Scottsdale has often been called Arizona's version of South Beach because of its vibrant, active nightlife and all that it offers to see and do. It's proximity to Phoenix and other suburbs also means that it offers plenty of opportunities, and many great neighborhoods to live in – in fact, it has often been named as one of America's "most livable" cities by a variety of publications. It's a thriving, diverse, friendly city that would make a wonderful place to call home.
Some Scottsdale History
The area that is now Scottsdale was officially incorporated in 1951. At that time, only 2,000 people lived in the city – today, more than 230,000 call it home. The city is named after U.S. Army Chaplain, Winfield Scott, who visited the area in the late 1800s, loved it and purchased a 640-acre piece of land to begin a farming operation. Today, that land is part of the heart of downtown Scottsdale. The favorable climate of Scottsdale, as well as its beautiful scenery, contributed to the growth of both agriculture and tourism, two industries that are still very important to the city today. Today, Scottsdale is a vibrant, diverse, friendly city that is welcoming to all and full of opportunity.
Scottsdale - A Few Fun Facts
Read more fun facts about Scottsdale here.
The LGBTQ Community in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a city with a growing and thriving LGBTQ community that is well-supported by a variety of community resources, including:
One Community Arizona is a statewide community group that works to ensure that Arizona businesses, organizations, faith leaders, and individuals work together to advance workplace equality and equal treatment in housing and public accommodations for LGBTQ individuals and their allies.
PFLAG Phoenix is the local chapter of the national PFLAG organization serving the greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country, with 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members across the United States, PFLAG plays an important and necessary role in providing advocacy, resources, networking opportunities, and support to the LGBTQ community.
What's the Weather Like in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale has a desert-type climate, which means there is very little rainfall (11 inches per year, on average) and low relative humidity. Temperatures during the day are typically high throughout the summer, in fact some of the hottest in the United States, with highs in July reaching an average of 104°F. With all of that heat comes plenty of sun too – Scottsdale is one of the world's sunniest cities. Winters in Scottsdale are generally mild. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing during the three coldest months of the year, but by the afternoon, the weather is usually warm and sunny again. Fall and spring in Scottsdale are generally pleasant seasons and offer wonderful opportunities for residents to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Can’t-Miss Events in Scottsdale
The Phoenix Pride Festival, just a short drive from Scottsdale, has been organizing marches, rallies, parades, educational events, and outreach projects to celebrate the Phoenix LGBTQ+ community for 40 years. The Pride festival is a two-day celebration designed to bring the LGBTQ+ and allied communities together in camaraderie and celebration while also raising funds for the Phoenix Pride Community Programs and providing education to the greater Phoenix community about LGBTQ issues, and all that the LGBTQ community adds to the city.
Where to Live in Scottsdale
While some cities tend to have one particular “gayborhood” that attracts most of the LGBTQ community, Scottsdale tends to have an LGBTQ community that is spread across the city, with many great neighborhoods to choose from. Generally, Scottsdale is considered to have some of the best homes in the Phoenix area. One area that is particularly popular with the LGBTQ community is Old Town. Old Town has a western feel to it and is home to many galleries, museums, and other businesses, as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightspots. The median sale price of homes in Old Town over the last year was approximately $425,000.
Arts and Entertainment
Spending a day exploring Old Town Scottsdale and all that it offers is always great fun. This historic part of town offers plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightspots, all within walkable distance to enjoy.
Since the 1960s, the Arizona Theatre Company, a professional regional theatre company located in both Phoenix and Tucson, has been performing a season of six innovative, inspiring, and moving productions for theatre lovers in the area. You won’t want to miss a season.
Parks and Recreation
Phoenix Gay Flag Football League
The Phoenix Gay Flag Football League is a recreational league in Phoenix open to the LGBTQ community and its allies, regardless of experience level or ability. Serving the greater Phoenix area including Scottsdale, the mission of PGFFL is to provide those who participate with a safe space to grow, get some healthy exercise, have fun, and make friends. In addition to its sporting events, PGFFL also used fundraisers and cultural events to raise awareness and support causes important to the LGBTQ community.
The Scottsdale area is known for its natural beauty, and Camelback Mountain is perhaps one of its most well-known natural wonders. A hike to the top of this iconic peak promises not only a great day of healthy exercise but also beautiful panoramic views of the city below.
Scottsdale Nightlife
BS West has been a popular LGBTQ nightspot in Scottsdale since 1988. Located in Old Town, BS West is a two-story bar known for its great drink specials, dance parties, and themed nights. It’s a great place to relax with old friends – and meet new ones.
Nu Towne Saloon is a western-themed nightspot that is one of the oldest in the Phoenix area. Known for its eccentric décor, its friendly bartenders, lively crowds, and fun theme nights, it’s a great spot to put on your list for a fun night out in Scottsdale.
Contact a Scottsdale Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Scottsdale, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Scottsdale, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Scottsdale gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
