Scottsdale climate
Scottsdale enjoys the bliss and comfort of year-round beautiful weather with low humidity every month, sunny days in every season, and high temperatures ranging from warm to hot. Although it rains a bit during the more extreme seasons of summer (June to August) and winter (December to February) the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring provide ease in both precipitation and wind. If you’re planning to visit Scottsdale in the winter, expect temperatures in the 10’s, and if you’re headed there in the summer, the heat escalates up into the 30’s.
When to fly to Scottsdale
Because this golden city offers more sunshine than any other area in the United States, it’s always a good time to book a flight to Scottsdale.
Peak Season:
Golfers and other outdoor advocates: plan your holiday during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn so rain won’t hamper any of your daytime excursions.
Off-peak Season:
Summer and winter, although both beautiful seasons in their own rights, do call for the most rainfall than at any other point in the year. However, travel in the off-season means deals on accommodation and cheap flights to Scottsdale during this time.
Getting around Scottsdale
Getting around Scottsdale is cheap and easy. The city has a free trolley running all week long. Trolleys arrive every 15 minutes, so you’ll never be waiting long to get to Fashion Square, the Arts District or Old Town. You can also take one of the separate routes to connect to the Metro Valley Bus line if you need to get to one of Scottsdale’s surrounding towns. You can also rent a car to get around. Parking is easy to find and you can pick up a map at the Scottsdale Visitors Bureau.
Scottsdale insider information
Arizona Community Farmers Markets: If your travel to Scottsdale spans over an extended period of time, and you’ll need to buy food on your own instead of restaurant hopping, then the Arizona Community Farmers Market is the perfect place to stock up on local, fresh and affordable food. The group’s vision is to provide “direct, sustainable commerce between local area farmers and producers,” and that’s exactly what you get. Seasonal and locally produced vegetables, fruit, meat, and bread are stocked up on kiosks, and just waiting to be picked. Go early for the best selection, and bring small bills for quick transactions. It’s a good idea to pack drinking water, sunscreen, and a hat, in case you plan on spending the entire morning there. Growers also appreciate it if you bring your own shopping bag. If you have any questions for the vendors, they will be more than happy to provide you with the origins, uses, and recipes for each selection. The Farmer’s Market takes place every Saturday from November to May.
Art Walk: Art buffs visiting Scottsdale will find something to their fancy at the unforgettable Art Walk, which takes place every Thursday night (except Thanksgiving) from 7-9 pm. More than 100 galleries open their doors to tourists and locals interested in browsing some of the finest visual art from all over the world. The event is enormous, and spans along both Main Street and Marshall Way. The easy-going atmosphere and kind patrons encourage interest and wonder in art, whether or not you plan to buy anything. Every gallery on both sides of the street proudly showcase what’s inside their doors. The Art Walk dates back more than 30 years and the tradition is loved and respected by all who enter. Go at our own pace, enjoy the beautiful weather, and have fun seeing the tons of artistic styles that the Art Walk represents.
Desert Mountain Jeep Tours: If you’re in the mood for something on the wild side, then look no further than the Desert Mountain Jeep Tours in Central Scottsdale. If you’re planning your flight to Scottsdale in pursuit of adventure, this tour is for you: The tours are guided by cowboys and desert dwellers, allow you to hop in a 4-wheel, open-air jeep and choose from six trails of excitement. If off-roading intimidates you, the company also offers plenty of other interesting outdoor tours without all the physical action. Eco tours highlight the delicate balance of the desert’s environment, and horseback trail rides allow you to see nature in a whole new light. If you’re just in the mood to picnic and party, then sign up for the Southwestern Cookout event, which pairs locals and tourists under a common enthusiasm for Scottsdale. Tours happen twice daily, seven days a week.