15 Best Things To Do In Scottsdale In Winter [Travel Guide]

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale in winter is a wonderland of activities and events to explore. The region features sunny skies, beautiful nature scapes, and world-class attractions. With thrilling outdoor activities like hiking or biking to indoor activities like shopping and dining, there are plenty of things to do in Scottsdale.

Whether you’re looking for some fun in the sun or a cozy evening spent exploring all that Scottsdale has to offer, this winter travel guide will help make your trip unforgettable! Discover what to pack, where to go and what events are happening during your stay so you can make the most out of your winter holiday in beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona.

Winter In Scottsdale

Scottsdale’s winter weather can vary drastically between day and night. Day temperatures range from the mid to upper 60s (Fahrenheit). The winter months are typically dry and sunny, often making it the perfect time for exploration. Scottsdale winter nights can get a bit cold, however, with temperatures dipping into the 30s at night. Be sure to still pack some light layers and comfortable warm clothes.


Scottsdale in December Climate

December in Scottsdale is the official start of the winter season, with average temperatures reaching highs of 68°F (20°C), and lows of 37°F (3°C). December is generally dry and sunny, making it an ideal time to soak in the festive spirit while exploring the desert landscape.

Scottsdale in January Climate

January is the coldest winter month in Scottsdale and temperatures range from highs of 66°F (19°C) to lows of 35°F (2°C). Although winter days often remain sunny, it does get chilly. In fact, winter nights can be quite cold and it’s important to bring some extra layers for evening activities.

Scottsdale in February Climate

February is the last winter month in Scottsdale as the season starts to transit to Spring. It gets slightly warmer with highs of 72°F (22°C), to lows of 39°F (4°C). This means that winter nights can still be relatively cold, so be sure to bring sufficient warm clothing.

What To Pack For Winter In Scottsdale

Winter in Scottsdale can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack accordingly. Layered clothing is always a good idea, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. A winter coat, gloves, hat, and scarf can come in handy when temperatures drop. You should also wear comfortable winter shoes and bring a small umbrella or raincoat in case of unexpected showers 

Best Things To Do In Scottsdale In Winter

The winter season in Scottsdale offers plenty of unique experiences and activities. These are some of the amazing things that you can enjoy.

Things To Do In Scottsdale Outdoors

Enjoy The Views From A Hot Air Balloon Ride

One of the best activities in Scottsdale is to take in the winter scenery from high above the ground. Hot air balloon rides offer a unique perspective of the region. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert and majestic mountain ranges, from a birds-eye view.

Feel your heart soar as you float across the sky and marvel at the beauty that Scottsdale has to offer. You can celebrate with a glass of complimentary champagne after landing to make your hot air balloon adventure even more memorable! Easily the most amazing experience you can have in Scottsdale particularly if you have never been on a hot air balloon before.

Discover Nature Wonders and Lights At The Desert Botanical Gardens

The Desert Botanical Gardens in Arizona is a captivating oasis of native plants and flowers teeming with life! Explore the vast botanical gardens that include diverse desert habitats, cacti, wildflowers, and more.

Take part in engaging educational workshops to learn more about local flora, fauna, and ecosystems. There are also guided walks with experienced guides providing a fascinating insight into this special location.

In addition, each winter they hold the Las Noches de las Luminarias event. This winter tradition features more than 8,000 luminaria lights that illuminate the garden paths and create a magical winter wonderland! Enjoy live music, winter snacks, and hot drinks while taking in the winter lights.

Enjoy The Desert Trails

The winter months are the perfect time to get out and explore nature’s beauty in Scottsdale.

For hiking enthusiasts, there are plenty of scenic trails in the area. Hike through the Sonoran Desert, home to a variety of cacti and wildflowers, or explore the Tonto National Forest, one of the largest national forests in Arizona.

You can also take advantage of winter’s cooler temperatures and go biking on some of Scottsdale’s mountain trails. Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, colorful canyons, and unique rock formations as you take on the challenging terrain. ATV and Segway tours are also extremely popular ways of uncovering this nature wonderland.

Explore The Desert On A Horseback Ride

For a more unique outdoor experience, explore the desert on horseback! The rolling hills of the Sonoran Desert are perfect for guided horseback rides that take you through nature trails and provide stunning backdrops to capture winter memories.

Enjoy the winter sunshine while exploring natural attractions such as cactus gardens and rock formations with experienced guides.

Things To Do In Scottsdale Indoors

Immerse in The Wonderspaces Arizona Museum

Wonderspaces Arizona is an interactive art museum that features incredible pieces from around the world. The exhibitions feature large-scale installations such as a spectacular 70-foot-long whale skeleton suspended in midair and a massive multimedia sculpture made up of colorful objects.

This entertaining location brings together innovative artwork from some of the world’s most talented creators. Interact with larger-than-life installations that captivate the senses, take in stunning 3D visuals, and use interactive tools to manipulate pieces.

The exhibits are designed to stimulate the senses and challenge the way you perceive art. Immerse yourself and spend some quality time admiring the awe-inspiring pieces at Wonderspaces Arizona!

Christmas In The Rainforest At Butterfly Wonderland

Experience a butterfly paradise at Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale! This amazing conservation center offers an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Explore the 10,000 sq ft indoor rainforest full of exotic plants, koi pond, and hundreds of butterflies flying around you. You can learn about different species with informative exhibits and up-close encounter activities.

