Scottsdale Sensations: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

Discover family fun and luxury in sunny Scottsdale, your ultimate vacation destination.

19 July 2023

Scottsdale, located in the beautiful state of Arizona, offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Families can explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert on hiking trails or enjoy a day at one of the many world-class golf courses. With its vibrant arts scene, including museums and galleries, and a wide array of dining options, Scottsdale ensures an enjoyable and memorable trip for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Desert Delights

  • Start your day exploring Scottsdale's architectural gems at Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West.
  • Dive into the unique Arizona landscape with a hike through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
  • Feast on Southwestern flavors at The Mission, where their spicy ahi tuna tacos will make your taste buds samba.
  • Channel your inner cowboy at MacDonald's Ranch, saddle up for a horseback ride through the rustic desert trails.
  • Unwind at the luxurious JW Marriott Camelback Inn, where you can soak in the desert views from their stunning pool.
Day 2

Art & Adventure

  • Stroll through Scottsdale's ArtWalk in Old Town, where galleries showcase everything from contemporary to Native American art.
  • Channel your inner artist with a pottery class at the Creative Art Studio, and whip up a masterpiece to take home.
  • Experience a thrilling off-road adventure on a Tomcar tour, as you conquer rough terrain and soak in panoramic desert views.
  • Sample the eclectic offerings at The Saguaro's Old Town Whiskey, whether you prefer a classic cocktail or their signature jalapeño-infused bourbons.
  • End the day with a delightful dinner at FnB, a local hotspot known for its innovative farm-to-table creations.
Day 3

Cactus Paradise

  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden, where striking cactus displays will make your senses bloom.
  • Embark on a tranquil hike up Camelback Mountain for breathtaking views of the city and Sonoran Desert.
  • Savor a leisurely brunch at Morning Squeeze, where their fluffy pancakes and avocado toast will have you dreaming about breakfast for days.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Arizona Canal Trail, enjoying the cool breeze and admiring Scottsdale's vibrant street art.
  • Indulge your taste buds with a sweet treat from Sugar Bowl, a charming retro ice cream parlor that has been serving up smiles since 1958.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Scottsdale, United States by plane is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport which is located 10 miles away from Scottsdale. There are many airlines that operate frequent flights to Phoenix from major cities around the world.

Car

The best way to reach Scottsdale by car would be to rent a car and drive to the city. Scottsdale is located in Maricopa County, which is connected to major highways like I-10, I-17, and Loop 101.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Scottsdale. The nearest Amtrak station is in Maricopa, which is 38 miles south of Scottsdale. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car.

Boat

Since Scottsdale is an inland city, there are no boat services that connect to it directly.

Bus

Scottsdale is well-connected by bus. Greyhound operates regular services to Phoenix from many cities around the US. From Phoenix, you can take local buses to reach Scottsdale.

Destination

Scottsdale

Welcome to a place where the sun never seems to take a break, and the cactus probably outnumbers the residents. Yep, we're talking about the land of luxury, Scottsdale.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Scottsdale Family Fun: Exploring, Eating, and Adventuring!

Scottsdale, located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert of Arizona, offers an incredible family-friendly experience with its stunning landscapes and abundance of attractions. Families can explore the fascinating Desert Botanical Garden, home to thousands of cacti and unique desert flora. With its luxurious resorts, vibrant arts scene, and endless outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding, Scottsdale promises a delightful trip that will keep the whole family engaged and entertained.

Scottsdale: Desert Adventure on a Budget

Scottsdale offers a plethora of affordable activities for budget-conscious travelers. One can take a hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, stroll through the Old Town, and visit the free Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly dining options such as The Stand, The Mission, and La Hacienda.

Scottsdale Adventures on a Shoestring Budget

Explore the natural beauty of Scottsdale by hiking the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or taking a bike ride along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt. Enjoy a free art walk through downtown Scottsdale's galleries and museums every Thursday evening. Save money on accommodation by booking a budget hotel or Airbnb outside of the city center.

Scottsdale in 5 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun!

Visiting Scottsdale on a limited budget is possible with some careful planning. Start by taking advantage of free activities, such as hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or exploring Old Town Scottsdale. Consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb outside of the main tourist areas to save money on accommodations.