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6 Things To Consider Before Investing In A Scottsdale Vacation Rental
So you want to invest in your own Scottsdale vacation rental? That’s great! The vacation rental industry in Scottsdale is even hotter than Scottsdale itself. The city is accessible to tourists, offers plenty of exciting things to do, and hosts a ton of properties with great vacation home potential.
That said, we do suggest taking a few things into consideration before you buy a Scottsdale vacation rental. Not giving yourself time to find the right home or quantify what you hope to accomplish with it can lead to problems down the road. We’d like to help you avoid those potential problems by providing our top 6 things to consider before buying a Scottsdale vacation rental.
1) Choose Your Location Wisely
The appeal of vacation homes over a hotels is getting a spacious home-away-from-home experience while still having great access to local attractions. That’s especially the case here in Scottsdale, and the closer your rental is to a popular area, the more revenue it will earn you.
Properties near Old Town are some of the best to look at since that area is a major draw for tourists. Other places to look at would be homes near the TPC Golf Club or Kierland Commons. Almost any home within short walking distance of any of these locations would be perfect to purchase!
2) Check Out Desirable Neighborhoods
In addition to the broad location, you’ll also want to consider the neighborhood in which your new Scottsdale property will reside. The right neighborhood can give your guests added feelings of security, luxury, and general peace of mind during their stay.
When searching for your Scottsdale vacation rental we recommend looking at properties in the following neighborhoods:
- Arcadia
- Gainey Ranch
- Kierland
- Grayhawk
- Paradise Valley
There are plenty more great Scottsdale neighborhoods that we at GoodNight Stay can recommend directly to you. Feel free to contact us to learn more about these neighborhoods and our property management program.
3) Find Properties with COOL Amenities
It’s no secret that Scottsdale hosts some high temperatures through much of the year. Summer highs often reach above 100°F, and only winter months see highs below 75°F. When buying a vacation rental in Scottsdale, it’s essential to invest in a property that can keep guests cool.
Priority number one is to make sure your vacation rental has solid AC installed. Whether it comes pre-installed with your purchase or you install it yourself, AC is an essential amenity for living in or visiting Scottsdale.
If you want to maximize your bookings, look for properties that have either private pools or offer access to community pool areas. Pools are some of the most sought-after amenities for guests visiting Scottsdale, and they are well-worth the added cost when purchasing your new rental.
4) Invest in Modern Appliances and Smart Home Technology
Modern appliances, especially kitchen appliances, offer tremendous appeal to prospective guests. Having up-to-date appliances that work quickly, easily, and effectively can greatly enhance any guest’s stay, which will help you earn more 5-star reviews down the line.
Additionally, smart home technologies are fast becoming part of the status quo for vacation rentals in Scottsdale. Things such as smart lock security pads, smart hubs, and smart thermostats are common features across Scottsdale rentals.
If you cannot purchase a property with modern appliances and smart home tech already included, then be sure to set some money aside to install them. Here at GoodNight Stay, we also sell smart home tech to our homeowners at great prices.
5) Consider the Finishes of the Property
In the age of social media, it’s not enough for top-tier vacation rentals to just offer clean and comfortable living spaces. Many prospective guests, especially bachelor/bachelorette groups visiting Scottsdale, expect the places they stay to be aesthetically pleasing for group photo shoots. Plus, homes and condos with great interior design often yield better property photos to attract more guests.
Like with modern appliances and smart home tech above, it’s not absolutely essential to purchase a property with outstanding finishes included. However, you should take the costs of redesigning your rental into consideration when making your purchase.
GoodNight Stay has a sister design team that can help you transform your property into what we know sells best. They order all the furnishings and paints as needed, and they can install everything for you.
6) Determine Your Revenue Requirements
Probably the most crucial considerations you need to make when investing in a vacation rental are your revenue requirements and owner expenses. It’s paramount that you know how to price your rental realistically so that it can operate competitively in the market and earn profitable revenue.
In this instance, there really is no substitute for having great experience in the Scottsdale rental market. We at GoodNight Stay are the local experts in competitive pricing for the vacation rentals we manage. Our revenue department will help you take into consideration every aspect of your rental and match it to the market for realistic, competitive pricing.
That’s our list of the 6 things you need to consider before you buy a Scottsdale vacation rental. If you want more information or assistance with getting your rental up and running, then be sure to contact us here at GoodNight Stay and learn about our Property Management program in Scottsdale. Also, be sure to check out our other blog post: 5 Ways to Maximize Vacation Rental Bookings as a Homeowner.
How Can You Stand Out In The Competitive Vacation Rental Industry?
It’s no secret that vacation rentals have entered the mainstream as a go-to option for vacations and working vacations. According to iPropertyManagement.com, the rate at which travelers booked vacation rentals increased by 240% between 2011 and 2019. The number of bookings for vacation rentals each year has only increased since then.
