Scottsdale is a well-known vacation destination full of amazing activities and vibrant nightlife. No matter what time of year you visit, many of the large attractions get a little too busy and tourist-y. If you are looking for some fun activities that are considered best kept secrets, here is a list of the top five best things to do in Scottsdale and underrated attractions.
Scottsdale Wine Trail
Scottsdale is a town of rich history, and this is perfectly displayed by the Old Town Scottsdale district. One of the best activities you can do in Old Town is the wine trail. Four AZ wineries have tasting rooms in the downtown/Old Town district. You can walk between these wineries and taste amazing wines in even better weather. Participating wineries include LDV Winery, Salvatore Vineyards, Carlson Creek Tasting Room, and Aridus Wine Company.
Moonlight Movie Night
Starting during the difficulties of COVID-19, Sonora Village became the host of pop-up events like Moonlight Movie Night. These top things to do in Scottsdale allow you to enjoy a movie in your car in the old-time drive-in fashion. Guests can get takeout from any one of the amazing restaurants in Sonora Village and enjoy a meal and movie from the comfort and safety of their own car!
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is the winner of the 2019 ELGL Knope award for Best Park or Open Space and is an extremely unique park. The park covers 30 acres and is operated by the Scottsdale Parks and Rec department. The park features a railroad museum, plenty of open play space with jungle gyms, and a fully functional Paradise and Pacific Railroad for just $2. If you are in town during the holidays, the railroad ride features a full holiday lights display.
Roosevelt Row
Roosevelt Row brings street art to life just a short drive from Scottsdale. Located in downtown Phoenix, Roosevelt Rowis the home to colorful murals and award-winning galleries that each enhance the street art identity of Phoenix. Along the way are plenty of restaurants and boutiques to really round out this activity.
Musical Instrument Museum
Also known as the MIM, this amazing museum will walk you through the history of music. The MIM is the largest museum of its type in the world and features a collection of over 15,000 different musical instruments in its collection. The associated objects feature examples from nearly 200 countries and territories that represent every inhabited continent.