Things to Do in Scottsdale in Winter (Locals’ Guide)

Welcome to Scottsdale in Winter

Winter is when Scottsdale truly shines. From December through February, the desert offers mild days, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures that make spending time outdoors feel effortless. While summers are known for intense heat, winter brings a refreshing balance that lets you enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.

Daytime temperatures are ideal for hiking, biking, golfing, and long walks through Old Town. Evenings cool down just enough for cozy patio dinners, fire pits, and desert sunsets that feel calm and inviting. Locals often say this is the season when Scottsdale feels most alive.

Winter also brings energy to the city. Seasonal events, art walks, farmers’ markets, and outdoor festivals fill the calendar. Visitors come for the sunshine, but many stay for the laid-back winter lifestyle that blends outdoor fun with easygoing desert charm.

Crowds are present, but the experience feels vibrant rather than overwhelming. With the right timing and a comfortable place to stay, winter in Scottsdale offers the best mix of weather, activities, and local atmosphere.

Top 10 Things to Do in Scottsdale

If you are searching for the best things to do in Scottsdale during winter, this quick list gives you a clear starting point. These are the experiences locals return to every season, especially when the weather feels just right.

Each activity below is covered in more detail later, so you can easily jump to what fits your travel style.

• Explore Old Town Scottsdale – Walk through historic streets filled with art galleries, boutique shops, Western charm, and some of the city’s most popular restaurants and bars.
• Hike the McDowell Sonoran Preserve – One of the top outdoor things to do in Scottsdale, offering scenic desert trails, mountain views, and ideal winter hiking conditions.
• Visit the Desert Botanical Garden – A winter favorite near Scottsdale, where desert plants, seasonal exhibits, and peaceful paths shine in cooler temperatures.
• Tour Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio, best explored in winter when walking tours feel comfortable and uncrowded.
• Spend Time at OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland – Indoor attractions that are especially popular with families and visitors looking for relaxed winter activities.
• Play Golf on World-Class Courses – Winter is peak golf season and one of the most popular things to do in Scottsdale, thanks to mild weather and beautifully maintained courses.
• Book a Spa or Wellness Day – Scottsdale’s spa scene thrives in winter, offering everything from luxury resort treatments to local wellness experiences.
• Stroll the Scottsdale ArtWalk – Weekly gallery walks in Old Town provide an easy, cultural way to enjoy winter evenings.
• Walk or Bike the Scottsdale Waterfront and Canal Path – Flat, scenic routes that connect Old Town with nearby parks, cafes, and photo-worthy viewpoints.
• Attend a Seasonal Event or Catch a Game – Winter brings festivals, sports events, and live entertainment that add energy without the summer crowds.

Best Outdoor Activities in Scottsdale (Hiking, Biking, Scenic Drives)

Winter is the season when locals spend the most time outside, and many of the best things to do in Scottsdale revolve around soaking up the desert landscape while the weather feels just right. Cooler temperatures, low humidity, and sunny skies make outdoor activities comfortable from morning through late afternoon.

Hiking Camelback Mountain and McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Winter is the safest and most enjoyable time to hike Scottsdale’s most popular trails. Camelback Mountain draws experienced hikers looking for a challenge, while the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers a wide range of trails for all fitness levels.

Locals recommend starting early in the morning for Camelback, especially on weekends. The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails can get busy by mid-morning. In the Preserve, trails like Gateway Loop, Tom’s Thumb, and Brown’s Ranch feel more open and scenic, even during peak season.

Weather tip: Morning temperatures can feel cool, but the sun warms up quickly. Light layers work best.
Timing tip: Aim to finish hikes by early afternoon for the most comfortable conditions.
Trail etiquette: Stay on marked paths, yield to uphill hikers, and keep noise low to respect wildlife and other hikers.

Desert Biking and Scenic Walks

Winter is ideal for biking and walking through Scottsdale’s desert paths. The Greenbelt, canal paths, and paved preserve routes offer flat, scenic rides that locals enjoy year-round, but winter makes them especially pleasant.

Mountain bikers head to areas around the McDowell Mountains and Browns Ranch for flowy trails with great desert views. Walkers and casual cyclists prefer early mornings or late afternoons when the light softens, and the temperatures feel cooler.

Weather tip: Even in winter, the sun can be strong. Sunscreen and sunglasses are still important.
Timing tip: Late afternoon walks offer golden-hour views without the daytime warmth.
Trail etiquette: Keep right on shared paths, announce yourself when passing, and watch for horses on multi-use trails.

