Scottsdale offers visitors an impressive mix of cultural attractions, outdoor experiences, and unique entertainment venues that showcase both Arizona’s natural beauty and artistic heritage. This desert city combines world-class museums and architectural landmarks with interactive experiences and culinary adventures. Whether you’re interested in exploring Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, discovering optical illusions, or taking guided food tours, Scottsdale’s top attractions provide something memorable for every type of traveler.
From butterfly conservatories to desert gardens and entertainment districts, these carefully selected attractions represent the best of what Scottsdale has to offer. You’ll find experiences that range from educational museum visits to immersive art installations and scenic bridge walks. Each attraction provides its own unique perspective on this vibrant Arizona destination.
1) Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland offers you an indoor rainforest experience in the heart of Scottsdale. You can walk through a tropical habitat filled with thousands of live butterflies from around the world.
The attraction features an interactive environment where butterflies fly freely around you. You might see them land on your clothes or nearby plants as you explore the climate-controlled space.
The facility includes more than just butterflies. You can visit the cafe for refreshments and browse the gift shop for souvenirs to remember your visit.
This wildlife park gives you a chance to learn about different butterfly species up close. The indoor setting means you can enjoy the experience year-round, regardless of Arizona’s weather.
Rating: 4.6 (7,056 reviews)
Location: 9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact: (480) 291-8000
Website: Visit Website
2) Taliesin West
Taliesin West was Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and workspace in the Arizona desert. This famous architect designed the complex as his personal retreat and studio. Today it serves as a campus for an architecture school.
You can take guided tours of the buildings and grounds. The tours show Wright’s innovative desert architecture and design ideas. You’ll see how he used local materials like desert stone and wood.
The complex sits in the Sonoran Desert with views of the surrounding mountains. Wright built Taliesin West to blend with the natural landscape. The buildings use low profiles and earth-tone colors that match the desert setting.
Tours are available year-round and last about 90 minutes. You’ll learn about Wright’s life and work while exploring his winter home. The site offers different tour options depending on your interests.
Rating: 4.7 (2,322 reviews)
Location: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
Contact: (888) 516-0811
Website: Visit Website
3) Talking Stick Entertainment District
The Talking Stick Entertainment District offers one of Scottsdale’s biggest collections of family fun and activities. You’ll find everything from mini golf and arcades to aquariums and movie theaters all in one place.
The district features major attractions like OdySea Aquarium, the Southwest’s largest aquarium, and Butterfly Wonderland, the country’s biggest butterfly conservatory. You can also experience Topgolf, Medieval Times dinner shows, and iFLY indoor skydiving.
For sports fans, Salt River Fields hosts Spring Training baseball games and festivals throughout the year. The Talking Stick Golf Club provides 36 holes of championship golf courses.
Other popular spots include Octane Raceway for go-kart racing, Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs with life-sized animatronic exhibits, and Roadhouse Cinemas for dinner and movies. The district also houses Mavrix for bowling and laser tag, plus various dining and shopping options.
Rating: 4.6 (25 reviews)
Location: 9120 E E Talking Stick Wy, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Contact: (480) 362-2700
Website: Visit Website
4) Ripley’s Believe It or Not!®
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! takes you into a world of strange and unusual exhibits. The museum features hundreds of odd artifacts and interactive displays based on Robert Ripley’s global adventures.
You can measure yourself against Robert Wadlow, who was 8 feet 11 inches tall. The museum also displays tiny sculptures that fit inside a needle’s eye and a portrait of Einstein made from toast.
Other notable exhibits include a two-faced calf and a megalodon shark jaw. The museum opens daily from 10:30am to 5pm, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing.
Tickets cost $25.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 2-12. You can save up to 20% by buying combo tickets with other Arizona Boardwalk attractions. The museum closes permanently on August 3rd, so you need to visit soon.
Rating: 3.9 (215 reviews)
Location: 9500 East Vía de Ventura Suite D-220, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact: (480) 291-8000
Website: Visit Website
5) Museum of Illusions Scottsdale
The Museum of Illusions Scottsdale offers a unique experience that challenges your mind and vision. You can explore over 70 interactive exhibits that play tricks on your perception. The museum combines science and fun to create memorable moments for visitors of all ages.
You will find rooms that make you appear giant or tiny when photographed. The Vortex Tunnel makes you feel dizzy even though you walk on a flat surface. Other popular exhibits include the Infinity Room and the Reversed Room that turns everything upside down.
