Scottsdale vs. Phoenix | Ultimate Desert City Guide

Need help deciding whether to visit Scottsdale or Phoenix? I’ve been there! Arizona’s sunny spots have a lot to offer.

[{"selector":"#anim-2f6573ea-1e0b-4ada-8241-3cba0202c762","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":250,"duration":2000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-543122d5-c0a5-493b-adfb-67350420b75f","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-177.04918%, 0px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":250,"duration":2000,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] Learn more

Phoenix is this big, lively place full of cool stuff to do, and Scottsdale? It’s more laid-back and classy. Hence, looking at Scottsdale vs. Phoenix could help plan your southwest trip.

[{"selector":"#anim-d2b367a2-5d1c-4f69-a2cc-9268bbb0a6f3","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":200,"duration":1400,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-0bb8a03e-e1d1-4c23-9d82-a0d955055a84","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(0px, 207.39149%, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":200,"duration":1400,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] Learn more

Both cities, nestled in the sun-soaked state of Arizona, offer distinct experiences. Still, one might edge out the other, depending on your preference.

Phoenix is widely recognized for its striking desert vistas, significant Native American art, and outdoor activities, particularly hiking and golfing.

Scottsdale is famed for its luxury spa resorts, high-end shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife.

Phoenix does offer public transportation, but it isn’t the best, nor will it give you the most options.

The Scottsdale Waterfront is a great place to bike — which I highly recommend!

From experience, both cities have great things to offer in the food scene. Your choice of “where to go” depends on where you think you’ll spend more time.

Swipe up to read the full post!