Looking for things to do while you stay in one of our luxurious homes? Well, there are TONS of activities, events, and celebrations in Scottsdale during the spring season. Trust us, you and your guest will never run out of events in Scottsdale while you stay in our vibrant community this spring.
Phoenix Scottish Games
Feel like you have just stepped into Edinburgh or Aberdeen with the Phoenix Scottish Games on March 3rd to 5th! You can feel like you are in the Highlands of Scotland, frolicking through the tall weeds and the rolling hills as you watch the athletes take on huge feats, like throwing logs and races. Plus, you can absorb some of the best Scottish cultures, like listening to live Celtic music from local bands, watching talented Highland dancers tap along to trad music, taking your kids to participate in the children’s activities, and visiting the genealogy area to see if you are a Scot at heart and in your blood!
Indian Fair and Market
Another cool cultural event that can teach you about another big ethnic group is the Indian Fair and Market on the same weekend, between March 4th and 5th. We recommend heading to Central Avenue during these bustling and fun-filled two days to admire the local artists’ sculptures and paintings, intricate beadwork and baskets, and pueblo carvings that feature traditional Native American designs.
Melrose Street Fair
The same weekend on March 4th, you can continue your weekend full of fun and activities by heading to Melrose District to wander down Melrose Avenue and check out the live music, farmers market with fresh produce, and yummy food trucks featuring lunch, drinks, and snacks from local restaurants and vendors.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Luck of the Irish, eh? We think so too! If you want to feel like you have crossed over the water to the Emerald Isle and landed in Dublin or Galway for the day, then check out the St. Patrick’s Day festivities on Central Avenue on March 11th. Head to the Faire and parade to watch the traditional Irish dancers, sample dishes like stew and steamed cabbage, and have a few pints of Guinness! Make sure they pour it right, though — look for the ‘foamy head’ on every point you have!
Scottsdale Arts Festival
Another fun event to check out this upcoming spring season is the Scottsdale Arts Festival between March 10th and 12th at the Scottsdale Civic Center Park. Head here to check out almost 200 artists from all over the United States and Canada. You can also tune in to the live music to really get the party going and experience good vibes with your guests and those in the local community.
The Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival
Are you a fan of big pores and strong beers? If so, head to the Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival in Tumbleweed Park to taste some of the best IPAs, strong porter, hearty stouts, and jerky or barbecue to help line your stomach! Trust us, after the complimentary VIP access and 4-5 free drinks, you are going to need something BIG to keep you on your feet all day long!
Arizona Bike Week This Spring in Scottsdale
Riding motorcycles is a huge part of the culture in Arizona, and Scottsdale in particular. We recommend heading to the Arizona Bike Week between March 29th and April 2nd to check out the intricate motorbikes, talk to local motorcycle groups, listen to live music from local Scottsdale bands, have a few drinks at the Handlebar Saloon, and grab some food from the local vendors.
Tempe Festival of the Arts
As you can tell, Arizona is no stranger to arts and culture. There are endless art exhibitions, galleries, live music, and demonstrations. One of our favorite events that incorporate local artists and world-renowned artists is the Tempe Festival of the Arts, held at Mill Avenue District in March and April. We love coming here and checking out the original artwork, sipping on a few glasses of red wine from the nearby wineries and food vendors, and listening to the live entertainment.
Phoenix Film Festival
Last but not least, the Phoenix Film Festival, held between March 23rd and April 2nd at Harkins Scottsdale 101, is one of the top events of the entire year! This non-profit event is great for artists, filmmakers, and everyone in between! Ranked as one of the ‘25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World’, the Phoenix Film Festival features films and short screenplays that are groundbreaking in the industry.
Enjoy our Accommodations and Spring Events in Scottsdale
Sounds like the best vacation, doesn’t it? We think so too! Plus, you can stay at one of our modern, luxurious, and spacious properties from I Love Scottsdale to enhance your stay. After a long day of attending events and exploring the nearby Scottsdale area, you can head back home and kick back, relax, and get a great night of sleep.
Although many tourists want to flock to Phoenix to get a city break or head to a coastal area to check out a beach, Scottsdale often has the best of both. Not only can you head to Scottsdale to enjoy the shopping, restaurants, and bars in a busy city, but you can head to one of the natural areas, like parks, mountains, and lakes, to really soak in the weather and the wildlife.
Let’s see some of the best things to do during your upcoming Scottsdale spring break trip in this beautiful and upbeat area. It doesn’t matter what time of year you come to Scottsdale — you will always be able to find outdoor spring break activities, cultural attractions, yearly events, and indoor shops that will suit your unique needs and wants.
Marvel at Taliesin West
Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the most famous architects that ever existed. Check out some of his incredible work by heading to Taliesin West and seeing the eye-catching external architecture, clean lines, interesting shapes, and cool use of stone and wood in the house. We love coming here during a rare rainy day in Scottsdale to learn about the cultural history of Scottsdale, take photos of the nearby McDowell Mountains, and snap a few pics of the studio, workshop, and house.
