Planning a Scottsdale bar crawl? Scottsdale’s nightlife is legendary, and a well-planned bar crawl is the best way to experience Old Town, top bars, and the city’s vibrant party scene.
Your Complete Guide to the Best Scottsdale Bar Crawl
Scottsdale’s nightlife is legendary, and a well-planned bar crawl is the best way to experience it all. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or visiting for a special occasion, this guide covers everything you need to know about planning the perfect Scottsdale bar crawl in 2026.
Old Town Scottsdale: The Heart of the Action
Old Town Scottsdale is ground zero for nightlife in the Valley. Within a few walkable blocks, you’ll find everything from dive bars to ultra-lounges. Start your crawl early at a restaurant-bar like The Montauk or Culinary Dropout, then ramp up the energy as you move toward the clubs. Popular stops include Bottled Blonde, Maya Day + Nightclub, Casa Amigos, and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row.
For groups coming from outside Scottsdale, a party bus bar crawl eliminates the parking and ride-share headaches entirely. Wild West Party Bus picks up your entire group and drops you right in the heart of Old Town.
The Entertainment District
Just south of Old Town, the Entertainment District along Camelback Road offers a slightly different vibe. Think upscale lounges and trendy cocktail bars. Highlights include The Mint Ultra Lounge, Hi-Fi Kitchen & Cocktails, and Riot House. This area tends to draw a slightly older, more dressed-up crowd.
Cave Creek: The Wild Card
For something completely different, head north to Cave Creek and hit up Buffalo Chip Saloon. Live music, bull riding, and genuine cowboy atmosphere make it a must-visit. It’s about 30 minutes from Old Town, making it an ideal party bus destination.
Bar Crawl Tips for 2026
Start early (8-9 PM) to beat the lines. Dress smart-casual to upscale for Old Town venues. Most clubs have cover charges after 10 PM. Bring cash for faster bar service. Stay hydrated — Arizona heat doesn’t quit after dark. And most importantly, plan your transportation ahead of time.
Best Way to Bar Crawl: Party Bus
The smartest move for any Scottsdale bar crawl is booking a party bus. No splitting up in Ubers, no surge pricing, no designated driver debates. Wild West Party Bus fits up to 35 people and the bus itself becomes the pre-game. Perfect for bachelorette parties, bachelor parties, birthdays, and group outings from Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, and Phoenix.
