Scottsdale Weather by Month: Best Time to Visit and Top Activities

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Hey, fellow travel enthusiasts! Planning a trip to Scottsdale and trying to figure out the best time to visit? I’ve got you covered! Scottsdale is a year-round destination with something special to offer in every season. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a little R&R, the weather can make all the difference. In this guide, I’ll walk you through Scottsdale’s weather month by month and highlight the best things to do during each time of year. So, whether you’re chasing sunshine or looking to escape the heat, you’ll know exactly when to plan your perfect Scottsdale getaway!

Introduction

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a gem in the desert that attracts visitors with its beautiful weather, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene. But with such a diverse climate, planning your trip at the right time is essential. From the cool, crisp winters to the sizzling summer days, this guide will help you navigate Scottsdale’s weather by month and find the best activities to enjoy during your visit. Whether you’re planning to hike, golf, or indulge in Scottsdale’s world-class dining, this guide will ensure you make the most of your trip. Let’s dive into Scottsdale’s weather and the must-do activities for each month.

January – Cool and Crisp:

January in Scottsdale is all about mild temperatures and sunny skies, making it one of the best months to visit if you’re not a fan of the heat. Highs typically hover around 65°F (18°C), while the nights can dip into the 40s°F (4-9°C). It’s the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring Old Town Scottsdale. You’ll want to pack layers since mornings and evenings can be chilly, but the daytime weather is perfect for soaking up some sunshine without breaking a sweat.

Things to Do:

Hiking at Pinnacle Peak: Enjoy the cooler weather and stunning desert views on this popular trail.
Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction: Car enthusiasts will love this world-famous auction held in January.
Scottsdale Art Walk: Explore galleries and enjoy local art every Thursday evening in Old Town Scottsdale.

Pro Tip: January is also peak tourist season, so book your accommodations early if you plan to visit during this time.

February – Sunny and Comfortable:

February continues the trend of mild, pleasant weather. With highs in the upper 60s°F (19-21°C) and lows in the mid-40s°F (7-9°C), it’s a great time for outdoor exploration. February also brings a few rain showers, but nothing that should deter you from enjoying Scottsdale’s beautiful scenery.

Things to Do:

McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Waste Management Phoenix Open: Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” this PGA Tour event is a must-see.
Arizona Renaissance Festival: Travel back in time with jousting tournaments, artisan shops, and live entertainment.

Pro Tip: This is a great time to explore the Sonoran Desert without the summer heat, and the crowds are slightly less than in January.

March – Spring Awakens:

March is when Scottsdale starts to warm up, with daytime temperatures climbing into the 70s°F (21-24°C). This is one of the best months to visit if you enjoy hiking, as the desert blooms with wildflowers, and the weather is still comfortable enough for long walks.

Things to Do:

Spring Training Baseball: Catch a Cactus League game featuring MLB teams.
Scottsdale Culinary Festival: A foodie’s paradise with tastings, chef demonstrations, and live music.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar over the Sonoran Desert and take in the breathtaking views.

Pro Tip: March is also the start of Spring Training for Major League Baseball, so if you’re a sports fan, this is a great time to catch a game.

April – Warming Up:

April brings even warmer temperatures, with highs reaching the low 80s°F (26-28°C). The mornings and evenings remain cool, but midday can get warm, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly. This is still a fantastic month to visit if you want to enjoy the outdoors without the intense heat of summer.

Things to Do:

Desert Botanical Garden: Enjoy the blooming cacti and wildflowers.
Western Week: Dive into Scottsdale’s cowboy culture with parades, art exhibits, and historical reenactments.
Scottsdale Wine Trail: Spend an afternoon tasting wines from Arizona’s top vineyards.

Pro Tip: April is a great time for a poolside vacation. Many of Scottsdale’s resorts start to open their pool areas, and you can enjoy the sun without the summer crowds.

May – Early Summer Vibes:

May marks the beginning of Scottsdale’s summer, with temperatures climbing into the 90s°F (32-35°C). While it’s getting warmer, the evenings are still relatively cool, making it a good time for evening hikes and outdoor dining. If you can handle the heat, May is a great month to visit before the real summer heat kicks in.

Things to Do:

Salt River Tubing: Cool off and float down the Salt River.
Arizona Restaurant Week: Savor Scottsdale’s culinary scene with special prix fixe menus at top restaurants.
Spa Day: Treat yourself to a luxury spa experience at one of Scottsdale’s renowned resorts.

Pro Tip: This is a great time to take advantage of lower hotel rates as the crowds thin out.

