. Succulent aromas from the grill mix tradition and ingenuity while setting the stage for your perfect dining experience.
284 locals recommend
The Mission
3815 N Brown Ave
284 locals recommend
Modern Latin Cuisine. Surrounded by the breathtaking glow of the Himalayan salt block wall and flickering candlelight, guests begin their experience. Restaurant suit a variety of moods from cozy outdoor seating fireside and intimate indoor areas, to our lively community table in the lounge; while the sounds of mixed Latin and modern music resonate in perfect compliment. Succulent aromas from the grill mix tradition and ingenuity while setting the stage for your perfect dining experience.
Located on property at Old Town’s Bespoke Inn, Virtú dishes up contemporary Mediterranean fare by Chef/Owner Gio Osso. The menu, which changes almost daily based on seasonal ingredients, is known for elegant shareable dishes like the Asparagi with two-wash ranch duck egg, feta, bacon candy, foie gras hollandaise and a truffle drizzle. A variety of pasta, seafood and beef dishes round out your options. Enjoy them all under the cozy glow of festoon lighting on one of the city’s most romantic patios.
40 locals recommend
Virtu Honest Craft
3701 N Marshall Way
40 locals recommend
Located on property at Old Town’s Bespoke Inn, Virtú dishes up contemporary Mediterranean fare by Chef/Owner Gio Osso. The menu, which changes almost daily based on seasonal ingredients, is known for elegant shareable dishes like the Asparagi with two-wash ranch duck egg, feta, bacon candy, foie gras hollandaise and a truffle drizzle. A variety of pasta, seafood and beef dishes round out your options. Enjoy them all under the cozy glow of festoon lighting on one of the city’s most romantic patios.
Ocean 44 is seafood reinvented in a vibrant, upscale atmosphere specializing in world-class seafood and the great steaks we are known for at Steak 44. Different than anything we have done in the past, the fine dining atmosphere is second to none, featuring a blend of dining settings ranging from dramatic to intimate. At the core of the Ocean 44 menu is our chef-sourced, highest graded sustainable fresh seafood from around the world, like oysters, lobster, and more. Seafood entrees are enhanced with unique and interesting appetizers and side dishes that go beyond the traditional seafood menu. Ocean 44 brings a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere to the Scottsdale fine dining scene. The interior has been carefully designed by Testani Design Troupe. Ocean 44 dining provides our guests with an exciting seaside feel with grand spaces in addition to smaller, more intimate spots while keeping our tradition of intimacy and staying true to the upscale vibe.
105 locals recommend
Ocean 44
4748 N Goldwater Blvd
105 locals recommend
Ocean 44 is seafood reinvented in a vibrant, upscale atmosphere specializing in world-class seafood and the great steaks we are known for at Steak 44. Different than anything we have done in the past, the fine dining atmosphere is second to none, featuring a blend of dining settings ranging from dramatic to intimate. At the core of the Ocean 44 menu is our chef-sourced, highest graded sustainable fresh seafood from around the world, like oysters, lobster, and more. Seafood entrees are enhanced with unique and interesting appetizers and side dishes that go beyond the traditional seafood menu. Ocean 44 brings a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere to the Scottsdale fine dining scene. The interior has been carefully designed by Testani Design Troupe. Ocean 44 dining provides our guests with an exciting seaside feel with grand spaces in addition to smaller, more intimate spots while keeping our tradition of intimacy and staying true to the upscale vibe.
A contemporary, upscale take on a traditional pub located in old town Scottsdale.
120 locals recommend
Citizen Public House
7111 E 5th Ave
120 locals recommend
A contemporary, upscale take on a traditional pub located in old town Scottsdale.
Old western vibes and flame-grilled American fare are located on Scottsdale road.
90 locals recommend
Roaring Fork
4800 N Scottsdale Rd
90 locals recommend
Old western vibes and flame-grilled American fare are located on Scottsdale road.
Maple & Ash is an innovative take on the traditional steakhouse – mixing a modern aesthetic with authentic service to deliver classic wood-fired dishes. With a sumptuous menu crafted by two-Michelin-star Chef Danny Grant and a wine list named "one of the most outstanding in the world" by Wine Spectator, Maple & Ash finds a way to celebrate every moment.
131 locals recommend
Maple & Ash
7135 E Camelback Rd
131 locals recommend
Maple & Ash is an innovative take on the traditional steakhouse – mixing a modern aesthetic with authentic service to deliver classic wood-fired dishes. With a sumptuous menu crafted by two-Michelin-star Chef Danny Grant and a wine list named "one of the most outstanding in the world" by Wine Spectator, Maple & Ash finds a way to celebrate every moment.
Now a location in Biltmore area of Phoenix. Consistently voted best pizza in the country.
237 locals recommend
Pizzeria Bianco
623 E Adams St
237 locals recommend
Now a location in Biltmore area of Phoenix. Consistently voted best pizza in the country.
Open for only lunch, Pane features split focaccia sandwiches. The focaccia breads are baked to order in a wood-fired oven, and served with fresh, local ingredients ranging from heirloom tomatoes, house-made mozzarella, eggplant Parmigiano and more. Pane Bianco has been voted best sandwich in Phoenix on several occasions.
42 locals recommend
Pane Bianco
4404 N Central Ave
42 locals recommend
Open for only lunch, Pane features split focaccia sandwiches. The focaccia breads are baked to order in a wood-fired oven, and served with fresh, local ingredients ranging from heirloom tomatoes, house-made mozzarella, eggplant Parmigiano and more. Pane Bianco has been voted best sandwich in Phoenix on several occasions.
Bustling, industrial-chic eatery featuring American comfort fare & a patio overlooking the canal. We consistently take out of towners here. Try and get a table on the patio. No reservations, unless large party.
191 locals recommend
Chelsea's Kitchen
5040 N 40th St
191 locals recommend
Bustling, industrial-chic eatery featuring American comfort fare & a patio overlooking the canal. We consistently take out of towners here. Try and get a table on the patio. No reservations, unless large party.