Take a Day Trip to MacDonald’s Ranch
If you are in the mood to go outside of the city and take a few hours to yourself and your family, the best place to really relax and chill out with your loved ones is MacDonald’s Ranch. We love coming here, especially if you have young kids because you can take your kids to a petting zoo, hang out in the playground, and enjoy the other outdoor attractions, like petting the lovely horses and feeding the domestic sheep.
Become a Cowboy at the Arizona Cowboy College
The Arizona Cowboy College at North 152nd Street is one of the best places for locals and tourists alike to learn about the culture of the workers and cowboys in the Arizona pastime. Not only does this incredible college offer hands-on programs and interactive workshops that can provide visitors with more information about this historical group of American cowboys, but you can view replicas, life-sized sculptures, and gifts.
See Scottsdale City with Firebird Balloons
Take a hot air balloon ride with Firebird balloons to see the incredible town of Scottsdale From a birds-eye point of view with your loved ones. You will be able to see the buildings down below, the green pastures, and the incredible nature, such as the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Go for a Hike And Other Spring Break Activities
There are endless trailheads and starting points to go hiking in Scottsdale, Arizona. Not only can you start from your very own house, but you can head to one of the numerous parks or trailheads to start a lung-busting peak hike or an easy saunter with your kids. We recommend heading to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to go for a nice bike ride with your family, take a sweaty mountain hike with your loved ones, or test your luck at fishing for a few salons for dinner.
You can also go to Camelback Mountain if you want to climb the infamous Echo Canyon Trail, a steep and challenging hike that offers pristine views of the granite mountain slabs, picturesque red rocks, and town down below. If you want to test your luck and go for another heart-bursting hike, then head to Pinnacle Peak in between Phoenix and Scottsdale to take in some of the best birds-eye views in the entire state! Although this trail is just under 2 miles, this is the best way for hikers to enjoy a few hours of nature without spending an entire day on the mountain.
Lastly, we love going to Tom’s Thumb Trail during our vacations in Scottsdale. This beautiful path in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a steep and switchback-filled path that offers amazing views of Phoenix and the McDowell Mountains for you and your group. We think this is the best day trip out of the city!
Doesn’t this sound like the best idea for you and your group? I think so too! Head to Scottsdale today to enjoy tons of indoor activities, cultural attractions, and outdoor areas that are sure to make you want to come back year after year.
Book Your Scottsdale Spring Break Trip
Check out I Love Scottsdale to find luxurious, modern, and spacious homes that can fit your unique needs. Whether you and your 10 best friends are looking to head to Scottsdale for a rowdy spring break, or you and your young kids are going to Scottsdale for a relaxing and family-oriented April vacation, there are dozens of fun activities and events to go to during this less-busy part of the year.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is one of the best towns to go to all year round. It doesn’t matter if you want to come here in the summer to enjoy the beautiful hiking, in the winter to go down the ski and snowboard slopes, or in the fall to enjoy the changing of the leaves — you can always find things to do here with your family. Whether you have small kids or rowdy teenagers, Scottsdale offers tons of outdoor activities, indoor shopping centers, unique shops, and cool restaurants that are suitable for people of all ages and interests.
But what if you don’t want to spend a fortune on your upcoming vacation? Instead of spending thousands of dollars per week, or per day, on your family holiday, we have a few “budget” things to do that are still fun and exciting! Just because you aren’t spending lots of money, it doesn’t mean that you aren’t taking full advantage of your vacation.
Scottsdale has free activities, inexpensive places to visit, and multiple green spaces and parks that make it perfect for those who are looking to have a memorable vacation on a budget. Let’s check out the best family-friendly Scottsdale events (besides hiking on one of the many trails!) in Scottsdale that won’t leave you cursing your bank account at the end of the trip!
Visit Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale feels like you stepped back in time. There are cool historical buildings, architecture that is reminiscent of centuries past, and cool shops that are great for exploring and finding the best deals on souvenirs, clothes, and decorations. Head here with your children to have a fun family night out, visiting one of the local restaurants that offer great Mexican food, like mouthwatering burritos and cheesy nachos. For families who are interested in doing something out of the ordinary, we recommend exploring Old Town Scottsdale by segway, bike, or carriage ride!
Scottsdale Civic Center Mall
This cool shopping center in Downtown Scottsdale is great for those who want to find some great deals on clothes, decor, souvenirs, and much more! Just because it is a shopping center, it doesn’t mean it is expensive or filled with all designer shops. Head here to go shopping and then sit outside with a nice smoothie, iced coffee, or picnic lunch at the common space in the Civic Center Mall.
Plus, once you are done shopping here, head to the Scottsdale Public Library for some educational time with your kids. This library is free to enter and offers a great respite from the hot summer sun or the bitter cold during the winter months.
OdySea Aquarium
Although this is not necessarily free, the aquarium is a low-priced day out on the town that is perfect for those who want to do something unique without breaking the bank. Did you know this aquarium is actually the largest in the entire state? This 200,000-square-foot attraction features over 370 species of marine wildlife, making it the perfect place to learn something with your kids!
Head here to bring your children to do family-friendly activities, like coloring marine wildlife, Sketching the Seas drawing activity, using the hands-on water table, or doing one of the many marine-related activities.
