Our resort offers a prime location that puts you within reach of countless adventures. So grab your sunscreen, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover all that Scottsdale and the surrounding area have to offer.

Exploring Old Town Scottsdale

First up on your adventure agenda: a trip to Old Town Scottsdale. Just a stone’s throw away from the resort, this historic district is a treasure trove of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where you’ll find charming boutiques offering everything from handmade jewelry to Southwestern pottery.

Feeling hungry? Old Town has you covered with a plethora of dining options to suit every palate. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at a local cantina, sample farm-to-table fare at a trendy bistro, or grab a slice of New York-style pizza at a bustling pizzeria.

And let’s not forget about the art scene! Old Town is home to numerous galleries showcasing works by both local and internationally renowned artists. Whether you’re into contemporary paintings, Native American crafts, or Western sculpture, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

Adventures in the Valley

But the fun doesn’t stop there! With the Scottsdale Plaza Resort’s central location, you’re perfectly positioned to explore all that the Valley of the Sun has to offer. Here are just a few of the nearby adventures waiting for you:

• Hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails in one of the nation’s largest urban preserves. With over 200 miles of trails winding through pristine desert landscape, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
• Golfing at TPC Scottsdale: Calling all golf aficionados! Tee off at TPC Scottsdale, home to two championship courses that have hosted the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just looking to enjoy a leisurely round, TPC Scottsdale promises a day of fun on the fairways.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Sonoran Desert with a hot air balloon ride. Drift gently over rugged mountains, lush valleys, and towering saguaro cacti as the sun rises over the horizon. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
• Desert Jeep Tour: Buckle up and hold on tight as you embark on a thrilling desert jeep tour. Traverse rocky trails, splash through desert washes, and learn about the flora, fauna, and history of the Sonoran Desert from your knowledgeable guide.
• Shopping and Dining at Kierland Commons: Treat yourself to a day of retail therapy and gourmet dining at Kierland Commons. This upscale outdoor shopping center features a mix of high-end boutiques, department stores, and restaurants, making it the perfect destination for a day of indulgence.

Scottsdale is also brimming with family-friendly activities that are sure to entertain kids of all ages. Here are some top picks:

• McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: All aboard for a day of train-themed fun at this expansive park which features train rides on a miniature railroad, a historic carousel, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a railroad museum filled with model trains and railroad memorabilia.
• Butterfly Wonderland: Step into a tropical paradise at Butterfly Wonderland, the largest indoor butterfly conservatory in the United States. Wander through lush rainforest gardens filled with thousands of butterflies from around the world. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits, including a live ant colony and a 3D movie about butterflies.
• Desert Botanical Garden: Discover the beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Botanical Garden. Kids will love exploring the winding trails lined with cacti, succulents, and desert wildflowers. Check the calendar for family-friendly events, such as flashlight tours and nature-themed workshops.
• Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA): Introduce your kids to the world of contemporary art at SMoCA. The museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on art activities designed specifically for children. Keep an eye out for family-friendly events and workshops held throughout the year.
• Papago Park: Head outdoors for a day of adventure at Papago Park. Hike to the top of Hole-in-the-Rock for panoramic views of the city, explore the sandstone formations, and keep an eye out for wildlife. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing lagoons.
• McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails nearby. With over 200 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes, there’s something for every skill level. Keep an eye out for desert wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and maybe even a coyote or two.
• OdySea Aquarium: Prepare to be amazed as you journey into the underwater world at OdySea Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the Southwest. Located just a short drive from the Scottsdale Plaza Resort, OdySea is a paradise for marine enthusiasts of all ages. They also have a pretty cool award-winning bathroom to check out!
• Medieval Times: Step back in time to an era of knights, jousting, and royal feasts as you embark on a thrilling dinner show experience.

No matter what your family’s interests are, Scottsdale has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained and happy!

Unwind at the Resort

After a day of adventure, return to the Scottsdale Plaza Resort to relax and recharge. Take a dip in one of our five temperature-controlled pools, indulge in a soothing spa treatment, or simply unwind in the comfort of your luxurious accommodations.

Whether you’re exploring Old Town Scottsdale, hitting the trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or embarking on a hot air balloon ride over the desert, adventures await at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort and beyond. Book your stay today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!