Things To Do
in Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is an upscale desert enclave just northeast of central Phoenix, known for its luxury resorts and mountain vistas. The area features meticulously manicured landscapes, high-end dining, and glamorous residential estates tucked along the Sonoran Desert slopes. While most visitors come to relax at resort spas and enjoy scenic drives, there are easy access points to the broader Phoenix-Scottsdale culture, outdoor adventures, and golf.
The town benefits from its proximity to Phoenix while preserving a quiet, resort-style atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the beautiful Paradise Valley and check into your luxurious accommodation with stunning mountain views. Spend the morning settling in and enjoying a refreshing welcome drink while you take in the serene surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll around the hotel to familiarize yourself with the amenities and nearby attractions.
After lunch at a local café, embark on a scenic drive through the valley, soaking in the picturesque landscapes and vibrant desert flora. Stop at the historic Goldwater Lake for a quick hike or simply to capture some beautiful photographs. Wind down your afternoon with a visit to a local art gallery showcasing the work of regional artists.
Savor a delightful dinner at one of Paradise Valley's acclaimed restaurants, where you can indulge in Southwestern cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a cozy evening by the fire pit at your hotel, sharing stories with fellow travelers. Conclude your first day with a stargazing session, marveling at the clear skies and the expanse of the desert night.
After breakfast, head to downtown Scottsdale, known for its vibrant arts scene and shopping boutiques. Discover local crafts and unique art pieces as you wander through the Scottsdale Waterfront. Don’t forget to stop by the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art for an inspiring start to your day.
Enjoy lunch at a trendy bistro in Old Town Scottsdale, featuring farm-to-table dishes that showcase regional ingredients. Spend your afternoon visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can wander through paths lined with beautiful desert plants and learn about local ecosystems. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the nearby scenic trails.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to one of Scottsdale's rooftop bars for panoramic views of the horizon. Enjoy craft cocktails while mingling with locals and tourists alike, making for a lively atmosphere. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚗Taxi or ride-share 3-5 miles | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel room | $150-260 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Luxurious resorts and stunning desert scenery
- Short travel distance to a wide range of outdoor activities and cultural sites
- Can be expensive, especially at resorts and fine dining venues
- Car-dependent layout with limited public transit within Paradise Valley
Places to Visit in Paradise Valley
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic silhouette of Camelback Mountain at sunrise or sunset makes for dramatic desert photography.
Desert cliffs, resort architecture, and palm-lined vistas bathed in golden light.
Rugged desert landscape with city lights in the distance; great for wide-angle shots.
Peaceful water features and palm-lined scenery along Paradise Valley roads, ideal for reflections and serene compositions.
Food in Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bacon-wrapped hot dog with pinto beans, tomatoes, onions, jalapeño salsa, and mustard; widely available from street vendors and casual stands in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.
Must-Try!
Cheesy tortillas smothered in green chile sauce; common in southwest-inspired menus across local restaurants.
Fresh, protein-forward bowls featuring grilled meat, peppers, beans, and flavorful sauces at many resort eateries and casual spots.
Smoked or grilled proteins with desert-seasoned rubs commonly offered at upscale resort dining rooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Downtown Phoenix market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts; good for a day trip stop or weekend visit.
Market offering produce, artisanal foods, and regional specialties; great for sampling local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, informal greetings are common; respect personal space and be mindful of tipping norms for service staff.
Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and ask permission when photographing private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Paradise Valley
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice: 15-20% at restaurants; tip bellhops, valet, and housekeeping similarly; higher tips for exceptional service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; most places support credit/debit, contactless payments, and mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot with frequent monsoon activity in late summer. Hydrate, wear sun protection, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler mornings and evenings; excellent hiking conditions and comfortable outdoor dining.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert flora; ideal for outdoor recreation and photography.
Warm days with cooler evenings; great time for golf, outdoor dining, and scenic drives without the peak heat.
Paradise Valley at Night
Hiking in Paradise Valley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic, steep ascent with dramatic city views; challenging but rewarding.
Rugged desert hike with picturesque rock formations near Paradise Valley.
Accessible city-adjacent peak with panoramic skyline views; popular with locals.
Scenic, moderately challenging hike through rocky desert terrain with views over Scottsdale.
Airports
How to reach Paradise Valley by plane.
Main international airport serving Paradise Valley; frequent shuttles, ride-shares, and rental cars provide easy access to PV.
Public-use general aviation airport near Paradise Valley; convenient for private flights and charters.
Secondary airport serving the East Valley; longer drive from PV but options for certain low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
High median incomes; upscale housing and luxury amenities define the area.
Many residents split time between PV and other states, contributing to a transient seasonal population.
Commuters to the Phoenix-Scottsdale area who value outdoor recreation and golf.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the most popular regional activities with multiple championship courses set against desert mountains.
Resort and club facilities with coaching and tournaments available.
Extensive desert trails in preserve areas and foothills surrounding the valley.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paradise Valley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in the area offer vegetarian options; look for plant-based bowls, salads, grilled vegetables, and revised menus; notify staff of any dietary restrictions in advance.