Getting Around Scottsdale
Scottsdale Airport information
Flying into Scottsdale is super convenient, whether you’re heading to a business event, a conference, or a resort getaway. The city is close to two major airports that make travel quick and easy. You’ll find plenty of options for flights, car rentals, and smooth connections to downtown Scottsdale and nearby resorts.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the main airport serving the Scottsdale area and one of the busiest in the U.S. It’s just about 9 miles southwest of downtown Scottsdale, so you can reach your hotel or meeting spot in under 20 minutes. Known as “America’s Friendliest Airport,” Sky Harbor is well organized and traveler-friendly, ideal for large groups flying in for events.
About 9 miles (15 minutes) from downtown Scottsdale
Has three passenger terminals with shops, dining, and lounges
Major airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, and United
Easy access to car rentals, shuttles, taxis, and ride-shares
On-site Car Rental Center at 1805 East Sky Harbor Circle South
Offers nonstop flights to major U.S. cities and international destinations
Perfect for meetings, conferences, and large corporate groups
Scottsdale Airport (SCF)
Located just 9 miles north of downtown Scottsdale, the Scottsdale Airport is a great pick for private jets and business travelers. It’s close to luxury resorts, fine dining, and top golf courses — making it ideal for VIP guests or executives attending high-profile events.
Around 133,000 takeoffs and landings each year
Handles mainly corporate and private jet travel (no commercial airlines)
Home to two top-notch fixed-base operators: Landmark Aviation and Scottsdale AirCenter
Offers on-site maintenance, passenger lounges, and quick ground handling
Recently added a U.S. Customs facility for international private flights
Just minutes from Paradise Valley resorts and Scottsdale’s event venues
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the main airport serving the Scottsdale area and one of the busiest in the U.S. It’s just about 9 miles southwest of downtown Scottsdale, so you can reach your hotel or meeting spot in under 20 minutes. Known as “America’s Friendliest Airport,” Sky Harbor is well organized and traveler-friendly, ideal for large groups flying in for events.
About 9 miles (15 minutes) from downtown Scottsdale
Has three passenger terminals with shops, dining, and lounges
Major airlines include American, Delta, Southwest, and United
Easy access to car rentals, shuttles, taxis, and ride-shares
On-site Car Rental Center at 1805 East Sky Harbor Circle South
Offers nonstop flights to major U.S. cities and international destinations
Perfect for meetings, conferences, and large corporate groups
Scottsdale Airport (SCF)
Located just 9 miles north of downtown Scottsdale, the Scottsdale Airport is a great pick for private jets and business travelers. It’s close to luxury resorts, fine dining, and top golf courses — making it ideal for VIP guests or executives attending high-profile events.
Around 133,000 takeoffs and landings each year
Handles mainly corporate and private jet travel (no commercial airlines)
Home to two top-notch fixed-base operators: Landmark Aviation and Scottsdale AirCenter
Offers on-site maintenance, passenger lounges, and quick ground handling
Recently added a U.S. Customs facility for international private flights
Just minutes from Paradise Valley resorts and Scottsdale’s event venues
Scottsdale Public Transportation information
Getting around Scottsdale is easy, with several public and private transportation options. Whether you’re a visitor exploring downtown or an event planner managing group travel, the city’s transit system is simple, safe, and well-connected.
Downtown Trolley
A favorite among locals and tourists, the free Scottsdale Trolley makes it easy to explore downtown without driving. It’s great for attendees staying at nearby hotels to move between restaurants, shops, and event venues.
Free, air-conditioned service operating year-round
Runs every 15 minutes, seven days a week
Operating hours: 10 a.m. to 9:25 p.m.
Stops near major attractions and hotels in Old Town Scottsdale
Valley Metro Bus Service
Valley Metro runs bus routes across Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area. It’s an affordable and reliable way to commute between airports, hotels, and event sites.
8 bus routes serving Scottsdale
One-way fare: $2; all-day pass: $6
Reduced fares for students (6–18), seniors (65+), and disabled passengers
Reduced one-way fare: $1; all-day pass: $3 (or $2 if bought in advance)
Passes can be purchased on buses or at transit centers
Car Rentals
If you prefer to drive, renting a car is easy. The Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Rental Car Center gathers all major companies in one place, just minutes from the terminals. Many resorts in Scottsdale also offer on-property rentals for convenience.
