15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Scottsdale

Scottsdale isn’t just about glamorous golf courses and luxury resorts—this desert city packs a punch with its diverse array of tours and activities. Whether you want to explore the rugged Sonoran Desert, sample local cuisine, or cruise around on a Segway, Scottsdale offers options for all tastes and energy levels.

We particularly love the Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour for its close-up look at the desert’s stunning scenery and the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour for a delicious walk through local eateries. These experiences give you a taste of local culture and natural beauty, making your trip memorable and authentic.

If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the UTV Sand Buggy Tour or ATV rides are fantastic choices. For those looking for a more relaxed but equally fun day out, guided e-bike tours or Segway excursions provide a great way to see the city without breaking a sweat.

And for a full-day adventure, a trip to the Grand Canyon and Sedona promises breathtaking vistas. Below, you’ll find a detailed review of each tour to help you pick the best adventures suited to your interests.

1. Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour

Discover Arizona’s most dramatic desert scenery on this off-road Jeep excursion. Starting from Scottsdale, you’ll venture into Tonto National Forest, visiting highlights like Pinnacle Peak and the Verde River. Your guide, a certified off-road driver, will point out cacti, wildlife, and share local history, making it more than just a bumpy ride.

This tour is unique because it takes you into parts of the desert many visitors miss, with plenty of opportunities to spot desert flora and fauna. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Jay and Allen, and the personalized explanations of desert plants, Native American uses, and wildlife. It’s a great choice if you want a comfortable, educational, and scenic experience.

The $210 price covers a roughly 2-hour adventure and makes for a value-packed morning or afternoon in the Sonoran Desert.

Bottom Line: A must-do for nature lovers and first-time visitors who want an authentic desert experience with expert guides.

2. Desert Off-Road UTV Tour, 2 hours, 2 people per vehicle

For those craving more adrenaline, this UTV off-road experience offers a group setting with small groups to maximize fun and minimize dust clouds. You can choose between a two- or four-seat CanAm UTV, and whether you want to drive or just ride pillion.

Meeting in Fort McDowell, you’ll wear provided helmets, goggles, and neck gaiters for safety. During the roughly 2-hour tour, you’ll tackle desert trails, washes, and hills, with stops to enjoy the scenery. Reviewers mention guides like Karson and Spencer who keep the ride fun and safe—”unforgettable” is a common adjective.

This tour’s value lies in its combination of adventure and scenery, making it excellent for families or anyone who loves a thrilling ride. The $199 price is competitive, given the high-energy experience and small group setting.

Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore the desert in a high-speed buggy with expert guidance in a friendly group.

3. Scottsdale & Phoenix 2 Hour Desert Guided ATV Tour

If you prefer more control and want a personalized exploration, this guided ATV tour hits the spot. Starting from Scottsdale, your guide shows you the best trails around the Sonoran Desert, including views of Weavers Needle and Lake.

With options for single or double ATVs or UTVs, the tour suits all experience levels. Reviewers like those who say it was “impressive, fun and safe,” praise the knowledgeable guide Tom for making the experience informative and flexible. The price of $235 includes about 2 hours of riding, offering a great balance of adventure and scenery.

What makes this tour stand out is the ability to control the pace—leisurely or fast—making it ideal for families or adventure enthusiasts. The focus on safety and personalized info ensures a great experience.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want to drive their own ATV while enjoying scenic desert vistas.

4. 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours – Ultimate Old Town Exploration

Cover more ground in less time with this guided Segway tour exploring Scottsdale’s iconic Old Town. Starting from the Scottsdale Waterfront, your guide will take you past historic sites like Rusty Spur Saloon and scenic Camelback Mountain.

The tour is designed for small groups, capped at 12 participants, and includes a comprehensive orientation. Reviewers mention how Larry and other guides make beginners comfortable, and how the 2-hour ride offers a perfect balance of sightseeing and fun. Price is $74.10, making it an affordable way to see a lot without tiring out.

This tour is ideal if you want a light, engaging way to get to know Scottsdale’s cultural and natural highlights. It’s especially good for those who like the idea of gliding rather than walking.

Bottom Line: A fun, easy way to see Scottsdale’s top sights without walking miles.

