When I first considered a summer trip to Scottsdale, my mind immediately raced with questions: “What are the specific dates for these ‘Summer Nights’ events?” “Is there a main area for all the action, or is it spread out?” “Will I find live music that isn’t just EDM?” “Where can I grab a delicious late-night bite that isn’t fast food?” My recent exploration helped me answer these, and now I’m here to share the insights with you.
This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, offering genuine insights gleaned from my own Scottsdale adventures.
Table of Contents
Top Picks for Your Scottsdale Summer Night
To help you navigate the myriad of choices, here’s a curated list of experiences, blending popular favorites with some unique gems:
1. Rooftop Revelry with a View: Ascend Above the City
When the sun dips below the McDowell Mountains, painting the sky in fiery hues, there’s no better place to be than a Scottsdale rooftop bar.
Outrider Rooftop Lounge (Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town)
This was a highlight for me. Perched on the 7th floor, the 180-degree views of Camelback Mountain were simply stunning. I vividly remember sipping a refreshing, locally inspired cocktail – a “Desert Rose Spritz” I believe it was called – as the city lights twinkled below.
The ambiance was sophisticated yet relaxed, with fire pits adding to the desert charm. It’s perfect for a chic evening with friends or a romantic date night.
Théa Mediterranean Rooftop (Global Ambassador Hotel)
While I didn’t get a chance to visit this one myself, I heard whispers of its incredible Mediterranean small plates and dim, glass-enclosed setting. It’s high on my list for my next trip!
2. Live Music & Dancing: From Country to Club Beats
Scottsdale’s music scene is surprisingly varied, ensuring you can find your rhythm.
Rusty Spur Saloon (Old Town Scottsdale)
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of the Wild West, this is it. Housed in a former 1920s bank, the Rusty Spur offers live country music 364 days a year.
Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
For a more modern take on country, combined with a lively gastropub atmosphere, Whiskey Row is a popular choice. I noticed it was always bustling, with people spilling out onto the patio, enjoying the lively tunes.
Maya Day + Nightclub
If you’re seeking a high-energy dance experience, Maya is a go-to. I could hear the thumping bass from blocks away! It’s known for its pool parties during the day that seamlessly transition into vibrant club nights.
My Personal Scoop: I’m more of a low-key live music person, so the Rusty Spur was a delightful surprise. The authenticity of the place, from the decor to the enthusiastic crowd, truly captured the spirit of a classic country bar. It was a refreshing contrast to the more contemporary clubs.
3. Culinary Delights After Dark: Late-Night Bites
The fun doesn’t have to stop when hunger strikes. Scottsdale has a good selection of late-night dining options.
Mesquite Fresh Street Mex (Old Town Entertainment District)
This was my saving grace after a long night of exploring! Open late, it’s a fantastic spot for delicious and quick Mexican street food. I grabbed some truly satisfying tacos that hit the spot.
ZuZu (Hotel Valley Ho)
For a more upscale late-night culinary experience, ZuZu offers a trendy ambiance and a chef-driven menu. While I didn’t dine here late-night, I had breakfast there and was impressed by the quality and stylish surroundings, which suggest it would be excellent for an evening meal too.
24-Hour and Chain Options
For the truly late owls, you’ll find reliable options like Jack in the Box and various local pizzerias offering delivery well into the early hours. When I was craving something familiar, I looked up Grubhub and found plenty of choices.
4. Unique Scottsdale Nighttime Experiences
Beyond the usual bars and clubs, Scottsdale offers some distinct ways to spend your summer evenings.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) Events
I was pleasantly surprised to learn about SMoCA’s “Glow Up @SMoCA: Sound Bath at Sunset” and “Trivia Night” events. While I missed the sound bath, the idea of experiencing art and relaxation after hours sounded incredibly appealing. It’s a fantastic alternative to the party scene.
Sunset Swim-in Cinema” (various resorts)
Many resorts, like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort, host poolside movie nights during the summer.
Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Scottsdale’s Resort Pools & Water Parks
Nighttime Segway Tours
While I opted for daytime exploration, I learned that some companies offer “Sunsets, Segways and City Lights” tours of Old Town. It sounded like a unique way to see the illuminated streets without the daytime heat.
My Personal Scoop: The SMoCA events particularly caught my eye. As someone who appreciates cultural experiences, finding these more niche, sophisticated evening activities was a refreshing discovery amidst the bustling nightlife of Old Town.
Planning Your Scottsdale Summer Night
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, here are some practical tips I picked up during my research:
1. When to Go: While “Scottsdale Summer Nights” implies the entire summer, specific events often have limited runs. For instance, some concert series might run on specific weekdays, and poolside movie nights have set dates.
Always check the official Experience Scottsdale website or individual venue calendars for the most up-to-date schedules. I learned this the hard way by almost missing a concert I was interested in because I assumed it was a daily occurrence.
2. Getting Around: Old Town Scottsdale’s Entertainment District is largely walkable, which is fantastic. However, if you’re venturing further out to resorts or other attractions, rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are readily available and widely used. I relied on them heavily for getting to and from areas slightly outside the main Old Town hub.
3. Dress Code: Scottsdale’s nightlife can range from casual to chic. While many spots in Old Town are relaxed (think stylish casual), some upscale lounges and fine dining establishments might prefer a more polished look. When in doubt, a smart casual outfit will generally serve you well.
4. Reservations: For popular restaurants or rooftop lounges, especially on weekends, making reservations in advance is highly recommended. This ensures you snag a table at your desired time and avoid potential wait times. I always tried to book at least a day ahead for popular spots, and it saved me a lot of hassle.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Scottsdale enthusiast, the city’s after-dark scene promises an experience that is both exhilarating and uniquely Arizonan.
Read More: Top Indoor Summer Activities in Scottsdale for Every Age
Share this content:
One thought on “Scottsdale Summer Nights: Where to Go When the Sun Goes Down”