Old Town Scottsdale is where the city’s past and present blend in the best way—super walkable, full of character, and always buzzing with something to do. First time checking it out? Or maybe you’ve been here a bunch of times. Either way, this downtown hotspot has a little bit of everything. Think historic saloons, local art galleries, stylish brunch spots, and unique boutiques—it’s all part of the vibe.
Not sure where to begin? This guide breaks down the top activities, must-see attractions, and can’t-miss experiences that make Old Town Scottsdale so special.
1. Stroll Through the Old Town Scottsdale Historic District
Take a step back in time as you wander through the district’s Western storefronts, wooden sidewalks, and rustic signage. This area is full of unique photo ops, locally-owned shops, and old-school charm, offering a great first stop for soaking in Scottsdale’s heritage.
2. Shop and Sip Along Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is the perfect spot to stroll, shop, and soak up the scene. It’s lined with boutiques, art galleries, jewelry shops, and home décor stores that are fun to browse—even if you’re just window shopping. Pick up a latte or a glass of wine and wander through charming storefronts filled with handmade goods and Southwestern-style finds.
3. Discover the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)
Right around the corner from the heart of Old Town, SMoCA gives you a fresh take on modern and contemporary art, design, and architecture. It’s a chill, air-conditioned break—perfect for those warmer afternoons—and a great way to tap into Scottsdale’s creative side.
4. Catch the Thursday Night ArtWalk
Thursday nights in the Scottsdale Arts District turn into a lively celebration of art and local talent. You can pop into galleries, chat with artists, catch live music, and enjoy a glass of wine while taking it all in. It’s one of the city’s longest-standing traditions—and a fun one at that.
5. Visit Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Ranked among the best things to see in Old Town Scottsdale, this Smithsonian-affiliated museum is home to a collection of art, artifacts, and storytelling that celebrates the American West. It’s an engaging experience for all ages.
6. Enjoy the Scottsdale Waterfront and Canal
Running along the edge of Old Town, the Arizona Canal is a beautiful spot for a walk, bike ride, or laid-back outdoor meal. Swing by around golden hour to catch the best light, or plan your visit around one of the cool seasonal events or surprise art installations that pop up throughout the year.
7. Dine at Old Town’s Best Restaurants
Iconic steakhouses, cozy cafes, and buzzy brunch spots make Old Town a foodie’s playground. You can try global flavors, dig into local favorites, or unwind with tacos and margaritas. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find a place that fits.
8. Explore the Wine Trail or Take a Pub Crawl
Wine lovers will feel right at home in Old Town’s tasting rooms—spots like Carlson Creek Vineyard and LDV Winery pour Arizona wines in laid-back, welcoming spaces. More of a cocktail person? Jump into a Scottsdale pub crawl and check out the local craft bars, hidden speakeasies, and lively rooftop lounges.
9. Take a Guided Tour (Ghost, History, or Segway)
Curious about Old Town’s offbeat history or hidden gems? Join a guided walking tour, hop on a ghost walk, or cruise around on a Segway. It’s a fun way to explore the area while picking up cool stories along the way.
10. Browse Art Galleries and Studios
The Marshall Way Arts District is a great place to check out if you’re into art. You’ll find a mix of modern pieces, classic Southwest paintings, and all kinds of creative work as you walk through the galleries and studios. It’s an easy spot to spend an afternoon just looking around.
11. Visit the Rusty Spur Saloon
The Rusty Spur Saloon is one of Scottsdale’s most well-known hangouts. It’s a historic spot with live country music, a laid-back cowboy feel, and tons of charm. Swing by for a drink and stick around to catch some live tunes.
12. Relax with a Spa Treatment or Boutique Wellness Session
Old Town has a bunch of spots where you can kick back for a while—day spas, massage places, and wellness studios are all over. It’s a great way to break up the day, especially if you’ve spent the morning hiking or shopping. A little downtime goes a long way.
13. Attend a Seasonal Event or Festival
There’s always something going on in Old Town. Big events like Scottsdazzle, the Parada del Sol Parade, food and wine festivals, and weekly outdoor markets keep the calendar full. No matter when you visit, chances are there’s something fun happening downtown.
Bonus: Stay Nearby in Luxury with HÓZHÓ Scottsdale
Once you’ve made the rounds in Old Town, it’s nice to come back to a place that feels like a getaway. HÓZHÓ Scottsdale has vacation rentals just minutes away, with cool extras like heated pools, spa rooms, home theaters, and concierge service. It’s a chill, comfortable way to wrap up your day.
Still in planning mode? Check out our Best Things to Do in Scottsdale and Scottsdale Visitor’s Guide to map out the rest of your trip.
What to Do in Old Town Scottsdale
If you’re into art, history, good food, shopping, or just exploring, Old Town Scottsdale’s got you covered. You can make it the starting point for your trip—or spend your whole visit taking in everything it has to offer.
From easy morning walks to live music and saloons after dark, there’s always something to check out. So grab some comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure—Old Town’s ready when you are.