5. Grand Canyon and Sedona Day Adventure from Scottsdale or Phoenix

For a full-day experience, this Grand Canyon and Sedona tour combines breathtaking vistas with scenic drives. Starting early, you’ll visit the south rim of the Grand Canyon, with time for photos and a lunch included. Afterward, you’ll explore Sedona’s uptown district, famous for its red rock formations.

Rated 5/5, travelers praise the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides. Expect about 13 hours of travel, making it a long day but a worthwhile investment in seeing two of Arizona’s most iconic sights. The tour covers entrance fees and lunch, adding convenience to the $270 price.

This trip suits travelers who want to maximize their time, especially if they have limited days in Scottsdale. It’s a cost-effective way to see both wilderness and artistic towns.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to see both the Grand Canyon and Sedona in a single day with minimal hassle.

6. Private Scottsdale Segway Tour + Ice Vests to Stay Cool – 2 Hours

If privacy and personalized attention matter, this private Segway tour offers a tailored experience of Old Town Scottsdale. Guided by a local expert, you’ll glide past historic buildings like the Little Red Schoolhouse and scenic spots like Camelback Mountain.

The tour includes ice vests to keep you cool, making it perfect for hot summer days. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the fact that beginners quickly feel comfortable. Costing $75.05, it’s a good value for a customized, intimate tour.

This option is perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or want a more exclusive experience. The private format ensures you get personalized tips and a flexible schedule.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups looking for a personalized, comfortable way to explore Scottsdale’s highlights.

7. Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour

Food lovers will truly enjoy this walking tour of Scottsdale’s Old Town. Starting at Craft 64, you’ll sample handcrafted pizza, then move on to Cornish Pasty Co for a hearty savory. Along the route, you’ll visit Ruze Cake House for French macarons and Cien Agaves for tacos and margaritas.

Rated 5/5, reviewers love the local insights about Scottsdale’s culinary scene and the variety of tastings. The tour lasts about 3 hours, covering roughly 1.5 miles. The price of $70 includes all food samples and some drinks.

This experience is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with sampling and learn about local culture and food. Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for most.

Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a guided walk through Scottsdale’s best eateries.

8. Scottsdale, UTV Sand Buggy Off-Road Tour in The Sonoran Desert

For speed and thrill, this off-road sand buggy tour takes you through the Sonoran Desert’s rugged trails. Using a 400cc Sand Buggy, you’ll navigate rock gardens, washes, and water crossings—adrenaline guaranteed.

Rated 5/5, reviews mention friendly guides like Ryan and Mike who handle navigation and safety expertly, letting you focus on the exhilaration. The tour lasts about 2 hours, with the dusty ride adding to the adventure.

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a high-octane, fun-filled desert ride. It’s especially suited for adventure lovers ready to push their limits.

Bottom Line: A great choice for adrenaline junkies eager to explore the desert in a fast-paced, racing-style vehicle.

9. Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour

Enjoy a culinary stroll along Scottsdale’s waterfront with this food tour. Starting at Rogue Cake House, you’ll sample gourmet treats, then visit Mexican and distillery stops for tacos, cocktails, and local drinks.

Rated 5/5, reviewers appreciate the insider knowledge from guides like Noah and the variety of foods and drinks offered. The 2 hours 45 minutes tour covers multiple top restaurants, providing a full taste of Scottsdale’s food scene.

Ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with excellent eats, this tour delivers local flavor and culture in a relaxed setting.

Bottom Line: Great for foodies looking for a delicious, guided city walk.

10. 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure

This guided e-bike tour takes you through Scottsdale’s parks, golf courses, and historic sites without the effort of pedaling. Covering up to 15 miles, you’ll see ASU’s stadium, Hunt’s Tomb, and the Scottsdale Greenbelt.

Rated 5/5, reviews praise the easy-to-ride bikes and informative guides like Brian and Keegan. The 2.5-hour tour is perfect for families or casual riders, costing $75.65.

It’s an excellent way to see multiple sights in a relaxed manner. The audio commentary adds depth to the experience.

Bottom Line: Suitable for all ages and fitness levels wanting a comfortable, scenic tour of Scottsdale’s highlights.

11. Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour – 2 Hours

A great introductory tour, this e-bike ride explores Old Town Scottsdale and the Hole in the Rock, a popular photo spot. You’ll pass by Tempe Lake, Papago Park, and Hunt’s Tomb, with easy riding suitable for first-timers.

