Locals and tourists can take advantage of the many GREAT events in Scottsdale this weekend. There are tons of fun things to do in this historic city around every corner but we didn't list all of them, just our favorites. Scottsdale is known for their shopping and dining experiences but don't let that fool you, we also offer awesome activities and attractions too. So buckle up and get ready for the best things to do in Scottsdale!
STEP RIGHT UP and get ready to Laugh, Have Fun, and Celebrate a magical night out with Carnival of Illusion! This top-rated illusion show is "Revitalizing Magic" by blending their international theme with all the charms of a Vaudeville-inspired roadshow. Join the thousands of guests who celebrated with magical Date Nights, Anniversaries, Birthdays and special nights out. This is a Must-See for tourists and armchair travelers alike. Carnival of Illusion is a fabulous evening of Old-World Magic!
Due to the popularity and intimate nature of this boutique theater, all shows sell out in advance so book your seats early. For ticket availability and dates check out this Magical Theater Show in Phoenix.
Wonderspaces is a year-round, evolving art show featuring extraordinary artwork from around the world at different festivals and fairs. Periodically, individual artworks rotate out to make room for new works. This isn't stuffy stuff hanging on a wall. There are wonderful installations and colorful, sometimes interactive pieces that make you think, and maybe even exclaim, "Oh wow!" Tickets must be purchased online in advance with timed ticket entry. Located in the Scottsdale Fashion Park.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is an excellent place to learn a bit about history and the present as well. You'll browse art displays from the past, while also viewing the work of many local artists. The museum is also an architectural and design splendor-- both inside and outside of the museum. The museum is open with timed admissions, at 1-hour intervals.
This museum is relatively new and celebrates the art, history, and culture of the American West. The exhibitions change regularly, along with events, tours, and activities that bring to life western heritage and its unique expression. This museum is now a Smithsonian affiliate and has received many accolades since opening in 2015. They even have a fun photo op where you can put yourself into a 3D mural and snap away. The museum is open to walk-ins or purchase tickets in advance.
Home to the famous Paolo Soleri wind-bells, Cosanti offers a unique art experience. You'll tour a diversity of one-of-a-kind art pieces, such as ceramic and bronze wind-bells, space frames and cause bells. You'll even see how these works of art are created and are free to purchase your own wind-bell. Tours are available and are 1 hour long, but are limited to 15 persons. Self-guided tours are not allowed.
If you're interested in learning the history of Scottsdale and the Southwest, one of the best things to do in Scottsdale is visit the Scottsdale Historical Museum. You’ll view temporary and permanent exhibits featuring the rich heritage and culture of the area. In addition to the exhibits, you'll see research and educational programming for a truly informative visit.
Even people who don't care about architecture have heard of Frank Lloyd Wright. With a career spanning 70 years, and creations in the hundreds, eight of the buildings he designed are now designated World Heritage Sites. One of those eight is Taliesin West, Frank's desert design labratory and winter home. Needless to say he has inspired a lot of American architecture, so why not check it out, hobnob with some artsy types, and get some ideas for your next home.
Theatre, drama, magic and fun! You are in for an adventure when you get on board for an evening with Carnival of Illusion. This old-world and up-close magical parlour experience has just the right amount of ooohs and aaahs, audience participation and fun times. Join Susan Eyed and Roland Sarlot for an evening adventure into the world of prestidigitation, Magic, Mystery & Oooh La La!
This theatre prides itself on providing children and adults the opportunity to learn and grow as actors in a creative and inclusive environment. They primarily cast local talent and give workshops and lessons in all aspects of the theatre arts including directing and choreography. There are eight adult productions each year and another five shows for children ages 3 to 19. They are located in the Scottsdale Fashion Square.
This arts center brings a season full of diverse and inclusive programming. A wide variety of performances can be seen here including dance, classical, jazz, film, theater, pop and more! Catch a performance in their Virginia G. Piper theater or see one of their popular Concerts Under the Stars at the Scottsdale Civic Center Amphitheater.
This member community of practitioners in the theatre arts brings well-crafted works to the valley that promote communication and interaction between themselves and the audiences. They provide a variety of productions throughout the year including dramas, musicals, comedies, short plays and original works, all at a price that is affordable. You can become either a sustaining member or an artistic member.