Address: 1805 East Sky Harbor Circle South, Phoenix
Terminal pick-up points:
Terminal 2: North curbside
Terminal 3: South curbside
Terminal 4: Level 1, south curbside at door 8
Shared Ride Van Service
For affordable group rides, SuperShuttle operates shared vans at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. They’re a great choice for small teams or attendees heading to the same hotel or event venue.
Vans depart every 15 minutes (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and run 24/7 on schedule
Fares range from $12 to $46 based on zone distance
Additional passenger fee: $8 per person
ADA-accessible vans available on request
TDD (hearing-impaired assistance): (602) 243-7786
Taxis
Taxis are available right outside each terminal at Sky Harbor, offering a convenient ride directly to Scottsdale hotels or venues. Pricing is standard, no matter the company.
Pickup points:
Terminal 2: East outside door 8
Terminal 3: North curb, outside door 7
Terminal 4: Level 1, north curb outside door 7, and south curb outside door 6
First mile: $5; additional miles: $2.30 each
Hourly wait time (traffic delays): $23/hour
Minimum fare: $15
Valley Metro Rail and Regional Transit
Valley Metro also offers regional light-rail and bus routes connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. While the rail doesn’t run directly through Scottsdale, riders can easily transfer between Valley Metro Rail and local bus routes to reach the city.
Valley Metro Rail runs from Phoenix Sky Harbor to downtown Phoenix and Tempe
Connects to bus routes for easy access to Scottsdale’s major hotels and venues
Ideal for budget travelers or attendees seeking eco-friendly transport options
Downtown Trolley
A favorite among locals and tourists, the free Scottsdale Trolley makes it easy to explore downtown without driving. It’s great for attendees staying at nearby hotels to move between restaurants, shops, and event venues.
Free, air-conditioned service operating year-round
Runs every 15 minutes, seven days a week
Operating hours: 10 a.m. to 9:25 p.m.
Stops near major attractions and hotels in Old Town Scottsdale
Valley Metro Bus Service
Valley Metro runs bus routes across Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area. It’s an affordable and reliable way to commute between airports, hotels, and event sites.
8 bus routes serving Scottsdale
One-way fare: $2; all-day pass: $6
Reduced fares for students (6–18), seniors (65+), and disabled passengers
Reduced one-way fare: $1; all-day pass: $3 (or $2 if bought in advance)
Passes can be purchased on buses or at transit centers
Car Rentals
If you prefer to drive, renting a car is easy. The Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Rental Car Center gathers all major companies in one place, just minutes from the terminals. Many resorts in Scottsdale also offer on-property rentals for convenience.
Address: 1805 East Sky Harbor Circle South, Phoenix
Terminal pick-up points:
Terminal 2: North curbside
Terminal 3: South curbside
Terminal 4: Level 1, south curbside at door 8
Shared Ride Van Service
For affordable group rides, SuperShuttle operates shared vans at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. They’re a great choice for small teams or attendees heading to the same hotel or event venue.
Vans depart every 15 minutes (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and run 24/7 on schedule
Fares range from $12 to $46 based on zone distance
Additional passenger fee: $8 per person
ADA-accessible vans available on request
TDD (hearing-impaired assistance): (602) 243-7786
Taxis
Taxis are available right outside each terminal at Sky Harbor, offering a convenient ride directly to Scottsdale hotels or venues. Pricing is standard, no matter the company.
Pickup points:
Terminal 2: East outside door 8
Terminal 3: North curb, outside door 7
Terminal 4: Level 1, north curb outside door 7, and south curb outside door 6
First mile: $5; additional miles: $2.30 each
Hourly wait time (traffic delays): $23/hour
Minimum fare: $15
Valley Metro Rail and Regional Transit
Valley Metro also offers regional light-rail and bus routes connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. While the rail doesn’t run directly through Scottsdale, riders can easily transfer between Valley Metro Rail and local bus routes to reach the city.
Valley Metro Rail runs from Phoenix Sky Harbor to downtown Phoenix and Tempe
Connects to bus routes for easy access to Scottsdale’s major hotels and venues
Ideal for budget travelers or attendees seeking eco-friendly transport options
