Your Ultimate Shopping Guide in Scottsdale: Where to Find the Best Souvenirs

Scottsdale, Arizona, is known for its stunning desert landscapes, luxurious resorts, and vibrant art scene. But for many travelers, one of the highlights of visiting Scottsdale is the opportunity to bring home a piece of the Southwest. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, a stylish piece of décor, or a keepsake to remind you of your trip, Scottsdale offers a wealth of shopping options to satisfy every taste.

In this ultimate shopping guide, we’ll explore the best places to shop for souvenirs in Scottsdale, focusing on spots that offer something truly special. From high-end boutiques to quirky local shops, you’ll find everything you need to bring a bit of the desert home with you. And, of course, we’ll spotlight Kactus Jock, a must-visit destination for anyone looking to find the perfect Arizona-themed gift.

The Charm of Old Town Scottsdale

No shopping guide to Scottsdale would be complete without a mention of Old Town Scottsdale. This historic district is a shopper’s paradise, offering a mix of art galleries, specialty shops, and souvenir stores that reflect the city’s unique blend of old and new. As you stroll through the streets of Old Town, you’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and Native American art to modern fashion and one-of-a-kind home décor.

The best part about shopping in Old Town Scottsdale is the variety. Whether you’re looking for a high-end piece of art or a quirky, budget-friendly souvenir, you’ll find it here. And with the area’s pedestrian-friendly layout, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the shops, stopping for a bite to eat, and soaking up the local culture.

Kactus Jock: The Go-To Place for Arizona-Themed Gifts

If you’re searching for the perfect Arizona-themed gift, look no further than Kactus Jock. Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this beloved shop is known for its wide selection of unique Southwestern souvenirs. From stylish apparel and handcrafted jewelry to quirky kitchen gadgets and beautiful home décor, Kactus Jock has something for everyone.

What sets Kactus Jock apart from other souvenir shops is its commitment to quality. Each item in the store is carefully selected to reflect the cultural heritage and artistic spirit of the Southwest. Whether you’re buying a gift for a loved one or treating yourself, you can be sure that your purchase is both meaningful and authentic.

One of the highlights of shopping at Kactus Jock is the friendly and knowledgeable staff. They’re always happy to help you find the perfect item and can offer insights into the stories behind the products. It’s this personal touch that makes shopping at Kactus Jock such a memorable experience.

Must-Visit Shops in Old Town Scottsdale

While Kactus Jock is a standout, Old Town Scottsdale is home to many other great shops that are worth a visit. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

1. Bischoff’s Shades of the West: A staple in Scottsdale since 1971, Bischoff’s offers a wide range of Southwestern gifts, including Native American jewelry, pottery, and textiles. The shop is known for its high-quality products and has become a go-to destination for those looking to bring home a piece of the Southwest.
2. Mexican Imports: This vibrant shop is filled with colorful Mexican folk art, pottery, and handcrafted items. If you’re looking for a bright, bold souvenir that captures the lively spirit of the Southwest, Mexican Imports is the place to go.
3. Cactus City: Specializing in all things cactus, this quirky shop offers a variety of cactus-themed gifts, from clothing and accessories to home décor and novelty items. It’s a fun stop for anyone who loves these iconic desert plants.
4. The Merchantile of Scottsdale: This modern market features a curated selection of goods from local artisans and small businesses. It’s the perfect place to find a unique, handcrafted souvenir that you won’t find anywhere else.
5. Scottsdale Trading Post: For those interested in Native American art and jewelry, Scottsdale Trading Post offers an impressive collection of authentic pieces. The shop prides itself on supporting Native artists and providing customers with high-quality, handcrafted items.

High-End Shopping in Scottsdale

If you’re in the mood for some high-end shopping, Scottsdale has plenty to offer. The city is home to several upscale shopping centers where you can find luxury brands, designer boutiques, and fine art galleries. Here are a few places to consider:

1. Scottsdale Fashion Square: As the largest shopping mall in Arizona, Scottsdale Fashion Square is a haven for luxury shoppers. The mall features a wide range of high-end stores, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co., as well as department stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. In addition to fashion, you’ll find home décor, beauty products, and gourmet food items.
2. The Shops at Gainey Village: This upscale shopping center offers a mix of high-end fashion boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to find stylish clothing, accessories, and gifts in a relaxed, open-air setting.
3. Biltmore Fashion Park: Located just a short drive from Scottsdale, Biltmore Fashion Park is another top destination for luxury shopping. The center features a mix of high-end retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Ralph Lauren, and Williams-Sonoma, as well as several fine dining options.

