Landmarks in Scottsdale

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Scottsdale - Things to do in Scottsdale

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Scottsdale. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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145 Available Tour Excursions in Scottsdale

Free Cancellation
(1276 reviews)

Tripadvisor's 2023 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Scottsdale's 2020-2022 #1 ranked TripAdvisor outdoor activity. Our Private Scottsdale Off-Road Jeep Tour is a bumpy guide-led adventure on the most scenic Sonoran desert trails in the Scottsdale area. You will enjoy spectacular sights as your professional tour guide teaches you about Sonoran desert flora, fauna, and Native American history. Since our permitted trails are connected to North Scottsdale, you will receive more trail time than any other off-road tour in the Scottsdale area. Private tour vehicles: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (6 seats) with forward-facing seating, Jeep YJ (7 seats), or Jeep Gladiator (14 seats) with vertical-row (sideways) seating. Scottsdale Adventure Tours is a commercial special recreation permit-holder through the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Cave Creek Ranger District and the U.S. Department of the Interior: Bureau of Land Management.

Price: $219.00

Duration: 2-3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(94 reviews)

Are you looking to journey out of Phoenix and get your toes wet? We will make our way to a fascinating destination where we will scramble, hop, repel, swim all in the same day. Its time to enjoy repelling, into a pool of water, and sliding down a natural water slide while making great vacation memories. This one has it all, it is a crowd favorite that is quickly becoming on of our top selling tours.

Price: $387.50

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(93 reviews)

Our tour guide is an experienced rider and will take you on an unforgettable, super fun, beautiful mountain bike tour. You will enjoy riding through the rolling Sonoran Desert, towering cacti, and beautiful mountains. Our tour guide will take the time to evaluate skill levels, train riders on how to safely use the mountain bikes and select the most appropriate and fun trails. We will provide you with bikes, helmets, gloves, back packs, snacks, water bottles, water, sunscreen, and cold drinks at the end of the ride. Be prepared for a unique experience created just for you!

Price: $115.00

Duration: 2 hours

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(87 reviews)

If you are looking to see Sedona from all the best vantage points.. this is the tour for you. We start the day off with a 1.5-2 hour hike in the beautiful Sedona country-side.The hike is followed by lunch at one of Sedona's best local restaurants. After lunch, we head to 2 of our favorite vineyards in the Sedona area for an unforgettable Arizona wine tasting experience!  Included in Cost • 1.5-2 hour hike in Sedona • $30/person Lunch Credit • Flight of wine at each of 2 vineyard (5-7 tastes per vineyard) • Transportation from Phoenix/Scottsdale This tour is a private tour with respect to our vehicle and your guide. 3rd party vendors, lunch restaurants and vineyards will have other patrons and will not be private experiences.

Price: $375.00

Duration: 12 hours

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(33 reviews)

Explore the natural marvels of northern Arizona when you visit Lower Antelope Canyon, Navajo Nation, and Horseshoe Bend. Learn about Navajo culture from a local Native American guide, see incredible views of the Colorado River in Glen Canyon and enjoy the town of Page.

Price: $2,340.00

Duration: 14 hours

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Free Cancellation
(24 reviews)

We only rent the most modern and up to date electric bikes. Our bikes are belt driven which offers a clean and smooth drivetrain. Comfort, ease of use and reliabilty are the main focal points of our bikes. And being less than 5 minutes of multiple bike paths you don't have to worry about cars or traffic. With a battery range of 45 miles of riding time on a full charge you won't have to stress about running out!

Price: $125.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(22 reviews)

Our guided hiking trips are designed to be more than a simple nature walk while still accessible to a wide range of ability so that individuals of modest fitness levels, as well as more active ones, will enjoy themselves. All of the trails where we lead guided hikes have been chosen not only for their scenic beauty but also their accessibility, safety, and low volume of visitors. Combined, these factors afford our guests an unforgettable Sonoran Desert experience. Our most popular hiking routes are in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where a large variety of trails are available to accommodate all levels of hikers. Other hiking locations are available.

Price: $89.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(22 reviews)

My Arizona Guide will whisk you away to Northern Arizona and The Grand Canyon. We will drive through Flagstaff and onto the Grand Canyon where we will have a few hours to take it all in before returning to your hotel. You will have ample opportunities for pictures, exploring Grand Canyon Village and maybe take time for a short hike.

Price: $695.00

Duration: 10-12 hours

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Free Cancellation
(20 reviews)

What makes our Sunset Western Trail Jeep Tour truly unique is the immersive experience that blends history, adventure, and natural beauty. You're not just taking a Jeep tour; you're stepping back in time to the Old West. Our guides, authentically dressed in Western attire, bring Arizona's wild history to life as you rumble along the Great Western Trail in a vintage Jeep. Feel the thrill of the bumpy ride while being surrounded by the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, all culminating in a stunning sunset backdrop. We offer a uniquely engaging and memorable way to connect with the spirit of the Wild West.

