It’s the winter time, it is dreary, cold, blustery, and dull. What now? Instead of going to the same-old spots, we have a better idea in mind. Why not find a town that offers a bit of everything? We are talking about Scottsdale, Arizona. Scottsdale offers outdoor sports, exciting walks, cycling paths, bustling bars, mouthwatering restaurants, cool cafes, and everything in between. You can rent one of our homes from Porter, go hiking in the morning, head to a coffee shop for a pick-me-up, shop at one of the vintage stores, and then head out to a busy bar at the end of the day. This town truly has everything! And if you come in the winter months, you can head to one of the annual events that is sure to knock your socks off. Check out everything that awaits you in our Scottsdale winter rentals!
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Best Winter Activities in Scottsdale, Arizona
There are multiple winter attractions in Scottsdale and annual events that make this mountain town one of the best destinations for people from all over the world. Even if you are not interested in spending multiple hours per day at one of the numerous ski resorts in the area, you can sit inside and enjoy après ski. Or you can go shopping in the downtown area. Or, if you have kids, you can take them to some of the interactive exhibits at nearby museums and galleries. As you can see, there is SO much to do here – and we have rounded up the best activities and attractions for you to enjoy during your winter get away to this beautiful location.
Head to the Desert
As one might think, the desert gets very hot — especially during the summer months. Couple the crowds with the hot weather and the beating sun, it can simply just be too much to visit the desert, walk around, and really get a feel for what it is like during the summer time. That is why we think the winter is the perfect opportunity to hike, walk around, take photos, and see all that the Sonoran Desert has to offer.
The Sonoran Desert is great for hikers who want to challenge themselves, families who want to go on a nature stroll, or elite athletes who want to reach the top of Pinnacle Peak! You can also enjoy other activities, like hot air balloon rides, kayaking on a warm winter day, or off-road trips in a 4×4 car with a tour company.
Try to Get a Hole in One
You don’t have to worry about snow on your golf course if you go golfing in the desert! We recommend heading to Grayhawk or TPC Scottsdale to try your luck at all 19 holes with your pals without being in very cold weather in the wintertime. Not only can you play a full round without having to stop due to the heat or the cold, but you can soak in the amazing far-reaching views the entire time. And if a course is too crowded, you can rest assured that one of the 200+ courses will have room for you.
Scottsdazzle
Scottsdazzle is a month-long party that is an absolute must-do during your time in Scottsdale over the wintertime! Starting Thanksgiving weekend and running through New Year’s Day, this vibrant and exciting month is filled with painting, activities, arts, local artists, live music, beer tasting, whisky pairings, dancing, and multiple workshops to partake in. We recommend trying one of “Santa’s” red and white wine flights, testing your luck at painting at the Holly Jolly Painting Party, and viewing the tree lighting ceremony with your kids.
Bring the Kids to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
If you are on vacation with young kids, there is nothing better to do than to take a ride on the Paradise and Pacific Railroad to wind through the winter lights in the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, visit Santa and tell him what you want for Christmas, and buy some Christmas souvenirs and last-minute gifts at the Hartley’s General Store. You can even get some piping-hot cocoa or steaming mulled wine during a cold winter night!
Test Your Luck at Ice Skating at the Princess
Ice skating is a fun and exciting activity for people of all ages. It doesn’t matter if you are a child or you are an older adult who has never done it before – the beautiful atmosphere, fun environment, and good vibes is perfect for a holiday-themed event for you and your family. Head to The Princess in Scottsdale to view the incredible Christmas tree, skate around the Desert Ice Skating Rink, and take the Chair Lift ride high above the city to see all of the Christmas lights twinkling down below.
Broaden Your Mind at Las Noches de Las Luminarias
The annual Las Noches de Las Luminarias is a fun-filled and mind-opening event held at the picturesque Botanical Garden. Featuring over 8,000 brightly lit luminaria, this event is a huge deal for locals in the area, featuring a new take on the holiday season festivities. After all, the winter time isn’t just for Christmas celebrations! Head here to enjoy the live music, local artists, decorations, twinkling lights, thousands of candles, hot cocoa, and wine as you listen to the classical music in the background.
Catch a Game
Even if you are not a huge fan of sports, catching one of the games is a must-do during the winter time here. In any other city, you may find that winter is only time for indoor basketball, indoor hockey, and other indoor sports, which can get boring. However, since Arizona has fairly warm weather all year round, you can enjoy viewing the Phoenix Open during your holiday getaway. Head to Phoenix to view the famous PGA Tour, see some of your idols up close and personal, and party with others who are interested in enjoying the sunshine and watching pro athletes do their jobs perfectly.
View the Parada del Sol Parade
Last but not least, one of the best interactivities to do is to attend the Parada del Sol Parade and Trail’s End Festival, a February-based event held in Old Town Scottsdale that features hundreds of horses and their riders, decorative floats, live music, and dozens of games for your kids to enjoy!
Scottdale Winter Rentals
Not sure where to stay for your upcoming winter trip to Scottsdale, AZ? Well, we have a few ideas in mind! We can do all of the hard work for you, so all you have to do is choose the house of your dreams, show up, and have a good time! With Porter, you are putting your vacation in the hands of reputable professionals who have many years in the industry. Not only do we offer a wide range of Scottsdale, AZ winter rentals that can work for small groups or large get-togethers, but we have a positive reputation, hands-on employees, reliable communication, and customers who keep coming back for more year after year.
Use Porter to book a home in Scottsdale so you can see all that this vibrant town has to offer.