Golf Season and Outdoor Recreation

Winter marks peak golf season in Scottsdale. Courses stay green, mornings feel crisp, and afternoons are perfect for long rounds under clear skies. Locals often book mid-morning tee times to avoid chilly starts while still enjoying the full day.

Beyond golf, winter is also great for outdoor yoga, pickleball, tennis, and patio workouts. Parks and resort areas host seasonal fitness classes, and many locals shift their routines outdoors during this time.

Weather tip: Early tee times can be cool, so bring a light pullover.
Timing tip: Mid-morning to early afternoon offers the most comfortable playing conditions.
Local tip: Book golf and outdoor classes in advance during winter, as demand is higher this season.

Winter in Scottsdale is all about balance. With smart timing, simple preparation, and respect for shared outdoor spaces, locals enjoy some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences of the year.

Scottsdale Winter Events You Should Not Miss

Winter brings a joyful energy to the city, and many of the most memorable things to do in Scottsdale happen through seasonal events and community gatherings. The cooler weather draws people outdoors, patios fill up, and the city feels lively without feeling overwhelming. Locals love this time of year for its mix of culture, celebration, and easygoing fun.

Art Walks and Cultural Events

Scottsdale’s art scene truly shines in winter. The weekly ArtWalk in Old Town becomes a favorite evening ritual, with galleries staying open late, live music spilling into the streets, and visitors strolling under string lights. The relaxed pace makes it easy to pop into multiple galleries and chat with local artists.

Winter also brings cultural performances, museum exhibits, and outdoor installations across the city. Events at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and local theaters add depth to the season and offer an easy way to mix creativity into your trip.

Holiday and Seasonal Festivals

From late November through January, Scottsdale leans fully into the festive spirit. Tree lightings, outdoor concerts, and seasonal pop-up events turn plazas and resort spaces into cheerful gathering spots. Even after the holidays, winter festivals continue with food events, wellness weekends, and live entertainment.

Locals often plan evenings around these festivals, pairing them with dinner in Old Town or a casual patio drink nearby. The atmosphere stays upbeat, social, and welcoming throughout the season.

Local Markets and Community Events

Winter is also prime time for local markets and neighborhood events. Farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and seasonal street markets showcase Arizona-made goods, fresh food, and live music. These events feel friendly and community-driven, making them easy to enjoy at your own pace.

Walking through a winter market with a coffee in hand, browsing handmade items, and listening to live music is a simple pleasure locals look forward to each year. It is one of the easiest ways to feel connected to Scottsdale’s everyday charm during winter.

Indoor and Easy Winter Activities in Scottsdale

Cooler winter evenings invite a slower pace, making it easy to enjoy relaxed, low-effort experiences that balance out active days. These options round out your list of things to do in Scottsdale, especially when you want something social, cozy, and unhurried.

Museums and Galleries

Scottsdale’s arts scene shines in winter, with museums and galleries that feel calm and welcoming after sunset. You can explore rotating exhibits at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, dive into regional history at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, and wander through Old Town galleries that often stay open later during the winter months. These stops work well for spontaneous evenings, letting you move at your own pace while still soaking in culture and creativity.

Spas and Wellness Experiences

Winter is prime time for spa nights in Scottsdale, and locals treat them as part of their routine. Desert-inspired treatments use ingredients like clay, cactus, and botanicals, while heated pools, steam rooms, and quiet lounges make evenings feel indulgent without being rushed. Yoga studios, sound baths, and wellness classes also offer a peaceful way to reset after busy days outdoors.

Shopping Districts and Old Town Strolls

Shopping and strolling feel especially enjoyable in winter, thanks to cooler air and lively streets. Old Town Scottsdale blends boutique shopping with casual dining, while Scottsdale Fashion Square offers upscale stores, restaurants, and indoor comfort. Even a simple walk becomes an experience, with glowing storefronts, outdoor patios, and easy spots to pause for dessert or coffee.

Together, these indoor and easy activities add warmth and balance to your winter visit, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy Scottsdale long after the sun goes down.

Where to Stay in Scottsdale for a Winter Getaway?

Winter stays in Scottsdale are all about comfort, convenience, and having space to unwind after full days out in the sun. Choosing the right place to stay makes it easier to enjoy everything on your own schedule, from early morning hikes to relaxed evenings in Old Town.

Good Life Vacations offers a curated collection of Scottsdale vacation rentals designed for winter travelers who want a calm, home-like experience rather than a crowded hotel stay. These rentals provide room to spread out, making them ideal for families, couples, and small groups visiting during the peak winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions