The Scottsdale city, located in Arizona’s beautiful Sonoran Desert, is the ideal blend of nature, culture, pampering, and positive energy. Regardless of whether you’ve been a resident of the area for decades or you just opened your moving boxes, there are plenty of methods to make Scottsdale feel like home. From outdoor excursions to culinary hotspots and wellness oases, this guide will help you live your best Scottsdale life—one hike, bite, and yoga pose at a time.
Get Outside. Seriously.
Scottsdale is essentially heaven for the outdoorsy person. With more than 30,500 acres of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, you can go for a relaxing walk on the Gateway Trailhead or turn your calves into metal doing Tom’s Thumb for those Instagram-worthy views. Rather use wheels than running shoes? The Arizona Canal Path is ideal for a bike ride or a walk with your four-legged personal trainer. And with sunshine 300+ days per year, you’ve no excuse to remain indoors. From Pinnacle Peak to Chaparral Park, there’s always a reason to lace up your hiking boots and leave the sofa behind.
Scottsdale: Where Art Comes Alive
Art enthusiasts, rejoice—Scottsdale is the cultural goldmine. Downtown galleries offer everything from edgy contemporary works to beautiful Native American pieces. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art gives residents something to discuss, and the Thursday-night ArtWalk is essentially a neighborhood block party for artists. History enthusiasts can enjoy the Western Spirit Museum of the West, and music, film festivals, and community markets continue the cultural vibe throughout the year. Tip: Bring your camera—and your appetite for inspiration.
Foodie Heaven, Right Here
Foodies, gather ’round: Scottsdale’s dining scene is chef’s kiss. Begin in Old Town, serving up flavorful eats at spots like FnB, where Arizona produce takes center stage like the desert sun. In the mood for a little Southwestern heat? The Mission’s table-side guacamole and mesquite-grilled meats never fail.
Something more exotic? The Waterfront or Kierland Commons are ready with eats from across the globe that’ll give you a culinary tour of the world—no passport required. Don’t forget your morning coffee fix at Press or Cartel, and hit up the farmers markets for fresh local grub. Scottsdale: where “What’s for dinner?” is always an exciting question.
Treat Yourself, Scottsdale Style
Luxury and relaxation go hand in hand here. Living in Scottsdale, AZ isn’t so much living in a city as it is a wellness retreat. World-class spas like the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer treatments so heavenly, you’ll want to just go ahead and move in. More of an active zen type of person? Yoga studios like Modern Yoga and Sutra Studios are perfect for getting into your best downward dog. You can even meditate outdoors or trade in your treadmill for a hot-air balloon ride.
Wellness in this instance is indulgence with less effort—just as it should be.
Scottsdale, Your Way
The best part about Scottsdale that we adore the most is the fact that it’s as lively as you are. Watch the sunrise on a new trail, take in a Saturday art walk, or try your new favorite restaurant. If you’re being adventurous or need an afternoon of relaxation, Scottsdale’s got you. It’s a city that allows you to define home in your own terms—fun, flavor, and everything in between. So what are you waiting for? Jump in, make it yours, and relish each moment of all this exciting city has in store.
Refresh Date: August 21, 2025
