May 31, 2023

Summer is one of the best times to explore Scottsdale’s desert landscapes. Enjoy an incredible season in Scottsdale, AZ, with our picks for the area’s best summertime activities.

1. Mountain Vista Self-Guided Bike Tour

Scottsdale’s status as a bike-friendly community means it has lots of cool routes to explore on two wheels. The Mountain Vista trail features two stopping points with panels that provide background information about the mountain views beyond. You’ll also enjoy views of the Arizona Canal.

This 2.3-mile loop begins at the intersection of Main Street and Brown Avenue. It’s part of the Scottsdale Trails Master Plan, developed to make it easier for residents and visitors to traverse the city by bicycle or on foot.

2. Scottsdale Sports Complex

You can catch or play in a tournament game at Scottsdale Sports Complex, which hosts soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and other sports at the regional and national levels. Even if you’re not a competitor, you’ll find lots to do at this impressive facility.

The sports complex has a lighted basketball court, multi-use paths for hiking and biking, and a shaded playground. You can also bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the veranda. It’s located at 8081 East Princess Drive and is open daily from sunrise until 10:30 p.m.

3. McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

You can experience the natural splendor of the desert by visiting this vast protected area. McDowell Sonoran Conservancy spans more than 32,000 acres with hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and biking.

McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Free parking is available at 12 different trailheads throughout Scottsdale. We recommend the one at 28777 North Pima Road, which has restrooms and a large, paved parking lot.

4. Cactus Aquatic and Fitness Center

This expansive fitness and swimming facility offers public pool access during the summer months. Cactus Aquatic and Fitness Center has lap lanes, diving boards, and exercise equipment.

You can sign up for group classes at Cactus, including swimming classes for children. It’s located at 3939 Drinkwater Boulevard open during the week from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on the weekends from 1 to 5 p.m.

5. Scottsdale Public Library

Don’t overlook the Scottsdale Public Library when it comes to fun summer activities. It hosts free classes for kids and adults of all ages, including studies in yoga, art, languages, and many other subjects. While you’re there, you can check out books and other media to enjoy at home or stay for an author reading.

You can also stop for a snack and beverage at Meg’s Civic Center Cafe. The Scottsdale Public Library, located at 7377 East Silverstone Drive, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.
You can explore Scottsdale in style this summer with a new Cadillac CT4. Visit Earnhardt Cadillac today to test drive this impressive model.

Image via Pixabay