Scottsdale Waterfront
A picturesque urban oasis in Old Town Scottsdale, featuring a scenic canal, lagoon, upscale dining, shopping, and vibrant events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Comfortable for exploring outdoors
Scottsdale Waterfront
Best Time
Comfortable for exploring outdoors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque urban oasis in Old Town Scottsdale, featuring a scenic canal, lagoon, upscale dining, shopping, and vibrant events.
"The lagoon offers Caribbean vibes, perfect for a romantic stroll or a relaxing evening.
"🎯 Enjoy the Lagoon Vibes
Grab drinks and soak in the cool vibes by the lagoon; it's a top spot for dates!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk along the canal for great views, restaurants, and shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Scottsdale Waterfront Lagoon
Scottsdale Waterfront
A picturesque lagoon offering Caribbean vibes, perfect for a romantic stroll or a relaxing evening.

Canal Convergence
Scottsdale Waterfront
An annual free event featuring interactive art installations, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Art Festivals
Scottsdale Waterfront
Experience fine art, wine, and live music at events like the Scottsdale Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival.

Holiday Light Displays
Scottsdale Waterfront
During the holiday season, the waterfront transforms with festive light displays, creating a magical ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Scottsdale Waterfront
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enjoy the Lagoon Vibes
Grab drinks and soak in the cool vibes by the lagoon; it's a top spot for dates!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk along the canal for great views, restaurants, and shops.
🏃♀️ Join a Run Club
Scottsdale Run Club meets here for Saturday morning runs.
🎨 Engage with Art
Interactive art installations at Canal Convergence are a must-see!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enjoy the Lagoon Vibes
Grab drinks and soak in the cool vibes by the lagoon; it's a top spot for dates!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk along the canal for great views, restaurants, and shops.
🏃♀️ Join a Run Club
Scottsdale Run Club meets here for Saturday morning runs.
🎨 Engage with Art
Interactive art installations at Canal Convergence are a must-see!
🚗 Park Smart
Use the Waterfront or South Bridge garages to avoid traffic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Scottsdale Waterfront for its beautiful scenery, especially the lagoon, and its vibrant event scene, including Canal Convergence and art festivals. The dining options are a major draw, with many restaurants offering lovely canal views. While generally well-maintained, parking can be a consideration during peak times or popular events.
"Great date and family event. Overall, it's free, they have great food and vendors. It's an annual event so keep taps on event dates."
Gerardo Sanchez
"Convergence on the Canal was awesome. Interactive art installations. There is plenty of space and music for the kids to enjoy. The fire show was outstanding. Goes till the 17th old town Scottsdale. Shout out to Dilla Libre ... wow !! Best quesadilla ever !! Kids love them, too. Thank you"
Robert Sotomayor
"Attended Canal Convergence and loved the interaction with art. So beautiful!"
High Rise Phoenix
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Scottsdale Waterfront is easily accessible by car. It's located near the intersection of Camelback Road and Scottsdale Road. For parking, utilize the Waterfront parking garage or the South Bridge Garage. Some visitors suggest parking across the canal to bypass heavier traffic.
While direct public transportation routes might vary, you can typically reach the Old Town Scottsdale area via local bus services, and then it's a short walk to the Waterfront. Check Valley Metro for specific routes and schedules.
The Scottsdale Waterfront is best explored on foot. The paved sidewalks and bridges make it easy to stroll along the canal and access shops and restaurants.
Yes, there are parking garages available, including the Waterfront parking garage and the South Bridge Garage. Street parking may also be an option, but can be limited during peak times or events.
Absolutely! The area is bike-friendly with paved paths. You can often find bike racks available for securing your bicycle while you explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Scottsdale Waterfront itself is a public space and generally free to access. However, specific events held there, like art festivals or markets, may have admission fees or ticketed components. Canal Convergence is a notable free event.
The Waterfront area is typically open to the public during daylight hours. Individual shops and restaurants will have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any businesses you plan to visit.