Medieval Times is in the old west! In the Talking Stick Entertainment District, this popular "dinner and theatre show tournament" takes you back in time. Knights in shiny armor, jousting, and medieval fun all await you at the castle. This is a show like no other with real horses, thrilling battles and even falconry. Cheer on your champion knight, enjoy a four-course dinner (no silverware of course), and tour the 11th century Spanish castle. Chivalry, rivalry, and revelry! This spirited show offers up spirits as well in the form of beer, wine and cocktails. You can also special order the vegetarian option, if the ample meal of roast chicken is not to your liking. Join the "Queen", bring the family and cheer for your favorite knight as they battle with lance, sword, mace and alabarda. And if you don't know what that last weapon is, you'll just have to see the show to find out!
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When you visit Old Town Scottsdale, you'll get a taste of the Wild West and reminisce about the good ol' days as you walk down the wooden sidewalks featuring Southwestern specialty shops and tempting snacks. You'll learn the rustic traditions as you get a taste and imagine the Wild West.
A popular attraction in Scottsdale is the Scottsdale Stadium, which is home to the Giant's 2012 Spring training. Even if you're not a sports fan, there are lots of year-round events and meetings hosted at the stadium. Besides, who doesn't love popcorn and a frozen malt?
The Zeigler Fiesta Bowl Museum is the perfect opportunity for sports fanatics to relive some of the greatest moments in Fiesta Bowl history. Even if you're not a fanatic, you'll still enjoy the memorabilia and trophies from the famous Fiesta Bowl. The museum is free.
Whether you're looking for something to do with the family or just plain love trains, you'll enjoy McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. You can ride the Paradise and Pacific Railroad while you spend the day learning the history of the railroad and visit exhibits. There is even an antique carousel, playgrounds, and picnic areas and don't forget to wear your overalls and engineer hat!
American's Largest Butterfly conservatory featuring butterflies from all over the world. This rain forest habitat has a large glass atrium within which you will find butterflies flying freely. There are also interactive nature exhibits, a 3D educational movie, a gift shop, and cafe. You can also watch in real time as the butterflies undergo their metamorphosis, in the Butterfly Emergence Gallery.
Enter another age. . .the age of vaudevillian entertainment and parlour magic. Join Carnival of Illusion in one of their FOUR theaters for an evening of Old-World Magic, where the impossible happens right before your eyes! It's fun, exciting and surprisingly mind-boggling. The amazing duo of Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyed will have you laughing out loud and gasping all in one breathe. It's not your run-of-the-mill night out and you might just find yourself choosing a card. . . any card. . . or up on stage helping to bring the magic to life!
Want to visit Scottsdale up-close? Segway of Scottsdale offers four different tours through the streets of old-town. These two-hour tours include a max of six guests and a state-of-the-art audio system so you can clearly hear your tour guide's narration. In addition, they even offer a money back guarantee. It's a win-win-blast.
Enjoy a relaxing day at Chaparral Lake. Under the warm sun, gather at the lake for a day of boating and picnicking. It's the perfect place outdoor spot to spend time as a family with a baseball and barbecue. Can't get more American than that!
If you love skating, you have to check out the McDowell Mountain Ranch Skate Park. The modern edge park is actually one of the newer skate parks in Scottsdale. Not only are you able to skate for free, but you can also cool off in the pool next door. Free is good. Skating is even better!
Arizona's largest climbing gym. This family-friendly facility is fun for all ages and all ability levels. Everyone must sign a waiver. There's top roping, bouldering, and lead climbing so everyone from beginners to experienced climbers can climb. There's also a full gym with great classes including yoga and team building.
If you love racing, cars and things that go vroom, then this museum is for you. Penske has an amazing racing history and has seen more than its share of wins over its more than fifty years of racing history. Here you'll find some cars that have won and some that came pretty darn close, as well as some great racing trophies and memorabilia. This museum is free and is found very near some high end car dealerships, so if you get inspired by that one of a kind racing machine, you can head right out and buy one of your own.
Live like a real cowboy at MacDonald' s Ranch. Ride horseback on the trails, spend the day visiting the petting zoo, or enjoy stagecoach rides. Afterward, hang around for a cowboy cookout and great entertainment while you walk with a limp. Sleeping on the desert floor not necessary.
This is straight up a resort for kids, and adults who love playing like kids. Their huge indoor waterpark is included in your stay, and is their main attraction. So take a day or two off, pack up the kids and the bathing suits, and head on over to the Great Wolf Lodge, or buy a day pass if an overnight stay at a kidcentric resort doesn't fit with your schedule. The waterpark has 3 thrill-level categories low, medium and high, with some height requirements. Everything is indoors, so no need to worry about sunburns or scorpions. And if a huge indoor waterpark isn't enough fun for the day, there are other attractions like a climbing wall, bowling and mini golf to name a few. Yup, more fun than a barrel of monkeys and a basket full of meerkats combined.
