Staycation Scottsdale: A Guide to Ultimate Relaxation

Hiking

Get outdoors and experience the striking Sonoran Desert landscape in Scottsdale. Lace up your hiking boots and tackle the intense Echo Canyon Trail at Camelback Mountain, a strenuous but immensely rewarding hike up this iconic peak resembling a kneeling camel's hump. The trail ascends over 1,200 feet to the summit, providing stunning views over the valleys and ridges. For something a bit tamer, explore the scenic Pinnacle Peak trails bordering the Four Seasons resort.

Culture

Explore Scottsdale's rich arts community at the historic Cattle Track Arts Compound, a village of adobe structures housing artists' studios and galleries. Wander through as artists like painters, ceramicists and printmakers welcome you into their workspaces.

The Western Spirit museum in Old Town vividly brings the region's culture and folklore to life. Don't miss the impressive collections of Hopi ceramics, Old West artifacts from mining town saloons and striking bronze sculptures depicting historical Western figures. The exquisite landscape paintings by Maynard Dixon are a particular highlight.

Take a guided tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's desert masterpiece, Taliesin West, Wright's winter home and studio fashioned from the earth itself. Marvel at how this UNESCO World Heritage site seems to sprout organically from the foothills.

Horseback Riding

For a taste of the Old West, saddle up for horseback riding adventures through saguaro cactus-studded desert landscapes with outfitters like McDonald's Ranch or Windwalker Expeditions.

Golf

If golf is a passion, you'll be spoiled for choice among Scottsdale's award-winning courses like We-Ko-Pa, Troon North, TPC Scottsdale and Camelback Golf Club.

Wellness

After active days, unwind at Scottsdale's rejuvenating spas and wellness centers. The Joya Spa at Montelucia invokes a Moroccan hammam experience, while the Boulders Resort offers meditation labyrinths amid towering rock formations. Civana Wellness Resort provides holistic experiences like aqua therapy and hot/cold plunge pools.

Party

Cap off evenings exploring Old Town's vibrant Entertainment District, packed with bars, patios and nightlife options. Or head to the shops for some retail therapy, including local Native American art galleries and boutiques.

Scottsdale has a bounty of acclaimed restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs.

For an unforgettable dinner experience, make reservations well in advance at top spots like The House Brasserie, blending modern American and French cuisine; the intimate and romantic five-star Michelin-rated Cafe Monarch; or The Mission for elevated Mexican cuisine, offering an authentic yet creative experience complete with tableside guacamole and stellar margaritas. (The pozole, mole duck tacos and slow-cooked pork shoulder at The Mission are must-tries.)

At Fat Ox, don't miss the famous 25-layer lasagna. At Citizen Public House, don't miss the famous original chopped salad and sophisticated cocktail program.

Toca Madera and Casa Amigos put a modern spin on Mexican fare while providing lively atmospheres and craft cocktails. Toca Madera's guava margaritas and lobster tacos are highlights, while Casa Amigos' El Fuego burger and nightlife scene draw crowds.

Sweeping desert views combine with stellar Southwestern cuisine at Orange Sky atop Talking Stick Resort. For more panoramas, head to The Breakfast Club for hearty morning fare like huevos rancheros with a side of dramatic scenery.

For wine, linger over affordable tastings and bruschetta boards during happy hour at Postino Wine Cafe. Sip classic and creative cocktails at sleek bars like Second Story Liquor Bar and AZ/88 — the latter famous for its massive martinis and electric atmosphere.

If you can't decide, just head to Old Town. The area offers patios, restaurants, brewpubs, rooftop lounges and nightlife hotspots to experience Scottsdale's vibrant spirit.