Accessible Guide to Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona, is a vibrant destination known for its luxurious resorts, rich cultural experiences, and stunning desert landscapes. Whether you're looking to unwind in a world-class spa, explore the arts, or enjoy the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale offers something for everyone. This guide is designed to help travelers with disabilities plan an inclusive and enjoyable trip to Scottsdale, highlighting accessible accommodations, attractions, activities, and dining options.
Is Scottsdale Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, Scottsdale is a very wheelchair accessible city with many accommodation and activity options suitable for barrier-free access. For example, you will find many trails for outdoor exploration, such as Jane Rau Brown trail, Chaparral Lake Loop, and more. Much of the infrastructure provides easy access, too. Even Old Town Scottsdale is explorable by wheelchair, although this area might present more challenges than other areas due to the smaller sidewalks and stores. Many of the top accommodation options are resorts with spacious, accessible suites, and the properties are conducive to a comfortable stay. Oh, and plenty of these stays have outdoor pool areas equipped with lifts – which is needed, considering Scottsdale is warm all year round. Overall, Scottsdale is committed to providing accessible experiences, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with disabilities.
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale
The best time to visit Scottsdale is during the cooler months, from October through April, when temperatures are much more mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Even during fall and winter, the average temperatures are fairly warm. At night, the the temperature will dip down, but the day times are perfect.
The summer months are very hot, to say the least. Temperatures often exceed 100°F from June through August (and even in May and September) so many outdoor activities can be off-limits – unless you love the heat!
Top Accessible Hotels in Scottsdale
Scottsdale and the surrounding cities offer many accessible accommodation options. Here are 5 top-notch hotels to consider:
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offers luxurious, accessible accommodations with features like roll-in showers, spacious rooms, and a beautiful outdoor pool equipped with a lift. The hotel provides spa and wellness facilities for its guests, and there are a few dining options onsite, including a top-rated steakhouse and Mexican cuisine.
Accessibility Details at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess:
Senna House Hotel Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this modern hotel combines style and accessibility. Accessible rooms are equipped with roll-in showers, lowered fixtures, and spacious interiors. Public spaces, including the rooftop pool area and dining facilities, are fully accessible. Senna House Hotel is also in close proximity to attractions and activities.
Accessibility Details at Senna House Hotel Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton:
Element Scottsdale at SkySong
Known for its sustainable design, Element Scottsdale offers accessible suites with features such as roll-in showers, grab bars, and step-free access. Keep in mind that not all the rooms have these features, so it's important to book the right one. The Studio Suite, Multiple Beds is the one you want, as the other ones have step-in showers instead of roll-in ones, and no toilet grab bars.
Element Scottsdale provides complimentary hot breakfast each morning, and there is also a restaurant onsite serving lighter bites with a full-service bar. The hotel has an outdoor pool with a lift.
Accessibility Details at Element Scottsdale at SkySong:
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
The Phoenician offers unparalleled luxury with accessible features that ensure comfort and convenience for all guests. The resort includes incredibly accessible rooms with private balconies and various outstanding amenities. There is a full-service spa for guests to enjoy massages, body treatments, or facials. A golf course is available and a massive pool area for guests to relax and grab a beverage from the poolside bar. A lift is available at the pool.
Accessibility Details at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale:
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows
Book yourself a unique desert experience with accessible bungalows at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows. There is accessibility throughout the property with amazing service and amenities, including an onsite restaurant, poolside bar, and room-service. The pool is equipped with a lift.
Accessibility Details at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows:
Top Accessible Things to do in Scottsdale
From outdoor trails to museums to parks, Scottsdale has a range of things to do during your visit. Here are some accessible activities to consider.
Visit Scottsdale Center For The Performing Arts
The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, is a vibrant cultural hub. It hosts a diverse array of performances, from dance and music to theater and visual arts exhibitions. With its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to artistic excellence, the center enriches the community by providing memorable and transformative experiences for audiences of all ages. There is step-free access into the building and an accessible restroom inside. An elevator is available for getting to the upper level.