With that increased demand for vacation rentals also came an increase in the supply of vacation rental businesses to book with. In 2022, there are an estimated 25,000 vacation rental companies in the United States as well as over 140,650 companies worldwide. In a market that large and competitive, you as a homeowner need to go above and beyond to maximize your rental bookings.
Fortunately, there are several simple and easy solutions you can implement to stand out amongst the crowd. Here are 5 best practices for maximizing your vacation rental bookings as a homeowner.
1) Hire A Professional Property Manager
The quickest and most efficient way to start increasing your rental bookings is to hire a professional property manager. As a vacation rental homeowner, you’re probably quite familiar with all the complexities of properly marketing and maintaining your rental(s). By hiring a property manager, you can pass off nearly all those complex responsibilities into their expert hands.
Property managers keep up with all the industry’s best practices and current trends to keep your rentals looking spick and span in the eyes of prospective guests. From marketing and concierge to security and accounting, property managers handle all the steps of managing your homes so you can just sit back, relax, and earn!
To learn more about all that property managers can do for your rentals, check out our GoodNight Stay Property Management page. We serve homeowners across several markets, and we have a proven track record for increased success with our clients.
2) Showcase Your Properties With Professional Photos
These days, it’s essential to have professional photography for your vacation rental properties. Although smartphones can take good shots, professional photographers are exceptional at capturing your properties in the most alluring light. With today’s heightened competition in the short-term rental industry, this is a best practice you need to be implementing to maximize bookings. It’ll cost a little extra to have these photos taken, but you’ll be able to rely on them for years and years to come.
The easiest way to get professional photos of your properties is to have your property manager source a real estate photographer on your behalf. If you choose to find one on your own, the best option is to contact your local board of realtors and search through their vetted list of photographers. If all else fails, a quick Google search of “professional real estate photographers near me” should yield some good results.
3) Write Appealing And Accurate Descriptions
Great property photos are what will entice prospective guests to consider your rentals, but appealing and accurate descriptions are what make them book. As such, it’s important to make sure your property descriptions are exceptionally detailed and well-written.
When writing your descriptions, start by asking yourself why guests should choose your vacation rental. Determine the highlights of what makes your property stand out by considering the following questions:
- Who is this property ideal for?
- How spacious is the property?
- How close is the property to local attractions, or how private and secluded is it?
- What desirable amenities or features are included?
Although it’s important to showcase the best aspects of your rentals, it’s equally important to ensure you don’t over-embellish with misleading descriptions. Dishonesty with your guests is one of the quickest ways to obtain a lot bad reviews; a potential death-sentence for vacation rental companies.
4) Respond To Guest Reviews And Feature Great Ones
Speaking of reviews, the next best step in maximizing your bookings is responding to your reviews. Your reviews serve as evidence of how professional, reliable and communicative you are as a homeowner. Responding to reviews, even with simple “thank you” notes, proves that you listen your guests and take action based on their feedback.
Perhaps the most important reviews to respond to are the more negative reviews. If a guest has a poor experience and leaves a bad review, approach it as an opportunity to learn and improve future guest services. Apologize for whatever issues they had, offer explanations for why things went wrong, assure them that what happened is an exception to the norm, and offer some form of compensation based on the severity of the issue. Calm, well-written responses to public reviews demonstrate your desire to constantly improve your services.
Hopefully you won’t have too many bad reviews to answer for, and you can focus on promoting great reviews. After sending a response of gratitude, feature any 5-star reviews you earn on your website or directly within your property descriptions. Doing this will help assure potential guests that they’ll have a great time too booking with you!
The last note we have on reviews is to make sure you’re encouraging guests to write them. Left to their own devices, guests typically won’t leave a review unless they’ve had an extraordinary time. By utilizing the power of suggestion and politely inquiring, your guests are much more likely to leave positive reviews.
5) Focus On Crafting A Great Guest Experience
The single most important thing you can do to increase vacation rental bookings as a homeowner over time is to consistently craft a great guest experience. You can have all the bells and whistles of a great website, quality photos, and compelling property descriptions, but the guest experience is the heart and soul of a successful vacation rental business. Fortunately, crafting a great experience doesn’t take much from you as a vacation rental owner.
The easiest place to start is to acquire the same amenities commonly found in hotels to include in your rental. Things like clean towels and linens, soap, toilet paper, and paper towels should all be standard inclusions. From there, add on other desirable amenities and features such as pet-friendly stays, gear rentals, and car services. Just adding and highlighting those rental features will go a long way in cultivating a good guest experience.
After adding on amenities and features, the next step towards exceptional experiences is to be an effective communicator with your guests. Send welcoming emails before and immediately after their check-in, provide helpful area guides and local recommendations during their stay, quickly respond to any concerns or questions, and finally send a thankful goodbye after they check out. Simple and effective communication goes a long way in making your guests remember you as a great host during their vacation.
