The charming historic centre and the abundance of art galleries in Scottsdale could almost make you forget you’re just a short drive from one of the dramatic peaks and troughs of one of the Wonders of the World. The city makes for an ideal base to explore the Grand Canyon, and here, we’ll look at where to stay in Scottsdale. Plum Guide has a wonderful selection of homes dotted around the city, which itself lies between the Tonto National Forest and Kaibab National Forest and the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge (so, if you’re too lazy to make it to the Grand Canyon, you’re a little spoilt for choice for alternatives).
The Boulders Golf Club, Scottsdale, Arizona
The culture and entertainment of the city spills over into neighbouring Phoenix, which is the state capital. Enjoy the delights the two municipalities have to offer, before heading off into the desert and imagining you’re in an episode of Breaking Bad (it’s the wrong state, but we won’t tell anyone – this is just between us and the cacti).
A colourful suburban holiday home
At the northern edge of Scottsdale lies this stunning suburban holiday home. Perched on the edge of the Tonto National Forest, it is away from all the noise and stress of whatever city you might be from... home cities are all stressful (as opposed to vacation cities Plum Guide has rentals in). Palm trees stretch into the sky around this complex. A large pool is encircled by sun beds, while a koi pond makes for another calming presence. Be one with the koi… or something. Sit around the fire pit as evening falls, then head inside to argue with your friends or family in the games room. Oh, and there’s a tortoise called Fred who lives there. Seriously.
A Splash of Colour, Plum Guide home in Scottsdale
A golfer's paradise
This is where to stay in Scottsdale if you love golf. It's little closer to the city centre, although Scottsdale isn’t exactly a metropolis, so you’ll still see mostly sky and lush vegetation. It even has its own mini-golf course on site, so you can practice smashing all the windows (please do not do that). It has an artistic swimming pool, backed by sun beds and a sea of green across the neighbouring golf course (and this one ain’t mini). Watch the pros do their thing from the comfort of your deck chair or enjoy a nice BBQ on the terrace.
Albatross, Plum Guide home in Scottsdale
A sleek home in central Scottsdale
Now we’re right outside the Waterfront area, in one of our homes in the heart of Scottsdale. Rainbow Dream is one of our most stylish mansions, featuring a pool table and a pool (of the swimming variety) packed with inflatables for all those photo snaps you never want anyone to see, but your kids will undoubtedly upload to Instagram. Keep your holiday fresh by switching between the hard-earned treks up the nearby Camelback Mountain and the casual strolls around the shops of the Waterfront district that you secretly enjoy much more.
Rainbow Dream, Plum Guide home in Scottsdale, Arizona
A sunny villa in the Old Town
If you're looking for art and culture, this is where to stay in Scottsdale. The western side of the city centre is known for its range of art galleries, such as the Pejman Gallery and the Calvin Charles Gallery. Embark on the night-time art gallery tour on Thursday nights, then head back for a game of pool in this sunny villa. True to its gallery-side location, its garden is adorned by an artistic display of rocks and artworks, with a great big inflatable swan for the pool. Enjoy a meal with friends or family at the breakfast bar, then explore the adjacent Old Town district of Scottsdale.
Arizona Blue, Plum Guide home in Scottsdale
A home with a hot tub
It’s been a long ride, and we’re so thankful you’ve come along for it. But we’re now reaching the end of our descent south that began with the dizzying northern suburbs of Scottsdale. Oceana is at the southern edge of town, in an area packed with restaurants and bars. And it’s even one of our hot tub homes in Scottsdale. Read more about this impressive Plum Guide home.
Oceana, Plum Guide home in Scottsdale, Arizona
