Crystal Clear Pool and Scottsdale Adventures Guidebook
Sightseeing
This was the first desert resort built in 1928 by the Carraro family, who were immigrants from Italy. Tours include the Castle and surrounding desert gardens. Tickets must be reserved in advance.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://tovreacastletours.com/
31 locals recommend
Tovrea Castle At Carraro Heights
5025 E Van Buren StThis was the first desert resort built in 1928 by the Carraro family, who were immigrants from Italy. Tours include the Castle and surrounding desert gardens. Tickets must be reserved in advance.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://tovreacastletours.com/
The Phoenix Zoo has over 1,400 animals on display and contains 2.5 miles (4.0 km) of walking trails. It is divided into four main themed areas or trails: The Arizona Trail (American Southwest flora and fauna), the Africa Trail (animals from Africa), the Tropics Trail (residents of the rain forests), and the Children's Trail, which includes a petting zoo.
Favorite activities include:
- Petting and feeding stingrays at Stingray Bay
- Feeding giraffes
- Camel rides
- Carousel rides
- Safari tour of the zoo
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/visit/#hours-directions
864 locals recommend
Phoenix Zoo
455 N Galvin PkwyThe Phoenix Zoo has over 1,400 animals on display and contains 2.5 miles (4.0 km) of walking trails. It is divided into four main themed areas or trails: The Arizona Trail (American Southwest flora and fauna), the Africa Trail (animals from Africa), the Tropics Trail (residents of the rain forests), and the Children's Trail, which includes a petting zoo.
Favorite activities include:
- Petting and feeding stingrays at Stingray Bay
- Feeding giraffes
- Camel rides
- Carousel rides
- Safari tour of the zoo
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/visit/#hours-directions
Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir containing water from the Colorado River. It contains a park and 5 miles of path for walking, bicycling, jogging, or in-line skating.
Favorite activities include:
Boat rentals - visit https://boats4rent.com/tempe-az/tempe-town/ to book a kayak, paddleboard, pedal boat, donut boat, or surrey bike.
Fishing - the lake is stocked with rainbow trout on a monthly basis from November to February, and there are a variety of other fish found naturally. An Arizona fishing license is required to fish in the lake.
453 locals recommend
Tempe Town Lake
620 N Mill AveTempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir containing water from the Colorado River. It contains a park and 5 miles of path for walking, bicycling, jogging, or in-line skating.
Favorite activities include:
Boat rentals - visit https://boats4rent.com/tempe-az/tempe-town/ to book a kayak, paddleboard, pedal boat, donut boat, or surrey bike.
Fishing - the lake is stocked with rainbow trout on a monthly basis from November to February, and there are a variety of other fish found naturally. An Arizona fishing license is required to fish in the lake.
This museum presents and preserves over 20,000 pieces of art in 9 different categories, including American and Western American, Latin American, Asian, European, modern and contemporary, fashion design, and photography. Enjoy a variety of exhibits and check ahead of time to see what special pieces are on display.
Every Wednesday from 3–9 p.m. is pay-what-you-wish for general admission.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://phxart.org/visit/tickets/
686 locals recommend
Phoenix Art Museum
1625 N Central AveThis museum presents and preserves over 20,000 pieces of art in 9 different categories, including American and Western American, Latin American, Asian, European, modern and contemporary, fashion design, and photography. Enjoy a variety of exhibits and check ahead of time to see what special pieces are on display.
Every Wednesday from 3–9 p.m. is pay-what-you-wish for general admission.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://phxart.org/visit/tickets/
Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cactus, trees, and flowers from all around the world. The garden also is home to the Butterfly Pavillion, where guests can see all stages of butterfly growth and thousands of live butterflies.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://dbg.org/visit/plan-your-visit/
1231 locals recommend
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cactus, trees, and flowers from all around the world. The garden also is home to the Butterfly Pavillion, where guests can see all stages of butterfly growth and thousands of live butterflies.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://dbg.org/visit/plan-your-visit/
The MIM has a collection of over 8,000 instruments from more than 200 countries. The museum has immersive exhibits where guests can hear the instruments played and learn more about the culture behind the instrument.
Trip Advisor has rated this museum Phoenix’s #1 attraction and one of the top 12 museums in the United States.
