Less Risk Of Scorpion Stings And Rattlesnake Bites
If this is a concern for you , have no fear. Before my trip to Arizona, I was more than a little concerned Id find a scorpion hiding out in my shoes . Or of crossing paths, literally, with a rattlesnake during one of my hikes or bikes.
Dont get me wrong, I absolutely love snakes. I just prefer when our meetings are scheduled. Ashley doesnt like being sneaked up on. And she certainly doesnt like rattles.
Even though the Scottsdale, Arizona area sees mild temperatures all winter long, scorpions and rattlesnakes still go into a sort of hibernation until March or April. Though they may come out to stretch if the day is warm enough, chances are you wont see either of these during your visit to Scottsdale in the winter.
Both scorpions and rattlesnakes burrow themselves into dens to wait out the winter, huddled together to share body heat. Not unlike those of us living in New England, actually.
Scorpions, though typically solitary creatures, can share dens with up to 30 others. And coming across a rattlesnake den will put you face to face with up to 200 rattlers. Im pretty sure thats a scene from Raiders of the Lost Ark. Hey, maybe theyre guarding something ancient and powerful! You go first.
Search For The Lost Dutchmans Gold Mine At Goldfield
Legend has it that in the 1800s, Jacob Waltz discovered the mother lode of gold in the Superstition Mountains, now known as the Lost Dutchmans Gold Mine. Can your family find it?The town of Goldfield is centered around 1800s Gold Rush nostalgia, and it features fun-filled activities like zip-lining, museums, trail and mine tours, shows, horseback riding, a shooting gallery, reptile exhibit and much more.Pro Tip: Take a half-day and drive up State Route 88 to the Tortilla Flat stagecoach stop, an authentic remnant of an old west town.Then drive along the Apache Trail to the Roosevelt Dam, which was the largest water dam in the U.S. before the Hoover Dam was built.
Tee Up At One Of 200 Golf Courses
Calling all golfers! The courses are your name. Golf is one of the most popular Scottsdale activities because of our incredibly designed, world-class public and private golf courses.The two I typically recommend to guests are Grayhawk Golf Club and the Tournament Players Club , both really close to our resort. People tend to flock to the courses in the cooler months, so if youre looking for some fantastic deals , my advice is to hit the links on hotter days.Pro Tip: If youre at Scottsdale Resort, head over to the Vacation Station to get help with tee times and recommendations.
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Stay At The Boulders A Chic Outdoor
While I was exploring the beautiful Scottsdale area, I got the chance to stay at The Boulders Resort. It was a beautiful haven in the middle of the desert, marked by a large set of rock formations and dotted with picturesque casitas. For outdoor lovers, one of the best things to do in Scottsdale is to stay at a resort that fully takes advantage of the gorgeous Sonoran Desert scenery. The Boulders is a prime example.
Id wake up with the rising sun each morning and step out onto the balcony of my casita, watching local wildlife scurrying across the rocky terrain. Apparently, quails, coyotes, and javelinas call the property home . Staying in a place that embraces the beauty of nature and the outdoors was such a special treat, and one that really blew my experience in Scottsdale out of the water.
During my time at The Boulders Resort, I got to try a lot of the activities they have on-site, including rock climbing, hiking, and learning about desert flora and fauna. However, the reality is that you can actually organize almost everything on this list with the resort. Theyve got guided options for mountain biking, hiking, foraging, climbing, and stargazing, and can help organize other excursions in the area as well. Plus, with several on-site restaurants, a spacious pool and hot tub, and the most generous staff in the world, its a place I couldnt wait to come back to every single day!
Watch A Sporting Event At Area Stadiums And Arenas
- Arizona Cardinals Football: This professional football team plays games at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
- Arizona Coyotes Hockey: The National Hockey League team fights for its way to the Stanley Cup at the Gila River Arena in Glendale.
- Arizona Fall League Baseball: After the regular baseball season is over, there are six more weeks of baseball in October and November when each of the 30 Major League Baseball teams selects six prospects to play in the AFL. Games take place at stadiums around the Valley.
- Sun Devil Football: Arizona State University’s football team competes for PAC-12 glory at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe.
- Phoenix Suns Basketball: The professional National Basketball Association team for Arizona shoots hoops at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Downtown Phoenix.
- Phoenix Rising FC: The official Arizona team for the Universal Soccer League plays on various dates in October.
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Water Parks In And Near Scottsdale
With toasty temperatures five+ months of the year, it should come as no surprise that water parks are plentiful in the Phoenix area. Keep in mind that these are typically open seasonally, so be sure to check current hours before you go. Some Scottsdale resorts, like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, offer water features like waterslides and lazy rivers for their guests as well. Read more about these and other Scottsdale hotels via Expedia.
Listen To Arizona State University Concerts Across The Valley
The Arizona State University School of Music presents concerts at a variety of venues across the Valley of the Sun each year, including at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts on select Monday evenings. For a full list of performances in October, visit the A.S.U. School of Music events’ calendar.
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Perfect Conditions For Hot Air Ballooning
Hot air ballooning over the desert is one of the most popular things to do in the Scottsdale area and I can attest to the fact that you do not want to miss out on this. I am officially addicted to hot air ballooning.
As it turns out, winter = cooler air. And cooler air = better flying conditions. Hot air balloon rides in Arizona take place year-round, at sunrise and sunset when the temperatures are lower.
They say year-round but this is entirely depending. In some places and with some companies, flights are only offered between the months of October and April, for instance.
During the winter months youll have the best chance of your balloon getting off the ground and having the smoothest, most ideal flight possible. Kiss cancelations and rough landings goodbye as you sail up and over the rainbow.
If hot air ballooning over the desert is on your bucket list , winter is the most ideal time to do so. Also, check out my post on what to expect on your Arizona winter hot air balloon ride.
Parada Del Sol Parade
Amy Newton-McConnel / Shutterstock
Parada del Sol Parade is not one of Scottsdales permanent places to visit, but an annual event that serves as one of the Arizona citys biggest tourist attractions.
Its the worlds largest horse-drawn parade, consisting of almost 150 floats, parties, and troupes that make their way down Scottsdale Road each February.
Since 1953, the Parada del Sol has been the citys joy.
Its one of many fun events that pepper Western Week, which occurs in winter.
The Arizona Indian Festival, a farmers market, and a food truck festival are all among the other attractions that take place at this time.
But what, exactly, happens at Parada del Sol?
It involves almost the whole city coming down to involve themselves in a huge march across one of the main roads of the town, then flooding a block party known as Trails End to put an end to the celebration.
The party showcases Western performances, Native American performances, and Hispanic performances, one after the other.
Numerous other events occur during the Parada del Sol, including Western gunfights, games for kids, trick roping.
For children, theres an area with vendors, games, and more for them to occupy themselves!
Address: Scottsdale Rd & , E Indian School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
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Where To Eat In Scottsdale
A trip isnt complete without tasting local cuisine. BanderaRestaurant offers a casual atmosphere and specializes in American and Southwestern dishes accompanied by great cocktail margaritas. At Café Monarch , an award-winning restaurant, you can enjoy a dining experience that is both romantic to extravagant in a very pleasant setting. The menu features dishes with seasonal and local ingredients combined with a good wine list. Those looking for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes can easily find options here.
Modern Latin cuisine can be enjoyed at The Mission . At this elegant restaurant with romantic candlelight charm, you can choose to eat inside or outside under the warmth of the fire. Japanese cuisine is served at Kyoto Scottsdale at the Waterfront . This restaurant serves sushi and food cooked on a large stovetop using the teppanyaki method. But you cant leave Scottsdale without visiting the Rusty Spur Saloon , a country icon in Old Town thats also frequented by celebrities from the entertainment and movie industries.
Let You Putting Skills Shine At Glow Putt
Source: glowputtminigolf
Glow Putt Mini Golf is an indoor safari jungle themed miniature golf course that glows in the dark! And dont be concerned that no one will be able to see your hole in one accomplishment the 18 hole course is lit up with special UV lighting, and even the golf balls glow brightly every time they pass through one of the custom made charges. The courses layout will keep all the family happy whatever skill level they are and the kids will have the time of their lives working through the course. Also, if anybody gets that illusive hole in one, they receive a prize at the end!
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Ripleys Believe It Or Not
At Ripleys Believe It or Not, families will be amazed by a wacky collection of intriguing objects and astonishing artifacts like a gigantic life-sized model of a prehistoric snake and an animatronic statue of the worlds tallest man. Informational signs explain the science behind the oddities. It will probably take only an hour or so to make your way through this small museum.
Talavera Restaurant Scottsdale Az
Boasting breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak, Talavera is a classic steakhouse with elegant décor, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and first-class service.
Located in North Scottsdale among the foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Talavera serves a traditional steakhouse menu of locally and regionally sourced cuisine that features steak and seafood pairings, fresh garden salads, specialty sides, and homemade desserts. Dine on cold beef carpaccio, warm lobster bisque, rib-eye steaks, or surf-and-turf specials from the a la carte menu or enjoy a six-course tasting menu paired with appropriate wines, courtesy of Executive Chef Mel Mecinas, while taking in the beautiful views.
Inside, a roaring fireplace creates a cozy ambiance while a wide patio is atheperfect place to sip cocktails at sunset during the summer months.
10600 East Crescent Moon Drive, Scottsdale, AZ, Phone: 480-513-5085
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Things To Do In Scottsdale Az: Mccormick
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a unique railroad park dedicated to displaying the history of the railroad. Located on the corner of Scottsdale and Indian Bend Roads, the park is home to a one-of-a-kind Model Railroad Building that spans 10,000 square feet and houses a 15 in gauge railroad, four model railroad clubs, and a Magma Arizona Railroad locomotive.
An interactive railroad museum boasts a variety of objects and artifacts related to the railroad industry along with an array of exhibits, including the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, the Merci Train, and the Model Railroad. The park features several playground and picnic areas in which to relax with the family, and visitors of all ages are welcome to enjoy a charming antique carousel.
7301 E. Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona, Phone: 480-312-2312
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Scottsdale Museum Of Contemporary Art
Boasting five galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art features cutting-edge contemporary art, modern art, architecture, and design. The museum is located in Old Town and while you are there, you can check out the skyspace which gives fantastic views over the desert sky. There is free admission on Thursdays and after 5 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and children under 18 are free every day of the week with a paying adult.
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Learn About Desert Flora And Fauna On A Guided Tour
One of the most peculiar and fascinating thing about the Sonoran Desert is the abundance of plants and animals that call it home. With the most rainfall of any desert in the United States, the Sonoran Desert is actually a hospitable environment for wildlife. By taking a guided tour, you can spot some of the unique species that inhabit the desert, and learn about local animals, plants, and edible ingredients you cant find anywhere else in the world.
At The Boulders, they offer guided plant and wildlife tours, guided by a wicked smart woman named Brandy. She knows everything about the local plants and animals, including what can be eaten and what cant. She drove me around the resort grounds and pointed out tons of interesting plants and animals that I wouldnt have otherwise known anything about.
If you arent staying at The Boulders, there are other options for you.
Chocolate Tour Of Scottsdale
Explore the sweet side of Scottsdale on a guided walking tour that visits all the towns best chocolate destinations. These chocolicious tours head to a variety of chocolatiers and local shops throughout the Downtown area where chocolate-lovers will have the opportunity to learn about the history of this confectionary and how the products are made and sample varieties of the worlds most popular treat.
Feast on truffles, hot chocolate, ice-cream, cupcakes, and other baked goods made with or from chocolate and meet the owners and chocolate-makers of some of Scottsdales best chocolate stores, while at the same time soaking up the wonderful ambiance of this vibrant town.
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Where To Stay In Scottsdale
Scottsdale is very popular. There are various options to stay overnight, but generally, the hotel prices are quite high . Starting from the more expensive accommodations, we recommend the Scottsdale Marriot Suites Old Town where guests stay in suites with a sitting area and balcony. The hotel has an outdoor pool, fitness center, and outdoor patio. Try its restaurant, the 3rd Avenue Grill, with Southwestern cuisine.
In the Art District, you can stay at the Bespoke Inn , where each room has a different style and decor. The property features a private patio, a beautiful courtyard, and a rooftop pool. There are free bicycles available to guests, plus there is a restaurant conveniently located on the property.
Not far from Old Town Scottsdale, it is worth it to consider the Hyatt House Scottsdale , located 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, free Wi-Fi in all rooms as well as a breakfast buffet.
For those who prefer in a less urban location in the middle of nature, we recommend the Four Peaks B& B , which has a Southwestern interior design in its rooms and suites. Breakfast can be served in your room or on the patio. There is a swimming pool. Dogs are welcome.
Even the normally more affordable hotel chains are not as cheap in this city, but you can search for deals via search engines or you can opt for accommodations a few miles outside of Scottsdale.
About Me Your Resident Scottsdale Expert
Hey, there! Im Jeff, and Ive spent a lot of my time here in Arizona, having been here since 2001.What I love most about this great state is how incredibly diverse it is in terms of fun activities, stunning scenery and high-class entertainment.Ive actually been asked this question a lot: What should my family do during our visit to Scottsdale?When you look at all the most popular things to do in Scottsdale lists, you might notice a lot of the same things listed over and over. And Ill list some of those here, too, because many of them really are worth checking out.But my expertise reaches beyond the basics and further into those local, extra special activities you might not see from a quick Google search.Thats because I live here, so when families ask me what they should do, I want them to see what I see and experience as things that are authentically Arizona.Also, Im a big nature guy, so one of my all-time favorite things to do in Scottsdale is to get away on an outdoor family adventure to do some camping or backpacking.Theres nothing quite like spending quality time together among the winding rivers, desert mountains and towering cacti.In my opinion, this is where the true beauty of Arizona lies.
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