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
Scottsdale is home to many unique activities — and this one really takes the cake! This cool dinner and show event in South Scottsdale is fun for kids and adults of all ages. You can travel back in time to have a mouthwatering four-course dinner, watch the medieval jousting competition, and take part in the interactive medieval show. This fun attraction is great for kids of all ages, keeping toddlers and teenagers entertained the entire time!
Scottsdale Events and Best Accommodation
Doesn’t this sound like the best vacation? We think so too! Scottsdale is one of the best places for those who are interested in doing unique things, getting outside in the beautiful weather, and experiencing family-friendly activities that won’t leave you broke at the end of your holiday. Along with finding the best things to do to keep your kids entertained, you need to find an inexpensive place to stay that still offers enough space for your entire family.
Luckily for you, we have you covered! I Love Scottsdale offers spacious, luxurious, and high-end rental properties that are perfect for families of various sizes. We have properties in downtown Scottsdale, houses in the hills, and everything in between to suit your unique needs.
Do you need a 3-bedroom house with an outdoor pool? Got it! Do you want a 2-bedroom condominium with a balcony? We have that! I Love Scottsdale offers numerous properties, top-notch customer service, and high-end amenities that are perfect for vacationers.
Contact us today to book the vacation home of your dream and keep your holiday budget as low as possible!
Scottsdale, Arizona, is consistently one of the most visited spots in the entire United States all year round. Especially during the summer months, tourism in Scottsdale rises tenfold due to its proximity to the nearby desert, hiking trails, cultural events, foodie scene, and eccentric vibe! Plus, the year-round sunny weather and hot temperatures have a lot to do with the people who flock here during the rainy and snowy season in their hometown.
But what if you want to escape the crowds? If you are trying to avoid the lines of people on the hiking trails and the never-ending queues to try and get into a restaurant at night, then consider heading to Scottsdale and the surrounding areas during the fall season. You can still expect great weather, long days, and sunny spells during your time here — just with half of the people!
If you head here during September or October, you can even have BETTER weather than you do in the summer! In the summer, the temperatures get into the triple digits — in the fall, you can expect sunny skies and 80 degrees every single day. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Plus, there are tons of things to do in Scottsdale at the communities here during the fall season. You can enjoy outdoor events, indoor attractions, cultural sights, and mouth-watering restaurants and bars that are great for tourists.
Arizona State Fair
The Arizona State Fair is an annual event held every year during October at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. This yearly event has been a huge hit for over 10 years, bringing people in from all over the world. You can bring your kids here to enjoy rides on the carnival, games, rides, and animal petting that will really make your vacation one that they will never forget. And who can forget the greasy, yummy, and filling carnival food? We recommend filing up on cake, ice cream, and hot dogs while walking around the expansive carnival during a brisk Fall evening!
Phoenix Pride Festival
If you are coming to Scottsdale during the fall season, the nearby Phoenix Pride Festival on October 15th-16th is one of the best events that you can attend. Located at Steele Indian School Park, this fun-loving and vibrant festival is great for those who want to meet other people, dance, sing, and just have a great time. Enjoy watching one, or all, of the 150 performances located over 6 stages, dance areas, art expeditions, and food trucks to keep you full during an entire day of celebrations.
Scottsdale Zombie Crawl
This Halloween-themed event is a must-go for those who come to Scottsdale and the Phoenix area during the end of October. Located at Social Tap Scottsdale, this Halloween pub crawl is a great excuse to celebrate the holiday, dress up in a funky outfit, and check out all of the nearby pubs and bars. I mean, you can do this on your own during a non-themed night — but isn’t going around and drinking pints and pints of beer dressed up as your favorite cartoon just SO much more fun? We think so too!
Scottsdale Whiskey Festival
To continue the drinking festivities, we recommend doing the Scottsdale Whiskey Festival if you come to this sunny and outdoor-centric town during the month of October. The whiskey festival is a fun way for you and your partner or adult friends to sip on some carefully crafted cocktails, explore the local whiskey selection from nearby distilleries, and try something different on a potentially rainy or cold day during the fall season in Scottsdale.
Things to do in Scottsdale at the Annual Farm Festival and Market
Last but not least, we have the annual farm festival and market that is held in nearby Phoenix. You can check out the local vendors, browse nearby products, and taste some local produce and organic food from the nearby farms. There is no better way to meet the locals, get some of the freshest food in the area, and find some herbal medicines and soaps for your toiletry collection!
Accommodation in Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale and the surrounding areas are always popular hotbeds for tourists during the summer months. You have popular hiking trails, great weather, sunny skies, and cool culture. But sometimes, the summer months can become overrun with other like-minded tourists who want to see all that his outdoor-centric town has to offer. What is the solution?
Heading here during the fall months not only can help save you money in terms of travel and accommodation, but it can help prevent you from fighting for space with the thousands of tourists. Instead of crowded hiking trails, overbooked restaurants, and festivals with people packed in like sardines, you can really kick back, relax, and chill out in the beautiful weather.
We recommend using I Love Scottsdale to find the best accommodation for your needs. Whether you’re coming here with your best friends, extended family, partner, or kids, you can find a luxurious house, apartment, or condominium that will suit your preferences.