Main Street Arts District
April 29, 2019
Located in the heart of downtown Scottsdale in Old Town, the Main Street Arts District is edged by Main Street, 1st Avenue, Scottsdale Road, and 69th Street. The District is home to galleries that represent over 1,000 artists, both local and worldwide. It has become a premier destination for art collectors, with every genre of the art world represented in the many galleries. If you’re wondering what to do in Scottsdale, then consider visiting the Scottsdale Art District.
The Art of Scottsdale
Whether you want to add to your art collection or make that first important purchase, there is a gallery here to meet your needs and tastes. You won’t be able to leave Old Town without a remembrance (or two!) of your visit here. Paintings, sculpture, jewelry and much more can be found in the galleries spread throughout Old Town. Interested in Western-themed art, abstract, modern, or a piece from a specific part of the world? There will be a gallery for you in Old Town. Interested in the act of making art? You can watch a demonstration or schedule a lesson at a studio in the Main Street Arts District.
Weekly art walks have been occurring in Old Town in the Scottsdale Art District since 1976 and take place every Thursday evening. Galleries keep their doors open late for relaxed browsing before you head off to one of the many nearby dining establishments.
For more art, visit the Phoenix Art Museum in nearby downtown Phoenix. The largest museum in the southwest, the museum’s collections house over 19,000 works from artists worldwide in a variety of genres including contemporary art and fashion design.
You can relax by taking a food or wine tasting tour. There are several wineries in the area with offering tours. And of course, Arizona is famous for its outdoor activities. Most days during the year are sunny and the weather amazing outside of summer. Hike, bike, take a Segway, or ride a horse through the desert. Visit the Cosanti Foundation, where the Soleri Windbells are made, or Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, an amazing tour whether you are an architecture buff or not.
Discover the Cultural Side of Scottsdale at the Main Street Arts District
There is much to occupy your time in the district. Browse the galleries and special exhibits, enjoy one of the many festivals and annual art events happening year-round, or dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Or just saunter through the night, listening to live music and absorbing the unique atmosphere that is Old Town. For information on the galleries, visit the Scottsdale Galleries Association website.