And that’s it for our 5 best practices on maximizing your vacation rental bookings as a homeowner. Keep in mind that, for tips two through five, a property manager can take care of or at least assist in implementing all those best practices. Because of that as well as their other areas of invaluable expertise, we highly recommend that you start your journey towards success by hiring a great property manager.
If you’re a vacation rental homeowner located in any of our markets, be sure to head over to our Property Management page to learn how GoodNight Stay will help you maximize your bookings!
Yes! Scottsdale Is THE BEST Place To Throw Your Bachelorette Party
No waiting around for an answer here! Scottsdale is the NEW QUEEN of top bachelorette party destinations in the nation! With food to rival New York, nightlife better than Vegas, and more Insta-worthy sunny days than SoCal could ever dream of, Scottsdale has all the ingredients to make any bachelorette party the ultimate sendoff for the bride-to-be. Even the New York Times has weighed in on Scottsdale taking the throne as the new go-to spot for bachelorette parties!
So, without further ado, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Scottsdale bachelorette party.
1. Book A Fun & Luxurious Vacation Home
We might have some bias in this recommendation, but trust us when we say that renting a vacation home is essential for Scottsdale bachelorette squads. Not only do vacation homes provide more hang-out space, but they also come with a ton of great amenities. From larger homes with private pools and wide open back yards to great condos right next to Old Town, there’s a rental that’s perfect for any bachelorette group heading to Scottsdale.
Here at GoodNight Stay, we have a ton of Scottsdale vacation rentals that bachelorette teams will love!
2. Get The Party Started With A Hash Kitchen Brunch
With a Scottsdale bachelorette party, the “party” always starts early with a fabulous brunch. Although there are many fantastic brunch spots sprinkled across Scottsdale, the one we’d recommend has to be Hash Kitchen.
Hash Kitchen lives and breathes all things brunch. It totes a fun and exciting atmosphere, a wonderful list of creative dishes, and, of course, serves up a divine selection of mimosas along with other fresh cocktails. In addition to all that, Hash Kitchen is famous for its “Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar.” The bar features an impressive array of ingredients to craft your own refreshing spin on this brunch classic beverage.
During your bachelorette party vacation, be sure to stroll down to one of Hash Kitchen’s two locations in Scottsdale. Also, check out their Insta feed for some bachelorette brunch photo op inspiration.
3. Explore The Beautiful Sonoran Desert
Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area are surrounded by some of the most drop-dead gorgeous desert wilderness in the world. The desert is home to awe-inspiring rock features and beautiful desert flora like the famous saguaro cacti. Not to get too cliché, but there is literally no better place to snap a whole album’s worth of Insta-worthy bachelorette party group shots.
Now, you can head to Desert Hills and hike on foot (check out Scottsdale hiking trails), but we recommend taking the group on an off-road jeep tour instead. That isn’t any idle suggestion either, as plenty of jeep-tour outfitters offer specific packages for bachelorette parties. Off-Road Jeep Adventures provides the best-reviewed bachelorette party tours in Scottsdale, taking groups across the Sonoran Desert in their tough Jeep Gladiators. Oh, along with the great views, you can even BYOB on these tours!
4. Splash Into The Pool At Maya Day Club
After some time in the hot Arizona sun, you’ll need a fun place to cool off. Enter the Maya Day Club. This 20,000 square-ft venue is the ultimate pool party space in Scottsdale during the day and at night.
Along with its signature pool, the Maya Day Club keeps a fun house party vibe going with music, games, and a great selection of food and refreshing drinks. For an extra special time at the clubhouse, you can also reserve VIP Bottle Services for your bachelorette party group.
Maya Day Club is a great stop to make for your bachelorette party any day or night in Scottsdale, but we suggest also keeping an eye on their list of upcoming events for special themed parties and DJs that play the club.
5. Get Dressed For Old Town Fine Dining And Nightlife
Last but not least, any Scottsdale bachelorette party requires a delicious evening meal and a late-night out in Old Town. The selection of dining options in Scottsdale, especially the Mexican restaurants, is all wonderful for bachelorette party groups before heading out to the bars and clubs.
After dining out at the Mission or one of the many other Scottsdale fine-dining establishments, it’ll be time to hit the bars and clubs of Old Town. Just as with its restaurants, Scottsdale has a fantastic list of great nightlife options. Although there are a few staple stops like Pattie’s First Avenue Lounge and the Rock Bar, it’s hard to go wrong when partying anywhere in Old Town.
A classic Scottsdale nightlife option tailored for bachelorette parties is to take an Arizona Party Bike Pub Crawl. On these pedal-powered tours, your guide will bring you directly to some of Old Town’s best bars, and you’ll get to skip the line to go in. The perfect hassle-free way for brides and bridesmaids to spend an exciting night out in Old Town!
As you can see, Scottsdale more than earns its title as the new queen of bachelorette party destinations. Stick to this list and you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect bachelorette party in Scottsdale. Check out the Stag & Hen Scottsdale guide for more great bachelorette party ideas.
