Best Time to Visit Scottsdale
Arizona Travel Guide picks the best time to visit Scottsdale, with regard to the weather, hotel prices, and any special events that might enhance your visit.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is a fantastic destination known for its stunning desert landscapes, vibrant culture, and year-round sunshine. But when is the best time to visit Scottsdale? To answer this question, we need to delve into the Scottsdale weather patterns, hotel prices, and annual events that make this city a must-visit destination.
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale: Month by Month
Let’s begin with January. Scottsdale’s climate during this month is relatively mild with average highs of 68°F (20°C) and lows of 43°F (6°C). It’s a perfect time for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. Hotel prices are typically higher due to the influx of snowbirds escaping colder climates. The annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction is also a highlight of this month.
February sees similar weather to January, with slightly warmer temperatures. The average high is 70°F (21°C) while the low is 45°F (7°C). The hotel rates remain relatively high. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, a grand spectacle, takes place in February.
In March, the temperature starts to rise with averages between 75°F (24°C) and 49°F (9°C). The hotel prices peak as many visitors come for the spring training baseball games. The Scottsdale Arts Festival is another event that attracts art lovers.
April brings warmer weather, with highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C). As the peak season winds down, you can often find better hotel deals.
May marks the beginning of the hot season. The average high temperature is 92°F (33°C) and the low is 64°F (18°C). Hotel prices start to drop as the heat increases.
June is when the desert heat truly kicks in. Temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C), with lows around 73°F (23°C). The hotel rates are generally lower. The Mighty Mud Mania event, an obstacle course for all ages, is a fun way to beat the heat.
July is the hottest month in Scottsdale with average highs of 104°F (40°C) and lows of 81°F (27°C). Hotel prices are at their lowest, making it a good time for budget travelers who can handle the heat. The city celebrates Independence Day with spectacular fireworks.
In August, the temperatures remain high, averaging between 103°F (39°C) and 79°F (26°C). The hotel rates continue to be low. The city celebrates the Scottsdale Spice Culinary Event, a festival for spice and food lovers.
September brings a slight relief from the summer heat. The average high is 98°F (37°C) with lows of 72°F (22°C). Hotel prices start to rise slightly.
October sees more comfortable temperatures with highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C). Hotel prices continue to rise as the weather cools. The city hosts the Scottsdale International Film Festival this month.
November brings cooler weather, with average highs of 75°F (24°C) and lows of 48°F (9°C). The hotel rates are moderate.
December is a festive month in Scottsdale with highs of 66°F (19°C) and lows of 40°F (4°C). The hotel prices rise due to the holiday season. The city celebrates with the Scottsdale Holiday ArtWalk and other festive events.
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale: Season by Season
Now, let’s look at the seasons. Winter in Scottsdale (December to February) is mild and sunny. It’s a popular time for visitors escaping colder climates, hence higher hotel prices. The city hosts several events like the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.
Spring (March to May) brings warmer weather and a host of activities. The hotel prices peak in March due to spring training baseball games but start to drop by May. Events like the Scottsdale Arts Festival make it a vibrant time to visit.
Summer (June to August) is extremely hot, but it’s also when you can find the best hotel deals. The city hosts fun events like the Scottsdale Spice Culinary Event and the Mighty Mud Mania. If you can handle the heat, it’s a budget-friendly time to visit.
Fall (September to November) offers more comfortable temperatures and a range of cultural events. The hotel prices rise slightly but are still reasonable. The Scottsdale International Film Festival is a highlight of this season.
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale: Summary
So, when is the best time to visit Scottsdale? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want mild weather and don’t mind higher hotel prices, winter and spring are ideal.
If you’re a baseball fan, spring is the perfect time to catch the spring training games. Art and food lovers will also enjoy the festivals during this season.
If you’re a budget traveler who can handle the heat, summer is the best time. You can enjoy low hotel rates and fun events like the Mighty Mud Mania.
If you prefer comfortable temperatures and cultural events, fall is a great time. You can enjoy the Scottsdale International Film Festival.
In terms of weather, Scottsdale is sunny almost all year round. The city receives minimal rainfall, and snowfall is extremely rare.
The hottest months are July and August, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). If you’re not used to such heat, it’s advisable to avoid these months.
The coolest months are December and January, with temperatures ranging between 40°F (4°C) and 68°F (20°C). These are comfortable temperatures for exploring the city and its surroundings.
The city also offers a variety of indoor activities like museums, art galleries, and shopping centers. So, even during the hot summer months, there’s plenty to do.
OUR PICK OF THE GUIDES
From that blues bar you haven’t visited yet to the desert hike you keep meaning to plan, experience something new right here at home with Moon 52 Things to Do in Phoenix & Tucson.
- Cool things to do in and around the cities: Kick back at a Spring Training game or squeeze into the grandstands of El Gran Mercado for some lucha libre. Bike the famed Loop in Tucson, kayak Tempe Town Lake, and lace up your boots for an urban hike in the Phoenix Mountains. Support local BIPOC writers at Palabras Bilingual Bookstore and taste what’s on tap at a women-owned brewery. Savor Sonoran-style food like tamales and carne asada or try authentic Tohono O’odham fry bread.
