Local picks for the Valley, written by people who live here: Old Town, day trips, where to eat, what to do with kids or on a date, and the best ways to get out into the Sonoran Desert.
18 guides
The best things to do in Fountain Hills, AZ: the famous fountain, dark skies, McDowell Mountain trails, Fort McDowell, dining, and a desert ride nearby.
Read more: Things to Do in Fountain Hills, AZ: A Local's GuideHot air balloon rides near Scottsdale and Phoenix: what a sunrise flight is like, best season, cost, what to wear, and how to pair it with a desert tour.
Read more: Hot Air Balloon Rides Over the Sonoran Desert: What to Know Before You FlyThe most romantic things to do in Scottsdale for couples: sunset desert rides, hot air balloons, spa days, stargazing, and fine dining for the perfect date.
Read more: Romantic Things to Do in Scottsdale for CouplesExplore the Superstition Mountains and the historic Apache Trail from Scottsdale: Lost Dutchman, Canyon Lake, Goldfield Ghost Town, and off-road desert country.
Read more: Superstition Mountains & Apache Trail: A Day-Trip GuideThe best things to do in Scottsdale with kids: desert adventures, splash pads, museums, wildlife, and easy family hikes, plus tips for beating the Arizona heat.
Read more: Things to Do in Scottsdale With Kids: A Family GuideATV, sand buggy, Jeep, Hummer, horseback, hot air balloon, or on foot: every way to tour the Sonoran Desert near Scottsdale, and how to pick the right one for you.
Read more: Every Way to Tour the Sonoran Desert Near ScottsdaleEverything you need for a day of Salt River tubing near Scottsdale: season, cost, what to bring, the rules, kayaking options, and how to beat the summer heat.
Read more: Salt River Tubing & Kayaking Near Scottsdale: The Full GuideSkip the gadget they will return. Experience gifts like a desert buggy tour give someone a story instead of a box, and they are easier to give than you think.
Read more: The Best Adventure Experience Gifts in Arizona (for People Who Have Enough Stuff)Planning for 10, 20 or 30 people in Scottsdale? How to pick an activity a big group can actually do together, and why the desert beats another restaurant table.
Read more: Things to Do in Scottsdale for Large Groups (That People Actually Remember)The best brunch spots in Old Town Scottsdale and surrounding neighborhoods, from bottomless-mimosa patios and DJ brunches to waterfront Mediterranean and cozy cafés.
Read more: Best Brunch Spots in Old Town Scottsdale (and Nearby)The best outdoor adventures near Phoenix, off-road desert tours, Salt River kayaking, sunrise hikes and more, plus when to go and how to beat the heat.
Read more: The Best Outdoor Adventures Near PhoenixDiscover the top 10 things to do in Phoenix, from UTV desert tours and Camelback Mountain to art districts and resort spas. Plan your Arizona adventure today.
Read more: Top 10 Things to Do in Phoenix: Desert & CityThe best things to do in Scottsdale beyond golf and spas: UTV desert tours, hot-air balloons, Old Town, hiking, kayaking, and more. Plan your Arizona trip.
Read more: Top 10 Things to Do in Scottsdale (Beyond Golf)Planning a day trip to Cave Creek? Here are the best Cave Creek restaurants for BBQ, brunch, Mexican, and diner classics, with a vibe-by-vibe guide.
Read more: Best Cave Creek Restaurants: A Local Day Trip GuideThe best outdoor activities in Scottsdale, from desert ATV tours and Camelback hikes to balloon rides and paddleboarding. Plan your adventure here.
Read more: Top Outdoor Activities in Scottsdale You Must TryYour guide to Old Town Scottsdale nightlife: the best bars, rooftop lounges, country saloons, and clubs in the walkable Entertainment District.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Old Town Scottsdale NightlifeBeat the heat in Scottsdale and Phoenix with cool escapes and a sunset desert tour. Smart summer activities for all ages, plus tips to stay comfortable.
Read more: Beat the Heat: Summer in Scottsdale & PhoenixThe best Scottsdale sunset spots, from desert overlooks to rooftop bars. Find a sunset lookout near you, plus how to chase golden hour on a guided ride.
Read more: 7 Best Scottsdale Sunset Spots (Hidden Gems)
