Scottsdale is home to some of the best fine art photography galleries in the country and is considered to be one of the greatest art destinations in the country. Whether you want to check out the galleries on your own or participate in one of the city’s many ArtWalk events or go for a Charity Art Auction, there is something for every art enthusiast in the heart of the Southwest.
Most of the galleries are a short walk from one another in Old Town Scottsdale. This area is the location of the Scottsdale Artwalk events. The galleries are in amongst other downtown Scottsdale shops and restaurants so there are also plenty of places to stop for a bite or impulse buy along the way.
Located in Downtown Scottsdale along Main Street and Marshall Way, the Scottsdale Arts District boasts some of the country’s finest art galleries in an exciting and walkable environment.
On Marshall Way, between 5th Avenue and Indian School Road, there are nine different galleries to explore including Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. On Main Street between Goldwater and Scottsdale Road, there are almost 20 different galleries. Both of these areas are also close to other parts of downtown Scottsdale, like the public library and western-themed retail.
Most people either start at Marshall Way and 5th Avenue and work their way down and across or at Scottsdale Road and Main Street and work their way over and up. Regardless, you can start your art walk anywhere there’s parking or even by a restaurant you visit.
Art lovers can view exhibitions from artists around the world in many different mediums, styles, and subjects. Each gallery has its own unique style so being able to walk around and see many different galleries at once is a huge advantage to any art buyers.
For lovers of fine art photography, there are quite a few options available, including Nature Exposed Photography. This non-traditional gallery showcases nature photographs from all over the Southwest. Another great option is On The Edge Gallery, which features digital art and photography collections from artists all over Arizona.
Best Time To Visit Scottsdale Galleries
Scottsdale weather is generally great and comfortable to walk around in, however, there are some summer months where it’s understandable if you want to drive between a few Old Town Scottsdale galleries instead of walking.
The most popular months of the year to visit Scottsdale are between October and April, though the galleries are open year-round.
In general, galleries are open to visitors for set hours during the day (usually 10am to 5pm). A few select galleries can be visited by appointment only. However, on Thursday nights, most of the local galleries open their doors to visitors of the Scottsdale ArtWalk with extended hours until about 9pm.
For more information and to learn about available galleries and opening hours, check out the Scottsdale Galleries website.
What is the Scottsdale Art Walk?
Since 1975, each Thursday night downtown Scottsdale’s Art District comes alive with the Scottsdale ArtWalk. Experience the city’s history as you participate in the oldest continuous art walk in the country!
This event offers both seasoned collectors and casual patrons the opportunity to stroll through more than 40 galleries in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk down the famed Main Street and Marshall Way to visit galleries, restaurants, and shops while listening to local musicians.
This cherished community tradition runs from 7pm to 9pm. Throughout the night, you will find plenty of spots to take your own photos, as well. From statue installations to bubbling fountains and tree-covered courtyards, there are many opportunities for you to create your own works of art.
What Are the Gold Palette ArtWalks?
On select nights, visitors can enjoy the Scottsdale Gallery Association’s Gold Palette ArtWalks. These special events bring together 28 galleries, including Altamira Fine Art Scottsdale, Mainview Gallery, Wilde Meyer and more to engage with fine art, photography, entertainment, and community.
Gold Palette nights happen eight times each year and feature a dedicated theme, extended gallery hours, and special activities. Some nights even include complimentary wine tasting and small bites.
At each Gold Palette event, you’ll experience a variety of art themes and unique experiences ranging from native American art to car shows infused with live artists. The theme of each night is enhanced by live music and entertainment.
How to Enjoy Fine Art in Scottsdale
Home to some of the country’s finest art galleries, options are plenty, so plan multiple visits
Pre-game: Check out the ArtWalk website and map out your route and your must-see galleries
The weather in Scottsdale is famously warm, though winters can still get chilly so bring a light jacket
Enjoy a stroll through the Scottsdale Art District’s ArtWalk every Thursday night from 7 to 9 p.m.
On select nights, the Gold Palette ArtWalk series features extended gallery hours and special activities/experiences.
Check out surrounding restaurants or shops that interest you along the way.
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Want to Create an Art Gallery in Your Own Home?
After enjoying some of the incredible fine art photography galleries in Scottsdale, you may be inspired to create some art in your own home! ArtisanHD’s fine art printing specialists can transform your photographs into personalized masterpieces.
A self-motivated professional with a positive attitude, Aaron is always open to learning something new. His background includes working with national and international marketing teams to help develop and execute large multi-touch marketing campaigns, fine art prints for both artists and businesses, creative and much more. Along the way, he co-founded two agencies and now serves as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at ArtisanHD where he loves pushing the boundaries of design in order to exceed client expectations.
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