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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 - Image 1

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

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 2,158 reviews

Type

Shopping Mall

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

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.

"Such an interesting spot to wander in Scottsdale, and there always seems to be a fun event that's being hosted on site. We went out to see the Canal Convergence light & sound art exhibits when they were set up along the Scottsdale Waterfront, and it was amazing."

SarahBeth Carter

"Scottsdale Waterfront is a great mixed-use area featuring a combination of upscale and casual shopping, and a choice of dining experiences. Free underground public parking with ample parking space added an extra convenience for us. We had dinner on the patio of Olive & Ivy and took a stroll down the Arizona Canal Trail."

Gene Rabinovich

"Beautiful spot to walk and shop and enjoy the atmosphere. Canal Convergence in November, Scottsdazzle in December are both lit up and magical for the holidays. The art markets are fun. Even just riding an electric scooter along the canals is a relaxing time."

msbusyblonde

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

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