Free Historic Tour of Old Town Scottsdale
What makes Old Town Scottsdale such a unique destination – for tourists, travelers and residents alike: you can find a little bit (and sometimes a lot) of everything. From Native American art to Contemporary art, country music to techno, wine bars to cowboy bars, upscale restaurants to inexpensive cafes, and Barneys to boutique shops you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And it’s all concentrated in an area that’s perhaps two-three square miles in the heart of Scottsdale.
“Old Town” Scottsdale is made up of five districts that meld and flow into one another; each with a distinct personality: The 5th Avenue shopping district, world-renowned Marshall Way contemporary arts district, Main Street arts and antiques district, Old Town (the city’s origins), and the Brown & Stetson business districts. There’s also the Waterfront and Fashion Square Mall on Camelback. These areas are easily navigated on foot (or by Trolley, which is free) and are peppered with specialty shops, bars, restaurants, and art galleries.
But, while Old Town Scottsdale is the name often used to describe all five districts (plus the recently developed Waterfront). Technically, it’s only one section and is comprised of the 40 acres originally subdivided by Rhode Island transplant Albert G. Utley in 1894. He named the city Scottsdale after US Army chaplain Winfield Scott, who played a monumental role in encouraging the first settlers to make this area their new home.
Sidewalk Map - Old Town Scottsdale
To get to know Old Town, take the city’s 60-minute self-guided walking tour of original Scottsdale. It begins at the “Little Red Schoolhouse” built in 1909 and now home of the Scottsdale Historical Museum. It ends with the Scottsdale Public Library (Civic Center Branch) and takes you for a journey through Old Town. Along the way, you’ll see a total of 15 locations that create a picture of this once small farming town’s past. Stops include the Rusty Spur Saloon, originally built in 1921 as the Farmer’s State Bank of Scottsdale, as well as nationally known landmarks like the Pink Pony Steakhouse (which is now closed) on Scottsdale Rd. For more information on this walk, including a map and descriptions of each of the stops, click here. You’ll also notice great little maps painted onto the sidewalk, complete with directions.
IF YOU GO
What: Historic Old Town Scottsdale Tour
When: Anytime; note the Scottsdale Historical Museum is open Wed—Sun; Sept. 10a—2p; Oct—May 10a—5p and June 10a—2p. Admission is Free.
Where: Old Town Scottsdale: Map & Descriptions
Web site: www.scottsdalemuseum.com