Every winter between November and December, the attraction also runs a Christmas in the rainforest event with illuminated displays and festive decorations. Throughout the period there are also special activities such as live music, art workshops, and photography lessons.

Cultural Things To Do In Scottsdale

Feel The Vibes At Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is a vibrant district full of energy and life. Enjoy the scenic streets, bustling galleries and museums, first-class restaurants and bars, boutique shopping opportunities, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Spend the day exploring galleries showcasing local art, listening to live music performances at outdoor venues, or browsing one-of-a-kind vintage stores. With the area’s colorful culture and lively nightlife. Old Town Scottsdale is the perfect destination for a fun day out!

Discover The Architectural Wonders At Taliesin West

Nestled in the desert foothills of Scottsdale is master architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio. Tour this architectural masterpiece and learn about the unique craftsmanship that went into building this National Historic Landmark.

Admire the angular design of the buildings, constructed with natural blocks of rough-hewn sandstone and native boulder. You can also join a daily tour to learn more about Taliesin West’s fascinating history.

After which, explore the grounds and enjoy a winter picnic next to the breathtaking views of Camelback and McDowell Mountains. This timeless destination provides an unforgettable experience to visitors of all ages!

Festive Things To Do In Scottsdale

Go Skating At Christmas At Fairmont Princess Resort

One activity that you should not miss out on is visiting Christmas at Fairmont Princess Resort. This winter event presents an ice-skating rink where you can have a great time with friends and family.

Surrounded by twinkling lights while the winter breeze blows, skate to festive holiday music. Treat yourself to warm drinks and winter-themed snacks while you skate during the winter season. At night, the rink is illuminated by holiday lights that make it a festive wonderland. It’s an amazing winter experience to remember!

Get Festive At McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is another popular winter attraction in Scottsdale due to the vibrant festive lights on display. The park features a miniature train and a carousel, which are perfect for outings with friends and family.

The winter season brings plenty of festive activities to this iconic location. Take a fun train ride through the holiday wonderland and enjoy the light shows, games, performances and activities that are on offer.

Take Part In All The Events Of Scottdazzle

Scottdazzle is an annual winter event that takes place in the heart of Scottsdale. Enjoy a whole month of holiday festivities and fun activities. The program features a wide variety of winter activities and events for the whole family to enjoy.

From winter markets, craft fairs, live music performances, outdoor film screenings, winter-themed parties, and much more – there is something for everyone to experience! Each year is different yet similar in its own right. Unique experiences with the same passionate local vibes of Scottsdale.

Check out the farmers market, and festive light displays as you take a special winter tour of Scottsdale. Whether you are looking for a fun day outdoors or an evening full of entertainment, there is no better way to get into the winter spirit than Scottdazzle!

Winter Holidays And Events In Scottsdale, Arizona

Speaking of events, there are many that take place in Scottsdale every winter season. From live music performances and festive markets to holiday celebrations and sports events, there are plenty of things to do in winter! Don’t miss out on some of these popular events in Scottsdale.

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction: Every January, the iconic car auction brings thousands of people to Scottsdale. This event features some of the finest cars and automotive collections in the world. Visitors can marvel at the cars, meet car enthusiasts and take in the action of live bidding. The auction also includes unique experiences such as the High Gear lifestyle pavilion, specialty car demonstrations, and more.

Celebration of Fine Art: This is one of the largest art festivals in the entire southwest. It’s a great opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind artwork and meet some of the world’s most talented artists. Spanning 10 weeks from January to March, this event features over 100 nationally acclaimed artists from around the globe with works ranging from painting, photography, and sculpture.

Parada del Sol Parade & Trail’s End Festival: The Parade of the Sun is one of Scottsdale’s most popular winter events in February. This parade is part of the Trail’s End Festival, which includes a carnival, horse show, and western-themed activities. The Parade features colorful floats that showcase Arizona’s history, culture, and spirit. The following day ends with a music festival featuring live bands and entertainment.

Phoenix Open: The WMPhoenix Open is one of the biggest sports events in Arizona during the winter. Although it is part of the PGA Tour, this event is more than a golf tournament – it has become an annual winter tradition for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy live music, vendors, food trucks, and an interactive fan zone. The finale to this winter party on the green is always exciting as professional golfers battle it out for the trophy.

Getting Around Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a great destination to explore on foot or bike. The downtown area provides easy access to many of the city’s best attractions, while nearby trails are perfect for winter hikes. Tours are popular ways to get into the outdoors for activities and discovery.

For traveling in the city, you can also take advantage of the city’s public transportation system, which includes a network of Valley Metro buses. There are also the usual taxis and ride-share services available.

Some fun ways for exploring the city include golf cart taxis, group party bikes, e-bikes, segways, and even a whole trolley bus.

Getting From Sky Harbor Airport To Scottsdale

Although Scottsdale has a nearby airport, it serves only private and chartered flights. If you are arriving by air, you will likely be landing at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The most common way to get from the airport to Scottsdale is via private transportation options.

This means:

• Getting a shuttle service from your hotel or accommodation.
• Hailing a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft
• Renting a car from the airport

Why Visit Scottsdale In Winter?

Winter in Scottsdale is a time for adventure and exploration. There is not just a lesser crowd and cheaper rates, the winter season in Scottsdale offers a blend of festive spirit and a deep local atmosphere.

Take part in all the winter festivities, immerse yourself in art installations, go horseback riding or get your adrenaline rush in nature. Whether you’re looking for cultural activities or outdoor fun, there are still many things to do in Scottsdale in winter.