Remember that the perfect Scottsdale bachelorette party starts with the perfect place to stay. We have a ton of vacation rentals that are perfect for bachelorette party groups. Check them out below to book your thrilling Scottsdale bachelorette party!
Disclaimer: GoodNight Stay does not permit throwing large parties at your vacation rental. Your group may celebrate privately in your rental, and you are permitted to set up some light decorations provided that your group takes them down prior to check-out.
This summer in Nashville, we want to make sure you get the most out of your vacation. With so much in this historic city to see and do, it can be difficult to narrow down the best Nashville activities for your group. We rose to that trip-planning challenge, though, and came up with 6 cool activities you should try out in Nashville this summer.
Oh, and don’t forget to book your stay at one of our amazing Nashville vacation rentals. Now onto your summer plans!
1. Water Activities Around Nashville
First up on our cool list is something that’ll actually keep you pretty cool during those warm Nashville summer days. At Nashville’s three local lakes (Percy Priest, Radnor, and Old Hickory), it’s always a fun time spending an hour or two on a rental stand-up paddleboard. Alternatively, on the famous Cumberland River, you can also rent a single or two-person kayak to take in the scenic downtown views from the water.
On the river, you can also rent pontoons from outfitters like Nashville Toons, which come with a totally unique private group experience. Their double-decker pontoons can accommodate up to 14 guests and come with built-in coolers, waterslides, floatables, and much more!
Lastly, Nashville offers up a couple of phenomenal water parks that are fun for the whole family. The popular Nashville Shores Waterpark features 8 large water slides along with a massive water tree house that kids will love exploring. There’s also the new SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland, which hosts both indoor and outdoor water attractions like slides and a lazy river. Additionally, SoundWaves features live entertainment, bars with refreshing cocktails, and private cabana rentals.
2. Explore Music City By Bike
Alongside the city’s many fascinating walking tours, Nashville is home to some great bike touring options. Green Fleet Bicycle Tours, for example, provides a delightful tour of downtown Nashville that includes interpretative information about several historic sites and neighborhoods as well as tasty pit stops at ice cream parlors and breweries.
If you prefer a guide-free biking experience, then take a ride along the greenway, one of Nashville’s top outdoor attractions. The greenway is a paved trail approximately 20 miles long that goes across bridges and through several scenic parks. Any stretch along the greenway will make your day, but you can ask the folks at Bike the Greenway for recommendations on where to go after you rent your bike.
3. Discover Historic Sites In Nashville
Nashville is a city with a rich, enthralling history that anyone can enjoy. From small park-side exhibits to preserved estates and downtown buildings, the streets of Nashville are pretty much overflowing with history to explore.
One of the more popular sites that’s fascinating to see is the Andrew Jackson Hermitage, a 1,120-acre National Historic Landmark with over 30 historic buildings. Here you can walk back in time through the 7th US President’s impressive mansion, which has been carefully restored with Jackson’s original possessions. After touring the mansion, take a stroll through the rest of the grounds and end the day with a refreshing wine tasting.
In addition to the Hermitage, another fun spot to check out is the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery. Belle Meade offers an extensive and diverse selection of tours, tastings, and other things to do. The most popular tour is the 45-minute Mansion Tour, which covers the century-long history of the site as well as the specific stories from the Harding and Jackson families. Another gripping tour available is the hour-long Journey to Jubilee. This tour brings to light the stories of African-American men, women, and children who endured enslavement at Belle Meade from 1807 through the years following Emancipation. Due to the sensitive nature of the tour, only teenagers and adults are allowed to join it.
Although each of those historic Nashville sites offers a ton of things to do and see, they just scratch the surface of Nashville’s historical offerings. Head to our Nashville Museums and Attractions pages to discover even more fascinating historic sites.
4. Explore Music City’s Museums of Music
Going hand in hand with the extensive historic site options are the many Nashville music museums. Each of these museum’s feature plenty of music history, exhibits, and memorabilia to warrant their own articles. However, we want to focus on the top 2 must-visit spots for your trip to Nashville.
First up, we have the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. In addition to being one of the coolest-looking buildings in Tennessee, the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated to country music in the world. The museum hosts a staggering collection of over 800 costumes, over 600 instruments, and hundreds of other objects tied to country music history. Basically, this is a must-stop spot for anyone with even the SLIGHTEST appreciation for country music.
The second mandatory musical destination is the Musician’s Hall of Fame & Museum. This museum honors musicians from all genres, and it houses several fascinating exhibits that focus on historic and influential music cities across the nation. From Nashville to L.A. to Detroit and back, nearly every iconic American music scene is perfectly preserved and presented here at the Musician’s Hall of Fame & Museum.
Just those two museums alone will instill you with enough information to teach a music history lesson, but Nashville hosts plenty more exceptional music museums that are well worth checking out. Take a gander at Visit Music City’s list of Music Museums for more spots to check out.