No, Canal Convergence is a free event that takes place annually at the Scottsdale Waterfront. It's a great opportunity to experience interactive art without an admission cost.
Yes, the Scottsdale Waterfront hosts various events throughout the year, including art festivals, wine tastings, holiday light displays, and the popular Canal Convergence. Keep an eye on local event listings for updates.
While specific policies can vary, many outdoor public spaces in Scottsdale are dog-friendly. It's always a good idea to check for posted signs or inquire with individual businesses regarding their pet policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Scottsdale Waterfront offers a diverse range of dining options, from upscale steakhouses like Maple and Ash and STK to popular spots like Olive and Ivy, known for its waterfront views. Culinary Dropout is also a well-regarded choice.
Yes, alongside higher-end establishments, you can find more casual dining experiences. Spots like Culinary Dropout offer a lively atmosphere with a varied menu.
Absolutely! Many restaurants and bars offer beautiful views of the canal. Scott's Canal Club is specifically mentioned for its cool vibes and drinks.
Popular choices include Olive and Ivy for its ambiance and views, Culinary Dropout for its lively atmosphere, and upscale options like Maple and Ash and STK for a fine dining experience.
Dining options range from casual to high-end. While some restaurants offer a more luxurious experience with corresponding prices, there are also options that cater to a wider budget.
📸 📸 Photography
The lagoon area offers a picturesque backdrop, especially with the surrounding architecture. The bridges over the canal provide great vantage points. During events like Canal Convergence, the art installations themselves are fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, the waterfront can be beautiful at sunset. The reflections on the water and the warm light can create stunning photographic moments.
The Scottsdale Waterfront is ideal for landscape, architectural, and lifestyle photography. It's also a popular spot for engagement and casual portrait sessions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography might require permits. It's always best to be mindful of private property and any posted signage.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from buildings and trees can help. Evenings can be magical with the lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. During the holidays, the light displays create a magical experience for younger visitors. Parking is generally accessible, and the paved walkways make it easy to navigate with strollers. It's a great spot for a relaxed outing with plenty of visual interest.
couples
Consider visiting during an art festival or the holiday light displays for an added touch of magic. Grabbing drinks at Scott's Canal Club before or after dinner adds to the romantic ambiance. The combination of beautiful scenery, excellent dining, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a date or a special occasion.
budget travelers
Look for events that don't have an admission fee. While some shops and restaurants are high-end, simply enjoying the ambiance and public spaces can be a rewarding experience. Parking in the garages is also relatively affordable compared to other major city centers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Scottsdale Waterfront
Beyond the permanent attractions, the Waterfront is a popular venue for special events. Canal Convergence, an annual art and technology festival, transforms the area with interactive light installations and performances, drawing significant crowds and offering unique photo opportunities. Art and wine festivals also frequently take place here, showcasing local and regional talent. During the holiday season, the Waterfront is adorned with festive lights, adding to its charm and making it a popular spot for seasonal celebrations.
For those looking to combine leisure with activity, the Scottsdale Run Club uses the Waterfront bridge as a meeting point for their Saturday morning runs, highlighting the area's appeal for active individuals. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening by the lagoon, a day of art and culture, or a lively dining experience, the Scottsdale Waterfront provides a multifaceted destination.
Dining Delights at the Waterfront
For a more energetic atmosphere, Culinary Dropout is a popular choice, known for its gastropub fare and lively ambiance, making it ideal for groups or a fun night out. Upscale options like Maple and Ash and STK steakhouse offer premium dining experiences for those seeking a luxurious culinary adventure. The presence of these diverse establishments ensures that visitors can enjoy everything from a casual lunch to an elaborate dinner, often with scenic canal views.
Beyond full meals, the Waterfront also offers opportunities for enjoying drinks with a view. Scott's Canal Club is highlighted for its appealing atmosphere, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a relaxed evening. The concentration of quality dining options makes the Scottsdale Waterfront a destination in itself for food enthusiasts.
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