The short answer
Old Town, the desert preserves, Taliesin West, golf and pool days — how to plan a Scottsdale group trip that works for everyone.
- Old Town Scottsdale: dining, galleries and nightlife in a walkable district.
- Desert hiking: McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Pinnacle Peak Park — go early.
- Architecture and art: Taliesin West and Scottsdale's Museum of the West.
- Golf, spa days and the house pool fill the rest.
Written and edited by Trailstead Stays content team, Trailstead Stays · Last reviewed 2026-10-05
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town is Scottsdale's walkable core, with restaurants, bars, galleries and shops. The Scottsdale Arts District and the Old Town entertainment area make it the default evening plan for most groups. Ride-share or a designated driver makes nights out simpler.
Hiking and the desert
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a large, city-protected desert with trailheads around Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak Park offers a popular out-and-back trail. Go early, carry plenty of water, and check heat advisories — desert heat is the main safety risk for visitors.
Camelback Mountain, on the Phoenix–Scottsdale edge, is a steep, well-known climb; it is not a casual walk.
Architecture, art and history
Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and studio, runs guided tours — book ahead. Scottsdale's Museum of the West focuses on the American West. Both suit a cooler-hours or rest-day plan.
Golf and spa days
Scottsdale has a deep bench of public and resort courses. Tee times book quickly in peak season. Many resorts sell day-spa access; check each spa's own terms.
Events worth planning around
Peak-season events — the WM Phoenix Open, Barrett-Jackson and Cactus League spring training — drive demand for group homes. Our Scottsdale events calendar lists confirmed dates with official links.
Time at the house
For many groups the house is the highlight. The Sunkiss has a private pool, hot tub, a sport court with pickleball and a putting green. The Scottsdale Social has a private pool, hot tub, 15+ games, a putting green and lawn games. Each home has its own house rules for visitors and gatherings, shown on its booking page.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Scottsdale with a large group?
Old Town dining and nightlife, desert hikes in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, golf, Taliesin West tours, and pool days at a private home.
Is Old Town Scottsdale walkable?
Yes, the Old Town core is compact and walkable. Use ride-share or directions in Google Maps to get there from where you stay.
Last reviewed 2026-10-05 · Maintained by Trailstead Stays content team