Explore Accessible Trails in Scottsdale
It's always nice enjoy the outdoors when you're visiting a new place, and Scottsdale has many accessible trails where you can do just that. Here are a few to consider:
- Chaparral Lake Loop - About a 1-mile loop around the lake with paved concrete and flat surfaces. If you're looking for a nice, short, easy stroll, this is a perfect one to choose.
- El Dorado Park Path - a 1.3 mile loop around a series of beautiful parks. The trail is paved and very flat, making it a great one to choose for accessibility.
- Jane Rau Brown's Canyon Trail - a short 0.6-mile loop thats mostly flat throughout and has paved surfaces.
- Indian Bend Wash and Camelback Greenbelt from E. Shea Blvd - beautiful paved trail that extends roughly 13 miles in length. It's a great trail for biking, walking, and running, as it is very flat.
- Javelina Trail - 3-mile loop of paved trails but keep in mind that there are some steeper incline sections. These are located at around the 0.1, 0.3, and 2.3-2.4 mile part (if you're heading counter clockwise). Assistance is recommended at these sections, or avoid them altogether for safety reasons.
Visit Wonderspaces Arizona
Wonderspaces Arizona is an immersive art experience in Scottsdale, featuring rotating exhibits from global artists. Interactive installations and virtual reality showcases engage visitors of all ages. Each visit offers a unique, ever-changing adventure, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts and families alike. The entrance is at ground level inside the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall and there is a private restroom designated for people with disabilities. A bar is also available with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Enjoy the Desert Botanical Garden
Located just a few miles from Scottsdale is the Desert Botanical Garden. This 140-acre garden has fully-accessible paths that showcase the unique flora of the beautiful Sonoran Desert. It's a unique and easy way to see the different desert species and is perfect for the whole family. If you're hungry, grab a bite at one of the dining options onsite amongst the scenery.
Explore Old Town Scottsdale
Explore the historic Old Town Scottsdale, the vibrant heart of the city which features unique shops, restaurants, museums, galleries, and more. It may be difficult to maneuver in certain sections, especially due to the smaller sidewalks and shops, but it's worth checking out while you're in Scottsdale.
Visit Taliesin West
Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, Taliesin West, offers accessible tours of this architectural masterpiece. While some areas may be challenging due to the unique design elements, they are committed to providing tours for everyone. You will need to reserve an accessible tour at least three weeks in advance, and they are only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. View more information on their official website here.
Musical Instrument Museum
Although the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is located in Phoenix, about 30 minutes from Scottsdale, it's worth mentioning. It's a unique institution celebrating the diversity of musical cultures worldwide, boasting an extensive collection of over 8,000 instruments from every corner of the globe. MIM offers visitors an immersive journey through musical instruments' history, artistry, and technology. Through interactive exhibits, audiovisual displays, and live performances, MIM showcases the universal language of music, fostering appreciation and understanding across cultures and generations. The museum is accessible with step-free accessible, an accessible restroom, and all of the exhibitions are viewable for wheelchair-users.
Restaurant and Dining Options in Scottsdale
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: authentic Chicago-style pizza and Italian classics.
- The Mission: located in Old Town Scottsdale, The Mission offers modern Latin cuisine and craft cocktails
- Olive & Ivy: mediterranean-inspired menu with a beautiful outdoor patio along the waterfront.
- Hash Kitchen: known for its creative brunch offerings, Hash Kitchen is a popular spot in Scottsdale and is a great choice for breakfast or brunch.
- Culinary Dropout: a favorite among locals, Culinary Dropout offers a fun, casual dining experience offering live music with drinks and comfort-style food.
Final Thoughts
Scottsdale is a destination that combines luxury, culture, and natural beauty, all within a framework of accessibility. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an adventure in the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale ensures that every traveler can enjoy their visit with comfort and ease.
Click here to visit Scottsdale with detailed accessibility information.
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