Springtime in Scottsdale is here, and the weather is absolutely perfect! With sunny skies and mild temperatures in the 70s and 80s, now is the ideal time to get outside and enjoy all the outdoor activities the area has to offer. This amazing weather will stick around through April, before the triple-digit temperatures return in mid-May. To make the most of this perfect season, here’s your local guide to the best outdoor activities in Scottsdale!
Cruise the Salt River
Looking to kick your feet back and cruise downstream with stunning Arizona views? The Salt River offers a fantastic outdoor escape! If you’re tubing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, this scenic spot is perfect for a peaceful day in nature, soaking up the sun and enjoying Arizona’s beauty. You can float for free if you bring your own gear, or book through Salt River Tubing for a hassle-free experience with tubes, shuttles, and everything you need for a fun day on the water!
Explore Arizona’s Stunning Lakes
Scottsdale’s lakes are perfect for spring adventures. Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Bartlett Lake, and Roosevelt Lake are all great spots for boating, jet skiing, or simply relaxing by the water, and they’re all within an hour’s drive from Scottsdale (or even less depending on where you’re coming from). For extra fun, check out our partners, Paqua Park for an inflatable water park experience, or Pleasant Water Sports for exciting water sports rentals. It’s the most refreshing way to spend a day in the desert!
Hit the Pickleball Courts
Pickleball is huge in Arizona, and Electric Pickle in Tempe is the place to play! Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, it’s the perfect way to get active and enjoy the sunshine. Plus, it’s a social game, so it’s a great way to meet new people while staying active outdoors. Arizona also has a ton of public courts at local parks, making it easy to find a spot to play no matter where you are!
Tee Off: From Championship Courses to Mini-Golf Fun
Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise, offering everything from world-class courses, to fun laid-back putting experiences. For those looking for a championship-level round, TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, and We-Ko-Pa Golf Club offer stunning desert landscapes and top-tier course designs suited for all skill levels. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, PopStroke provides a fun twist on the game, combining mini-golf with delicious food and drinks. You can also bring the mini-golf fun to your GoodNight Stay with our partner, Mini Golf on the Go! From perfecting your swing on the fairway to having a competitive night out with friends, Scottsdale offers the perfect spot to tee off!
Go Hiking — Scottsdale Style
Scottsdale is a hiker’s paradise with an abundance of trails through the stunning desert landscape. Popular spots like Papago Mountain and Camelback Mountain offer beautiful views and great exercise. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging climb, these trails provide the perfect spot to watch a sunrise or catch a breathtaking sunset. With panoramic views of the desert, city skyline, and surrounding mountains, every step is a new adventure!
Dine Outdoors at Scottsdale’s Best Patios
There’s no better way to enjoy the Arizona weather than by dining outdoors. Some of our favorite patios in Scottsdale include:
- The Mission Scottsdale – Latin-inspired flavors with a gorgeous desert view.
- Olives & Ivy – Mediterranean dishes with a view of the Scottsdale Waterfront.
- Loco Patron – Bold Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting with outdoor seating to enjoy the full experience. Perfect for those craving delicious food and great vibes.
- Alma – A chic spot offering delicious Mexican cuisine and stunning and fun outdoor patio.
- O.H.S.O. Brewery – A relaxed atmosphere with craft beer and a pet-friendly patio.
- Old Town Tortilla Factory – Authentic Mexican flavors with a unique, historic ambiance. Enjoy their delicious dishes and signature cocktails in a vibrant outdoor setting.
- Beginner’s Luck – A cozy place for a bite, offering a casual, fun atmosphere with outdoor seating.
Lounging Poolside
Looking to unwind in style? Experience ultimate relaxation at one of our stunning GoodNight Stay homes, complete with your own private pool and a serene desert retreat. Or, take advantage of exclusive discounts through our partner, ResortPass, to access some of Scottsdale’s most luxurious resort pools. First-time users get a special discount, plus enjoy top-tier pools with poolside dining, full-service amenities, and breathtaking desert views. Lounge at a resort or bask in the privacy of your own oasis—it’s the perfect way to recharge in true desert style.
A Little Extra Sunshine Fun!
- Scottsdale Waterfront: Take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy shopping, art, and the beautiful views.
- Horseback Riding: Saddle up for a unique outdoor adventure and experience the Arizona desert on horseback with Windwalker Expeditions.
- Desert Off-Roading: Kick up some dust and explore the rugged desert terrain on an exhilarating ATV or Jeep tour with Desert Dog or Extreme Arizona.
- Phoenix Zoo: Spend the day with amazing wildlife, from majestic big cats to playful otters, at the family-friendly Phoenix Zoo. Plus, enjoy an exclusive discount on tickets as a GoodNight Stay guest with code GIRAFFE21 at checkout!
- Outdoor Yoga: Unwind and soak in the serene desert scenery with a rejuvenating outdoor yoga session, perfect for starting or ending your day on a peaceful note. Join our partners Nicole Anne Yoga or Luna Lotus Wellness for a truly calming experience.
- Desert Botanical Garden: Explore the stunning desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden, where you’ll find breathtaking landscapes and unique and vibrant plant species that are native to the desert.
Now’s the Time to Explore Scottsdale
With the perfect weather and so many outdoor activities to enjoy, now is the time to explore Scottsdale. From paddling down the Salt River and hiking to a mountaintop, to lounging by the pool, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Plus, take advantage of our Spring Break Sale and get 10% off select homes from now through 5/31 with code SPRINGBREAK at checkout! Book your next sunny adventure today and find the perfect getaway home for your Arizona retreat. Explore Scottsdale and make the most of this incredible spring weather!
