The Perfect Desert Town to Live Out Cowboy Core Dreams

For the past few decades, Scottsdale has mastered the art of rest and relaxation. A quick drive from Phoenix, this is Arizona’s own Palm Springs. Much like the Californian escape, it started as a lowkey getaway for the Hollywood crowd, who figured no one would come looking for them in the far reaches of the Sonoran. Scottsdale has it all: arts, culture, glam, and classic desert quirks, with giant, cartoon-like saguaro cacti sprouting up from the ground where Joshua trees might be in the Golden State.

Friendly, laid-back locals outnumber glammed-up tourists, and bars aren’t afraid to get a little rowdy—in fact, they hope to be. The food scene combines the best of the Southwest with culinary concepts worthy of any major metropolis, and the endless expanse of cacti framed by craggy mountains are as photo-worthy as some of our country’s most stunning national parks. Spend enough time here, and you may find yourself sporting a Stetson hat (Scottsdale is also home to the one and only Cowboy College).

Scottsdale’s many personalities clearly bring in travelers of all sorts—partiers, celebs, yoga retreaters, cowboy culture vultures. Another to add to that list: pet lovers.

Pet sitters aren’t out of job, per se, but more and more it seems we’re bringing our pets on family vacations. They are a part of the family, after all. According to one national survey, owners want their furry companion to accompany them everywhere.

Go hiking or strolling through Old Town with your dog in tow, before you both settle in on a restaurant patio for afternoon drinks. Nearby hotels are not only happy to welcome your pet, but often provide an elevated level of service for them. So pack the bags, leashes, and carriers and head to the Southwest. Scottsdale’s reputation may precede it, but the reality will leave you and Fido pleasantly surprised.
 

5 hours from Las Vegas, Nevada 
6 hours from Los Angeles, California 

Stretch your legs (and paws) on some of the fabulous hiking trails that wind around the city and find inner peace in the great outdoors. Several resorts have trails that can be accessed from the property; check with the front desk to see if there are paths available to you. Go explore the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the largest urban preserve in the entire country, which hosts several trailheads that welcome dogs; Tom’s Thumb is a particularly challenging one for pets and people. For something a little less strenuous, hit the Arizona Canal Trail, an urban trail path that winds through Old Town, the Scottsdale Waterfront, and SouthBridge. Or head out on the 11 mile paved Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, which meanders from Central Scottsdale all the way down to Tempe Town Lake. Along the way, there are lakes, golf courses, and plenty of parks to enjoy.

Just make sure to do your research beforehand, because some of the more popular trails, like Pinnacle Peak or Camelback Mountain, do not allow dogs. Most importantly - when the temperature is at least 100 degrees, dogs are not allowed on any trails and really, they shouldn’t be out above 90 degrees.

Set aside time to soak in all of the outdoor splendor the city has to offer. The Desert Botanical Garden hosts people and their dogs on select days to stroll through the garden’s trails. There’s water refill stations available, plus health and wellness talks throughout the day. Head to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, which covers 30 acres and houses a railroad museum, desert arboretum, carousel, and offers rides on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad train. The train allows pooches as well, as long as they can fit on your lap.

Scottsdale is also home to some excellent dog parks that are near to most of the activities going on in town. Try Chaparral Dog Park, where there are two separate areas catering to different sized dogs. Horizon Dog Park is quite a bit smaller, but there’s plenty of shade and areas to hang out. Finally, Vista del Camino Dog Park has offsite parking but there are trees and water fountains for people and pets; note that this park is closed in summer.

Those who like to give their credit card a workout have come to the right place. Scottsdale is serious about shopping and caters to every type of customer available. High-end retail can be found at the aptly named Scottsdale Fashion Square, home to brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. The mall welcomes pups 12 lbs or smaller as long as they are carried or pushed in a stroller, though individual stores may not allow them. For something a little more one-of-a-kind, go to the 5th Avenue Shopping District, which is full of boutiques, vintage shops, and a great way to support local small businesses. Since it’s an outdoor district, it’s easy to walk around with your leashed pet.

For a taste of local wine: Hit Scottsdale has its own wine trail. The path through Old Town includes several tasting rooms representing the numerous wineries across Arizona’s three American Viticultural Areas; a number of them offer pet-friendly patios. This includes The Wine Collective, which features wines across all of Arizona. While in the neighborhood, swing through Rusty Spur Saloon, an iconic location that’s been serving up the cowboy vibes for over 70(!) years and allows dogs on the patio until 5 pm.

For a Mediterranean meal that hits the spot: Snag a reservation at the delectable CALA restaurant, whose pet-friendly patio is the perfect place to relax while chowing down on the Mediterranean-style cuisine. Marino’s Italian Kitchen & Bar at Desert Ridge is known for authentic Italian food with a large wraparound patio that happily accepts pets.

Dinner with a view: Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen offers a Dinner with Your Dog every Wednesday. Enjoy patio dining with views of Camelback Mountain. Guests ordering from the Doggy Menu get 15% off their bill. $1 from each doggy meal is donated to Lucky Dog Rescue.

For a longstanding classic: Hotel Valley Ho has been serving guests since the mid-50’s. Don’t be fooled by the mid-century design; this property ensures a healthy balance of contemporary and historical. With no additional charges to stay, dogs are welcome here and they are perfectly positioned near Old Town or the Arizona Canal Trail for walks.

The boutique hotel without the pup surcharge: Mountain Shadows resort doesn’t charge extra for your pup to stay at the property. The modern boutique hotel will make you both feel right at home with all the basics provided for your dog, plus an amenity for them to enjoy. No breed or size restrictions here either. The resort’s resident dog, Lemon, will be on hand to greet both of you.

A place that will pamper your pet: A “pupcierge” is on hand at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess to make sure your canine has every need covered, down to arranging for dog sitters and walkers. Water and food bowls will be provided, along with a bed, toys, and in-room dog dining menu. The expansive property is also ideal for going on early morning or evening walks; plus, you may be greeted by a couple of Golden Retrievers in the lobby at check-in as part of their Canine Ambassador Program.

For the extra luxe stay: Royal Palms Resort and Spa’s Royal Paws program offers an elevated pet program for paw-rents looking to give their four-legged friends the ultimate luxury hotel experience. The program features a dedicated pet menu with bites like the "Chew-dité” and the "Rebarkable Burger” in addition to a collection of plush branded beds, bowls and tennis balls for use during the stay. Royal Palms’ concierge will also provide a map of the best pet-friendly spots on property to play and explore.

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