Scottsdale, Arizona actually has a slogan: The West's Most Western Town.
With a population of over 200,000 and more than 300 days of sunshine
each year, Scottsdale continues to grow its population as well as its
tourism. More than 7 million people visit Scottsdale each year. You may
wonder, what do they do there besides lounge at exquisite resorts, and
eat at fine restaurants? Well, here is my list of some of the best
Scottsdale attractions that you won't want to miss!
A Hot Air Balloon Ride can give you a view of Scottsdale that relatively few people ever see. It's a truly unique experience!
Indian Wash Greenbelt
This greenbelt in Scottsdale actually connects four parks: Vista Del
Camino, Eldorado, Indian School and Chaparral. The greenbelt is 12
miles long, and is the most popular place in town for inline skaters, as
well as joggers, cyclists, walkers, and anyone with a dog. There are
sports fields, ramadas, fishing lakes, tennis courts, and more.
Golf
If you are a golfer you will find paradise in Scottsdale. There are
about 50 golf courses just in Scottsdale. Championship courses of all
types can be found here, including the TPC Scottsdale where the
Phoenix Open is played each winter as one of the first PGA tournament events of the year.
Kerr Cultural Center
Part of Arizona State University, the Kerr Cultural Center was
originally intended as a hall for chamber music. Chamber performances
are still held there, as well as other types of musical programs and
concerts. This is a smaller venue, making the programs intimate and
enjoyable.
Fiesta Bowl Museum
In central Scottsdale, at the corporate offices of the Fiesta Bowl,
you can stop in during the week and visit the Fiesta Bowl Museum.
Trophies relating to college football are on display, as are exhibits
about the history of the Fiesta Bowl organization, its volunteers and
the games. The museum is free.
McCormick Stillman Railroad Park
Unique park amenities for the young ones include a lovely carousel.
This park is special because of the trains and railroad-related
exhibits. A ten minute train ride also takes you through an arboretum
located in the park.
Scottsdale Trolley Tour
A two-hour free guided tour on the Scottsdale Trolley where you'll
learn about the districts, galleries, restaurants, shopping and history
of the downtown Scottsdale area.
Old Town Scottsdale
If it isn't too hot and you like to walk and window shop, forget
that traditional mall and make your way to downtown Scottsdale. Here
you'll find winding streets full of unique shops and galleries. You may
also hear this area referred to as Fifth Avenue Shops.
Parada del Sol Rodeo
Professional cowboys from allover the country converge on north
Scottsdale for the Parada del Sol Rodeo. The Rodeo is a culmination of
various Scottsdale events sponsored by the Scottsdale Jaycees, including
the Parada del Sol Parade.
Scottsdale ArtWalk
Every Thursday night you can stroll the streets of downtown
Scottsdale and enjoy special exhibits with artists' receptions,
demonstrations and more. It's free--unless you fall in love with a work
of art and decide to take it home with you! See a video of Scottsdale ArtWalk.