39 Fun Date Ideas in Scottsdale, AZ for 2024
Are you looking for exciting date ideas in Scottsdale? This city in Maricopa County, Arizona, offers a vibrant place to explore nature’s radiance, immerse in exciting nightlife and dive into a world of culture and art. Rated as one of the most livable cities, Scottsdale received an award from the United States Conference of Mayors. Its tourism industry attracts more than 7.5 million visitors annually, making it a prime location to experience a variety of events and culinary adventures.
If you are seeking date ideas in Scottsdale, you’ll find an endless array of activities. Its natural beauty, lively nightlife and incredible lineup of yearly events make it easy to plan an unforgettable date with that special person in your life. This list of 39 fun date ideas in Scottsdale will help you plan something amazing and experience Scottsdale, Arizona, for the phenomenal city that it is.
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- Best Date Ideas in Scottsdale for Foodies
- Fun Date Night Ideas in Scottsdale
- Free and Cheap Date Ideas in Scottsdale
- First Date Ideas in Scottsdale
- Romantic Date Ideas in Scottsdale
- Day Date Ideas in Scottsdale
- Unique Date Ideas in Scottsdale
Best Date Ideas in Scottsdale for Foodies
1. Book a Cooking Class
Discover cooking classes in Scottsdale for your next date night! If you’re looking for date ideas in Scottsdale that go beyond the ordinary, consider cooking lessons. This vibrant city offers a wide range of global cuisines and culinary experiences and what better way to get up close and personal than cooking together in the kitchen? Join forces with a five-star chef to craft a magnificent meal with your loved one while you learn new techniques for mastering many more mouthwatering meals together.
2. Indulge in a Private Chef Experience
Are you celebrating an anniversary? Something different you can try for a first-anniversary date idea is a private chef experience. A wealth of esteemed private chefs in Scottsdale are happy to craft a fine dining experience right in the comfort of your home. They’ll take care of everything from shopping, preparing, serving and even the cleanup. Sit back and relax with your loved one and enjoy a delightful three-course dinner.
3. Enjoy Fine Dining at Francine
For romantic date ideas in Scottsdale, visiting Francine is at the top of the list for foodies. This spot exudes the charm of Southern France, which is the homeland of its founder. Enjoy modern French and Mediterranean dishes within an atmosphere that reflects the brilliance of the French Riviera and indulge in tantalizing aromas and exquisite flavors. If you are looking for the best Scottsdale restaurants to visit, Francine is a must.
4. Feed Yourselves at The Fat Ox
If you and your partner love Italian food, don’t skip a visit to The Fat Ox as a date idea in Scottsdale. This upscale fine-dining establishment features more than 12 fresh kinds of pasta and impeccable service.
5. Discover Old-Town Farmers Market
A place for foodies to hang out on Saturday mornings is Old-Town Farmers Market. It is graced with various vendors preparing fresh food from around the world, vibrant energy and outstanding artists who proudly display their craft. Try something new every weekend, like a homemade bagel and pick up some organic eggs and unique groceries for home.
6. Explore The Marketplace
Work up an appetite with some sightseeing and then head here for good eats! A trip to The Marketplace is a perfect date idea in Scottsdale. Frequented by locals as the best place in town to grab lunch, you’ll find locally roasted coffee, fresh salads and the signature homemade pastries that regulars love so much. You can also sit at a community table if you prefer to mingle with some locals.
7. Visit Arcadia Farms
A more upscale version of The Marketplace and owned by the same people, Arcadia Farms is a walk across the street for an elaborate treat. This boutique café is beautifully decorated and elegant and serves scrumptious farm-to-table food.
8. Head to Hula’s Modern Tiki
For a more down-to-earth date idea in Scottsdale, visit Hula’s Modern Tiki. Less fancy and highly similar to the tiki bars back in the 50s and 60s, Hula’s is bound to create an unforgettable time for you and your partner.
9. Dine at Fellow Osteria & Pizzeria
Another date idea in Scottsdale for Italian cuisine enthusiasts is visiting Fellow Osteria & Pizzeria. Italian-born and Scottsdale-raised, this spot strives to craft authentic Italian food from pasta to pizzas and tasty sandwiches for Arizonians, in a bright and welcoming space.
10. Visit Los Olivos
Craving Mexican? This date idea in Scottsdale is for you. Los Olivos is a traditional Sonoran Mexican restaurant that prepares fresh tortillas and homemade salsas daily. It's been housed in a funky building in Old Town Scottsdale for over 70 years.
11. Try Taco Madera
If you prefer a more modern take on Mexican food, visit Taco Madera. This date idea in Scottsdale involves indulging in a contemporary Mexican steakhouse with great music, stunning architecture and an outstanding list of tequila and mezcals.
