The Springs of Scottsdale Independent & Assisted Living is a beautiful, modern senior living community located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Fortunately for The Springs of Scottsdale residents and their families, Scottsdale boasts tons of fun activities, and is located just 25 minutes outside of Phoenix. This desert city in the heart of the Valley of the Sun is known for its spas and golf courses, but also boasts lots of great shopping, dining, outdoor recreation, and arts & culture destinations. Keep reading for 20 fun things for seniors and their families to do near The Springs of Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona!
Scottsdale’s Arts & Culture Destinations
Fans of the arts have lots of options in Scottsdale, and even more in nearby Phoenix. Here are a few of our local favorites.
- Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, within Scottsdale’s Old Town, features art, history, and cultural exhibits about the western United States, Canada, and Mexico. Enjoy pottery, artifacts of historic “cowboy life,” artworks from Western artists, and more.
- Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) includes modern and contemporary art, interactive exhibits, and an attached patio with outdoor art. Pay-What-You-Wish days make this museum affordable, and it’s always free for anyone under 18.
- Rodeo enthusiasts cannot miss Scottsdale Rodeo Museum, with rodeo artifacts and history dating back to the 1950s. Please note that this is a small, privately-owned museum, so check the website before your visit for business hours.
- Old Town hosts the Scottsdale ArtWalk each Thursday evening. Browse galleries, shops, and restaurants on Main Street, admire outdoor art and street performances, and enjoy wine tastings and fine dining along the way.
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Taliesin West, a studio and home developed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This spot offers guided or self-guided tours both indoors and out, as well as a (optional) more extensive hike through the stunning desert landscape.
- OdySea Aquarium is a truly world-class aquarium experience less than 15 minutes from The Springs of Scottsdale. There are many interactive exhibits, and a unique rotating exhibit room that simulates a deep-sea submarine experience.
Outdoor Recreation
While Scottsdale does get Arizona’s famous heat, there is plenty to do outside in the cooler months. These are some great outdoor options for seniors and their families.
- The Scottsdale Civic Center has incredible landscaping year-round and beautiful fountains and sculptures. Take a stroll and enjoy the environment and views of Camelback Mountain.
- Visit the Desert Botanical Garden and explore tens of thousands of plant species native to the unique Sonoran Desert. The garden also offers special exhibits, tours, workshops, and events.
- Get your rainforest fix at Butterfly Wonderland, a conservatory with tropical plants, butterflies, and other reptiles and insects. Butterfly Wonderland is located right in Scottsdale, and is the largest butterfly conservatory in the world!
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers guided and self-guided hikes, biking trails, and a sustainable desert landscape unlike any other. Please remember, it gets hot in the desert! Bring water and do not hike or walk alone, especially in high heat conditions.
- For a more urban outdoor experience, take a stroll around Old Town Scottsdale. Learn more about the history of this unique city as you take a step back in time. Enjoy the desert scenery, public art, boutique shopping and historic restaurants, museums, and more.
Shopping & Dining
You can also enjoy world-class shopping and dining right here in Scottsdale. Here are a few of our favorite food & fashion venues.
- Scottsdale Fashion Square is a huge, upscale indoor mall where you can beat the heat and visit a wide variety of retailers, plus an extensive food court. There are many luxury brands to choose from, and skylights let in tons of natural light.
- Scottsdale Waterfront is an outdoor shopping experience right next to the Fashion Square mall. Enjoy beautiful views of the canal, landscaping, water features, and cool seasonal events, like holiday light shows.
- Scottsdale Quarter is another fun way to do some shopping and dining. It’s a gorgeous outdoor venue with fountains, boutiques, restaurants and cafes, and a vibrant night-life feel.
- Sophisticated foodie destinations readily abound in Scottsdale, with fine dining options like the popular and elegant Cafe Monarch and House Brasserie.
- Those who appreciate Arizona’s Old West heritage will enjoy Roaring Fork, a rustic American restaurant with a bold take on classic favorites like steak, burgers, and seafood.
Golf
People come from all over the world to play golf in Scottsdale. TPC Scottsdale, host of the Phoenix Open tournament, is a popular and beautiful course. Golfers report that the course is immaculate and offers perfect golfing conditions.
For a more casual (and more affordable) experience, check out picturesque Scottsdale Silverado Golf Club. Patrons report great food and beautiful views on this well-maintained course.
Spas
Scottsdale is also known for its spa and relaxation scene. If you’re looking to relax and recharge, we recommend Spa Avania, located within the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale resort. The top-of-the-line amenities are peaceful, beautiful, and luxurious. The pool can be popular, so try visiting on weekdays or non-peak times for the most restful experience.
For a more local lakeside spa experience, try Inspire Day Spa. Services include massage, facials, and relaxation areas both indoors and out. Local visitors say the staff is warm and welcoming, with tea, snacks, and a positive atmosphere. Romantic couples massages, complete with a beautiful private balcony area for snacking and relaxing, are also available.
As you can see, there’s something for everyone in Scottsdale! Residents of The Springs of Scottsdale and their families can enjoy arts and culture, outdoor recreation, golf, spas, shopping, dining, and more, all within a 15 minute drive of this luxurious Stellar Living community. Considering a trip to Scottsdale, or moving here permanently? Tour The Springs of Scottsdale today.
