The Charm and Heritage of Old Town Scottsdale

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeAdios
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• YesYep
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• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/noh proh-blem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn mee/my bad]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin']
• Fine. And you?Doin' good. You?
  [doin' good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak english?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [ah don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [kan eye see thee men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ah don't doh meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [ahll pay now, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Scram!
  [skram]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [ahm all turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [ahm feelin' und-er thee weath-er]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [just lookin']
• How much is it?How much for that?
  [how much for that?]
• That's too expensiveThat's spendy
  [that's spendy]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [can ya knock the price down?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats thee time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
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• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
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• 9Nine
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• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thee...?]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats thee add-ee?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point me in the right direction?
  [can ya point me in thee rite di-rek-shun?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thee next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [a pass (to ....)]

Scottsdale was founded in 1888 by Winfield Scott, a U.S. Army chaplain, who envisioned transforming the desert landscape into a vibrant community. He named the area after himself, and his efforts included the establishment of the first school and various businesses that attracted settlers to the region. This laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Old Town Scottsdale.

In the early 1900s, Scottsdale experienced significant agricultural development, particularly with the introduction of irrigation systems. The Arizona Canal, completed in 1885, provided water to the surrounding desert, allowing crops such as citrus fruits and vegetables to thrive. This agricultural boom attracted more settlers and contributed to the growth of Old Town Scottsdale.

By the mid-20th century, Scottsdale had begun to establish itself as a cultural hub, with artists flocking to the area to take advantage of the stunning desert landscapes. The Scottsdale Arts Festival, first held in 1971, showcased local artists and helped cement Old Town Scottsdale's reputation as an arts destination. This artistic movement was pivotal in shaping the neighborhood's identity.

In the 1960s and 1970s, efforts began to preserve the historic buildings of Old Town Scottsdale. The city recognized the importance of maintaining its architectural heritage, leading to the restoration of several key structures, including the iconic Hotel Valley Ho, which opened in 1956. These preservation efforts have contributed to the neighborhood's charm and appeal.

Today, Old Town Scottsdale is a vibrant blend of old and new, featuring modern art galleries, upscale shops, and a thriving nightlife scene. The neighborhood hosts numerous cultural events, including the Scottsdale International Film Festival and various art walks. This fusion of historical significance and contemporary culture continues to attract visitors and residents alike.

Old Town Scottsdale is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Scottsdale. If you're coming from Scottsdale Waterfront, it's just a short 10-minute walk. For those traveling from further away, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the nearest major airport, approximately 10 miles away. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the Valley Metro Light Rail to reach Old Town. The light rail offers a direct route to the Scottsdale area, with a transfer point at the 50th Street/Washington station.

Old Town Scottsdale is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located close together. Bicycles can be rented from local shops or through bike-sharing services. The area also has a free trolley service that operates throughout the neighborhood, providing easy access to major attractions. For longer distances, rideshare services and taxis are readily available.

Old Town Scottsdale is generally a safe area for tourists. However, like any urban environment, it's important to stay vigilant, especially at night. While most areas are safe, it's advisable to be cautious in poorly lit areas after dark and to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Specific areas to avoid due to higher crime rates include parts of the Scottsdale Waterfront at night.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are several hospitals and urgent care facilities nearby, including Scottsdale Healthcare. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For non-emergency health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for the warm climate, and don't wear overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Don't take photos in places where it is prohibited. Public Transport: Do be polite and yield your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and 'Hello'. Don’t forget to thank people for their help. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southwestern cuisine and enjoy outdoor dining. Don’t waste food or be dismissive of local specialties.

To experience Old Town Scottsdale like a local, explore the art galleries and boutique shops, especially along Main Street and Marshall Way. Join in on local events such as the Scottsdale ArtWalk, which occurs every Thursday evening, showcasing local artists. Try to visit the weekly Scottsdale Farmers Market for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with locals at coffee shops or the community park to learn more about the area’s history and culture.