Located in the Salt River Valley, or the "Valley of the Sun," in the northern reaches of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale combines the reflection and peace of nature at its most stunning with a full menu of diverse and unique activities and experiences.

Considered part of the Greater Phoenix Area and only 20 minutes (in good traffic) from the Phoenix airport, Scottsdale offers a charm of its own. Old Town Scottsdale features old-fashioned stores, contemporary restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Shoppers can enjoy both the quaint and the modern, as Scottsdale Fashion, one of the 20 largest malls in the U.S., calls Scottsdale home. Food lovers can sample diverse local and global cuisine.

Its arts district includes many of Scottsdale’s most renowned galleries and museums. For example, the award-winning Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West celebrates the history and culture of the American West. And open daily, galleries display the works of thousands of artists in all genres.

Old Town Scottsdale also enjoys a long-standing, record-making tradition. The nation’s longest-running Artwalk takes place on every Thursday in the arts district with highlights such as exhibit openings, artist demonstrations, and live entertainment. Galleries also populate other areas of downtown Scottsdale. In fact, the thriving arts scene in Scottsdale numbers more than 125 art galleries and studios.

As a tourist haven, Scottsdale attracts millions of visitors each year to the city, who use their time to explore and enjoy. With an impressive number of golf courses – more than 200 – some come to play or attend the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament at the Tournament Players Club.

Those with a thirst for outdoor adventure will find paradise in Scottsdale. Experience Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve and its 200 miles of shared-use trails, with easy strolls paths approved for those with disabilities to challenging summit climbs in the McDowell Mountains. Or choose from off-road desert tours, horseback riding, hot air balloon adventures, or just catch an amazing sunset.

What else is possible? All that Phoenix offers is just a short drive away, Sedona and the world-famous Grand Canyon only hours away. For more information about Scottsdale and the Phoenix area, visit here.

Your conference site at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch puts you within easy distance of many of Scottsdale’s and Phoenix’s attractions. Save some time to venture out and enjoy Scottsdale and beyond!