The museum works as both a tourist attraction and learning experience. You can discover how your brain processes visual information while having fun. Each exhibit comes with explanations about the science behind the illusions.
The gift shop lets you take home puzzles and brain teasers. You can also book the space for private events and parties.
Rating: 4.8 (2,900 reviews)
Location: 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact: (480) 565-7320
Website: Visit Website
6) Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden
The Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden sits on six acres at Chaparral Park. This hidden gem showcases over 7,000 Arizona-friendly plants and 200 different plant species.
You can take a self-guided walking tour to learn about water-saving landscaping. The garden teaches you how to select and care for desert plants that use less water. Signs throughout the garden explain water harvesting and sustainable gardening practices.
The garden offers stunning views of Camelback Mountain as your backdrop. It’s also a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat. You’ll find the garden tucked away behind the dog park and baseball fields, not visible from the street.
You can park off Hayden Road near the dog park. The garden sits on top of a buried six million gallon water reservoir from the nearby treatment plant.
Rating: 4.6 (101 reviews)
Location: 5401 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Contact: (480) 312-3111
Website: Visit Website
7) Taste It Tours
Taste It Tours offers guided food experiences throughout Scottsdale and the Phoenix area. You’ll visit 4-5 local restaurants during each 2-3 hour walking tour. The company has operated since 2010 and partners with independently owned establishments.
You can choose from several tour options in Scottsdale. The Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11 a.m. The Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 2:30 p.m.
The Scottsdale Taco Food Tour happens on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Each tour includes food samples and drinks from multiple restaurants. You’ll also learn about local history and get recommendations from guides who know the area well.
The tours work well for visitors and locals celebrating special occasions. You can book private group tours for corporate events, birthdays, or bachelorette parties. The company recommends coming hungry and wearing comfortable shoes.
Rating: 4.9 (556 reviews)
Location: 4400 N Scottsdale Rd #11, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact: (480) 274-3569
Website: Visit Website
8) Wonderspaces Arizona
Wonderspaces Arizona offers a unique art experience inside Scottsdale Fashion Square. You’ll find interactive and immersive art installations that change regularly throughout the year.
The space features works by various artists, including pieces like Volumen by Filip Roca and Parastella by Christopher Schardt. You can explore these digital and interactive artworks while enjoying cocktails from their full bar.
Tickets range from $25-$28 for general admission, with premium passes at $50 that let you enter and re-enter multiple times on the same day. Children ages 3-12 pay $15-$18, while kids under 3 get free admission.
The venue is open seven days a week with extended hours on weekends. You must buy tickets online in advance, and the last entry is one hour before closing time.
Rating: 4.5 (1,743 reviews)
Location: 7014 E Camelback Rd #584, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: Visit Website
9) Soleri Bridge
The Soleri Bridge spans across Scottsdale Road, connecting the downtown arts district with the Scottsdale Civic Center. This pedestrian bridge serves as both a practical walkway and an impressive piece of public art.
You’ll find the bridge part of Scottsdale’s extensive public art collection. The structure features modern design elements that complement the surrounding urban landscape. It provides safe passage for pedestrians crossing the busy road below.
The bridge connects to Soleri Plaza, creating a pedestrian-friendly corridor through downtown Scottsdale. You can easily walk from the arts district to city buildings and other attractions without dealing with street-level traffic.
Many visitors appreciate the bridge’s role in making downtown Scottsdale more walkable. The structure demonstrates the city’s commitment to combining public infrastructure with artistic design.
Rating: 4.7 (195 reviews)
Location: 4420 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact: (480) 874-4629
Website: Visit Website
10) Arizona Food Tours
Arizona Food Tours has been Arizona’s original food tour company since 2009. You can explore Scottsdale’s food scene with local guides who share stories and history while you taste different dishes.
The company offers several tour options throughout the week. You can join the Scottsdale Sunset Dinner Tour on Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings for $100. The Wine and Cheese Class happens every other Sunday for $49.
The tours take you to different restaurants and tasting rooms in Old Town Scottsdale. You’ll sample food and drinks while learning about the area’s history. The guides are local food lovers who know the best spots in town.
Arizona Food Tours won the 2023 USA Today readers choice award as the #5 ranked food tour in the country. Most tours are for adults 21 and older, though some weekend tours allow ages 12 and up.