For more information or to purchase tickets: http://mim.org/
652 locals recommend
Musical Instrument Museum
4725 E Mayo BlvdThe MIM has a collection of over 8,000 instruments from more than 200 countries. The museum has immersive exhibits where guests can hear the instruments played and learn more about the culture behind the instrument.
Trip Advisor has rated this museum Phoenix’s #1 attraction and one of the top 12 museums in the United States.
For more information or to purchase tickets: http://mim.org/
The Arizona Science Center is one of the premier science centers in the nation, focused on engaging curious minds through science. The center has hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and science programs for people of all ages.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.azscience.org/buy-tickets-options/
292 locals recommend
Arizona Science Center
600 E Washington StThe Arizona Science Center is one of the premier science centers in the nation, focused on engaging curious minds through science. The center has hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and science programs for people of all ages.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.azscience.org/buy-tickets-options/
Located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is one of the three top children’s museums in the nation. Designed for children ages birth to 10, this is not your typical museum—you can touch everything here! There are over 300 play experiences sure to bring smiles and wonderful moments of connection. If you have young children, this museum is a must-see.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/museum-admission/
183 locals recommend
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
215 N 7th StLocated in the heart of downtown Phoenix, The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is one of the three top children’s museums in the nation. Designed for children ages birth to 10, this is not your typical museum—you can touch everything here! There are over 300 play experiences sure to bring smiles and wonderful moments of connection. If you have young children, this museum is a must-see.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/museum-admission/
Featuring over 30 rides and attractions in one location. Come experience thrilling waterslides, gentle splash pads, and a large wave pool. Play a round of mini-golf, laser tag, or arcade games.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.golfland.com/mesa/
134 locals recommend
Golfland Sunsplash
155 W Hampton AveFeaturing over 30 rides and attractions in one location. Come experience thrilling waterslides, gentle splash pads, and a large wave pool. Play a round of mini-golf, laser tag, or arcade games.
For more information or to purchase tickets: https://www.golfland.com/mesa/
This ever-changing art show features immersive, interactive installations and a full bar. Open year-round inside Scottsdale Fashion Square mall. Contains 15 art installations that regularly change. Must purchase tickets in advance.
46 locals recommend
Wonderspaces Arizona
7014 E Camelback RdThis ever-changing art show features immersive, interactive installations and a full bar. Open year-round inside Scottsdale Fashion Square mall. Contains 15 art installations that regularly change. Must purchase tickets in advance.
Beat the heat at the largest water theme park in the state. With a good blend of thrilling and mild attractions, there is certain to be something to please everyone. Includes access to a wave pool, lazy river, splash pads, and more.
140 locals recommend
Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
4243 W Pinnacle Peak RdBeat the heat at the largest water theme park in the state. With a good blend of thrilling and mild attractions, there is certain to be something to please everyone. Includes access to a wave pool, lazy river, splash pads, and more.
City/town information
Scottsdale is most known for Fashion Square Mall, the variety of restaurants, and huge selection of artistic shops.
385 locals recommend
Scottsdale
Scottsdale is most known for Fashion Square Mall, the variety of restaurants, and huge selection of artistic shops.
Food scene
Colorful local chain cantina for casual Sonoran-style Mexican food and drinks, with a large bar and murals.
8 locals recommend
Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina | Indian School
2820 E Indian School RdColorful local chain cantina for casual Sonoran-style Mexican food and drinks, with a large bar and murals.
Lively brewery with a hip, dog-friendly patio serving drinks, burgers, and other American bites.
233 locals recommend
O.H.S.O. Eatery & nano-Brewery
4900 E Indian School RdLively brewery with a hip, dog-friendly patio serving drinks, burgers, and other American bites.
First opened in 1947, this historic steakhouse presents a beef-heavy menu in a Wild-West-inspired, saloon-like setting.
19 locals recommend
The Stockyards Steakhouse
5009 E Washington StFirst opened in 1947, this historic steakhouse presents a beef-heavy menu in a Wild-West-inspired, saloon-like setting.
Specializing in New Mexican cuisine, this restaurant supplies fiery food made with green chiles & margarita deals at happy hour.
17 locals recommend
Arriba Mexican Grill
15370 W McDowell RdSpecializing in New Mexican cuisine, this restaurant supplies fiery food made with green chiles & margarita deals at happy hour.
