Our Scottsdale short-term rental homes put you in the heart of one of Arizona’s premier vacation destinations. Scottsdale boasts stunning desert landscapes, from the iconic red rocks of the McDowell Mountains to the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually and a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, luxury shopping, and world-class dining, Scottsdale is the perfect escape for adventure seekers and those looking to relax in style.
Arizona is a year-round destination, even in the summer. While temperatures can soar in the Valley, there’s always a cooler escape nearby in the surrounding hills or mountains. Summer also brings major savings, with prices significantly lower than peak season—making it the perfect time to explore Arizona’s best attractions on a budget.
From world-class hiking and mountain biking to waterparks, lakes, and scenic jeep tours, outdoor adventures are endless. You can kayak at Canyon Lake or Saguaro Lake, rent paddleboards at Tempe Town Lake, or go tubing down the Salt River. Horseback riding is popular just north of the Valley, and off-roading tours take you through stunning desert landscapes, ghost towns like Apache Junction and Jerome, and even ancient Native American ruins.
Arizona is also home to a growing wine country with vineyards spread across the state, and it's a paradise for birdwatchers all year long. Golfers will love the Valley's reputation for top-notch golf courses—there's one practically around every corner.
Despite the summer heat, elevation changes across the state mean you can often find spots with temperatures in the 70s or 80s within just an hour or two of the Phoenix metro area.
In addition to its natural beauty, Arizona boasts three national parks, numerous national monuments, 33 state parks, and more than 56% of the land is public—offering endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
If you're looking for a luxury dining experience with breathtaking views of the Valley, Different Pointe of View at the Tapatio Cliffs Resort is a standout choice. Another excellent spot with skyline views is the Floor 13 Rooftop Bar in downtown Phoenix—perfect for a sunset drink or a night out.
For something with true Southwestern charm, the Old Town Tortilla Factory in the heart of the Old Town arts district offers a warm Arizona ambiance. It's ideally located near shops and galleries, making it a great stop before or after exploring the area.
If you're in the mood for a classic steakhouse with a touch of history, The Stockyards Restaurant and 1889 Saloon delivers on all fronts. It's well-suited for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings—consistently great food and a timeless atmosphere.
And for a more casual but equally satisfying option, the Orchard Tavern is a local favorite. With reasonable prices, a diverse menu, and outstanding service, it’s a hit with groups of all sizes. Don’t miss the wood-fired pizzas—they’re some of the best around!
If you’re a fan of American history and the rich heritage of the Southwest, Arizona—especially the Phoenix Valley—is a must-visit. The area is filled with ghost towns, historic ruins, museums, and cultural landmarks. There are so many nearby, you could easily spend a year exploring them all.
If you’d like recommendations on the most popular spots or those closest to the city, just let me know—I’d be happy to help!
Old Town Scottsdale offers an incredible variety of bars and nightlife to suit every taste and age—from lively dance spots and live music venues to cozy wine bars, hidden hole-in-the-walls, and sleek, modern lounges.
Over in Glendale, the Westgate Entertainment District is another vibrant hub, packed with bars, restaurants, and entertainment options, all just steps away from major sports and concert venues.
And don’t forget the many casinos scattered throughout the Valley. They’re perfect for grabbing a drink, enjoying live music, people-watching, and—with a little luck—hitting the jackpot!
Some of the best family-friendly attractions in the Phoenix area are perfect for kids and adults alike. The Phoenix Zoo, located in Papago Park on the Phoenix/Tempe border, is a top destination year-round. Just beyond the zoo, a short drive or hike takes you up to a scenic overlook marked by a small pyramid, offering some of the best panoramic views of the Valley—especially at sunset. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and soak in Arizona’s iconic desert beauty.
Right next door, the Desert Botanical Garden showcases stunning desert plant life and walking trails, all set near Tempe Town Lake, making it a great way to enjoy nature without leaving the city.
To beat the heat, head to OdySea Aquarium, a fun and educational indoor attraction that kids love. It’s part of a larger entertainment complex that also includes Butterfly Wonderland, Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs, the UFO Experience, Laser & Mirror Maze, and the Museum of Illusions. Combo tickets are available for multiple attractions at a discounted rate.
Coming soon to Glendale is the highly anticipated Mattel Adventure Park, scheduled to open later this year, promising even more excitement for families visiting the Valley.
Some of the biggest annual events in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area draw crowds from all over the country. The Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is a major highlight—hotels and accommodations often book up months in advance. Around the same time in late January and early February, you'll also find the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction and the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show at WestWorld.
From early February through late March or early April, the Cactus League Spring Training brings 15 Major League Baseball teams to 10 stadiums across the Valley, making it a favorite season for sports fans.
Other notable annual events include the Arizona Balloon Classic in October and Arizona Restaurant Week each May, both offering unique experiences for locals and visitors alike.
To get around the Phoenix Valley, having a car is essential. The area is large and spread out, but the good news is that it's one of the easiest metro areas to navigate. Most cities follow a straightforward grid system, and the highway network is well-designed and far less stressful than in many major cities.
Keep in mind that traffic can get heavy during rush hours, so plan your travel times accordingly to avoid delays.
While summer temperatures can be intense, air conditioning is everywhere, and evenings often cool off—especially in the northern edges of the Valley, where the desert offers a slight break from the heat. Thanks to the low humidity, daily temperature swings of 20–30 degrees are common.
If you're not used to the dry climate, be sure to pack lotion and lip balm—the desert air can be surprisingly drying!
From stunning desert trails to upscale dining, from world-class golf courses to vibrant arts and nightlife, Scottsdale offers endless ways to explore, unwind, and experience the best of the Arizona desert lifestyle.
Read more travel tips from our blog for even more in-depth recommendations.