Rating: 5.0 (514 reviews)
Location: 7333 E Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact: (480) 620-4047
Website: Visit Website
Tips for Visiting Scottsdale’s Attractions
Planning your visit during cooler months and using the right transportation will make your Scottsdale experience much better. Most attractions offer good accessibility options for visitors with different needs.
Best Times to Visit
October through April offers the best weather for exploring Scottsdale’s attractions. Temperatures stay between 65-80°F during the day.
Summer months from May to September can reach over 110°F. Many outdoor attractions close early or offer limited hours during peak heat.
Peak tourist season runs from January to March. You’ll find crowded attractions and higher prices during this time.
Early morning visits work best for outdoor attractions like hiking trails. Start your day between 7-9 AM to avoid crowds and heat.
Weekdays offer smaller crowds at most attractions. Museums and indoor venues stay busy regardless of the day.
Spring training season in March brings extra visitors to the area. Book attractions and restaurants ahead during this time.
Transportation and Getting Around
Rental cars provide the easiest way to reach most attractions. Scottsdale spreads across a large area with limited public transit.
The Scottsdale Trolley connects Old Town attractions for free. It runs every 15 minutes from 11 AM to 6 PM daily.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft work well for short trips. Expect higher prices during peak tourist season.
Many resort hotels offer shuttle services to popular attractions. Check with your hotel about free transportation options.
Walking works well in Old Town Scottsdale where many attractions cluster together. The area spans about 10 blocks.
Parking costs $2-5 per hour at most attractions. Some venues offer free parking with validation.
Accessibility Considerations
Most major Scottsdale attractions meet ADA compliance standards. Museums and indoor venues typically offer the best accessibility features.
Wheelchair rentals are available at larger attractions like the Musical Instrument Museum. Call ahead to reserve equipment.
Many hiking trails offer paved or easy-access options. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve has several accessible trails.
Service animals are welcome at all public attractions. Emotional support animals may have different restrictions.
Hotels near attractions often provide accessible rooms and transportation. Book these rooms early as availability stays limited.
Most restaurants and shops in tourist areas have accessible entrances and restrooms. Older buildings in historic areas may have challenges.
Enhancing Your Experience in Scottsdale
Making the most of your Scottsdale visit means knowing where to eat near top attractions and understanding local customs. Desert dining culture and respectful visitor practices will help you connect better with this unique Arizona destination.
Local Dining Near Major Attractions
Old Town Scottsdale offers the most dining variety near major attractions. You’ll find authentic Mexican food at Los Olivos and upscale steakhouses like Mastro’s City Hall within walking distance of art galleries and museums.
Near Camelback Mountain, stop at The Henry for modern American cuisine. This restaurant sits close to the trailhead and serves fresh salads perfect after hiking.
Scottsdale Fashion Square area features several notable restaurants. True Food Kitchen focuses on healthy options. Nobu serves high-end Japanese cuisine if you want fine dining.
The Desert Botanical Garden area has fewer nearby restaurants. Pack snacks or drive 10 minutes to central Scottsdale for more choices.
Kierland Commons combines shopping with dining. You can eat at Ocean Prime for seafood or Seasons 52 for lighter fare. Both restaurants stay busy during peak tourist season from January to April.
Many restaurants near attractions offer outdoor patios. These work well from October through April when temperatures stay comfortable. Summer dining happens mostly indoors due to extreme heat.
Cultural Etiquette and Visitor Guidelines
Desert respect matters in Scottsdale. Stay on marked trails when hiking. Don’t touch or pick desert plants like saguaro cacti, which are protected by state law.
Water safety is critical year-round. Carry one gallon per person for desert hikes. Summer temperatures reach 115°F, making dehydration dangerous within 30 minutes of outdoor activity.
Tipping practices follow standard U.S. customs. Restaurant servers expect 18-20% tips. Hotel housekeeping gets $2-5 per night. Spa services typically add 18-20% gratuity.
Dress codes vary by location. Old Town Scottsdale allows casual clothes during the day. Upscale restaurants and resorts require business casual attire for dinner service.
Native American culture deserves respect throughout Arizona. Many local businesses sell authentic Native American art. Ask about the artist’s tribe and avoid mass-produced imitations.
Photography rules apply at some attractions. The Heard Museum restricts photos of certain exhibits. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially at cultural sites.
