If you’re wondering where you should visit during your trip to Scottsdale, look no further than Old Town. This collection of 9 walkable neighborhoods is the area to see if you enjoy experiencing what makes a city unique. The area is packed with chic, urban things to do while maintaining a Western charm and one-of-a-kind character.
The streets of Old Town are adorned with over 45 public art installations, and that is really just the start of the exciting art you’ll see, with much more to explore in museums and galleries. Unique dining opportunities abound with restaurants for every culinary taste and style. Nightlife, cultural experiences, shopping, wellness treatments, and more can all be found right here.
Old Town’s 9 districts are:
- Scottsdale Fashion Square – The largest shopping destination in the Southwest, Fashion Square is home to over 200 luxury retailers. You’ll find national brands, local businesses, a high-end cinema, and popular restaurants including Nobu, Toca Madera, and Ocean 44.
- Scottsdale Waterfront – Nestled along the northern bank of the Arizona Canal, this area houses upscale retailers and some of Scottsdale’s most popular restaurants, including Hand Cut Burgers & Chophouse, Prep & Pastry, and Olive & Ivy, whose sunny patio overlooks the canal.
- SouthBridge – On the Arizona Canal’s southern banks, SouthBridge is another mixed-use district that offers luxury retailers, tasting rooms for LDV Winery and Merkin Vineyards, and outstanding restaurants. Take a stroll to this district’s northern tip and check out the Soleri Bridge & Plaza, designed by renowned Italian architect Paolo Soleri.
- Entertainment District – Easy going during the day and bustling after dark, this district is known for celebrity DJ’s, live bands, and master mixologists who make it a night to remember at upscale bars and nightclubs. Popular stops in this district include Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, Bottled Blonde, Hi Fi Kitchen & Cocktails, and Skylanes, a boutique bowling club serving craft cocktails and offering bottle service.
- 5th Shopping District – Scottsdale’s famed Fifth Avenue District is best known for its designer boutiques, vintage clothing shops and Native American jewelry stores – but there’s so much more! Grab an Insta-worthy picture at the Bob Parks Horse Fountain and linger over a signature coffee at Berdena’s or Cartel Roasting Co.
- Brown and Stetson District – This mixed-use district houses a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and local businesses.
- Arts District – Get inspired in the Scottsdale Arts District where dozens of galleries showcase creativity in all its forms. Explore the galleries by day or during the free Thursday night ArtWalk where artist demonstrations and live entertainment add to the fun. This creative corner of Scottsdale also is home to Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West and public artworks like Ed Mell’s famous “Jack Knife.”
- Historic Old Town – This historic corner of Old Town, where Scottsdale began in the late 1800s, is fun and full of character. Native American jewelry shops, Western-wear boutiques, and historic sites are just a few of the treasures you’ll find here. Don’t miss the legendary Sugar Bowl for classic ice cream treats and the iconic Rusty Spur Saloon for live music and dancing seven days and nights a week.
- Civic Center Park – This public park boasts 21 acres of lush lawns, trees, and colorful flowers. This peaceful oasis, right in the heart of Scottsdale’s bustling downtown, is where you’ll find the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, and public art installations like Robert Indiana’s iconic “LOVE” sculpture.