Discover Scottsdale’s thriving arts scene—from Old Town galleries and world-class museums to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, weekly ArtWalks, and inspired dining.
Beneath an endless canopy of blue sky, Scottsdale’s arts and culture scene comes vividly to life. The city’s breathtaking Sonoran Desert landscape and remarkable clarity of light have inspired generations of artists, architects and craftspeople. For travelers seeking modern luxury paired with creative energy, Scottsdale offers an artful escape defined by beauty, authenticity and innovation.
Old Town: Scottsdale’s Artistic Hub
Begin in the Old Town Arts District, a walkable enclave of galleries, studios and creative spaces, including Ed Mell’s striking sculpture, Jack Knife, a bold tribute to the Western spirit that shapes the city’s identity. Inside the district’s galleries, you’ll find a dynamic mix of contemporary, Western and Native American paintings, sculpture, jewelry and mixed-media masterpieces. It’s a place where tradition and modern expression coexist, inviting exploration at every turn.
Must-See Museums
Old Town is also home to standout museums that deepen the experience. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, a Smithsonian Affiliate, celebrates the art, history and heritage of the American West through fine art, historic artifacts and cultural treasures. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents compelling exhibitions spanning contemporary art, architecture and design, including James Turrell’s luminous Knight Rise Skyspace. For a more immersive encounter, Wonderspaces Arizona at Scottsdale Fashion Square showcases interactive installations that blend light, sound and virtual reality.
Artful Events
Scottsdale’s creative pulse is perhaps most evident during its signature events. Each Thursday evening, the Scottsdale ArtWalk—a cherished tradition since 1975 and the longest-running weekly art walk in the country—invites visitors to stroll the district as galleries stay open late for exhibitions, artist receptions and live entertainment. Seasonal Gold Palette ArtWalks bring themed celebrations throughout the year, while Canal Convergence in November transforms the Scottsdale Waterfront with large-scale, light-based installations. Annual events such as Scottsdale Western Week and the Arizona Indian Festival further honor the city’s rich cultural roots.
Art and Architecture Around the City
Beyond Old Town, artistic inspiration extends across the city. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a masterful example of desert modernism and organic design. Nearby, Paolo Soleri’s Cosanti studio continues producing its iconic bronze windbells beneath experimental, earth-formed structures. Throughout Scottsdale, more than 100 public art installations, transform everyday spaces into open-air galleries.
Elevated Dining and Inspired Stays
Between gallery visits, indulge in Scottsdale’s vibrant culinary scene where award-winning chefs, inventive flavors and unforgettable dining experiences await around every corner. Savor James Beard Award-winning cuisine at FnB, indulge in globally inspired flavors at The Ends, enjoy contemporary Japanese fare at Uchi or sip your way through Arizona vintages along the Old Town Wine Trail. Because art in Scottsdale is not simply admired but lived, elevate your stay with an artfully designed accommodations such as Hotel Valley Ho, the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale or the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North.
Start planning your next art-inspired trip at ExperienceScottsdale.com.
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