Scottsdale Waterfront - Bridge with palm trees and flowers in a city.
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Scottsdale Waterfront

4.6
·2k reviews·Scottsdale, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Cooler Months (Oct-Apr)

Comfortable for exploring outdoors

CrowdMedium
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Scottsdale Waterfront - Bridge with palm trees and flowers in a city.

Scottsdale Waterfront

Best Time

Cooler Months (Oct-Apr)

Comfortable for exploring outdoors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The lagoon offers Caribbean vibes, perfect for a romantic stroll or a relaxing evening. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Scottsdale Waterfront Lagoon

The Scottsdale Waterfront Lagoon

Scottsdale Waterfront

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

TikTok
Canal Convergence

Canal Convergence

Scottsdale Waterfront

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

Instagram
Art Festivals

Art Festivals

Scottsdale Waterfront

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

Instagram
Holiday Light Displays

Holiday Light Displays

Scottsdale Waterfront

During the holiday season, the waterfront transforms with festive light displays, creating a magical ambiance.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Scottsdale Waterfront

While the Scottsdale Waterfront is beautiful year-round, consider visiting during cooler months for comfortable outdoor exploration. Check for special events like Canal Convergence or art festivals, as these can draw larger crowds but offer unique experiences. Instagram+1

Parking and Access Tips

Parking can be a breeze or a challenge depending on the event. Utilize the Waterfront parking garage or South Bridge Garage for easier access. Some visitors suggest parking across the canal to avoid heavier traffic. Reddit

Best Times

When
Cooler Months (Oct-Apr)
Why
Comfortable for exploring outdoors
Crowd
Medium
When
Event Weekends
Why
Festivals and art shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Relaxed dining and strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THE LAGOON THO 😍 AZ DATE IDEA #1 SZN 5 ➡️ Grab drinks at the Scott’s Canal Club in Scottsdale then walk their lagoon on property for the coolest vibes 👀🍸get ready for season 5 of arizona date ideas!!!! #arizona #scottsdale #scottsdalearizona #dateideas #dateidea #lagoon #caribbean #coolvibes
@wildjoyexperiences
20.4K likes • 361.7K views

🎯 Enjoy the Lagoon Vibes

Grab drinks and soak in the cool vibes by the lagoon; it's a top spot for dates! TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Waterfront

Walk along the canal for great views, restaurants, and shops. Instagram

Have you walked around the Scottsdale Waterfront yet?! Along with the great views, are also great restaurants and business along the water. Tag us in your stories/posts as you explore more around Old Town! 🌸🦋🫧🌵⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #OldTownScottsdale #Waterfront #AZ
oldtownscottsdale
240 likes • 6.7K views
100° and still over 200 showed up… we had to find out why. Wednesday 6:30pm - 3 miles 📍Tempe Town Lake Saturday 8:00am - 3 miles 📍Scottsdale Waterfront Bridge #scottsdale #oldtownscottsdale #runaz #run #scottsdalerunclub #az #arizona #tempe #tempetownlake #runclub
scottsdalerunclb
7.5K likes • 234K views

🏃‍♀️ Join a Run Club

Scottsdale Run Club meets here for Saturday morning runs. Instagram

🎨 Engage with Art

Interactive art installations at Canal Convergence are a must-see! Instagram

Excited to announce I’ll be exhibiting at the Thunderbird Artists Scottsdale Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival in beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona this weekend!   Join me and the other talented artists for three days of fine art, live music, and desert beauty. I’ll be showcasing my latest works and would love to meet you in person. 📅 January 31-February 2, 2025 ⏰ 10am - 5pm daily 📍 7135 E Camel...
christianbenoitdesign
0 likes • 731 views

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! TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Waterfront

Walk along the canal for great views, restaurants, and shops. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Join a Run Club

Scottsdale Run Club meets here for Saturday morning runs. Instagram

🎨 Engage with Art

Interactive art installations at Canal Convergence are a must-see! Instagram

🚗 Park Smart

Use the Waterfront or South Bridge garages to avoid traffic. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Picturesque lagoon and canal
Vibrant event atmosphere
Diverse dining options

What People Dislike

Parking can be challenging

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The area is bike-friendly with paved paths. You can often find bike racks available for securing your bicycle while you explore. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokReddit

Yes, alongside higher-end establishments, you can find more casual dining experiences. Spots like Culinary Dropout offer a lively atmosphere with a varied menu. TikTok

Absolutely! Many restaurants and bars offer beautiful views of the canal. Scott's Canal Club is specifically mentioned for its cool vibes and drinks. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the waterfront can be beautiful at sunset. The reflections on the water and the warm light can create stunning photographic moments. Instagram

The Scottsdale Waterfront is ideal for landscape, architectural, and lifestyle photography. It's also a popular spot for engagement and casual portrait sessions. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Scottsdale Waterfront is a fantastic destination for families. The open spaces along the canal and the lagoon provide room for kids to explore. Canal Convergence is particularly family-friendly, with interactive art installations that engage children and adults alike. Instagram The fire show during this event has been noted as outstanding. Reddit

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. Instagram+1 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

For couples, the Scottsdale Waterfront offers a romantic setting. The lagoon provides a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll, especially in the evening. TikTok Enjoying dinner at a restaurant with canal views, like Olive and Ivy, can be a perfect date night experience. Reddit The area is also a popular spot for engagement photos. Instagram

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. TikTok 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

The Scottsdale Waterfront can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. The Waterfront itself is free to access, and walking along the canal offers beautiful scenery without any cost. Instagram Canal Convergence is a major highlight, as it's a free annual event featuring impressive art installations. Instagram Many of the restaurants offer happy hour specials, which can be a more affordable way to enjoy the dining scene. TikTok

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Scottsdale Waterfront

The Scottsdale Waterfront is a vibrant hub in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona, offering a blend of upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. It's characterized by its picturesque canal and lagoon, creating a unique urban oasis. The area is designed for pedestrian enjoyment, with wide sidewalks and aesthetically pleasing architecture that complements the desert landscape. Instagram

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. Instagram Art and wine festivals also frequently take place here, showcasing local and regional talent. Instagram During the holiday season, the Waterfront is adorned with festive lights, adding to its charm and making it a popular spot for seasonal celebrations. Instagram+1

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. Instagram 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

The Scottsdale Waterfront is a culinary hotspot, boasting a variety of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes and occasions. From sophisticated fine dining to more relaxed eateries, there's something for everyone. Olive and Ivy is frequently praised for its beautiful waterfront views and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, making it a prime spot for a special meal. Reddit

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. TikTok Upscale options like Maple and Ash and STK steakhouse offer premium dining experiences for those seeking a luxurious culinary adventure. Reddit 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. Instagram

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. TikTok The concentration of quality dining options makes the Scottsdale Waterfront a destination in itself for food enthusiasts.

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