Price: $169.00

Duration: 2-3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(20 reviews)

Adults and kids welcome to Cyber Desert Tours!! Experience the thrill of off-roading across the stunning Arizona Sonoran Desert! Embrace the thrill of 845 hp Baja drifting in a Tesla cyber truck —a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines cutting-edge technology luxury and off-road performance like no other. Then take the excitement to the water on an electric JetSurf board, reaching speeds of up to 32 mph (standing, sitting or laying on your stomach makes it accessible for everyone). You will be cutting and carving on the desert lake like your on a wave of your own. This tour offers the perfect balance of high-speed land and water action, making it an unforgettable experience for adrenaline enthusiasts. Jason, the owner and off roading champion, will take you safely off roading and safely instruct you on the jet surf. Book Now for the ultimate desert adventure that pushes the limits on both land and water! Also take advantage of our direct pick up from your location.

Price: $225.00

Duration: 2-3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(15 reviews)

What makes this tour truly unique is the immersive experience of stepping back into Arizona's "Wild West" past. Not only will you be traversing the rugged landscapes of the Sonoran Desert along the historic Great Western Trail in a vintage Jeep, but you'll also be guided by experts dressed in authentic Western attire. This fun, bumpy ride isn't just a sightseeing trip; it's a journey into history, bringing the stories of the Old West to life against the backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. It's a chance to feel the thrill and excitement of a bygone era.

Price: $169.00

Duration: 2-3 hours

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(13 reviews)

IT'S TIME TO RIDE Puzzle Rides is a physical adventure game where players are taken on a route they determine and have to use teamwork,along with elements of the route, to solve a series of puzzles. Part Adventure Hunt, part Escape Room...you'll have to work together to find your next destination...before time runs out!

Price: $79.00

Duration: 1 hours

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(13 reviews)

Join on us a great hike through the Sonoran Desert! The Gateway loop trail offers a fantastic moderate hiking experience that will get us back into the hills of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve providing great desert views and experience. On our hike, we will see a wide array of desert plants and cactus, sweeping views of the desert and overlook views of the city. Along the way we generally see lots of desert lizards and birds to add to the great scenery of our hike. This hike is great for the beginning to intermediate hiker and groups of varying capabilities.

Price: $75.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(13 reviews)

Phoenix's Original Brew Tour offers guests the ultimate way to experience the Valley’s thriving craft beer scene. Sit back and relax as we take you on a guided journey through some of the best breweries in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe—from longtime local favorites to the newest innovators brewing up bold flavors in the desert. You’ll savor carefully selected tastings, get a behind-the-scenes look at each brewery, and share plenty of laughs—all while traveling comfortably between stops. You'll also enjoy a tasty snack to soak up all those delicious suds. Note: This tour does not include a full meal

Price: $125.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(9 reviews)

This trip shows you the best attractions Sedona has to offer! You will get plenty of great red rock photos from the best viewpoints in town. These stops include the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross and the airport road overlook. Time on your own will also be granted in the cultural uptown Sedona where all the shops, restaurants and wineries are located. We will round out the experience with a stop to the great artisan area known as Tlaquepaque. A hearty lunch is also included as well as all admissions. You will get the full Sedona experience in the comfortable 8-hour day trip.

Price: $200.00

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(8 reviews)

Walk around the famed Old West town of Tombstone and see how the Wild West was won. Witness a gunfight at the historic O.K. Corral and later, enjoy lunch in the area. Get a chance to walk the streets of the most preserved copper mining town in the Southwest, Bisbee, AZ. Stop at Saguaro N.P. Visitor Center to get great photos of the mighty Saguaro Cactus.

Price: $250.00

Duration: 11 hours

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Free Cancellation
(8 reviews)

• Explore the majestic Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot Native American monuments and see the handiwork of the local Sinagua tribe. • Get a chance to learn about the mining history and walk around the old mining town of Jerome, Arizona. • Eat lunch in Uptown Sedona and later, walk around to check out local shops and artwork. • See the local red rock viewpoints and sites, taking in their large colorful formations up close. • Duration is 9-10 hours from Pickup to Drop-off. Lunch and all admission costs are included.