5. Tune in to Live Shows Downtown
They don’t call it Music City for nothing! When the hot summer sun recedes past the horizon in Nashville, it’s time to head downtown and catch a live show. Stumble into just about any bar or restaurant down Lower Broadway, and you’re sure to find a quality live performance.
However, the one venue visitors are required to visit during their stay is the Grand Ole Opry (obviously not strictly “required,” but you should still go). This renowned music venue served as a home for the Grand Ole Opry radio show, a staple of country music, for over 95 years. Nowadays, it hosts daily live concerts with multiple performers, providing its guests with one heck of a show every night! Be sure to head to the Grand Ole Opry concert schedule to see who’s playing during your stay.
For more detailed information on where to catch live shows in Nashville this summer, head to our blog covering the Best Nashville Live Music Venues.
6. Check Out Exciting Nashville Summer Events
Last but not least, Nashville puts on some phenomenal events during the summer. Of course, the annual 4th of July fireworks display is always fun and beautiful to behold. Just take a quick look at the image above to see what we mean. However, there are so many more exhilarating events on Nashville’s annual summer calendar that are sure to wow and delight.
One such event is the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, which takes place over four days in mid-June. Not only does Bonnaroo host over 150 musical performances each year, but it also puts on comedy shows, film screenings, and an extensive selection of workshops to partake in.
That concludes our list of 6 cool activities to try in Nashville this summer. Follow our blog for more Nashville insiders’ tips on what to do during your stay. And, of course, make the most of your Nashville summer stay by booking a GoodNight Premium Stay vacation rental!
That wraps up our list of 6 must-try activities in Nashville this summer! Whether you’re discovering the best live music spots, indulging in local cuisine, or exploring the city’s hidden gems, Nashville has something for everyone. Be sure to stay tuned to our blog for more insider tips on making the most of your Music City adventure. And don’t forget to elevate your experience by booking a stay at one of our GoodNight Stay rentals – the perfect home base for your unforgettable Nashville getaway!
The Sonoran Desert in Scottsdale offers some of Arizona’s most stunning and scenic hiking trails. As the sun rises and bathes the landscape in golden light, the views are absolutely breathtaking, making it the perfect time to hit the trails. If you’re an early riser, a morning hike in Scottsdale is one of the best ways to start your day.
Before jumping into these exquisite hiking areas, we want to remind you that Scottsdale has a reputation of hot weather nearly year-round. When out hiking in the desert, always wear proper sun protection and pack plenty of water and snacks. For a complete list of what to bring for your hike, check out this hiking guide from Visit Arizona.
Now that you’re ready to explore, here are our top 4 favorite Scottsdale hiking spots to catch stunning views while escaping the intense desert heat!
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
With over 225 miles of trails to explore across 30,580 acres of Desert, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve hosts some of the best hikes in Arizona and is the ultimate nature lover’s playground. Open every day from sunrise to sunset, the preserve offers visitors the chance to experience true Sonoran Desert wilderness. Deep canyons and high mountain peaks host an incredible array of desert plant and animal life. In spring, you can discover plenty of trails lit up with vibrant wildflowers that bring wonderful colors to the desert landscape.
First-time visitors to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve will love these trails:
- Granite Mountain Loop Trail (Easy/Medium)
- Gateway Loop Trail (Medium)
- Tom’s Thumb Trail (Medium/Hard)
Check out other great McDowell Sonoran Preserve Trails
Pinnacle Peak Park
Although Pinnacle Peak Park only features a single trail within its 150-acre area, the trail is amazing! Creatively labeled as the Pinnacle Peak Trail, this hiking area is located right on the northern outskirts of town. The trail is one of the more popular in Scottsdale for hikers and trail runners, so weekday mornings are certainly the best times to avoid those larger crowds. Plus, mornings along this meandering out-and-back path are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll find the early rise justified five steps out of the parking lot.
Usery Mountain Regional Park
With 29 trails of varying lengths and difficulties to explore, Usery Mountain Regional Park is another great hiking area to check out near Scottsdale. Known for its wide scenic vistas, Usery Mountain Regional Park is ideal for hikers looking to have their jaws dropped on a morning hike. Although there is a vehicle entrance fee to enter the park, it’s well worth the small cost to experience some of Arizona’s best views.
Check out these popular trails at Usery Mountain Regional Park during your visit:
- Merkle Trail (Easy)
- Wind Cave Trail (Medium)
- Pass Mountain Trail (Medium/Hard)
Check out more great trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park
Lost Dutchman State Park
Named after Jacob Waltz’s (AKA “The Dutchman”) legendary lost gold mine, the Lost Dutchman State Park has much more to offer than just fabled riches. The state park is located smack-dab in the middle of Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, and it serves up scenery that more than lives up to the legends. Morning light brings a rosy glow to the landscape that creates the perfect backdrop for an early stroll.
