The Ultimate Scottsdale, Arizona Itinerary
What to eat, do, shop, and more in this gem in the Sonoran Desert.
Hotel Valley Ho
Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.
Experience Scottsdale
Meet the Insider: Denise Rosales, owner of The Frybread Lounge & Native Art Market
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Denise Rosales is the owner of The Frybread Lounge, an Indigenous-owned and -operated restaurant in Old Town focused on preserving ancestral ingredients in a modern context. It’s known for its bison dishes—especially bison asada tacos and birria—that utilize ingredients from local growers like Ramona Farms. Here, Rosales shares her tips on this Western gem in the Sonoran Desert, known for its striking desert landscapes, ample outdoor activities, and diverse cultural attractions.
STAY
Hotel Valley Ho
I always recommend Hotel Valley Ho, a mid-century modern gem in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. I love the vibes and history and that you can easily walk to local shops like ours from there. Another great option is Sanctuary Camelback, which has the best sunset views in town. It’s chic but cozy, and the restaurant, elements, is top-notch.
EAT
Beginner’s Luck
I dig the food and casual atmosphere at Frank & Lupe’s, a family-owned New Mexican restaurant in Scottsdale’s Arts District. It has an awesome hidden patio and the best pillowy sopaipilla. Our new neighbor, Beginner’s Luck, has the most delicious fancy French toast. And at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, don’t miss the homemade tamales from The Tamale Store.
DO
Bill Timmerman/Courtesy of Studio Ma Architect
Hiking the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is a must to take in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. There are so many trail options, but Gateway is one of my favorites because it’s a scenic loop trail with big saguaros and stunning spring wildflowers. Drive the Apache Trail, a winding scenic byway where you’ll see mountains, lakes (yes, we have water in Arizona!), and cacti. The cliff walls are breathtaking! In the heart of Old Town, there are so many options. I love Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. There are also fun golf cart tours with JoyRidesAZ and any tour with Ace Bailey of Ultimate Art and Cultural Tours, an expert on Scottsdale’s art, history, and architecture.
SHOP
The Merchantile of Scottsdale
The Merchantile of Scottsdale has locally made arts and crafts, and they’re a woman- and minority-owned business like mine, creating a space for Arizona artists. I love their desert-chic vibe. At Native Art Market, everything is authentic and handmade, plus the sales go directly to the artists. The best place for Southwestern souvenirs is Kactus Jock, from hot sauce and prickly pear syrup to t-shirts and ballcaps.
