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Scottsdale Civic Center: A Desert Oasis

Discover Scottsdale's cultural heart: a vibrant park with art, events, and history in the heart of Old Town. A must-see destination!

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The Scottsdale Civic Center is a vibrant urban park in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona. It serves as a cultural hub and community gathering place, featuring lush gardens, public art, event spaces, and historical landmarks. The Civic Center seamlessly blends Scottsdale's Western heritage with modern artistic expression.

A brief summary to Scottsdale Civic Center

Local tips

  • Check the city's event calendar for concerts, festivals, and other activities happening at the Civic Center.
  • Explore the public art installations throughout the park, including the iconic LOVE sculpture.
  • Visit the Scottsdale Historical Museum to learn about the city's transformation from a small agricultural town to a modern urban center.
  • Enjoy a performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts or browse the exhibits at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale, walk east on Main Street for one block. Turn left onto N Drinkwater Blvd and walk north for two blocks. The Scottsdale Civic Center will be on your left. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Indian School Road, take the Scottsdale Trolley north to the stop at 2nd Street and Drinkwater Boulevard. Walk north on Drinkwater Boulevard for one block to reach the Scottsdale Civic Center. The trolley is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Scottsdale Fashion Square, use a ride-share service to travel to the Scottsdale Civic Center. Input '3939 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251' as the destination. The ride is approximately 2 miles and typically costs $8-$12, depending on demand.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the Scottsdale Civic Center. The Civic Center Library Garage (3803 N Drinkwater Blvd) and the Civic Center Lot and Garage (3888 N Wells Fargo Ave) are convenient options. Parking rates typically range from $1.50 to $2 per hour. Be aware of the 3-hour limit on the middle level of the Library Garage.

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Discover more about Scottsdale Civic Center

The Scottsdale Civic Center, located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, is a nine-acre urban oasis that serves as a cultural hub and community gathering place. Originally conceived in 1966, the Civic Center has evolved over the years to become a central part of Scottsdale's identity. The Civic Center's design, initially led by architect Bennie Gonzales, reflects a Southwestern modernist style that harmonizes with the desert environment. The Civic Center features a variety of attractions, including Scottsdale City Hall, the Civic Center Library, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA). Public art is a prominent feature, with notable sculptures like Robert Indiana's LOVE sculpture and George-Ann Tognoni's The Yearlings adding to the center's artistic appeal. The park also includes an outdoor amphitheater, fountains, lagoons, and gardens, providing spaces for relaxation and recreation. Recent renovations have transformed the Civic Center into a modern, multi-functional space that meets the diverse needs of the community. The redesign focused on sustainability, increased shade, and improved accessibility, while preserving the site's historical features. A new 360-degree event structure and permanent stage have been added to enhance the Civic Center's capacity to host concerts, shows, and community events. The Civic Center is a popular destination for both residents and tourists, offering a blend of cultural attractions, recreational amenities, and community events.

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