Bars

Tucked away from the bustle of Scottsdale, this wine bar has a distinctly subterranean feel, thanks to subdued lighting, softly-playing jazz, and wine casks that line the walls. The decor is heavy on stained glass and stone, imbuing the spot with a sense of mystery. Select from a truly staggerring wine list of over 1,500 varieties are available. Management has thoughtfully whittled the gargantuan list down to a top 50 list, and servers provide additional guidance if you're still overwhelmed. Nothing so mundane as a happy hour here; instead, you'll catch drink specials during the "early evening hours of joy."
98 locals recommend
Kazimierz Wine & Whiskey Bar
7137 East Stetson Drive
98 locals recommend
Tucked away from the bustle of Scottsdale, this wine bar has a distinctly subterranean feel, thanks to subdued lighting, softly-playing jazz, and wine casks that line the walls. The decor is heavy on stained glass and stone, imbuing the spot with a sense of mystery. Select from a truly staggerring wine list of over 1,500 varieties are available. Management has thoughtfully whittled the gargantuan list down to a top 50 list, and servers provide additional guidance if you're still overwhelmed. Nothing so mundane as a happy hour here; instead, you'll catch drink specials during the "early evening hours of joy."
Established in 1959, this family-owned bar is one of the oldest nightlife venues in Scottsdale. The Coach House is a friendly neighborhood tavern located in Old Town Scottsdale, where locals and visitors mingle in an unpretentious spot known for its long history and Southwestern hospitality. Hang out on the patio, or lounge inside where football or baseball, depending on the season, is playing on the televisions. If you're looking for a quiet spot away from the glitz and expensive cocktails of Scottsdale's trendy club and bar scene, the Coach House tavern is the place to go. A great place to enjoy a beer and watch the game.
80 locals recommend
Coach House Entertainment
7011 E Indian School Rd
80 locals recommend
Established in 1959, this family-owned bar is one of the oldest nightlife venues in Scottsdale. The Coach House is a friendly neighborhood tavern located in Old Town Scottsdale, where locals and visitors mingle in an unpretentious spot known for its long history and Southwestern hospitality. Hang out on the patio, or lounge inside where football or baseball, depending on the season, is playing on the televisions. If you're looking for a quiet spot away from the glitz and expensive cocktails of Scottsdale's trendy club and bar scene, the Coach House tavern is the place to go. A great place to enjoy a beer and watch the game.
Eminently laid-back during the day, this no-frills joint transforms into a lively club in the evenings. Locals flock here daily for inexpensive drinks, a comfy heated patio, pool tables, and of course, plenty of room to dance. DJs spin on Friday and Saturday nights, and Pattie's also functions as a favorite site for get-togethers and special events. The absence of a cover charge adds considerably to the appeal. Pattie's First Avenue Lodge is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, convenient to the shops and attractions of downtown. Shuffleboard and table-tennis tournaments take place regularly. Crowds here on the weekends, so be brace yourself for lines at the bar.
43 locals recommend
Pattie's First Avenue Lounge
7220 East 1st Avenue
43 locals recommend
Eminently laid-back during the day, this no-frills joint transforms into a lively club in the evenings. Locals flock here daily for inexpensive drinks, a comfy heated patio, pool tables, and of course, plenty of room to dance. DJs spin on Friday and Saturday nights, and Pattie's also functions as a favorite site for get-togethers and special events. The absence of a cover charge adds considerably to the appeal. Pattie's First Avenue Lodge is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, convenient to the shops and attractions of downtown. Shuffleboard and table-tennis tournaments take place regularly. Crowds here on the weekends, so be brace yourself for lines at the bar.
