Scottsdale on Foot Self-Guided Tour

Scottsdale Historical Museum

Housed in the charming Little Red Schoolhouse, this museum offers a nostalgic look at the city’s journey from a quiet farming community to a world-class destination. Step inside to see rare artifacts from founder Winfield Scott and a meticulously recreated 1910 classroom that brings the frontier days to life.

Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza

The lush, green heart of the city serves as a sprawling outdoor gallery, connecting major cultural landmarks through winding paths and serene water features. It’s the perfect place to admire iconic public art, including the world-famous LOVE sculpture, while soaking in the relaxed Arizona sun.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the frontier through stunning galleries filled with cowboy gear, Indigenous pottery, and masterworks of Western art. This Smithsonian Affiliate captures the adventurous soul of the American West, offering a deep dive into the stories that shaped the region’s identity.

Marshall Way Arts District

Wander through a sophisticated corridor of world-class galleries showcasing everything from contemporary sculpture to traditional Southwestern fine art. As the epicenter of Scottsdale’s legendary ArtWalk, this district invites you to experience the creative pulse of the city in a beautifully walkable setting.

Soleri Bridge

Designed by the visionary architect Paolo Soleri, this striking pedestrian bridge doubles as a solar calendar that marks the changing seasons with precise shafts of light. It’s a stunning example of arcology—the fusion of architecture and ecology—offering a unique perspective on Scottsdale’s commitment to innovative design.

5th Avenue Shops & Boutiques

Stroll along this historic stretch to discover a curated mix of independent boutiques, Native American jewelry, and eclectic Southwest fashion. It’s the ideal spot to find a one-of-a-kind treasure while enjoying the neighborhood’s vintage charm and shaded storefronts.

Horses & Cowboys Statue

Titled The Yearlings, this spirited bronze sculpture captures the raw energy and grace of young horses in a moment of playful motion. It serves as a powerful tribute to Scottsdale’s equestrian roots and provides one of the most popular photo opportunities in the Old Town area.

Arizona Canal South Bridge

This picturesque crossing offers tranquil views of the historic waterway that has sustained life in the desert for over a century. The bridge serves as a scenic gateway between the Waterfront and Southbridge districts, making it a peaceful hub for people-watching and local events.

Pinball Wizard Public Art

This whimsical and colorful installation brings a sense of playful energy to the urban landscape with its vibrant, retro-inspired aesthetic. It’s a hidden gem of the city’s public art collection that celebrates the intersection of modern creativity and nostalgic pop culture.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

As one of the premier cultural venues in the Southwest, this adobe-inspired building hosts a world-class lineup of dance, music, and theater. Even if you aren't catching a show, the light-filled atrium and unique artisan shop make it a must-visit for any art lover.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)

Housed in a minimalist building designed by Will Bruder, this museum pushes boundaries with bold, rotating exhibitions of modern art and architecture. Don’t miss the Knight Rise Skyspace by James Turrell, where you can sit back and watch the Arizona sky transform through a precision-carved portal.

Old Adobe Mission

Hand-built in the 1930s by Mexican field workers using over 14,000 adobe bricks, this historic mission is a testament to the city’s spiritual and cultural foundations. Its thick walls and quiet interior offer a cool, reflective sanctuary in the heart of the bustling downtown.

Ziegler Fiesta Bowl Museum

College football fans can relive the glory of the Granddaddy of Them All through a massive collection of team helmets and historic championship trophies. The museum showcases the excitement and pageantry of one of the most storied traditions in American sports.

Bischoff’s at the Park

Step into this legendary gallery and shop to browse an incredible selection of authentic Navajo rugs, Hopi kachinas, and fine Southwestern jewelry. It’s a local institution where three generations of expertise help tell the story of the region’s Indigenous artistry.

Bronze Horse Fountain

This breathtaking masterpiece by Bob Parks features five life-sized Arabian horses thundering through splashing water, celebrating Scottsdale’s status as an international equestrian hub. It is widely considered the crown jewel of 5th Avenue and a stunning display of power and grace in bronze.