Price: $225.00

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(7 reviews)

Travel back in time to one of the most famous Old West towns with a day on the streets of Tombstone. The home of the famous OK Corral lets you experience the lives of outlaws, businessmen, miners, and cattlemen who flocked to the area for a chance to strike it rich on the frontier. A ride straight from your hotel takes you out of the city for your visit to the historic town. While you're in Tombstone, pay a visit to the original gathering spots for outlaws and gunmen, like Big Nose Kate's Saloon and the Bird Cage Theatre, which earned a reputation as the wickedest nightspot between Basin Street and the Barbary Coast. True to the reputation of the Wild West, gunfights and stand-offs were a regular occurrence, and many of their victims are buried at the infamous Boot Hill Cemetery—named for the men who died and were buried, with their boots still on. On your way back, visit the White Dove of the Desert; one of the Southwest's best-preserved missions at San Xavier del Bac.

Price: $1,280.00

Duration: 12 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Climate: Desert
  • Timezone: America/Phoenix
  • Population: Approximately 258,000
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Scottsdale is during the cooler months from November to April.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors to Scottsdale generally follow the visa requirements of the United States. Citizens of visa waiver countries such as most EU nations, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan can enter the U.S. for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days under the ESTA program. Other travelers may require a visa obtained in advance. U.S. citizens do not need a visa. Visitors should check the latest U.S. visa policies before travel.

About Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a vibrant desert city known for its unique blend of natural beauty, luxury resorts, and rich cultural experiences. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, it offers stunning mountain views, warm sunshine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Scottsdale is famous for its high-end spas, golf courses, and art galleries, making it a top destination for relaxation and creativity. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town with its charming shops, restaurants, and nightlife or venture into the desert for hiking and outdoor adventures. The city’s Southwestern architecture and Native American influences add to its distinctive character. Scottsdale’s culinary scene is diverse, featuring everything from traditional Southwestern cuisine to innovative fine dining. With year-round sunshine and a variety of festivals and events, Scottsdale appeals to travelers seeking both leisure and cultural enrichment.

Scottsdale Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Arizona
  • Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
  • Group Size: Flexible group sizes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit Scottsdale is during the cooler months from November to April. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Respect local customs and be mindful of the desert environment. Stay hydrated, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for smaller vendors. Scottsdale is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken, especially at night.

Average Tour Price: $75

Lowest Price Tour: $39

Highest Price Tour: $250

1. Choose Your Tour

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2. Check Details

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3. Book Online

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Scottsdale.

Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Old Town Scottsdale – A lively district with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife showcasing the city’s Western heritage. 2. Taliesin West – The winter home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright, offering guided tours of this iconic desert masterpiece. 3. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art – Features modern art, architecture, and design exhibitions in a striking desert setting. 4. McDowell Sonoran Preserve – A vast natural area with hiking and biking trails that highlight the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. 5. Desert Botanical Garden – Displays a wide variety of desert plants and offers educational programs about desert ecology.

Popular Activities

Visitors to Scottsdale can enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, golfing at world-class courses, and horseback riding through desert trails. Cultural experiences include visiting art galleries, attending Native American events, and exploring museums. Adventure seekers can try hot air balloon rides or jeep tours of the desert. Scottsdale also offers spa treatments, shopping in upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Seasonal events like the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and art festivals add unique local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Scottsdale is from November to April when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Yes, Scottsdale offers many family-friendly attractions including parks, museums, and outdoor activities.

Renting a car is recommended to explore Scottsdale and the surrounding desert areas conveniently.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Scottsdale’s food scene is a mix of Southwestern flavors and contemporary American cuisine. Signature dishes include Southwestern staples like mesquite-grilled meats, chili-infused dishes, and Navajo fry bread. The city is known for its farm-to-table restaurants and innovative chefs. Must-try foods include Sonoran hot dogs, cactus salad, and prickly pear margaritas. Noteworthy restaurants include FnB, celebrated for its local ingredients, and The Mission, known for upscale Latin cuisine.

Getting Around

Scottsdale is accessible via Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, about a 20-minute drive away. Local transportation includes buses and taxis, but public transit is limited. Most visitors prefer renting a car or using rideshare services to get around. Driving is straightforward with well-maintained roads. Parking is generally available and free in many areas, especially in Old Town Scottsdale. Costs for taxis and rideshares are moderate compared to larger cities.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Scottsdale is during the cooler months from November to April. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Respect local customs and be mindful of the desert environment. Stay hydrated, especially when hiking or spending time outdoors. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for smaller vendors. Scottsdale is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken, especially at night.

Culture & Customs

Scottsdale’s culture reflects a blend of Native American heritage and modern Southwestern lifestyle. Social customs emphasize friendliness and respect for the desert environment. Important local events include the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and the Scottsdale Arts Festival. Visitors should be polite and patient, especially in busy tourist areas. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services. Respect for Native American culture and sites is important.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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