Rated 5/5, reviewers mention Keegan and Anthony for their friendly guidance and interesting commentary. The 2-hour format makes it easy to fit into a morning.

Ideal for first-time visitors and families, this tour offers a light, engaging way to familiarize yourself with Scottsdale and Tempe.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a short, fun introduction to the area’s natural and urban sights.

12. Exclusive: Happy Cactus Tour to Apache Trail & Superstition Mtn

This 5-hour tour takes you into the Superstition Mountains, famous for Lost Dutchman’s Mine legends. Traveling at a relaxed pace, you’ll explore the Apache Trail, visit Goldfield Ghost Town, and do a light hike.

Rated 5/5, travelers love the personalized guidance from Jake, who shares local stories and tips. The tour includes snacks, water, and the chance to zip line or ride a historic railroad.

It’s ideal if you want a more intimate, story-rich experience. The smaller group size (up to 13) ensures personal attention.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, story-driven tour perfect for families and history buffs keen on native legends and mountain scenery.

13. Old Town Scottsdale Party Bike Bar Crawl and Pool Party

This party bike crawl combines bar hopping with a pool party at the Monarch Hotel. Starting with drink specials at trendy bars like 50 Shades of Rosé and Not My First Rodeo, you’ll end at a free pool party with reserved seating and a lively crowd.

Rated 4/5, reviews highlight the fun atmosphere and friendly guides, though some mention the music at the pool could be better. The 2 to 8-hour flexible schedule makes it ideal for a day of socializing.

Perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties or group celebrations, this experience is more about fun than sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting a festive, social day with bar crawl and pool access.

14. Scottsdale & Phoenix 2 Hour Guided Desert UTV Tour

Another high-energy option, this guided UTV tour covers about 20 miles of Tonto National Forest. It offers safe navigation with a full safety briefing and the chance to see desert animals and rock formations.

Rated 5/5, reviewers mention Gabe’s enthusiasm and variety of terrains. It’s suited for families or adventure seekers who want to cover ground quickly in a powerful vehicle.

The $450 group price is attractive if you’re traveling with a partner or friend. The 2-hour ride is intense and visually rewarding.

Bottom Line: Great for families and adventure lovers wanting a fast-paced desert exploration.

15. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Adventure from Scottsdale or Phoenix

This long-haul day trip takes you to Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Starting early, you’ll enjoy a guided canyon walk, then marvel at the Colorado River views. The tour includes lunch, Lower Antelope Canyon tickets, and Horseshoe Bend access.

Rated 5/5, travelers praise the professional Navajo guides and breathtaking scenery. It’s a full-day commitment—around 13 to 14 hours—but perfect if you want to see one of the most photographed spots in North America without the hassle of planning.

Ideal for photo enthusiasts, geology buffs, or anyone wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book early as this tour is very popular.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Arizona’s most stunning natural wonders.

How to Choose

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For scenic desert adventures, the Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour (see details) offers a balanced mix of nature and comfort. If you’re after thrills, the Sand Buggy or UTV tours (more info) provide adrenaline-pumping fun.

For cultural and culinary experiences, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour (see it here) or the Waterfront Food Tour (details) are excellent choices. If you prefer low-impact sightseeing with a bit of fun, Segway (see tour) or e-bike tours (more info) might suit you best.

Book early, especially for popular full-day trips to the Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon, as they fill quickly. Also, think about seasonality—some tours are perfect in the cooler months, while others thrive in warmer weather.

In The Sum Up

Scottsdale offers an impressive variety of tours and activities, whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or someone just wanting to see more of the desert landscape. From off-road rides in jeeps and buggies to culinary walks through Old Town, there’s something for every type of traveler.

For families, the guided ATV and UTV rides provide exciting yet safe adventures. If you’re into scenic drives and breathtaking views, the Grand Canyon and Sedona day tour is hard to beat. And if you prefer a relaxed, engaging city exploration, the Segway and e-bike tours will give you a lively, memorable overview.

Whatever your choice, booking early is wise—these tours are popular and fill up fast. Now that you have all the details, the next step is to pick your perfect adventure and start planning your Scottsdale getaway.