Are you seeking for the ideal location to take that special someone on a romantic date night or on Valentine’s Day? Look no further!

These creative date ideas and romantic activities to do in Scottsdale, AZ, can help you think outside the box when planning a fun date night activity—beyond a lovely dinner!

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Scottsdale is a hiker’s paradise, with countless acres of magnificent landscape. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is one of our favorite spots for a romantic sunset trek. This local preserve includes over 115 miles of trails and is open from sunrise to sunset. The center trailhead is accessible from The Gateway and connects to the remaining trails. February is also an excellent time for a hike because much of the local flora is in bloom.

Hike, cycle, or go rock climbing across the desert if you want to keep it simple and have some friendly rivalry. If you want to organize a memorable desert experience, you can schedule a sunrise hot air balloon trip for a panoramic view of the city or a romantic horseback ride through the lovely desert plants and surroundings.

The Marshall Way Arts District

The Marshall Way Arts District is noted for galleries presenting many creative mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, and more, making it a popular destination for artistic couples. The Marshall Way Arts District, on the other hand, sparkles on the first Thursday of each month, when Main Street is alive with live music, refreshments, and local artists during the Scottsdale ArtWalk. You can buy some local art or simply go in and out of the galleries that are offering free entrance for the entire evening.

Taliesin West

Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home in McDowell Mountain Ranch, is a lovely spot for a romantic date night. Although public tours are available throughout the day, consider reserving a Night Lights Tour. From February through September, these two-hour trips are held on Friday evenings. You’ll be able to see the beautiful sunset and shimmering lights that illuminate the city, and you’ll be able to enjoy light refreshments such as lemonade and cookies during the tour.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art 

The Scottsdale Museum of Art is a great place to go if you and your sweetheart are both artistic. This museum is dedicated to modern art, architecture, and design, and it features gorgeous art galleries, one-of-a-kind changing exhibits, and more. Plus, entrance is only $10 for adults and $7 for students, so you can have a wonderful day out without breaking the bank!

Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland may not be one of the most romantic things to do in Scottsdale, AZ, but it’s a nice spot to spend the day before an evening out! You will find an indoor rainforest atmosphere with thousands of butterflies from around the world at this indoor facility. You’ll also be able to see the museum’s interactive displays, such as the butterfly emergence exhibition, conservatory, and others.

Old Town Scottsdale 

Old Town Scottsdale is the place to go for a romantic dinner and late-night beverages. Many of the city’s little stores and late-night pubs may be found in this popular neighborhood. After dinner, go for a walk with your significant other before deciding on a location for a nightcap. The Rusty Spur Saloon and Old Town Tavern are two prominent local hangouts.

Papago Park

Consider spending the day at Papago Park, located south of Scottsdale, AZ, if you’re looking for a fun spot with a simple activity for a first date. First, visit the Phoenix Zoo, which houses over 1,200 animals, many of which are endangered. You can even take a camel ride or feed the giraffes together! Following your zoo tour, you can hike the Hole-In-The-Rock trail during golden hour. This brief 0.2-mile climb concludes with stunning views of Tempe, and it’s an ideal site to watch the desert sunset slip beyond the horizon.

Desert Botanical Garden 

The Desert Botanical Garden is a favorite Valley attraction for good reason! Thousands of desert species thrive in this 140-acre botanical garden. You can spend the day roaming around the garden, looking at the plants and observing the on-site exhibitions, or you can attend one of the many events at the botanical garden, which are listed on their website. During the holiday season, for example, one of their most popular events, Las Noches De Las Luminaries, the garden is illuminated with hundreds of gorgeous luminaries.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

If you’re searching for a laid-back date spot in Scottsdale, the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park might be the place for you. Throughout the summer, the park holds the Summer Concert Series, a series of outdoor performances showcasing local musicians of various genres ranging from Classic Rock to Country. The park’s website lists which bands will be performing. If you arrive early, you can make reservations at Ruth’s Chris Steak House or Alma Scottsdale across the street for dinner and a drink.

Looking for a local Scottsdale expert?

As your local real estate agent and lover of all things Scottsdale and beyond, allow me to be your guide to our ever-changing real estate market! If you are thinking of buying or selling, call me first, as I can help you navigate buying or selling in 2022. Reach out anytime with questions; I am always happy to help and look forward to chatting anytime!