12. Head to FnB Restaurant
This establishment is continuously winning awards for its delicious food. The dishes at FnB Restaurant are prepared by Chef Charleen Badman who was awarded the Best Chef of the Southwest by the James Beards Awards. All ingredients are sourced in Arizona, the menu changes seasonally and it has one of the most impressive Arizona wine lists.
Fun Date Night Ideas in Scottsdale
13. Visit Rusty Spur Saloon
If you’re looking to let loose with your loved one, a trip to the Rusty Spur Saloon is a great date idea in Scottsdale. It was established in 1951 as the first bar in Scottsdale, so it screams of history with its old-fashioned Western theme. The saloon serves up cold beer and live country music and has hosted many celebrities over the years. If you’re searching for more casual and relaxed date night ideas in Scottsdale, be sure to visit this registered, historical landmark.
14. Check Out the Scottsdale Artwalk
Visiting the Scottsdale Artwalk is the perfect date night idea on Thursday nights. Experience the magic every Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Dive into the city’s history, art and culture, explore local shops and try new foods while immersed in this exciting date idea in Scottsdale.
15. Enjoy a Nightfall Guided Tour at Taliesin West
The Taliesin West is a World Heritage Site and national historic landmark in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains. It was Frank Lloyd Wright’s Western home and former architecture school. This architectural delight provides exciting night tours of the external grounds, making this an incredible date idea in Scottsdale for an evening. The tours last one hour and take place on Sundays and Mondays from October to December.
Free and Cheap Date Ideas in Scottsdale
16. Become Awestruck at Canal Convergence
The Canal Convergence is an annual event with free art exhibitions and activities for all to enjoy. This makes for an excellent free date idea in Scottsdale for the 10 days in November over which the event takes place. The canal is illuminated with majestic lights and installations, interactive exhibits that blend art and technology and live performances by local artists.
17. Shop at Native Art Market
Immerse yourselves in the rich culture of the Southwest for an afternoon date idea in Scottsdale. The Native Art Market is an indigenous-owned marketplace filled with incredible work made by local native artists. Sometimes they provide live performances and offer free drinks like cabernet and rosé. Enjoy admiring the heritage of it all and shop for unique gifts and collectibles together during this inspiring date idea in Scottsdale.
18. Stroll the Scottsdale Canals
The Scottsdale Canal Waterways are part of a 140-mile-long waterway system that you can stroll along hand-in-hand for a free date idea in Scottsdale. These canals run through downtown, so you can pop into a few wine bars or restaurants along the way.
First Date Ideas in Scottsdale
19. Visit Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden has more than 50,000 gorgeous desert plants to admire and it's a fantastic choice if you're looking for first date ideas in Scottsdale. You and your partner can roam through each thematic trail, making memories and snapping unforgettable Instagram-worthy photos to commemorate your special date.
20. Indulge at the Sugar Bowl
Ice cream is a first-date icebreaker and Sugar Bowl is the best place to go for it. This laid-back date idea in Scottsdale is perfect for a first date. The cute diner-style restaurant serves up a full menu of sandwiches, soups, salads and delicious fountain treats like ice cream, sundaes and floats.
21. Get Wacky at the Museum of Illusions
There are many to choose from, but this first-date idea in Scottsdale is definitely one worth planning! Those first few dates can feel exciting and awkward at the same time, and a little magic can lighten things up a little. The Museum of Illusions offers a variety of about 40 mesmerizing and interactive exhibits designed to keep you both busy and in awe the illusions (and each other)!
22. Butterfly Wonderland
For a magical date idea in Scottsdale, visit Butterfly Wonderland. It has a miniature rainforest with hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the globe. This conservatory is a great way to spend an entire day together, learning new things and exploring these breathtaking creatures in depth.
Romantic Date Ideas in Scottsdale
23. Enjoy a Couples Massage at The Agave
Located at The Westin Resort & Spa, The Agave is one of the finest spas in the area. This romantic date idea in Scottsdale is perfect for an anniversary celebration or a well-deserved getaway. If you’re looking for one-year anniversary date ideas in Scottsdale, consider booking a couples massage or a treatment and indulge in some time well spent together.
24. Scottsdale Fashion Square
Fashion Square in Old Town Scottsdale has something for everyone. You can browse or shop at upscale boutiques that sell designer brands and even take a Lucid electric vehicle for a test drive. You could easily spend a day in Fashion Square, so this spot makes a wonderful date idea in Scottsdale.
25. Dine at Café Monarch
This would typically go under the foodie section, but because Café Monarch is such a romantic adventure, it fits appropriately as one of the best romantic date ideas in Scottsdale. This beautiful restaurant is endowed with elegant and posh furniture, sharp staff and a four-course, prix fixe menu. Stepping inside this establishment feels like walking into a fairytale.
Day Date Ideas in Scottsdale
26. Visit Old Town Scottsdale
At the vibrant heart of the city, exploring Old Town Scottsdale is perfect for a fun day date idea in Scottsdale. It has a diverse spread of shops, galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, contemporary art exhibits and historic sites from the late 1880s. With lots to discover, you’ll have lots of fun and laughs aplenty as you stroll together through Old Town, so make sure to add this trip to your list of date ideas in Scottsdale.
