Scottsdale, Arizona is known for its luxurious resorts, golf courses, spas, and scenic desert landscapes. It’s no surprise Scottsdale is a popular destination for LGBTQ travelers – especially ones who enjoy warm temperatures and an abundance of outdoor activities. In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and modern sophistication. Read on to find a list of all of the best LGBTQ-friendly hotels, art scenes, dining experiences, and nature walks to help plan your next trip to the city.
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The Best Lodging in Scottsdale
Regarding accommodations, there are plenty of LGBTQ-friendly hotels and resorts in the area. The Kimpton Hotel Palomar in Phoenix is famous for its chic, modern design and welcoming atmosphere. The Palomar is located in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, so guests have easy access to many of the city’s top attractions. Other LGBTQ-friendly hotels in the area include the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, The Scott Resort & Spa, and The Saguaro Scottsdale.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
One of the top attractions in Scottsdale is the Desert Botanical Garden, which features more than 50,000 plants, including cacti, succulents, and other desert flora. The expansive garden is a great place to take a leisurely walk and appreciate the beauty of the desert landscape. For those looking to get a few more steps in, the city is also known for its hiking locations. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers more than 200 miles of trails through the stunning Sonoran Desert, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Appreciate the Arts
Scottsdale is home to a thriving arts scene for those interested in art and culture. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) features rotating modern and contemporary art exhibitions and various educational programs and events. The Old Town Scottsdale area is also home to many galleries, studios, and shops – making it a great place to browse and purchase local artwork.
Stop for a Bite
When it comes to dining, Scottsdale has a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of LGBTQ-friendly restaurants. For those looking for a casual dining experience, check out RnR Gastropub, which serves a variety of craft beers and delicious pub fare. For a more upscale dining experience, try T. Cook’s at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa, which serves innovative American cuisine in a romantic, luxurious setting.
Scottsdale Nightlife
Honestly, there’s no better place than Charlie’s Phoenix – a popular gay bar with a friendly atmosphere and various entertainment options, including live music and drag shows. The Bar at Hotel Valley Ho is another popular spot, with a retro-chic aesthetic and delicious craft cocktails.
Overall, Scottsdale is a welcoming and inclusive destination for LGBTQ travelers, with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. From its beautiful desert landscape to its thriving arts and dining scenes, there’s a little something for everyone.
A History of Scottsdale, Arizona
The city has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, when it was first settled by U.S. Army Chaplain Winfield Scott and his family. Then in the early 1900s, Scottsdale began to attract tourists due to its dry and warm climate, which many believed to have health benefits. The city began to develop a reputation as a popular destination for those seeking to escape the cold winters of the Midwest and Northeast.
During the mid-1900s, Scottsdale experienced significant growth and development, with the construction of numerous resorts, golf courses, and other recreational facilities. The city also embraced a thriving art scene, with galleries and studios popping up throughout the city.
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In the 1980s and 1990s, Scottsdale continued to grow and attract visitors from all over the world. The city became known for its luxurious resorts and spas, as well as its world-class golf courses and premier shopping destinations.
Today, Scottsdale is a thriving city with a population of over 250,000 people. It is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The city also hosts a number of annual events, including the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and the Scottsdale International Film Festival.
From its early beginnings as a small settlement to its current status as a luxury destination, Scottsdale has come a long way and has much to offer its residents and visitors.
FAQs About LGBTQ Travel in Scottsdale
Yes, Scottsdale is a very welcoming and inclusive destination for LGBTQ travelers. The city is strongly committed to diversity and inclusion, and the local community is very accepting of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Yes, Scottsdale hosts several LGBTQ-specific events and festivals throughout the year. Some popular events include the Phoenix Pride Festival, which takes place in April and features a parade, music, and live entertainment. There is also the Arizona Gay Rodeo, which takes place in November and features rodeo events, dancing, and other activities.
Yes, there are several LGBTQ-friendly hotels in the Scottsdale area. Some popular options include the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix, the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, The Scott Resort & Spa, and The Saguaro Scottsdale.
Yes, there are several tour companies in Scottsdale that offer LGBTQ-specific tours and activities. These can include guided hikes, wine tasting, and other cultural experiences.
Yes, there are several LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs in the Scottsdale area. Some popular options include Charlie’s Phoenix, a popular gay bar with a friendly atmosphere and a variety of entertainment options, and The Bar at Hotel Valley Ho, which has a retro-chic atmosphere and a variety of craft cocktails.
Yes, there are several LGBTQ-specific resources and support groups in the Scottsdale area. Try the Phoenix Pride Community Center, which offers a variety of resources and support services. Or try One n Ten, which is a youth center that provides support and resources for LGBTQ youth.
Yes, the local community in Scottsdale is very accepting of LGBTQ individuals. The city is committed to diversity and inclusion, and the local community welcomes everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Yes, there are several LGBTQ-friendly religious institutions in the Scottsdale area. Some options include the Metropolitan Community Church of Phoenix, which is a welcoming and inclusive church for LGBTQ individuals, and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Phoenix, which is a progressive and inclusive faith community.
Yes, there are several LGBTQ-friendly shopping and dining options in the Scottsdale area. Some popular options include RnR Gastropub, which serves a variety of craft beers and delicious pub fare, and T. Cook’s at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa, which serves innovative American cuisine in a romantic, upscale setting.