49 locals recommend
Goldwater Brewing Co.
3608 N Scottsdale Rd
49 locals recommend
This elegantly hip restaurant is famous for its burgers, sandwiches, and "galettes," a crispy flat bread topped with cheese, olives, bacon, and onions. Although the fare is simple, the preparation is thoughtful and well-executed. Expect to be impressed by fresh ingredients, plentiful sides, and hamburgers that feature over a half pound of choice ground sirloin grilled to order. Located conveniently in Old Town Scottsdale at the Civic Center Mall, AZ88 provides rich ambiance with views of fountains and green spaces. Cocktails are served until 1:30 in the morning, while late-night dining continues 12:30 am. Perfect place for a relaxing nightcap with friends.
132 locals recommend
AZ/88
7353 E Scottsdale Mall
132 locals recommend
This elegantly hip restaurant is famous for its burgers, sandwiches, and "galettes," a crispy flat bread topped with cheese, olives, bacon, and onions. Although the fare is simple, the preparation is thoughtful and well-executed. Expect to be impressed by fresh ingredients, plentiful sides, and hamburgers that feature over a half pound of choice ground sirloin grilled to order. Located conveniently in Old Town Scottsdale at the Civic Center Mall, AZ88 provides rich ambiance with views of fountains and green spaces. Cocktails are served until 1:30 in the morning, while late-night dining continues 12:30 am. Perfect place for a relaxing nightcap with friends.
Maya Day & Nightclub is connected to The District and both combine for a perfect bar. During the summer Maya is the pool party in Old Town and where chaos ensues. Most all bachelor and bachelorette parties spend a day here taking in arguably the best pool parties in Phoenix. In the winter Maya covers up the pool and transforms into a clubhouse with social games and a perfect tiki patio vibe. The nightclub is chaos in the summer and a nice chill games spot in the winter. While The District is always consistent as a bar by day and nightclub by night.
200 locals recommend
Maya Day and Nightclub
7333 E Indian Plaza
200 locals recommend
Maya Day & Nightclub is connected to The District and both combine for a perfect bar. During the summer Maya is the pool party in Old Town and where chaos ensues. Most all bachelor and bachelorette parties spend a day here taking in arguably the best pool parties in Phoenix. In the winter Maya covers up the pool and transforms into a clubhouse with social games and a perfect tiki patio vibe. The nightclub is chaos in the summer and a nice chill games spot in the winter. While The District is always consistent as a bar by day and nightclub by night.
Bottled Blonde is arguably the best club in all of Scottsdale and Phoenix. It has been a mainstay in Old Town and is always the most packed and most sought after bar to get into. If you want a great party and nightclub, Bottled Blonde is where to go. Music is top 40 type music with a mix of hip-hop and edm. They do serve food too but no one goes there for the food. Be sure to make this on your list as a place to go when visiting as it is a great spot.
217 locals recommend
Bottled Blonde - Scottsdale
7340 E Indian Plaza
217 locals recommend
Bottled Blonde is arguably the best club in all of Scottsdale and Phoenix. It has been a mainstay in Old Town and is always the most packed and most sought after bar to get into. If you want a great party and nightclub, Bottled Blonde is where to go. Music is top 40 type music with a mix of hip-hop and edm. They do serve food too but no one goes there for the food. Be sure to make this on your list as a place to go when visiting as it is a great spot.

