Welcome to Spring: A Visitor's Guide to Paradise Valley & Scottsdale, Arizona

Spring 2024 Sporting Events

NCAA Final Four Tournament

Get ready for an unforgettable showdown on the hardwood! The 2024 Men's Final Four basketball tournament is coming to nearby Glendale, Arizona, and it promises to be an electrifying sporting spectacle like no other. Four of the nation's top college basketball teams battle it out for supremacy in this high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping tournament. The state-of-the-art State Farm Stadium will host the semifinals and championship games, ensuring an incredible fan experience for basketball enthusiasts nationwide.

Learn More at phoenixfinalfour.com

Tour de Scottsdale Cycling Race

Don't miss the thrilling Tour de Scottsdale 2024 on Saturday, April 13, 2024! Cyclists, get ready to conquer challenging and picturesque routes that promise an exhilarating ride. Opt for the Metric Century (100 km - 62 miles) or the Half-Metric Century (50 km - 32 miles) and push your limits. Starting and finishing at the renowned WestWorld of Scottsdale, this event promises an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the thrilling ride, this event supports the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, contributing to preserving our natural treasures. Organized by the Perimeter Bicycling Association and El Tour de Tucson, this promises to be a cycling event you won't want to miss! Get your gear ready and start training for an unforgettable day of cycling excellence.

Learn More at tourdescottsdale.org

Local Culture & Entertainment

Old Town Arts Scene

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest by exploring the vibrant arts scene in Scottsdale. Visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art to discover thought-provoking exhibitions and contemporary works by local and international artists. Take a stroll through the Scottsdale Arts District, where you'll find an array of galleries showcasing everything from traditional Native American art to cutting-edge contemporary pieces.

For a taste of the Old West, head to Old Town Scottsdale, where rustic charm meets modern sophistication. Browse eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops along the bustling streets lined with historic adobe buildings. Don't miss the weekly ArtWalk, where you can mingle with artists, musicians, and fellow art enthusiasts while enjoying live music and refreshments.

Live Music at The Scottsdale Jazz Festival

The Scottsdale Jazz Festival is just one of UNESCO’s celebrations taking place on International Jazz Weekend across the country. On Saturday, April 27, 2024, Old Town Scottsdale joins more than 196 global Jazz Day celebrations designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and Herbie Hancock to celebrate jazz and the role it plays in uniting people around the world. The 2024 Scottsdale Jazz Festival will be held at the new Scottsdale Civic Center East Bowl in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale by all of the area’s teaming restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. A beautifully designed amphitheater style in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale’s biggest park, the Scottsdale Civic Center offers the perfect venue to fully absorb the sounds of world-famous jazz and fusion artists coming to this year’s Scottsdale Jazz Festival. Performers at the 2024 Scottsdale Jazz Fest include Nayo Jones, Mario Abney & Windy City Ramblers, The Kings of Soul with Neamen Lyles, Kiara Jayne, Five Tempting Men, and Carlos Rivas & Tito Puente Jr.

Our friends at Experience Scottsdale have curated the perfect guide to your Jazz Festival Weekend: experiencescottsdale.com/event/the-2024-scottsdale-jazz-fest%3A-jazz-blues-%26-brews/370825/

Shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square

Indulge in some retail therapy at Scottsdale Fashion Square, the largest shopping destination in the Southwest. From high-end designer boutiques to popular retailers, this upscale mall offers something for every style and budget. After a day of shopping, treat yourself to a pampering spa experience at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa. Relax and rejuvenate with a signature massage or facial, or unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the resort's Infinity Edge Pool overlooking the majestic Camelback Mountain. 

Make your Sanctuary escape even more enjoyable with our exclusive VIP shopping experience at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Local industry experts will share the history of luxury fashions and the latest runway trends during a private shopping experience featuring iconic brands curated just for you. Your customized experience at Scottsdale Fashion Square will include a red carpet arrival with Champagne toast, VIP welcome bags including a $50 gift card for shopping, early access to luxury stores, and more. 

This personalized experience is available Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00am – 11:30am. For reservations, visit fashionsquare.com/fashionableluxury

Outdoor Activities

Local Golfing

Sonoran Arizona is a golfer's paradise, and some of the finest golf courses in the country are just minutes from Sanctuary Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. We proudly offer our resort guests a golf partnership with our neighbor resort, Mountain Shadows, and our concierge staff will happily coordinate your golf day with an exclusive 10% off your Mountain Shadows tee time.

Visit Experience Scottsdale's public course finder to pick course that's right for you: experiencescottsdale.com/stories/post/scottsdale-public-golf-courses-on-any-budget/

Mountain Hikes

For a more active approach to wellness, embark on a scenic hike through the rugged terrain of Camelback Mountain. Choose from a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, each offering breathtaking views of the desert landscape. Connect with nature as you breathe in the fresh air and bask in the warm Arizona sunshine.

Check our top picks of local hikes, or sign up for one of our Bike and Hike experiences as a day visitor or guest of the resort.

Tennis & Pickleball

Sanctuary's legendary racquet club history is a tradition we proudly carry on through our current tennis and pickleball offerings. And with Camelback Mountain and the iconic Praying Monk rock formation as a backdrop, our courts provide a playing experience like none other. Options range from court time to private training sessions and small group clinics—a great option for coworkers, friends, and families seeking to add a little lighthearted competition to their group getaway!

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you're seeking excitement or serenity, this enchanting desert oasis has something for every traveler to enjoy. 

Plan your spring getaway to Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa and discover the beauty and charm of Arizona's Valley of the Sun. Explore our Offers page for exclusive packages and special promotions, including the Spring Escape package for a short 1 or 2 night getaways and Stay Longer, Save More for extended stays of 3 nights or longer.