Located in the Sonoran Desert in the southern part of the state, in the United States. The city is situated in Maricopa County, bordered by Phoenix to the west and north, and the McDowell Mountains to the east.
You will find a mix of desert and mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,150 to 4,877 feet above sea level. The area features a unique landscape of cactus, palm trees, and other native desert plants, as well as dramatic rock formations and canyons.
The McDowell Mountains are a prominent feature of the Scottsdale geography, running along the eastern edge of the city and providing a scenic backdrop for many homes and neighborhoods. The mountains are popular for hiking and other outdoor recreation, with a range of trails of varying difficulty levels.
So living in Scottsdale you will find a stunning desert landscape, with rugged mountains, canyons, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area is known for its beautiful natural scenery, and attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore the Sonoran Desert and enjoy the many recreational opportunities available in the region.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is a city with a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Located in the Sonoran Desert, the area has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and evidence of early Native American cultures can be found throughout the region.
The first recorded settlement area was established in the late 1800s by the U.S. Army Chaplain Winfield Scott, who purchased 640 acres of land with the intention of building a farming community. The settlement, which he named Scottsdale after himself, grew slowly over the next few decades, as more settlers arrived in the area and began to establish farms and ranches.
In the early 1900s, the area began to attract artists and writers who were drawn to the area’s natural beauty and desert landscape. This led to the establishment of several art schools and galleries, and Scottsdale became known as a center for arts and culture.
By the 1950s, Scottsdale had begun to evolve into a resort town, with the development of luxury hotels, golf courses, and other amenities designed to attract tourists. This led to a boom in the local economy, as well as a growth in population and development.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the area continued to grow and develop, becoming a hub for technology, healthcare, and other industries. Today, the city is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and diverse economy, which includes everything from high-tech startups to luxury resorts.
In recent years, the city has become an increasingly popular destination for people from around the country and the world, drawn to its sunny weather, scenic beauty, and range of recreational opportunities. With a rich history and a vibrant present, the city looks poised to continue to grow and thrive for many years to come.
The land area of Scottsdale, Arizona is approximately 184.5 square miles (477.3 km²).
People usually talk about Scottsdale in terms of North and South.
The cut off street between North Scottsdale and South Scottsdale is generally considered to be Indian School Road. To the north of Indian School Road is North Scottsdale, and to the south of Indian School Road is South Scottsdale.
However, this is not a strict boundary, and some areas located just south of Indian School Road, such as Arcadia, are often considered to be part of North Scottsdale due to their affluence and proximity to upscale amenities.
Similarly, some areas just north of Indian School Road, such as Old Town Scottsdale, may be considered part of South Scottsdale due to their more urban character and location closer to downtown Scottsdale.
North Scottsdale and South Scottsdale are two distinct areas of the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, with different characteristics and features.
North Scottsdale is generally considered to be the more affluent and upscale area of the city. It is known for its luxury homes, high-end resorts, and exclusive golf courses. The landscape is dominated by the beautiful Sonoran Desert, and there are many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. North Scottsdale is also home to high-end shopping and dining destinations such as the Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons.
South Scottsdale, on the other hand, is more urban and has a more diverse population. It is home to Arizona State University’s Tempe campus and the Scottsdale Community College, which give the area a youthful and vibrant feel. South Scottsdale is also known for its thriving arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and museums. The area is also home to many restaurants and bars, ranging from casual to upscale.
Overall, the difference between North Scottsdale and South Scottsdale is largely a matter of lifestyle and preference. North Scottsdale is known for its luxury and exclusivity, while South Scottsdale is more urban and diverse, with a focus on arts and culture. Both areas have their own unique attractions and amenities and offer a variety of options for residents and visitors alike.
North Scottsdale is defined by its geography, which includes the area north of Shea Boulevard and extending to the Tonto National Forest to the east.
The area is known for its natural beauty, with stunning views of the McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert. The landscape of North Scottsdale is dominated by the rugged terrain of the desert, with numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the mountains and valleys. The area is also known for its world-class golf courses, including the TPC Scottsdale, home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, one of the largest and most popular golf tournaments in the world.
South Scottsdale is an area within the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, located south of Indian Bend Road and north of Thomas Road. The area is often defined by its distinct character and atmosphere, which sets it apart from other parts of the city.
One of the main features of South Scottsdale is its historic Old Town district, which is home to a range of unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Old Town is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs that draw crowds of visitors and locals alike. The area is also home to a number of galleries, museums, and theaters, making it a hub for arts and culture in the region.