27. Explore Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
If you and your partner love the arts, head to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art for an affordable and fun date idea in Scottsdale. This beautiful museum has a sculpture garden and five galleries that highlight modern architecture and art. The entry fee is only $10, with Thursdays and some Saturdays offering a "pay what you can" admission.
28. Experience REI Co-op Adventure Centers
Experience the natural beauty of Scottsdale on a cycling trip together. This is a great day date idea for the outdoor-loving, adventurous couple. REI Co-op Adventure Centers provide guides and equipment to explore the breathtaking lands of Arizona on bike trails that suit your preference for endurance. It also offers exploratory hands-on classes, giving you plenty of future date ideas in Scottsdale to plan for.
29. Discover Carlson Creek Vineyard
This family-owned vineyard has a tasting room that makes for an intimate and classy date in Scottsdale. At Carlson Creek Vineyard, relax together as you sip on premium Arizona wines and learn about the region while surrounded by the serenity of the glorious desert landscape.
30. Party on a Pedal Pub Crawl
Book a couple of seats and enjoy a mid-day pub crawl through Old Town Scottsdale with Viator Tours. These pedal bike tours make great summer date ideas and if you're looking for double-date ideas in Scottsdale, they're perfect to bring another couple along. A certified party bike guide will guide you to three local bars where you’ll receive exclusive drink specials. Solo cups are even permitted on these bikes so you can raise a red cup to pedestrians passing by and have a merry time.
31. Golf at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club
Tee off together at one of Scottsdale’s top three golf clubs. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club is a nice balance between laid-back and high-end. Catch some sun and sip some beverages as you both make your way through the 18-hole course. Golfing is always a great date idea in Scottsdale.
32. Tour the Scottsdale Arts District
The Scottsdale Arts District features all kinds of galleries, cultural venues, boutiques and restaurants to explore for a memorable date idea in Scottsdale. Enjoy browsing some of the unique artistry displayed by local creatives, dive into the remarkable works of local interior designers and stop to have a delectable brunch before shopping some more.
Unique Date Ideas in Scottsdale
33. Shake Things Up With Online Mixology Classes
Scottsdale is a hub for the culinary arts, so if you want to try something different and unique, you could explore learning how to craft beverages just like the professionals do with online mixology classes. With a wide selection of sommeliers and bartenders to guide you, online mixology classes are both fun and educational. Learn how to mix, shake and stir the most interesting cocktails for your next dinner party and get playful as you both discover your favorite methods together.
34. Explore McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Spend the day together at McDowell Sonoran Preserve where you can snap photos against a mountainous skyline and explore more than 30,000 acres and hundreds of miles of trails. McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the largest city park in the entire United States so you can easily make a day of it. Bring your hiking shoes, water and a picnic and savor nature together with this fun date idea in Scottsdale.
35. Go for a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Providing an exhilarating tour of the Arizona deserts at sunrise, Rainbow Ryders offers a bird's eye view of the stunning landscapes with a one-of-a-kind experience. This date idea in Scottsdale is for adventure seekers.
36. Adventure in the Tonto National Forest
The Tonto National Forest boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the entire country. This unique date idea in Scottsdale is filled with breathtaking terrain and Sonoran Desert cacti. You can spend a day here hiking and capture incredible photos from some of the most marvelous natural sights the world has to offer.
37. Dive into Odysea Aquarium
If you and your date are looking for special date ideas in Scottsdale, a visit to Odysea Aquarium will create lasting memories. Odysea is the largest aquarium in Arizona and has a wide range of marine life exhibits, animal encounters, a dinosaur exhibit, a UFO experience and a boardwalk.
38. KactusJock Rydables Tour
A tour through Scottsdale on a colorful inflatable animal sounds like fun and makes a unique date idea in Scottsdale. KaktusJock offers fun for all ages with tours of the city through some of its most interesting and historical sites. Jump on one of the adorable motorized vehicles and zip around together for lots of laughs and unforgettable memories.
39. Ride a Train at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park
This 30-acre park is filled with excitement and is located in the heart of Scottsdale. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is the most unique park in the country, so if you want unique date ideas in Scottsdale, plan to spend a day here. Take a ride together on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and go around and around on a 1950 vintage carousel. The park has an array of shops, restaurants, museums and plenty of green spaces to relax under a tree together.
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When visiting Scottsdale Arizona, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world filled with energy and life. The vibrant culture within this bright community is rich with art, history and breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a phenomenal town to plan a day or evening.
Planning exciting day dates and date nights is easy and fun when you’re immersed in the magic of Scottsdale. With this list of 39 date ideas in Scottsdale, you and your partner will be off to a great start.
For even more ways to explore Scottsdale and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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