Don’t believe that description? See for yourself at these scenic Lost Dutchman trails:
- Jacob’s Crosscut Trail (Easy)
- Treasure Loop Trail (Easy/Medium)
- Siphon Draw Trail (Medium/Hard)
Check out more Lost Dutchman State Park Trails
And that’s a wrap on our top picks for the best Scottsdale sunrise hikes! Each spot offers its own unique experience, with breathtaking views that will have you reaching for your camera before you even finish the trail. Trust us, your golden hour photos are about to be on fire!
After you’ve conquered the trails, it’s time to kick back and relax in a cozy home base. Lucky for you, our homes are located just minutes from these top spots and more. Book a Scottsdale GoodNight Stay to keep the Arizona adventure going!
We believe that you don’t need a massive budget to have a great time in Nashville. If you know where to look, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see completely for free. Having been around the block a few times, we’ve discovered plenty of great free activities and attractions in Nashville that we are more than happy to share with you!
1. Catch a Free Live Music Show
When in Music City, attending concerts is a must! However, you don’t need to break the bank to hear some great live performances. Across the city, there are a ton of places that host fantastic live music shows throughout the week, and they don’t require a cover charge. That said, still remember to tip the bands you see for the great shows they put on.
Check out the Nashville Tourism Guide to Free Live Music for a list of the best free music venues.
2. Take a Free Tour of the State Capitol Building
Nashville was selected as the permanent state capital of Tennessee in 1843. The Capitol building has stood since 1859, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, as well as declared a National Historic Landmark in 1971. Inside these great marble walls resides a century and a half of remarkable living history that you just have to see!
Visitors can tour the stoic Tennessee State Capitol building on either guided or self-guided tours from Monday-Friday, free of charge. Guided tours are approximately 45-minutes long and limited to groups of 15.
3. Discover More Tennessee History at the State Museum
If you’re itching to learn more about Tennessee’s culture and history after your state capitol tour (who wouldn’t?!), then you have to make a trip to the Tennessee State Museum. This immense museum covers everything from Tennessee’s natural history beginnings through to the present day. Admission is free, but you can make donations to the museum if you like.
After your visit to the Tennessee State Museum, two other great free places to see are Fort Negley and the Fort Donelson National Battlefield. Both were significant sites during the Civil War, and they are deeply fascinating to explore today!
4. Relax at a Tranquil Nashville Park
Yes, every town and city has parks to relax in, but Nashville parks go above and beyond the call of park duty! A perfect example of this is Centennial Park, which features the standard affairs like nature trails, ponds and lakes, a dog park, etc. However, in addition to those, Centennial Park hosts a full-scale recreation of the Greek Parthenon.
And that’s just the one aspect of one of the many great parks to check out in Nashville. Be sure to check out our Nashville Parks information page to learn more about Centennial and other local parks.
5. Absorb Nashville’s Contemporary Art Scene
Although Nashville is famous for its musical history, a stroll down almost any street will reveal the city’s artistic spirit as well. Not only do the combined storefronts of Nashville’s famous Broadway look like a vibrant painting in and of themselves, but the many walls of the street are also adorned with impressive murals and street art.
Off the streets, there are several art galleries and exhibits free to enter. The Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University, for example, features 10 exhibits of contemporary art from regional and national artists every year. Check the Art Scene page on the Nashville Tourism website for more impressive galleries and exhibits.
To sum up, you don’t need a large budget to have a great time in Nashville. When you know where to look, you’ll find more than enough art, culture, and history to enjoy for free. Plus, don’t forget to check out our specials page for deals and discounts to book your Nashville vacation home!
Take yourself out to a ballgame this spring! Along with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, spring in Scottsdale is the perfect time to cheer on your favorite Cactus League team during the MLB spring training season! From getting tickets to knowing what to expect at the stadium, and even where to stay for your spring training home base, we’ve got you covered with all that you need to know before you head out to the ballpark. With the 2025 spring training season set to begin February 20th and through March 25th, there is no better time to start planning your trip!
Arizona Spring Training Stadiums
With 15 teams playing at 10 different stadiums across the greater Phoenix area, it is important you know where to find your team! The teams will rotate among all the stadiums in the area playing games, but if you are looking to attend practice, you must find your team’s spring training home base. Check out the list of stadiums below in the Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and greater Phoenix area to know where your team will be playing ball!
- Scottsdale Stadium – The San Francisco Giants
- Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks
- Sloan Park – Chicago Cubs
- Hohokam Stadium – Oakland A’s
- Tempe Diablo Stadium – Los Angeles Angels
- Camelback Ranch – Chicago White Sox, L.A. Dodgers
- Goodyear Ballpark – Cleveland Guardians, Cincinnati Reds
- American Family Fields of Phoenix – Milwaukee Brewers
- Peoria Sports Complex – San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners
- Surprise Stadium – Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers
The Ballpark Experience
Once you’ve decided which spring training game or practice you want to attend, it’s time to prepare for heading to the stadium! Buying tickets online will save you the stress and time of waiting in line at the stadium. And of course, while the Arizona sunshine makes this the perfect place for a baseball game, the sun can also be quite strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated and safe from the sun during the game.