June – The Heat Arrives:

June is when the summer heat truly arrives in Scottsdale. Daytime highs regularly exceed 100°F (38°C), and the nights offer little relief, staying in the 70s°F (21-24°C). This is the time of year when most visitors retreat to the pools or indoor attractions during the day.

Things to Do:

Resort Pool Day: Take advantage of Scottsdale’s luxury resorts and spend the day poolside.
OdySea Aquarium: Beat the heat with a visit to this state-of-the-art marine attraction.
Indoor Shopping: Explore the high-end shops at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in June, make sure to stay hydrated and plan your outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening.

July – Scorching Summer:

July is the hottest month in Scottsdale, with temperatures often reaching 105°F (40°C) or higher. Monsoon season also begins in July, bringing short bursts of heavy rain and thunderstorms, which can be a refreshing break from the heat.

Things to Do:

Spa and Wellness Retreats: Escape the heat with a day of pampering.
Indoor Rock Climbing: Head to one of Scottsdale’s indoor climbing gyms for an active day out of the sun.
Celebrate the 4th of July: Enjoy fireworks and festivities at local events like the Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for deals, July is the time to visit. Resorts offer deep discounts, and you’ll have no trouble finding a spot by the pool.

August – Hot and Humid:

August continues the monsoon season, with similar temperatures to July but with added humidity. The afternoon thunderstorms can cool things down a bit, but it’s still very hot. This is the month to take advantage of Scottsdale’s indoor attractions, like museums and shopping centers.

Things to Do:

Arizona Science Center: A fun and educational way to spend a day indoors.
Desert Ridge Marketplace: Explore shops, restaurants, and live entertainment in the evening when it cools down.
MIM (Musical Instrument Museum): Discover music from around the world in this fascinating museum.

Pro Tip: August is a great time for spa treatments, as many resorts offer summer specials.

September – Transition to Fall:

September sees a slight drop in temperatures, with highs in the upper 90s°F (35-37°C). The humidity from the monsoon season begins to fade, making it a more comfortable time to visit. If you’re a fan of summer but want to avoid the extreme heat, September is a good option.

Things to Do:

Scottsdale ArtWalk: Explore Old Town’s galleries during the monthly Gold Palette ArtWalk.
Fall Festivals: Enjoy local events like the Arizona Taco Festival or Scottsdale Polo Party.
Golfing: Hit the links at one of Scottsdale’s world-class golf courses as the weather begins to cool.

Pro Tip: Early September can still be quite hot, so if you’re looking for cooler weather, consider visiting later in the month.

October – Perfect Weather Returns:

October is one of the best months to visit Scottsdale. The weather is warm but not hot, with highs in the 80s°F (26-29°C) and lows in the 60s°F (15-18°C). It’s ideal for outdoor activities, and the desert landscape is at its most beautiful.

Things to Do:

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: Enjoy family-friendly activities and rides.
Halloween Events: Get into the spooky spirit with events like the Haunted Hotel Ball.
Butterfly Wonderland: Walk among thousands of butterflies in this immersive experience.

Pro Tip: October is also festival season in Scottsdale, with events like the Arizona Taco Festival and the Scottsdale International Film Festival.

November – Mild and Pleasant:

November is another great month to visit Scottsdale, with temperatures in the 70s°F (21-24°C) during the day and 50s°F (10-14°C) at night. It’s the perfect weather for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions, from hiking trails to botanical gardens.

Things to Do:

Canal Convergence: This annual art event transforms the Arizona Canal with stunning light displays.
Scottsdale Golf: Enjoy a round of golf in perfect weather at one of Scottsdale’s premier courses.
Arizona International Auto Show: A must-see for car enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: November is also a great time for golfing in Scottsdale, with the perfect combination of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

December – Cool and Festive:

December in Scottsdale is cool and festive, with daytime temperatures in the mid-60s°F (17-19°C) and nights in the 40s°F (4-9°C). While it’s not the warmest time to visit, it’s still mild compared to much of the country. The city is also beautifully decorated for the holidays, making it a charming time to explore.

Things to Do:

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights: A magical holiday experience for the whole family.
Scottsdazzle: Scottsdale’s month-long holiday celebration features light displays, parades, and events.
Old Town Scottsdale: Stroll through Old Town and enjoy holiday shopping and dining.

Pro Tip: December is a great time to experience Scottsdale’s holiday events, such as the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights and the Scottsdale Waterfront Christmas lights.

Conclusion

Scottsdale truly offers something for everyone, no matter when you decide to visit. With this month-by-month guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect weather-wise and what activities to plan during your trip. From outdoor adventures to cultural events and holiday festivities, Scottsdale has it all. Safe travels, and I can’t wait to hear about your Scottsdale experiences!