Wood-fired pizzas & free-range rotisserie chicken in a lively space with a spacious bar & patio.
36 locals recommend
Doughbird
4385 E Indian School RdWood-fired pizzas & free-range rotisserie chicken in a lively space with a spacious bar & patio.
This restaurant boasts sophisticated comfort food with a relaxed atmosphere, seasonal New American meals, and an extensive wine list.
63 locals recommend
Beckett's Table
3717 E Indian School RdThis restaurant boasts sophisticated comfort food with a relaxed atmosphere, seasonal New American meals, and an extensive wine list.
Nanaya Japanese Kitchen
3603 East Indian School RoadAn intimate environment offering a wide variety of modern Japanese cuisine.
Local Thai restaurant that offers pickup, with a complete menu of salads, soups, curries, and noodle dishes.
Taste of Thai — Arcadia
3738 East Indian School RoadLocal Thai restaurant that offers pickup, with a complete menu of salads, soups, curries, and noodle dishes.
This restaurant is located in the open-air lounge at the Hyatt Regency and serves fine seasonal Italian fare and wine around fire pits. Gondola rides with real opera singers as gondoliers are available at $10 per person or free with dinner.
Alto ristorante e bar
7500 E Doubletree Ranch RdThis restaurant is located in the open-air lounge at the Hyatt Regency and serves fine seasonal Italian fare and wine around fire pits. Gondola rides with real opera singers as gondoliers are available at $10 per person or free with dinner.
Traditional Brazilian Churrascaria with fire-roasted, high-quality meats. All-you-can-eat meats carved tableside with an extensive salad bar.
50 locals recommend
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
6300 N Scottsdale RdTraditional Brazilian Churrascaria with fire-roasted, high-quality meats. All-you-can-eat meats carved tableside with an extensive salad bar.
Hiking
Rating: HARD
Time required: 1 hr 49 min
Length: 2.1 miles
This summit trail is a fairly steep and challenging hike. Best times for doing this hike is October through March. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, and it is not recommended for children.
Located at: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix, AZ 85016
489 locals recommend
Piestewa Peak
Rating: HARD
Time required: 1 hr 49 min
Length: 2.1 miles
This summit trail is a fairly steep and challenging hike. Best times for doing this hike is October through March. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, and it is not recommended for children.
Located at: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Rating: HARD
Time required: 2 hr 27 min
Length: 4.0 mile
This trail is popular for hiking and mountain biking. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Lots of great views.
Located at: 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
97 locals recommend
Tom's Thumb Trailhead
23015 N 128th StRating: HARD
Time required: 2 hr 27 min
Length: 4.0 mile
This trail is popular for hiking and mountain biking. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Lots of great views.
Located at: 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Rating: EASY
Time required: 7 min
Length: 0.3 mile
Great for hiking with small children. This trail leads up to a beautiful rock fixture with a large hole that looks out over Papago Park and Phoenix. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash.
Located at: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
184 locals recommend
Hole in the Rock
625 N Galvin PkwyRating: EASY
Time required: 7 min
Length: 0.3 mile
Great for hiking with small children. This trail leads up to a beautiful rock fixture with a large hole that looks out over Papago Park and Phoenix. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash.
Located at: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Rating: MODERATE
Time required: 2 hr 11 min
Length: 3.6 mile
This loop trail is popular for birding, hiking, and trail running. No dogs allowed, and might be difficult for children under 7.
Located at: 2701 E Squaw Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Freedom Trail #302
Rating: MODERATE
Time required: 2 hr 11 min
Length: 3.6 mile
This loop trail is popular for birding, hiking, and trail running. No dogs allowed, and might be difficult for children under 7.
Located at: 2701 E Squaw Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Rating: MODERATE
Time required: 1 hr 34 min
Length: 3.2 mile
This out-and-back trail is popular for birding, hiking, and trail running. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Well marked trail with lots of wildlife and beautiful quartz boulders.
Located at: 2701 E Squaw Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Quartz Ridge Trailhead (#8A) Phoenix Mountain Reserve
6511 E Sierra Vista DrRating: MODERATE
Time required: 1 hr 34 min
Length: 3.2 mile
This out-and-back trail is popular for birding, hiking, and trail running. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Well marked trail with lots of wildlife and beautiful quartz boulders.
