As far as music festivals go, you may not know that Scottsdale, Arizona, is the place to be.
The Phoenix area is a hotbed for exciting activities. However, its neighbor is getting in on the action by attracting visitors for more than just spa days and golfing.
Today, we’ll check out a new event you might want to add to your radar this autumn.
Let’s scoot on down!
About Scottsdale’s Dreamy Draw Music Festival
The two-day Dreamy Draw Music Festival will bring bluegrass, folk, Americana, and country tunes to Scottsdale, Arizona. Headliners for the inaugural event will be Midland and Lord Huron. You’ll catch sets by Luke Grimes, Margo Price, Trampled by Turtles, and Breland, among other artists.
If these bands strike your fancy, plan to be in the “West’s Most Western Town” on November 3 and 4. It’s a perfect time of year to be there, too. The temperatures are more hospitable to dancing all day and into the night.
Co-founder of the new Phoenix music festival, RJ Largay, spoke about the mix of genres included in the lineup. He told the Phoenix New Times, “We’re going to lean into the Southwestern vibe but will have more than just country.”
In addition to the excellent musicians, you’ll also see beautiful art installations and a Dreamy Trading Post where local artisans will sell their handmade crafts.
And when you get hungry, you’ll have several choices of food vendors offering Southwest-inspired delicacies.
Residents in the Phoenix area are likely familiar with the Largay name. Since 2004, the family has put on the popular McDowell Mountain Music Festival.
It’s safe to say that while Dreamy Draw is new, it’s likely to be a successful debut.
Where Is the Music Festival Held in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale is just outside of Phoenix, to the east. So, if you want to fly in for the Dreamy Draw Music Festival, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is very convenient and close.
In the heart of Old Town sits the city’s 24-acre Civic Center at 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard. Recent renovations transformed an average park into a unique live arts and entertainment location.
The festival will also tie in the area’s history of being a Wild West destination dating back to the late 1800s. So feel free to bring your cowboy hat and boots!
How Much Are Tickets For the New Scottsdale Music Festival?
General admission tickets are $80 per person or $140 for a two-day pass. But they offer an attractive VIP package if you feel like stepping it up a notch. In addition to a private lounge, you’ll have access to a prime viewing area with excellent sightlines to watch the performances.
Organizers say they’re capping ticket sales at 8,000. So that means this debut Scottsdale music festival will have a fairly intimate feel.
Pro Tip: Single-day and weekend passes are still available but don’t wait too long to buy your tickets, as we suspect this event will sell out.
Other Fun Things To Do Near the Scottsdale Music Festival
Dreamy Draw welcomes music fans of all ages to attend the festival, so bring the whole family. Since the first acts take the stage at 1:00 p.m. each day, you’ll have the mornings to explore nearby attractions. Each of these places is suitable for kids and adults.
Butterfly Wonderland
Scottsdale is home to one of the largest butterfly conservatories in North America. You’ll see thousands of these colorful, fluttering insects during your visit. As you meander through the lush tropical paradise, take note of other creatures, including reptiles, honey bees, and koi fish.
Butterfly Wonderland is open 365 days a year and is entirely wheelchair accessible. You can purchase tickets in advance on their website. Optional bundle packages for other fun activities like the Odysea Aquarium or UFO Experience are also available.
Public Art Walking Tour
After grabbing breakfast, head out for an hour to explore the city’s public art. A self-guided walking tour spotlights ten popular installations, such as bronze statues and water fountains.
The route begins at the waterfront area and ends at the Civic Center. Enjoy a stroll through Scottsdale neighborhoods as you eventually make your way into the music festival. It’ll be a day full of taking in numerous forms of art.
Taliesin West
Taliesin West is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. In 1937, Frank Lloyd Wright purchased nearly 500 acres of land to begin building his winter home and studio.
The architect began construction immediately and incorporated features of the desert landscape into his design. Choose from several different tour options to learn every aspect of how Wright built this stunning oasis.
Looking for more? Here are the 9 Best Things To Do in Phoenix, Arizona.
Best Places To Stay Near the Scottsdale Music Festival
While camping isn’t an option at Scottsdale’s new music festival, you’ll have several types of lodgings to choose from nearby. Here are a few suggestions to get your planning started.
Eagle View RV Resort
Eagle View isn’t the closest RV park to the Scottsdale Civic Center, but it’ll offer lovely views and many amenities. It’s one of the better places to stay within a 30-minute drive if you’re traveling in a motorhome.
Each of the 150 sites includes full hookups. If you’re into activities during your visit, check out the badminton, pickleball, or basketball courts available to guests.
A heated pool and hot tub may also be an excellent way to relax after you return from the festival.
Phoenix has several options for you: 7 Best RV Parks in Phoenix, Arizona.
Bespoke Inn
Located in the Scottsdale Arts District, Bespoke Inn is a short walk to the music festival. The boutique hotel is a mix between a luxury resort and a bed and breakfast. Enjoy the view from the rooftop bar or take a dip in the 43-foot-long infinity pool.
Guest rooms feature plush bedding, linens, private patios, and claw-foot bathtubs. The inn also has a stash of bikes you can use to explore the area. Additionally, the on-site restaurant Virtu is an award-winning establishment serving delicious meals.
Hotel Valley Ho
This Scottsdale landmark hotel, built in the mid-1950s, is about a mile from the Civic Center. The design combines various Southwestern elements in its decor and construction.
Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass for full views of the Arizona landscape while lounging on the bed. Or step outside on your private patio to enjoy a morning coffee.
Two pools, a hot tub, a sauna, and private cabanas are among the many amenities the hotel provides.
Get the details to plan your trip: Moon Phoenix, Scottsdale & Sedona: Best Hikes, Local Spots, and Weekend Getaways.
Is a Road Trip to Scottsdale’s New Music Festival Worth It?
The Dreamy Draw Music Festival is an excellent reason to visit Scottsdale in November. It’s got a fantastic lineup of artists, and you’ll have fun dancing in the sunshine and soaking up the desert vibes. Plus, with many other nearby attractions, you can easily fit a lot of adventures in a few days.
So grab some travel partners and get ready to head to Arizona!
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