For more Wild West fun, check out Rawhide. Rawhide is much more than an old western town. It offers gun shows, dancing, live entertainment and a steakhouse with big meaty entrees. There are also many shopping areas to purchase your western attire, souvenirs so you too can be an urban cowboy or cowgirl and put some spurs on those boots, mister!
What you see is not always what you get, especially at the Museum of Illusions where you'll be treated to a whole lot of eye-fooling fun. Make it a family day and immerse yourself in an intriguing visual, sensory, and educational experience! Bring the whole gang for your special event like birthday party or other private event. Photo opportunities will have you laughing and amazed for years to come, saying "Wait! What? Now really, how is that possible?"
Scottsdale is set right in the heart of the most beautiful desert scenery in Arizona. To explore the true beauty of the desert and all of its inhabitants, head to the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. You'll see breathtaking desert landscapes and numerous events in the nature preserve. Just watch out for the pointy little critters.
Have you ever wanted to be a real cowboy? Now you can at the Arizona Cowboy College. You’ll be transformed from a city slicker to a real cowboy for the true Wild West adventure. Now go grab those chaps and get out of the house!
No matter if you're looking for a little thrill or just want to connect with nature, 360 Adventures has lots of wild rides! Explore the tallest mountains as you hike or bike the trails, or get your adrenaline pumping with air or water tours. You can even rock climb and canoe right in the desert.
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Imagine floating quietly over the desert like a hawk in flight with a 360 degree view of life below. This exhilarating experience will be a memory of a lifetime. Featured by Fodor's Travel as being the best balloon experience in Phoenix for the past 20 years, this is something that you and your family will talk about for years to come.
Tucked in behind the dog park and baseball fields is the 5-acre plot of desert garden joy. With over 7,000 plants and 200 species, you will be given a lot of new ideas on what to plant in your desert garden to save water, and contribute to sustainable landscaping.
The Arizona Food Tour is perfect for those with a passion for food or just want some excellent eating. The three hour-long walking tour takes you to the best restaurants in Scottsdale. Along with the tour, you’ll get a taste of the area's culture as you enjoy distinctive food and chat over wine or coffee or just deserts, mmmmm.
If you love wood-fired cooking, head to Roaring Forks, where you'll find bold American cuisine. Although the food is prepared over a simple wood fire, the taste will leave you craving more. Roaring Forks not only offers excellent food but the perfect blend of intimacy and energy for an amazing evening.
If you're looking for a little rehabilitation after a long day, head to Rehab Burger Therapy. Unwind after a long day with great food, entertainment, and friendly people and keep those fancy sauces going!
This seasonal outdoor market runs October through May on Saturday mornings. You will find amazing local fresh produce, baked goods, meats, eggs, flowers and so much more. With over 100 vendors, you will be sure to check off everything on your grocery list, and go home feeling good about what you purchased from these local vendors.
The Rusty Spur has been in business for over 60 years, bringing you that old west country bar feeling. They have live country music 7 nights a week. The building was constructed in 1921 and started out as a bank. Now it is a registered historic landmark. So if you are looking for a country saloon to wet your whistle, this might be just the place for a pit stop.
I don't know anyone who will turn down ice-cream in the middle of an Arizona summer. Cold, creamy, and oh so delicious, this ice cream is made in small batches in-house. They have an eco-friendly philosophy, and several stores, including their Scottsdale location on Shea Blvd. If you just can't do all those dairy products, take heart because they have vegan sorbet too!
If you like designers like Fendi, Versace and Chanel, but prefer a slightly older style, then Vintage by Misty will transport you back to vintage designer heaven. There are plenty of sparkles and bling to be found here, focusing on 70s to 90s designer chic. A good designer's work should be timeless after all.
This outdoor shopping mall has 50+ retailers to serve you, including tons of family entertainment choices like Octane Raceway and 2nd Swing Golf. Also on the menu are food choices like Buffalo Wild Wings and Chipotle. And to add to a perfect day, there's a Roadhouse Cinemas in case you want to catch a movie after all that shopping and fun.
Scottsdale's Fashion Square has upscale luxury dining, shopping and entertainment. Shop Aldo, Armani and Ann Taylor and that's just starting with the "A"s. They even have two concierge desks for your convenience.
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Well, that's our list but if you want more, here's even more of our favorite fun things to do in Scottsdale. This list is constantly updated so please write us and offer your favorite choices. We would love to include them and share them with the world. Have fun exploring!