It wouldn’t be the true baseball experience without hitting up the concession stands. Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks, a hot dog, nachos, or a beer to satisfy your appetite. Enjoy mountain views from the stadium as you watch the game, and bring a mitt of your own to catch a fly ball.
Where to Stay During Arizona Spring Training
Your spring training plans aren’t complete without a comfortable home base! Whether you prefer to relax poolside before a baseball practice or lounge in an open-concept living room in the evening, we are sure to have your ideal getaway in one of our luxury Scottsdale or Paradise Valley vacation rental homes. Check out a few of our featured properties ready for Spring Training 2024!
Nearest Spring Training Ballpark: Scottsdale Stadium, Majestic Mountain Mansion
Nearest Spring Training Ballpark: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
This home contains a breathtaking 7-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom offering the ultimate luxury retreat for your Spring Training stay. With stunning mountain views, this spacious property features an open-concept living area, a gourmet kitchen, and ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The guest house adds extra privacy, perfect for larger groups. Outside, enjoy a private pool, hot tub, and outdoor living spaces ideal for unwinding after a day at the ballpark. Combining elegance, comfort, and a prime location near top Spring Training venues, this mansion is the perfect base for your Arizona getaway
Book a Spring Training Getaway Today!
Nashville is a fantastic destination for families, filled with fun and exciting activities for all ages. From live music and dance floors to unique attractions and mouthwatering cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring museums, enjoying outdoor adventures, or discovering the city’s rich cultural heritage, your family is sure to create lasting memories. Start planning your next family-friendly getaway to Nashville today!
Jam Out to Live Music as a Family
No trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing the city’s live music scene, and there are plenty of family-friendly venues where you can enjoy the sounds of Music City. The iconic Ryman Auditorium will captivate music lovers of all ages, while other great spots like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where families can learn about country music’s rich history, and the Johnny Cash Museum, perfect for fans of the legendary artist, offer more opportunities to experience Nashville’s live music scene. For a more laid-back experience, head to the Bluebird Cafe, known for its intimate performances by talented songwriters. Whether you’re at a historic venue or a cozy cafe, Nashville’s live music scene offers something for everyone.
If you want to get out on the dance floor with your family, we recommend the Wildhorse Saloon. The Wildhorse Saloon is home to one of the largest dance floors in Nashville. This nightlife hotspot features complimentary line dancing lessons, making it the perfect destination for families looking to learn the ropes. Put on your dancing boots for a night on the town! Take a break from dancing to dig into their famous fried pickles and barbecue before heading back onto the dance floor. Enjoy live music during your family’s Nashville vacation.
Explore Family-Friendly Attractions
Besides the live music hot spots, Nashville is full of attractions for all ages. The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere offers a fun-filled experience with a variety of animals, seasonal events, and interactive exhibits. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Broadway and enjoy a wild adventure the whole family will love!
Rainy day in Music City? Visit the Adventure Science Center to learn more about how the world works. This hands-on science museum invites children of all ages to put their imaginations to work while learning about physics, weather, space, and more. Perfect for a winter day activity, the Adventure Science Center is sure to keep your little ones entertained.
For outdoor fun, the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort should be on your agenda! With both a waterpark and treetop adventure park, families can choose between making a splash on waterslides and in a large, lagoon-style pool or testing their bravery on a treetop ropes course. Get outdoors at this unique family-friendly amusement park. Nashville is perfect for family fun!
Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants
When your family needs to refuel during the day, stop by one of our favorite family-friendly restaurants. Edley’s Bar-B-Que in East Nashville invites families to enjoy iconic barbecue dishes, including brisket platters, baby back ribs, chicken wings, and fried chicken. Enjoy southern sides like green beans, mac & cheese, coleslaw, and more alongside your Nashville-style barbecue.
The Assembly Food Hall is the perfect destination for families who can’t seem to agree on what to eat, and want to try a little bit of everything. With burgers, tacos, poke, and even a unique ice cream shop, the whole family can find exactly what they are looking for!
Find a Family-Friendly Nashville Vacation Rental
Book a stay in one of our Nashville vacation rentals, and your family will feel right at home. With fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and cozy bedrooms, our modern rentals provide all the comforts you need. Plus, their prime locations put you just minutes away from all the family-friendly attractions Nashville has to offer.
For those whose ideal day includes shopping in upscale stores, art galleries, and unique souvenir shops, Scottsdale is a prime destination! Enjoy the charm of Old Town with an array of art galleries and souvenir shops that invite you to admire stunning artworks and pick up a souvenir or two. Shoppers will also want to visit the upscale outdoor malls where they can find a new wardrobe staple or grab dinner with friends and family! Here’s how to shop till you drop on your next Scottsdale vacation!
