How many days do you need in Scottsdale, AZ?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Scottsdale, AZ, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Scottsdale, AZ?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Scottsdale, AZ. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Fun in Scottsdale, AZ

Day 1: Old Town Exploration

Scottsdale, AZ

8:00AM

Breakfast at Butters Pancakes & Cafe

Start your day with delicious pancakes and a variety of breakfast options at Butters Pancakes & Cafe.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Old Town Scottsdale

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Old Town Scottsdale, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and souvenir shops.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Mission

Indulge in modern Latin cuisine at The Mission, with a menu of tacos, ceviche, and tableside guacamole.

$$$, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Musical Instrument Museum

Discover the world's musical heritage through a vast collection of instruments and interactive exhibits at the Musical Instrument Museum.

$$, 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Olive & Ivy

Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine by the Scottsdale Waterfront at Olive & Ivy, offering a blend of modern and classic dishes.

$$, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Scottsdale, AZ

9:00AM

Breakfast at AZ88

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at AZ88, known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Desert Botanical Garden

Immerse yourself in the beauty of desert plants from around the world at the Desert Botanical Garden, with themed exhibits and outdoor trails.

$$, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gertrude's

Dine at Gertrude's, located within the Desert Botanical Garden, offering farm-fresh cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Butterfly Wonderland

Experience the magic of thousands of butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland, the largest indoor butterfly conservatory in America.

$$, 1.5-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Steak 44

Savor a prime steak dinner at Steak 44, known for its upscale ambiance and selection of high-quality meats.

$$$, 2 hours

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Day 3: Aquatic Adventures

Scottsdale, AZ

9:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Club

Enjoy a classic American breakfast with a southwestern twist at Breakfast Club in Scottsdale.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

OdySea Aquarium

Dive into a day of marine exploration at OdySea Aquarium, home to over 30,000 animals and 65 exhibits for an educational and interactive experience.

$$$, 3-4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Canal Club

Have a waterside lunch at The Canal Club, offering a diverse menu and views of the Arizona Canal.

$$, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Taliesin West

Discover the architectural legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing innovative design in harmony with nature.

$$, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Cowboy Ciao

Indulge in modern American cuisine with global influences at Cowboy Ciao, known for its unique dishes and eclectic wine selection.

$$$, 2 hours

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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

8:30AM

Breakfast at Echo Coffee

Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee and artisan pastries at Echo Coffee, a local favorite for its cozy atmosphere.

$, 1 hour

9:30AM

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore modern art and rotating exhibitions at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, a cultural hub in the heart of the city.

$$, 1.5-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at FnB

Dine at FnB for a farm-to-table culinary experience, featuring seasonal ingredients and a diverse menu of innovative dishes.

$$, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Scottsdale Fashion Square

Shop at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona's largest shopping destination with luxury brands, department stores, and dining options.

$$$, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Postino WineCafe

Relax with a glass of wine and bruschetta boards at Postino WineCafe, a cozy spot for shared plates and good conversation.

$$, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

Scottsdale, AZ

8:00AM

Breakfast at Morning Squeeze

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast at Morning Squeeze, serving up fresh juices, omelets, and pancake stacks.

$$, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride with Rainbow Ryders

Soar above the Sonoran Desert at sunrise with Rainbow Ryders for a breathtaking hot air balloon experience, capturing panoramic views of the landscape.

$$$, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pinnacle Peak Patio

Enjoy a cowboy-style lunch at Pinnacle Peak Patio, a rustic steakhouse known for its hearty meals and casual Western vibe.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Guided Hike in McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Embark on a guided hike through the scenic trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, exploring the desert landscape and wildlife.

Free, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Roaring Fork

Dine at The Roaring Fork for a taste of wood-fired American cuisine and signature dishes like the Big Ass Burger and Green Chili Pork Stew.

$$$, 2 hours

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Day 6: Family Entertainment

Scottsdale, AZ

9:00AM

Breakfast at Scramble

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Scramble, known for its creative breakfast dishes and friendly atmosphere.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Visit the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park for train rides, a historic carousel, and playgrounds to entertain the whole family.

$, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Satisfy your cravings at The Cheesecake Factory, offering a wide range of menu options from salads to pasta and, of course, delicious cheesecakes.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Butterfly Wonderland

Return to Butterfly Wonderland for a second visit, where kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and learn more about butterflies and their habitats.

$$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Blanco Tacos + Tequila

Have a festive dinner at Blanco Tacos + Tequila, serving up modern Mexican fare and a variety of flavorful tacos and margaritas.

$$, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Scenic Views

Scottsdale, AZ

5:30AM

Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at sunrise with a hot air balloon ride, capturing the colorful skies and panoramic views before the day begins.

$$$, 3 hours

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hash Kitchen

Indulge in creative brunch dishes at Hash Kitchen, featuring a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and unique breakfast options.

$$, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Scottsdale Arts District

Explore the Scottsdale Arts District, home to art galleries, sculptures, and public art installations showcasing the local creative scene.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at citizen public house

Enjoy a modern American lunch at citizen public house, a cozy spot known for its craft cocktails and dishes like the Original Chopped Salad and Pork Osso Buco.

$$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Scottsdale Civic Center Park

Spend the afternoon at Scottsdale Civic Center Park, a green oasis offering public art, fountains, and open spaces for relaxation and exploration.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Olive & Ivy

End your trip with a farewell dinner at Olive & Ivy, enjoying Mediterranean flavors by the Scottsdale Waterfront for a memorable evening.

$$, 1.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Fun in Scottsdale, AZ

Day 1: Old Town Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Aquatic Adventures

9:00AM

10:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

8:30AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Family Entertainment

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Scenic Views

5:30AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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