In addition to its cultural attractions, South Scottsdale is known for its diverse neighborhoods, which offer a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and condos. The area is home to many families, young professionals, and retirees, and is known for its tight-knit community and friendly atmosphere.
Another defining feature of South Scottsdale is its proximity to the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. The area features several parks and trails, including the popular Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, which offers a scenic place to walk, bike, or jog.
Overall, South Scottsdale is known for its unique blend of culture, community, and natural beauty. Its historic Old Town district, diverse neighborhoods, and proximity to outdoor recreation make it a popular place to live and visit within the greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is home to a diverse range of businesses and industries, including many that are nationally recognized. Here are a few examples of popular businesses in the area:
GoDaddy – A technology company that provides domain registration, web hosting, and other internet services to individuals and businesses.
Discount Tire – A tire and wheel retailer that operates over 1,000 stores across the United States.
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation – A manufacturer of guitars and other musical instruments, with its global headquarters located in Scottsdale.
P.F. Chang’s – A popular Asian-inspired restaurant chain with its headquarters located in Scottsdale.
Axon (formerly Taser International) – A company that develops and manufactures electronic control devices, body cameras, and other law enforcement equipment.
Mayo Clinic – A world-renowned medical center with a campus located in Scottsdale.
Vanguard – An investment management company that offers a range of investment products and services.
Troon Golf – A golf management company that manages over 465 golf courses around the world.
JDA Software – A supply chain management software company with its global headquarters located in Scottsdale.
iMemories – A digital media conversion service that helps individuals and families preserve their memories by converting old media formats to digital files.
These are just a few examples of the many successful and popular businesses that call Scottsdale home. The city’s diverse economy and supportive business environment have made it an attractive location for companies across a wide range of industries.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is known for its upscale shopping destinations, with a wide range of boutiques, high-end retailers, and luxury shopping centers. Here are 10 of the top shopping destinations in Scottsdale:
Scottsdale Fashion Square – This indoor mall is the largest shopping destination in Arizona, featuring over 200 stores including high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Gucci.
Kierland Commons – An outdoor shopping center featuring upscale boutiques, home decor stores, and dining options.
Scottsdale Quarter – A mixed-use development with high-end retailers, restaurants, and luxury apartment living.
Biltmore Fashion Park – A luxury shopping center in Phoenix with high-end retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Hermès.
The Shops at Gainey Village – A shopping center with boutique retailers, dining options, and a spa.
Old Town Scottsdale – A historic district with a mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
The Scottsdale Waterfront – A mixed-use development with high-end retailers, restaurants, and office space.
These are just a few examples of the many shopping destinations in Scottsdale. The city is known for its upscale shopping scene, with a wide range of boutiques, high-end retailers, and luxury shopping centers to choose from.
There are many highly regarded fine dining restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona. Here are some examples:
Mora Italian: This award-winning restaurant features modern Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made pastas. Chef Scott Conant is a James Beard Award-winning chef and television personality.
Cafe Monarch: This intimate, romantic restaurant offers a prix fixe menu of contemporary American cuisine, using locally sourced and organic ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the changing seasons and availability of fresh ingredients.
FnB Restaurant: This restaurant offers a seasonal menu of creative, farm-to-table cuisine, with a focus on local and organic ingredients. The wine list features a diverse selection of wines from around the world, with a focus on natural and biodynamic wines.
Talavera: Located at the Four Seasons Resort in Scottsdale, Talavera offers a modern take on traditional steakhouse cuisine, with a focus on premium cuts of meat and fresh seafood. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, with more than 500 selections.
Binkley’s Restaurant: This intimate, upscale restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu of contemporary American cuisine, using the freshest seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award nomination.
Mastro’s City Hall Steakhouse – A classic steakhouse that serves high-quality steaks, seafood, and other dishes, along with an extensive wine list.
Virtu Honest Craft – A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves fresh, seasonal dishes, with a focus on local ingredients and artisanal products.
The Mission Kierland – A Latin-inspired restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, from tacos and ceviche to steak and seafood, along with an extensive tequila selection.
These are just a few examples of the many exceptional fine dining restaurants in Scottsdale. Other highly regarded restaurants in the city include elements, Bourbon Steak, and Kai.
Scottsdale, Arizona is known for its exceptional golf courses, many of which are located in the North Scottsdale area. Here are some of the top-rated golf courses in Scottsdale:
Troon North Golf Club: This award-winning golf club features two 18-hole courses, the Monument and the Pinnacle. Both courses offer challenging play and stunning desert scenery.
