Scottsdale on a Budget: Outdoor Adventure and Art

Experience luxury on a budget in Scottsdale, Arizona.

21 June 2023

A trip to Scottsdale on a limited budget can be a memorable experience. With plenty of free outdoor attractions, visitors can hike through scenic trails, explore world-class art exhibitions, and relax in public parks. Affordable accommodations can be found in downtown Scottsdale or nearby areas, and budget-friendly dining options are available throughout the city.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Savoring Scottsdale on a Budget

  • Start the day with breakfast at Matt's Big Breakfast, a local favorite famous for its hearty portions and fresh ingredients.
  • Take a stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases the unique plant life of the Arizona desert. Best enjoyed during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
  • Head to Old Town Scottsdale for lunch at the Rusty Spur Saloon, a historic cowboy bar known for its live music, cold beer, and delicious burgers.
  • Visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a rotating collection of thought-provoking art exhibits from around the world.
  • End the day with dinner at the Mission, a Latin-inspired restaurant serving up creative dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Don't miss the table-side guacamole and house-made sangria!
  • Note: Many of these attractions offer discounted admission or free days/times for visitors on a tight budget. Be sure to check their websites for details and plan accordingly.

Length of stay

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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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More travel plans

Scottsdale's Family Fun: 5 Days of Adventures on a Budget

Scottsdale, located in Arizona, offers an ideal family-friendly destination with a blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and luxurious resorts. Families can explore the vast Sonoran Desert through hiking and biking trails, visit the Phoenix Zoo, or embark on a thrilling hot air balloon ride. Additionally, Scottsdale boasts an array of family-friendly resorts with pools, spas, and recreational amenities ensuring an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

Escape to Scottsdale: A Romantic Weekend Getaway

Experience a romantic getaway in Scottsdale, Arizona, where you can indulge in luxurious spa treatments and world-class dining. Take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Sonoran Desert or hike up Camelback Mountain for breathtaking views. End the day with a relaxing stroll through the charming Old Town Historic District.

Scottsdale on a Budget: Outdoor Adventure and Art

A trip to Scottsdale on a limited budget can be a memorable experience. With plenty of free outdoor attractions, visitors can hike through scenic trails, explore world-class art exhibitions, and relax in public parks. Affordable accommodations can be found in downtown Scottsdale or nearby areas, and budget-friendly dining options are available throughout the city.

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.