Local Markets and Art Fairs

For a more laid-back shopping experience, consider visiting one of Scottsdale’s local markets or art fairs. These events are a great way to discover unique, handmade items and support local artisans. Here are a few to check out:

1. Old Town Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morning from October through May, the Old Town Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. In addition to fresh produce and gourmet food items, the market features a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and art. It’s a great place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
2. Scottsdale ArtWalk: Every Thursday evening, the streets of Old Town Scottsdale come alive with the Scottsdale ArtWalk. Galleries open their doors to the public, and local artists set up booths along the sidewalks, offering a wide range of art, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and textiles. The ArtWalk is a wonderful opportunity to explore Scottsdale’s vibrant art scene and pick up a unique piece of art to take home.
3. Arizona Fine Art EXPO: This annual event takes place from January to March and features over 100 artists from around the world. Visitors can watch artists at work, browse a variety of art styles, and purchase original pieces directly from the creators. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and collectors.

Scottsdale’s Best Boutiques

If you prefer shopping at smaller, independently-owned boutiques, Scottsdale has plenty to offer. These shops often feature a carefully curated selection of items, making it easy to find something truly special. Here are a few boutiques to explore:

1. Frances: This charming boutique offers a mix of trendy clothing, accessories, and gifts, with an emphasis on locally-made and eco-friendly products. The shop’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among Scottsdale locals.
2. Bungalow: Specializing in boho-chic fashion and home décor, Bungalow is the perfect place to find stylish clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as unique items for your home. The shop’s relaxed vibe and carefully curated selection make it a must-visit for anyone looking to add a touch of Southwest style to their wardrobe or home.
3. Meredith Lockhart Collection: This boutique offers a luxurious selection of women’s clothing, accessories, and home décor, with an emphasis on timeless style and high-quality materials. It’s the perfect place to find a sophisticated, elegant gift for someone special—or for yourself.

Unique Finds in Scottsdale

One of the best things about shopping in Scottsdale is the opportunity to find truly unique items that you won’t see anywhere else. Whether it’s a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a one-of-a-kind piece of art, or a quirky souvenir, Scottsdale’s shops are filled with hidden treasures. Here are a few places to discover something special:

1. Cosanti Originals: Located in Paradise Valley, just a short drive from Scottsdale, Cosanti Originals is the studio of renowned architect Paolo Soleri. The studio produces a variety of unique, handcrafted items, including the famous Soleri windbells, which are made from bronze and ceramic. Each windbell is a work of art, and a visit to the studio offers the chance to see the artists at work.
2. On the Edge Gallery: This artist-owned gallery in Old Town Scottsdale features a wide range of art, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and ceramics. The gallery is known for its diverse selection of art styles and its commitment to showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
3. The Poisoned Pen: A must-visit for book lovers, The Poisoned Pen is an independent bookstore that specializes in mystery, crime, and thriller novels. The store regularly hosts author events, book signings, and readings, making it a great place to discover a new favorite author and pick up a signed copy of their latest book.

Shopping Tips for Scottsdale

Before you set out on your shopping adventure in Scottsdale, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Start Early: Many of Scottsdale’s shops open early in the day, and starting your shopping trip in the morning can help you avoid the midday heat. Plus, you’ll have more time to explore the area and visit multiple shops.
• Bring a Reusable Bag: Scottsdale is known for its eco-conscious community, and bringing a reusable shopping bag is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Many shops also offer reusable bags for sale, so you can pick one up as a souvenir.
• Ask About Shipping: If you find a larger item that you’d like to purchase but don’t want to carry it with you, ask the shop if they offer shipping. Many of Scottsdale’s shops are happy to ship items directly to your home, so you can enjoy your shopping experience without worrying about luggage space.
• Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping: Arizona does not charge sales tax on many types of goods, including clothing and accessories. Be sure to ask about tax-free shopping when making your purchases, as it can add up to significant savings.

Scottsdale is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of options for finding the perfect souvenir or gift. Whether you’re looking for high-end luxury items, handcrafted local art, or quirky and unique finds, you’ll find it all in this vibrant city. And don’t forget to visit Kactus Jock in Old Town Scottsdale, where you’ll discover a carefully curated selection of Arizona-themed gifts that truly capture the spirit of the Southwest.

So grab your shopping list, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the best that Scottsdale has to offer. Happy shopping!

For more insider tips on shopping in Scottsdale and to browse a selection of unique Southwestern gifts, visit KactusJock.com.