TPC Scottsdale: Home of the annual Waste Management Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale offers two 18-hole courses, the Stadium Course and the Champions Course. The Stadium Course is known for its signature par-3 16th hole, which is surrounded by stadium seating.
Grayhawk Golf Club: This golf club features two 18-hole courses, the Talon and the Raptor. Both courses offer challenging play and stunning views of the McDowell Mountains.
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: Located on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, this golf club features two 18-hole courses, the Saguaro and the Cholla. Both courses offer stunning desert scenery and challenging play.
The Boulders Resort & Spa: This luxury resort features two 18-hole courses, the North Course and the South Course. Both courses offer stunning desert scenery and challenging play.
These are just a few examples of the many exceptional golf courses in Scottsdale. Other highly regarded golf courses in the area include the Scottsdale National Golf Club, the Estancia Club, and the Desert Mountain Club.
Some Of The Top Resorts and Hotels
Scottsdale, Arizona is home to a wide range of luxurious resort hotels, offering top-notch accommodations, dining, and amenities. Here are some of the top-rated resort hotels in Scottsdale:
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North: This luxurious resort features stunning views of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding desert, as well as a full-service spa, multiple restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities.
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale: This iconic resort features a wide range of amenities, including a golf course, multiple swimming pools, a full-service spa, and several dining options.
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician: This exclusive boutique hotel is located within the larger Phoenician resort, offering a more intimate and personalized experience. Amenities include a private infinity pool, a 24-hour butler service, and access to the Phoenician’s many amenities.
The Boulders, a Waldorf Astoria Resort: This stunning resort is set amidst the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, and features two golf courses, multiple swimming pools, a full-service spa, and a range of outdoor activities.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: This expansive resort features six swimming pools, five restaurants, and a wide range of amenities and activities, including golf, tennis, and a full-service spa.
Other highly regarded resort hotels in Scottsdale include the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, and the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia.
There are a number of budget-friendly hotels in Scottsdale that provide comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. Here are some options:
Motel 6 Scottsdale: This hotel offers basic but clean rooms and is conveniently located near Old Town Scottsdale and the Talking Stick Resort Arena.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Scottsdale North: This hotel offers a range of room options, including suites with kitchenettes, and is located close to a number of local attractions.
Scottsdale Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale and offers a variety of room options, including suites with kitchenettes.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Phoenix Scottsdale: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a number of amenities, including an outdoor pool and fitness center.
Comfort Suites Old Town Scottsdale: This hotel is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale and offers a range of room options, including suites with kitchenettes.
Overall, Scottsdale has a range of budget-friendly options for travelers, including motels, inns, and budget-friendly hotels that provide comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
Look no further than our team of talented and knowledgeable real estate agents. With years of experience helping clients find their dream homes in the beautiful city of Scottsdale, we’re confident that we can help you too. Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo or a spacious luxury home, we have access to a wide range of properties that are sure to meet your needs. Plus, with our local expertise, we can provide you with valuable insights into the Scottsdale real estate market, including the best neighborhoods, schools, and amenities in the area. So why wait? Contact us today to start your search for the perfect Scottsdale home.
Attention Homebuyers and Sellers! Are you looking for a real estate team that will go the extra mile to negotiate on your behalf? Look no further! Our team of agents is known for their hard-hitting negotiation skills and their unwavering commitment to securing the best deal for you. Whether you are buying or selling a property, our agents will work tirelessly to negotiate the best possible terms for you. They have the experience and knowledge to navigate complex negotiations and are always prepared to fight for your best interests. Our agents understand that real estate transactions can be stressful, which is why they take the time to understand your goals and will work tirelessly to achieve them. Don't settle for a real estate team that takes a passive approach to negotiations. Contact us today and let our agents show you what it means to be a fierce negotiator. We are dedicated to securing the best possible deal for you and will work hard to make sure that you get the results you deserve.
But what really sets our agents apart is their commitment to providing a personal touch. They listen to your needs and work with you every step of the way, so you can feel confident and in control throughout the entire process.
We understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve in the fast-paced world of real estate, which is why we use the latest technology and new media to ensure that you have access to the most up-to-date information and resources. From virtual home tours to advanced marketing strategies, we have the tools and expertise to help you buy or sell your home quickly and efficiently.
Phoenix, Scottsdale Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek and Carefree
Emergency Services: 911
Scottsdale Police Non-Emergency: (480) 312-5000
Scottsdale Fire Department Non-Emergency: (480) 312-8000