Scottsdale Vacation Rentals
Where to?
Search destinations
Save When You Book Direct
Scottsdale offers sun-soaked adventures amid the Sonoran Desert, where scenic mountain views, desert nature trails, and vibrant neighborhoods create a one-of-a-kind getaway. Scottsdale, AZ vacation rentals place visitors near top dining, cultural attractions, and nearby lakes and rivers that double as desert beaches. From hiking and golfing to exploring art districts, Scottsdale blends outdoor excitement with sophisticated urban comforts.
Best Areas to Stay in Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale: The lively heart of the city with art galleries, shops, and nightlife.
- Why stay here: walkability, dining variety, art & nightlife access
North Scottsdale: Upscale neighborhoods near resorts, golf courses, and scenic desert preserves.
- Why stay here: luxury resorts, golf access, scenic desert nature
McCormick Ranch: A family-friendly area with parks, lakes, and easy access to hiking trails.
- Why stay here: family-friendly, lakes & parks, peaceful trails
Gainey Ranch: A gated community with boutique hotels, shopping, and fine dining.
- Why stay here: gated luxury, fine dining, boutique shopping
South Scottsdale: A quieter, more residential area with access to desert trails and local eateries.
- Why stay here: budget-friendly, desert trail access, authentic local neighborhoods
Why Travelers Book Scottsdale Rentals Through Stay
Book the same Scottsdale homes you’ll find on major platforms, without the extra fees.
Stay connects you directly with professional property managers so you get better prices and better communication.
With Stay, you get:
- Lower prices by avoiding big-platform booking fees
- Direct access to the host before booking
- Transparent pricing with no surprise charges at checkout
- A simple process: find a property you like and send the host an email to ask about availability, amenities, or any details before you commit
Booking directly with the host helps you avoid big-platform booking fees, often saving hundreds on longer stays.
Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ
Outdoor Experiences
Scottsdale’s desert landscape and nearby mountains make outdoor recreation a must.
- Camelback Mountain Hike: Hike a challenging trail offering panoramic views of Scottsdale, surrounding mountains, and desert landscapes.
- Desert Botanical Garden: Walk through curated desert gardens showcasing cacti, succulents, and native plants while enjoying nature photography opportunities.
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Explore over 30,000 acres of desert trails for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting in the Sonoran Desert.
Family-Friendly Activities
Scottsdale offers activities that entertain all ages.
- OdySea Aquarium: Engage with interactive marine exhibits, touch pools, and educational programs perfect for family visits.
- Butterfly Wonderland: Explore one of the nation’s largest indoor butterfly habitats with tropical gardens and educational exhibits.
- Topgolf Scottsdale: Enjoy family-friendly golf games in a high-tech, climate-controlled venue with dining and entertainment.
Nature & Wildlife
Discover the unique desert ecosystem surrounding Scottsdale.
- Wildlife spotting in McDowell Sonoran Preserve: See desert mammals, native birds, and reptiles on marked trails.
- Horseback riding tours: Guided desert horseback rides reveal cacti landscapes and local wildlife in Scottsdale’s natural areas.
- Lake Havasu day trips: Visit nearby lakes for desert “beach” picnics, water sports, and birdwatching excursions.
Shopping & Dining
From high-end boutiques to authentic Southwestern cuisine, Scottsdale delivers.
- Scottsdale Fashion Square: Browse luxury boutiques, designer brands, and flagship stores in Arizona’s premier shopping destination.
- Old Town restaurants: Savor Southwestern cuisine, craft breweries, and modern American fare in the heart of Scottsdale.
- Artisan markets: Discover local crafts, jewelry, and art at seasonal markets and cultural events throughout Scottsdale.
Golf
Scottsdale is known as a golf capital, with courses for all skill levels.
- TPC Scottsdale: Play championship courses known for the Waste Management Phoenix Open and stunning desert scenery.
- Desert Highlands Golf Club: Enjoy exclusive, high-end courses set against Arizona’s desert landscapes.
- Talking Stick Golf Club: Public-access courses offering desert views, modern facilities, and professional instruction.
Seasonal Events
Scottsdale hosts events year-round that highlight culture and the outdoors.
- Scottsdale Arts Festival: Celebrate art with live demonstrations, galleries, and interactive exhibits every spring.
- Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction: Attend the world-famous automotive auction featuring rare vehicles and live entertainment.
- Cactus League Spring Training: Watch Major League Baseball teams play in Scottsdale’s desert stadiums during March.
Local Insight: What Makes Scottsdale Unique
- Scottsdale blends historic Western roots with modern luxury resorts and galleries.
- The Sonoran Desert creates iconic landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventure year-round.
- Scottsdale hosts major events including spring training, arts festivals, and golf tournaments.
- Neighborhoods range from vibrant Old Town streets to secluded North Scottsdale resorts, offering choices for every traveler.
- Dining culture includes Southwestern cuisine, farm-to-table options, and high-end restaurants unique to the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scottsdale
Spring and fall are ideal, offering mild temperatures for outdoor activities, golf, and desert hikes.
Visitors will find a mix of private homes, luxury condos, and villas, catering to families, couples, and groups.
Yes, family-friendly rentals are abundant, and attractions like OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland are perfect for all ages.
Absolutely—many Scottsdale homes include private pools or access to community pools.
Pet-friendly rentals are available; check individual property listings for specific policies.
Scottsdale is about a 20–30 minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, providing convenient access for travelers.
Hiking, golfing, horseback riding, and desert exploration are top draws for visitors.