When you think of Phoenix and Scottsdale, desert hikes, wellness retreats, and excellent golfing opportunities may come to mind. But beyond the Sonoran trails, spas and putting greens is a whole unique world of unexpected and unforgettable adventures waiting for you to explore. This blog will help you step off the beaten path to check out these unique activities and attractions you didn’t think to try in Phoenix and Scottsdale! Add these Scottsdale and Phoenix activities to your travel itinerary so you can begin to see Phoenix and Scottsdale in a whole new way.
Visit the Desert Botanical Garden
Contrary to popular belief, the desert is not an arid wasteland. It’s full of unique beauty, a testament that live can survive and thrive in the extreme conditions. That’s why coming to a place like the Desert Botanical Garden is first on our list of unique activities and attractions in Scottsdale and Phoenix.
As you wander through this 140-acre garden, you’ll find yourself in awe of the towering saguaro cacti, flowering agaves, and exotic desert flowers that you would have never thought could thrive in the Sonoran Desert heat. Take your time walking along the peaceful trails of the garden, keeping your eyes open to spot hummingbirds as they flit to cactus blooms. The sun will warm your skin as you observe the various sculptures and seasonal exhibits that showcase local artistry and the beauty of the desert. The Desert Botanical Garden is where golden hour dreams are made. Take as many pictures as you like to remind you of this unique attraction you never thought to try – until now!
Explore the Architectural Wonder of Taliesin West
Exploring architecture and interior design may not have been at the top of your list of things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale, but it will be. The architectural phenomenon Taliesin West in Scottsdale, is truly a work of art. This was the winter home and studio of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. You can take a self-guided audio tour, which lasts about an hour. But you might not think an hour is long enough.
As you make your way around this marvel of architecture, you’ll be amazed at how Wright blended his vision with the desert landscape. Walls are made from desert rocks, creating the perfect earth-toned interiors, while carefully placed windows and door show off the view, while expertly allowing in natural sunlight. You can really start to understand the personality and genius of the architect who redefined American architectural design. Visiting this unique attraction will give you a peaceful moment in the desert that you didn’t realize you needed.
Observe the Butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland
Come visit the largest butterfly conservatory in the US, at Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale! The name speaks for itself. This truly is a world where hundreds of butterflies flutter freely around you in an indoor rainforest. As you step inside the glass atrium, you are met with warm tropical air and the sight of jewel-toned butterflies dancing around you. Walking through their habitat, you’ll notice monarchs, blue morphos, yellow swallowtails, and other species landing gently on you or fluttering from flower to flower.
Being here is relaxing, peaceful and quite educational. You can check out the interactive exhibits on the life cycle of butterflies, witness a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis in real time, and learn about the endurance of these resilient insects. You likely wouldn’t have considered hanging out with butterflies during your visit to Scottsdale and Phoenix, but after reading this, we hope you do!
Go to the Phoenix Zoo
The wildlife adventures continue at our next unique activity you didn’t think to try in Phoenix. It’s the Phoenix Zoo. This center houses more than 3,000 animals which can be seen by exploring the four distinct trails—African, Arizona, Tropics, and Children’s Trails. At the Phoenix Zoo, you can see a live giraffe feeding, see monkeys swing through the trees, watch big cat presentations, and learn all about the animals that call the desert surrounding Phoenix their home. If you’re traveling with kids, they will love being able to meet and greet different animals at the petting zoo along with other interactive exhibits.
Wandering the Phoenix Zoo is not only a fun activity, but it also offers you the opportunity to connect with the natural world. Living in such a tech-fueled society, sometimes we forget to observe nature, to stop and smell the figurative roses. The Phoenix Zoo allows you to do just that, which is why you need to add it to your Phoenix and Scottsdale itinerary.
Enjoy Phoenix Activities in Style with Manor Retreats
To truly enjoy these unique activities and attractions, you’ll need accommodations that are more than just a place to crash for the night. Consider opting for a luxury vacation rental that enhances your visit to Scottsdale and Phoenix. Manor Retreats can help with that.
Transform your visit from simple to spectacular, when you choose from the selection of rentals from Manor Retreats. Each property is unique, offering features and amenities that help you experience the best of the desert. Luxury amenities, designer furnishings, full kitchens, and cozy spaces combine to create a warm and welcoming space that you won’t ever want to leave.
Start Planning Your Unique Adventures in Phoenix and Scottsdale
As you can tell, Phoenix and Scottsdale are so much more than the typical tourist attractions. There are also plenty of unique activities and attractions that you may not have thought of visiting. All you need is a little research and a spark of curiosity to enjoy them fully. If you want to experience the best of Phoenix and Scottsdale, then reserve your unique home away from home with Manor Retreats today.