Sightseeing

Taliesin West was architect Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and school in the desert from 1937 until his death in 1959 at the age of 91. Today it is the headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Open to the public for tours, Taliesin West is located on Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in Scottsdale, Arizona.
296 locals recommend
Taliesin West
12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd
296 locals recommend
Taliesin West was architect Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and school in the desert from 1937 until his death in 1959 at the age of 91. Today it is the headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Open to the public for tours, Taliesin West is located on Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre botanical garden located in Papago Park. Currently a Chihuly Glass exhibit on.
1231 locals recommend
Desert Botanical Garden
1231 locals recommend
Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre botanical garden located in Papago Park. Currently a Chihuly Glass exhibit on.
Paolo Soleri was a colorful and passionate Italian architect who first came to Arizona in 1947 as an apprentice for architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Soleri became known for his work on bridges and ceramics, but his passion was designing frugal, self-sustaining cities. He spent his life working toward that vision and developed a concept he termed arcology (architecture + ecology). Soleri and his wife moved to the Scottsdale area in 1956 when they founded Cosanti as their home and studio in neighboring Paradise Valley. It is hidden on a quiet residential street in Paradise Valley, so it’s not something that gets a lot of foot traffic. But it really is a must-see during your visit to Scottsdale. Cosanti is one of Arizona’s most eclectic treasures and an Arizona Historic Site. It is part art studio and part architectural experiment. Soleri is probably best known for his beautiful hand-poured bronze windbells. The Cosanti Foundation continues to create more than 50,000 bells each year. As I wandered the grounds on a self-guided tour, the rhythmic sound of all those bells mesmerized me. If you visit on a weekday morning, you might be lucky enough to witness a bronze casting.
46 locals recommend
Cosanti Originals
6433 E Doubletree Ranch Rd
46 locals recommend
Paolo Soleri was a colorful and passionate Italian architect who first came to Arizona in 1947 as an apprentice for architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Soleri became known for his work on bridges and ceramics, but his passion was designing frugal, self-sustaining cities. He spent his life working toward that vision and developed a concept he termed arcology (architecture + ecology). Soleri and his wife moved to the Scottsdale area in 1956 when they founded Cosanti as their home and studio in neighboring Paradise Valley. It is hidden on a quiet residential street in Paradise Valley, so it’s not something that gets a lot of foot traffic. But it really is a must-see during your visit to Scottsdale. Cosanti is one of Arizona’s most eclectic treasures and an Arizona Historic Site. It is part art studio and part architectural experiment. Soleri is probably best known for his beautiful hand-poured bronze windbells. The Cosanti Foundation continues to create more than 50,000 bells each year. As I wandered the grounds on a self-guided tour, the rhythmic sound of all those bells mesmerized me. If you visit on a weekday morning, you might be lucky enough to witness a bronze casting.
Old Town Scottsdale Public Art Walk
67 locals recommend
Scottsdale Art walk
7056 E Main St
67 locals recommend
Old Town Scottsdale Public Art Walk
Follow the map, tasting wines as you go
67 locals recommend
Scottsdale Art walk
7056 E Main St
67 locals recommend
Follow the map, tasting wines as you go

Traveler advice

Getting around

Scottsdale Trolley

Scottsdale’s trolley system drives riders to shopping, dining, entertainment, schools, parks, libraries, community centers and more. The trolley offers three fixed routes with connections to the Tempe Orbit links to Tempe Orbit (also free) and Valley Metro Transit.