Queer Travel Guide for Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers from around the world with hospitality that’s as warm as our sun-filled skies. Yes, it had a surge in popularity becomes of the Super Bowl and RiRi’s incredible halftime performance at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend for two or a week-long vacation with family or friends, we’ve got you covered with this itinerary of where to stay, fun things to do, and cool places to eat!
WHERE TO STAY
The Scott Resort & Spa
The comforts of Old Havana and the spirited soul of New Orleans create a playful ambiance at this vibrant Old Town resort. Take a dip in one of the resort’s lagoon-style pools, relax with an Herbal Salt Stone Massage, and converse over cocktails at the Canal Club – it’s all in a day’s play at The Scott!
Sonder, The Monarch
This stylish Old Town hotel, located on the lush grounds of Scottsdale Civic Center Park, puts you within easy walking distance of fabulous shops, galleries, restaurants, and nightclubs. Known for its bold pops of color, Sonder, The Monarch also boasts a full-service spa and Mexican cuisine at La Señora.
Canopy By Hilton
Nestled in the heart of Old Town, this lifestyle hotel is inspired by the rich color palette of the Sonoran Desert. Enjoy craft drinks by the rooftop pool, which offers breathtaking views of nearby Camelback Mountain, as well as thoughtfully curated cuisine in the onsite Cobre Kitchen and Cocktails.
Hotel Valley Ho
Take a step back in time and check into Hotel Valley Ho, where mid-century modern architecture meets cool and contemporary. This hotel features 241 colorful rooms, a spa, two pools, and a boutique shop. Guests staying at the Hotel Valley Ho is conveniently located near the Scottsdale Stadium, Fashion Square Mall, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. At the hotel’s onsite restaurant, ZuZu, be sure to order the Show Stopper Shake, an over-the-top decedent dessert perfect for two people. The restaurant and bar transform into a lively spot for locals during the weekend.
WHAT TO DO
Adventures Out West
Explore the Sonoran Desert in a whole new way – on a Segway! The cowboy guides from Adventures Out West take you on a journey through rugged desert terrain on Segways equipped with special off-road tires. It’s a fantastic way to soak up the sun and explore Scottsdale’s natural landscape.
Old Town Scottsdale
For the most fun, you can have in one square mile, head for Old Town Scottsdale! Here, you can browse one-off boutiques and galleries, view innovative exhibitions at SMoCA, sip your way along the Scottsdale Wine Trail, and dine at some of the city’s best restaurants – and that’s just for starters!
Scottsdale Fashion Square
If brands like Nordstrom, Prada, H&M, and Apple make your shopper’s heart skip a beat, Scottsdale Fashion Square is a must-see on your itinerary. The Southwest’s largest shopping destination features more than 200 premier retailers, a Harkins luxury cinema, and top-tier restaurants like Ocean 44, Toca Madera, Francine, and Nobu.
Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Company
Soar to new heights above the Sonoran Desert and surrounding area to get an incredible view of the sunrise – weather permitting. Just be sure to get that Instagram-worthy shot while you’re in the air! Celebrate afterward with a commemorative Rainbow Ryders flight certificate after you enjoy a traditional toast with a glass of champagne, mimosa, or orange juice.
BS West
Located in the heart of Old Town, BS West is Scottsdale’s iconic LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub. Enjoy fun events like 2-4-1 Wednesdays (complete with go-go dancers starting at 10:30 p.m.), the Friday night Elements Drag Show, and Karaoke Sundays. If you’re adventurous, you can take a 30-minute drive to Phoenix to explore its LGBTQ+ nightlife, including more than 10 bars!
Special Events
No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something exciting happening in and around Scottsdale! Highlights include the Scottsdale ArtWalk (Thursday evenings year-round), Parada del Sol Parade & Rodeo (Feb./March), Arizona Gay Rodeo (Feb.), Scottsdale Arts Festival (March), Music in the Garden (spring/fall), Rainbows Festival (April) and Phoenix Pride Festival (Oct.).
WHERE TO EAT
Hula’s Modern Tiki
Scottsdale may be nowhere near the ocean, but the tiki vibes, and tiki drinks, are strong at Hula’s. Daily happy hour includes signature apps like Hula’s Hilo Sliders, Hawaiian Ceviche, and Samurai Beef Sticks, as well as discounts on all your favorite tiki drinks, including Hula’s Hurricane and Tropical Itch.
AZ88
Tucked away in Civic Center Park, just steps from the Scottsdale Center for the Arts and SMoCA, the sleek and stylish AZ88 draws an eclectic crowd of artists, hipsters, theatergoers, business folks, and everyone in between. This longtime local favorite is famous for its filled-to-the-brim martinis, upscale pub grub, and rotating art displays.
Barrio Queen
At Old Town’s Barrio Queen, regional Mexican cuisine is served with a dash of calle (street) attitude! Menu highlights include the award-winning Cochinita Pibil (succulent slow-roasted pork seasoned with sour orange and achiote), more than 20 varieties of mix-and-match street tacos, and the fiery Death’s Door margarita.
Visit the Experience Scottdale website for more travel inspiration and ideas. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
