Discover Scottsdale: Tours That Capture the Heart of the Desert
Whether you’re new to the Valley or a longtime local looking to rediscover your backyard, Scottsdale offers an incredible mix of guided and self-guided tours. From Frank Lloyd Wright’s private desert retreat to the latest buzzworthy restaurants and even the rim of the Grand Canyon, these experiences showcase why Scottsdale is one of the most dynamic places to live, work, and play.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
No introduction to Scottsdale is complete without visiting Taliesin West, the former winter home and architecture school of Frank Lloyd Wright. Perched in the McDowell Mountain foothills, this National Historic Landmark was hand-built in the 1930s using rocks and sand from the surrounding desert. Today, visitors can take guided tours that highlight Wright’s visionary design principles—or explore at their own pace with a self-guided audio tour that perfectly captures his harmony between architecture and nature.
Guided Hikes in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers more than 30,000 acres of protected desert and endless ways to explore it. If you’d rather not head out solo, you can join one of many guided hikes, bike rides, or educational programs led by local naturalists. Seasonal topics like wildflowers, desert geology, and wildlife offer a deeper appreciation for Scottsdale’s unique landscape—one that defines so much of its lifestyle and real estate appeal.
VIP Tour at the Musical Instrument Museum
Just a short drive from North Scottsdale, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes experience through its VIP tour. Guests are guided through private areas not open to the public, including exhibit preparation zones and backstage at the MIM Music Theater. It’s a rare opportunity to see the craftsmanship and cultural care that go into one of Arizona’s most inspiring attractions.
Walk N About Scottsdale
Step into the story of Old Town Scottsdale with a two-hour walking tour hosted by former Mayor Sam Campana. As you stroll past art galleries, boutiques, and historic landmarks like the Old Adobe Mission, you’ll gain a true sense of Scottsdale’s roots—where Western heritage meets modern creativity. It’s a perfect outing for anyone wanting to understand what gives this community its character and charm.
Flavors of Scottsdale with Arizona Food Tours
Scottsdale’s dining scene deserves its own spotlight. With Arizona Food Tours, you’ll sample some of Old Town’s best restaurants during a three-hour culinary walk that includes small bites and drinks at five to six local favorites. Whether you choose a lunch, happy hour, or dinner tour, it’s a delicious way to experience the energy and variety that make Scottsdale’s food culture one of the best in the Southwest.
Public Art Walking Tour
Art is woven into Scottsdale’s identity, and the Public Art Walking Tour is a must for anyone who appreciates design and creativity. Download the map and explore 10 of the city’s signature installations, including Paolo Soleri’s Soleri Bridge & Plaza and James Turrell’s Knight Rise skyspace. Take your time—Old Town’s shops and patios are just as inviting as the art itself.
Scottsdale Wine & Ale Trails
For those who enjoy the finer things, the Scottsdale Wine & Ale Trails offer a relaxed way to experience local craftsmanship. Download the maps, then wander through Old Town sampling Arizona-made wines and craft brews at some of the state’s best tasting rooms. It’s casual, social, and perfectly Scottsdale.
Historic Scottsdale Walking Tour
History buffs will love the Historic Old Town Walking Tour, a self-guided path through some of Scottsdale’s most storied spots—like Cavalliere’s Blacksmith Shop, the Rusty Spur Saloon, and the Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor. It’s a charming reminder that today’s vibrant city grew from a small, tight-knit Western town that still influences its culture and design.
Old Town Tours with JoyRidesAZ
If walking isn’t your thing, JoyRidesAZ offers golf cart tours that are as fun as they are informative. Choose from themed rides like the Margarita & Taco Tour, Native American Culture & Art Tour, or the Instagram & Murals Tour. There’s even a Gelato & Ice Cream Tour—because this is Scottsdale, after all, and indulgence is part of the lifestyle.
Segway of Scottsdale Tours
For a unique way to see the sights, hop on a Segway of Scottsdale tour. After a quick lesson, you’ll glide through Old Town’s shops, restaurants, and public art with an experienced guide leading the way. It’s an easy, entertaining option for anyone looking to explore without missing a beat.
Off-Road Adventures
When you’re ready to trade city streets for desert trails, book an off-road adventure by Jeep, Hummer, or Tomcar. You’ll navigate rugged washes and scenic viewpoints while spotting local wildlife like javelina, wild horses, and hawks overhead. It’s a thrilling reminder of how Scottsdale blends luxury living with raw natural beauty.
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with DETOURS
One of the perks of calling Scottsdale home is being just a few hours from the Grand Canyon. With DETOURS, you can enjoy a guided day trip that includes a stop in Sedona’s red rocks before arriving at the Canyon’s South Rim for breathtaking views, shopping, and dining. DETOURS also offers trips to Sedona, Tombstone, and Antelope Canyon—each perfect for a weekend getaway or a visiting guest’s itinerary.