For the Fashion Focused Shopper
For the shopper with a strong sense of fashion, Scottsdale’s shopping malls are the premier destination! Scottsdale Fashion Square features over 200 stores national brands such as Burberry, Fabletics, H&M, Nordstrom, and more.
For even more stores and entertainment, Kierland Commons is an upscale outdoor shopping center. Kierland Commons is home to national brands like Madewell and Anthropologie, jewelry stores, and eateries, including Shake Shack, Mastro’s Ocean Club, and more. Take a break from your shopping spree to enjoy a sit-down meal with your fellow shoppers before finding the perfect outfit for a night out on the town!
For the Art Gallery Enthusiast
Old Town Scottsdale is home to a variety of art galleries for enthusiasts to stroll through and admire. If you are in the market for a new piece to highlight on your walls or in your home, find it in the Old Town Art District. Even if you aren’t looking to take artwork home yourself, the galleries in Old Town Scottsdale are worth a stop. Stroll through the numerous galleries to see the beautiful and unique pieces on display!
The galleries display works from both local and internationally renowned artists, including contemporary, western, Native American, and landscape artworks. The American Indian Art Gallery is home to Authentic American Indian Art including pottery, Navajo weavings, sculpture, and more. The J Kelin Gallery both displays and sells contemporary art that features bright colors and unique viewpoints.
Where to Find Souvenirs
If you are looking to pick up a souvenir to remember your trip to Arizona, stop by one of the many souvenir shops in Old Town! Both Scottsdale Southwest and Kactus Jock are stores where you can pick up t-shirts, gifts, and more. Don’t forget to pick up a cactus to take home with you or a mug stamped with Arizona staples. Don’t go home without one!
Book a Scottsdale Vacation Rental Today
Wanting to experience the charm of Old Town Scottsdale for yourself? Book one of our stunning properties! Our Scottsdale vacation rentals feature amenities like private pools, top locations, and modern interiors with stylish designs. Away from your desert oasis, explore the shopping areas, take a hike on a nearby trail, or get out on one of the beautiful golf courses!
Experience most of Music City by booking a Nashville tour! From behind-the-scenes looks at the Grand Ole Opry to a tractor party unlike any other, there are plenty of tours that allow you to see Nashville in a whole new light! Start planning your Music City getaway by booking a Nashville vacation rental today!
Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
For a convenient and educational way to get around town, climb aboard the Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour. With 14 convenient stops at Nashville’s top attractions such as the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Centennial Park, the trolley allows climb on and off while learning about these iconic Nashville sights.
Nashville Ghost Tours
Get into the spooky spirit by booking a Nashville Ghost Tour! With tours ranging from a hearse tour, a haunted tavern tour, and a haunted tour of downtown, guests can find plenty of ways to get spooked and learn about the spooky side of Nashville. The Haunted Tavern Tour is perfect for those who want to pair spirits with spooky tales. For a seated tour of Nashville, climb aboard the Nashville Hearse Tour that will take you to multiple sites like Union Station, an old cemetery, and more. And finally, the downtown tour is a walking tour led by a costumed guide that will take you to sites like the Tennessee State Capitol, Ryman Auditorium, and more!
Grand Ole Opry Behind the Scenes Tour
Music enthusiasts will not want to miss a tour of the Grand Ole Opry! Get a peek into what happens backstage when some of country music’s biggest stars take the stage. The daytime backstage tours let you take a seat in the theater to see the venue brought to life with lighting effects, films, and more. Hear stories about the legends of the Opry and the historic performances and musicians that have taken the stage. Visitors can also book a post-show backstage tour, where you can step backstage after a live performance to see the dressing rooms, studio A, and maybe even step on stage for yourself!
The Nashville Tractor
For a lively tour experience, hop aboard Joyride Nashville’s Tractor Tour! This 75-minute journey combines a party atmosphere with a scenic ride through Music City. The tractor is equipped with music, a dance floor, and a bar, ensuring a memorable time for all guests. Joyride Nashville offers both public and private tours to accommodate various group sizes. Don’t miss their other unique ways to explore Nashville, too!
General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville
Enjoy dinner and a show aboard the General Jackson Showboat! Choose between daytime and evening cruises to enjoy a meal while enjoying live entertainment shows such as Tennessee Legends or Music City Nights. The boat is one of the largest showboats ever built and offers a unique venue for dinner with stunning views along the way and entertainment that will make you want to dance. Book a cruise on this legendary showboat!
Book a Nashville Vacation Rental
Want to experience these Nashville tours and more? Book a Nashville vacation rental to experience the best of Music City! Hit the town with a night at the Honky Tonks on Broadway, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and dance to live music around town! Start planning your Music City vacation by booking one of our stunning Nashville vacation rentals.