Located at: 2701 E Squaw Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Rating: EASY
Time required: 1 hr
Length: 2.7 mile
This loop trail is great for hiking and trail running. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Best time to visit is November through April.
Located at: Pima Canyon Trailhead, 4500 E Pima Canyon Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85044
Pima Wash Trail
Pima Washington TrailRating: EASY
Time required: 1 hr
Length: 2.7 mile
This loop trail is great for hiking and trail running. Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Best time to visit is November through April.
Located at: Pima Canyon Trailhead, 4500 E Pima Canyon Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85044
Sweet Treats
Freshly made cookies with different flavors are available every week. Offers delivery and curbside pickup.
6 locals recommend
Crumbl Cookies - Arcadia
3736 E Indian School RdFreshly made cookies with different flavors are available every week. Offers delivery and curbside pickup.
Choose your favorite frozen yogurt flavor(s), fill up your cup and add toppings! Always at least 1 non-dairy and sugar-free option.
Zoyo Neighborhood Yogurt
5549 E Indian School RdChoose your favorite frozen yogurt flavor(s), fill up your cup and add toppings! Always at least 1 non-dairy and sugar-free option.
A modern take on the classic bundt cake, topped with a signature cream cheese frosting. Available in multiple sizes and flavors.
Nothing Bundt Cakes
4290 E Indian School RdA modern take on the classic bundt cake, topped with a signature cream cheese frosting. Available in multiple sizes and flavors.
A small bakery with delicious Mexican pastries. Look no further for authentic flavors and tasty baked goods.
La Purisima Bakery 2
2318 East Indian School RoadA small bakery with delicious Mexican pastries. Look no further for authentic flavors and tasty baked goods.
A small local bakery specializing in flavorful pies, tarts, and cheesecakes for any occasion. Whole pies and slices available.
Pie Snob Arcadia
3933 East Indian School RoadA small local bakery specializing in flavorful pies, tarts, and cheesecakes for any occasion. Whole pies and slices available.
Golf
Arizona Biltmore Golf Club
Located in the heart of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, this golf club has two 18-hole courses, a driving range, lessons, footgolf, and a restaurant.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://azbiltmoregc.com/
56 locals recommend
Arizona Biltmore Golf Club
2400 E Missouri AveArizona Biltmore Golf Club
Located in the heart of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, this golf club has two 18-hole courses, a driving range, lessons, footgolf, and a restaurant.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://azbiltmoregc.com/
Set in the middle of a beautiful desert landscape, this golf club has an 18-hole course and a wedding venue with a clubhouse bar & grill.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://papagogolfclub.com/
95 locals recommend
Papago Golf Course
5595 E Karsten WySet in the middle of a beautiful desert landscape, this golf club has an 18-hole course and a wedding venue with a clubhouse bar & grill.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://papagogolfclub.com/
Rolling Hills Golf Course
This is a semi-private course with options available for the public.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://www.tempe.gov/government/community-services/parks/golf-tempe/rolling-hills
24 locals recommend
Rolling Hills Golf Course
1415 N Mill AveRolling Hills Golf Course
This is a semi-private course with options available for the public.
For more information and to book a tee time: https://www.tempe.gov/government/community-services/parks/golf-tempe/rolling-hills
Horseback Riding
Nestled in the foothills of South Mountain Park, Ponderosa Livery Stable offers over 50 miles of trails criss-crossing through 18,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert. All rides are led by friendly and knowledgeable guides that will tell you all about the desert, its wildlife and the "Cowboy Way."
For more information: https://www.arizona-horses.com/
26 locals recommend
Ponderosa Stables Inc
10215 S Central AveNestled in the foothills of South Mountain Park, Ponderosa Livery Stable offers over 50 miles of trails criss-crossing through 18,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert. All rides are led by friendly and knowledgeable guides that will tell you all about the desert, its wildlife and the "Cowboy Way."
For more information: https://www.arizona-horses.com/
Offers trail rides from 1.5 to 2 hours. Learn about the desert from the saddle of a horse. Best prices in the valley.
For more information: https://www.wildwesttrailrides.com/about-us
Wild West Trail Rides
Offers trail rides from 1.5 to 2 hours. Learn about the desert from the saddle of a horse. Best prices in the valley.
For more information: https://www.wildwesttrailrides.com/about-us