Located in the heart of Arizona, Scottsdale is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning desert landscapes, luxurious resorts, and vibrant cultural scene. While Scottsdale itself is a must-visit destination, there are many other exciting places to explore in the surrounding area. From ancient Native American ruins to scenic hiking trails and charming small towns, there’s something for everyone in the places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ.
Overview
The places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ, offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, there’s no shortage of options in the area. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ, and provide you with the information you need to plan your trip.
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Natural Wonders
Scottsdale is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the American Southwest. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, for example, offers over 30,000 acres of protected land with hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Superstition Mountains are also a must-see, with their unique rock formations and scenic vistas.
Cultural Attractions
For those interested in history and culture, there are plenty of attractions to explore near Scottsdale. The Heard Museum, for example, showcases the art and culture of Native American communities in the Southwest. The Taliesin West National Historic Landmark, the winter home and studio of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is another must-visit attraction.
Small Towns and Villages
Scottsdale is also surrounded by charming small towns and villages that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and culture. Carefree, for example, is a quaint town with a strong Native American heritage and a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants. The nearby town of Cave Creek is also worth a visit, with its historic main street and vibrant arts scene.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in the places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ. From natural wonders to small towns and villages, this article will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the area.
Places To Visit Near Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale, Arizona is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful desert landscapes, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. However, there are many other exciting places to visit near Scottsdale that offer a range of experiences from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ:
Outdoor Adventures
Scottsdale is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures to consider: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Spokane Wa)
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve: This 30,500-acre nature preserve offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Camelback Mountain: This iconic mountain offers two challenging hiking trails with stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
- Salt River Tubing: Take a leisurely float down the Salt River and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Cultural Attractions
Scottsdale is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues. Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit:
- Heard Museum: This museum showcases the art and culture of Native American communities, with a focus on the indigenous peoples of the Southwest.
- Scottsdale Museum of the West: This museum features a collection of Western art and artifacts, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell.
- Taliesin West: This National Historic Landmark was the winter home and studio of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and offers guided tours of the property.
Wine Country
Arizona is known for its wine country, and there are several wineries and vineyards near Scottsdale that offer wine tastings and tours. Here are some of the top wine country attractions:
- Page Springs Cellars: This winery produces a range of wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and offers wine tastings and tours.
- Carlson Creek Vineyard: This winery produces a range of wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Syrah, and offers wine tastings and tours.
- Su Vino Winery: This winery produces a range of wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and offers wine tastings and tours.
Day Trips
Scottsdale is also a great base for day trips to nearby cities and attractions. Here are some of the top day trip ideas:
| Destination | Distance from Scottsdale | Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 20 miles | Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Desert Botanical Garden |
| Tempe | 10 miles | Tempe Town Lake, Arizona State University, Mill Avenue District |
| Glendale | 15 miles | Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale Historical Society Museum, Glendale Glitters |
These are just a few of the many exciting places to visit near Scottsdale, AZ. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or wine country, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful desert city.
As we conclude our article on “Places to Visit Near Scottsdale, AZ”, we hope you’ve gained a better understanding of the numerous attractions and destinations that await you just outside of this beautiful city.
In this article, we explored the rich cultural heritage of the area, highlighting the Heard Museum, which showcases Native American art and culture. We also delved into the world of art, discussing the Scottsdale Museum of the West, which features an impressive collection of Western and American art. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Jasper National Park)
Of course, no trip to Scottsdale would be complete without a visit to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. We highlighted the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast network of trails and scenic vistas that offer breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
For those looking for a more leisurely experience, we recommended the Old Town Scottsdale, where you can stroll along the charming streets, visit unique shops and galleries, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants.
In conclusion, Scottsdale and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests and preferences. Whether you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Arizona.
We hope this article has inspired you to plan your next trip to Scottsdale and explore the many wonders that await you.
Here are five FAQs related to ‘Places To Visit Near Scottsdale Az’:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking trails near Scottsdale, AZ?
Scottsdale is surrounded by beautiful mountains and desert landscapes, offering numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. Some popular options include Camelback Mountain, Pinnacle Peak, and McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Be sure to check the trail conditions and bring plenty of water and sunscreen before heading out.
What are some must-visit attractions in Old Town Scottsdale?
Old Town Scottsdale is a charming area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Scottsdale Museum of the West, the Old Town Farmers Market, and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. You can also stroll along the Scottsdale Waterfront and enjoy the views of the canal. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Gatlinburg Tennessee)
Are there any scenic drives near Scottsdale, AZ?
Yes, there are several scenic drives near Scottsdale that offer stunning views of the Sonoran Desert. One popular option is the Desert Botanical Garden’s Desert Discovery Trail, which takes you through a beautiful garden filled with cacti and wildflowers. Another option is the Hieroglyphic Canyon Trail, which takes you through a scenic canyon with ancient Native American petroglyphs.
What are some family-friendly activities near Scottsdale, AZ?
Scottsdale has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Some popular options include the Butterfly Wonderland, the OdySea Aquarium, and the Scottsdale Children’s Museum. You can also visit the McCormick Ranch Golf Club, which offers mini-golf and a playground for kids.
Are there any wine tastings near Scottsdale, AZ?
Yes, there are several wineries and vineyards near Scottsdale that offer wine tastings and tours. Some popular options include the Su Vino Winery, the Page Springs Cellars, and the Carlson Creek Vineyard. You can also visit the Old Town Scottsdale Wine Walk, which takes you to several wine tasting rooms in the area.
