Phoenix makes an excellent tourist destination as it boasts stunning desert landscapes and offers a wide variety of fun attractions and activities. If Phoenix is on your bucket list of destinations, simply continue reading to discover 5 must visit attractions and activities in Phoenix, Arizona!
Desert Wolf Tours’ thrilling half day, Tomcar ATV Tour of the Sonoran Desert, has been rated by TripAdvisor as one of the top attractions in Arizona. So if you’re a self-confessed adventure seeker, it’s well 
worth booking a 3 to 3.5 hour guided ATV tour as you’ll have a chance to get behind the wheel of a military level, Tomcar ATV. Better yet, not only will you get a chance to explore areas of the Sonoran Desert that few people venture out into but you’ll also see Indian ruins and a fresh water oasis.
As every tour is guided by a seasoned guide, you’ll also learn about the history of the desert and the desert’s wildlife. You may even spot a wild coyote or a javalina, if you keep your eyes peeled. If you’re interested in learning how to survive in a harsh desert environment, your informative guide will also give you numerous tips on how to survive in the Sonoran Desert. During your adventure, you’ll also get the opportunity to cross a river. So don’t be surprised if you get splashed!
As a bonus, at the end of your half day tour, you’ll receive a free neck buff.
Phoenix is home to the world’s only global musical instrument museum! During a guided tour of the museum you’ll have the unique opportunity to travel the world through learning about different musical instruments. Three of the museum’s largest permanent exhibitions showcase music and instruments from Latin America, Asia and Africa. Although the museum also features smaller exhibitions which showcase instruments from other regions such as Europe and Australasia.
If you’re interested in listening to live music from around the world, it’s well worth visiting the MIM Music Theater, an on-site, custom built theater which showcases passionate musicians from each corner of the globe. If you’re planning a trip to Phoenix, it’s well worth visiting the Musical Instrument Museum’s website, to see whether any concerts are being held during your proposed visit.
If you feel inspired to pick up a new instrument, after touring the museum. You’ll be spoilt for choice as the Musical Instrument Museum boasts an on-site store which offers a wide array of international instruments. Examples of which include African drums, singing bowls and Peruvian flutes. The museum store also offers a variety of CDs which feature international music.
If you plan to visit the Desert Botanical Garden, it’s best to put aside a few hours as the garden is sprawled 
across 140 acres and boasts numerous trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Loop Trail, which showed how the Indians once used the Sonoran Desert’s plants to survive, out in the desert. Not only did the Indians consume edible plants but they also used plants to build tools and hunting weapons. If you choose to explore this trail, you’ll even get to see examples of the huts that the Indians built as shelter from the hot, desert sun.
Another popular trail is the Desert Discovery Trail which boasts desert plants from deserts located around the world. During a stroll of the Desert Discovery Trail, you’ll get a rare opportunity to view 400 rare or endangered species of desert plants.
If you assumed that the desert was full of cacti, think again, whilst the Desert Botanical Garden does feature a variety of fascinating cacti species, the garden also boasts a trail which was designed to showcase the beauty of desert wildflowers. If you’re curious be sure to set aside some time to explore the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop Trail, which is bursting with colorful wildflowers.
If you’re interested in American Indian art, it’s well worth planning a trip to the Heard Museum as it boasts an extensive art collection which contains over 40,000 pieces. Examples of which include Navajo jewelry and textiles, Hopi Katsina dolls and a variety of ceramics.
One of the museum’s selling points is that it’s world renown fine arts collection, which boasts 4,000 unique pieces, showcases how American Indian fine art has developed from its beginning in the 20th century to the present day. As well as offering historic pieces, the museum also offers a large selection of modern art from talented American Indian artists.
The Heard Museum also hosts a variety of on-site events. Examples of which include the annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market which attracts a crowd of around 15,000 visitors, each year. The market is well worth attending as not only will you get the opportunity to purchase American Indian art but you’ll also get to meet the artists, who have crafted the items that you’re interested in purchasing. Better yet all proceeds go towards the museum’s goal of educating visitors on the arts and culture of the Indigenous peoples of America.
If you’ve always fancied yourself as a contestant on “the Amazing Race”, it’s well worth booking the Amazing Scavenger Hunt, with combines a three-hour tour of Phoenix’s hot spots with a thrilling scavenger hunt! To take part, all you need is a smart phone, which you’ll use to receive your clues.
During your hunt you’ll get to visit the historic Hotel San Carlos, the grand Orpheum Theater and the Historic Courthouse as well as Heritage Square. The latter of which is lined with historic houses. During your hunt you’ll also get to take part in outdoor challenges and solve a variety of cryptic clues. As the Amazing Scavenger Hunt is not a traditional guided tour, you can complete it at your own pace.
So what are you waiting for? Why not book your favorite Phoenix activity or attraction? As an example, if you love the idea of speeding through the stunning Sonoran Desert, why not book a half day, Tomcar ATV tour with Desert Wolf Tours? You’ll be sure to have the time of your life, getting off the beaten track and discovering all that the Sonoran Desert has to offer!
If you’re planning an action packed trip to Scottsdale, Arizona and are looking for unique activities that are worth writing home about, continue reading to discover an insider’s guide to the top 5 things to do in Scottsdale. After all, life’s too short to waste your time on boring activities that you’ll forget about, in a few day’s time.
If you grew up watching Westerns, it’s well worth planning a trip to Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Western Spirit’s exhibitions are constantly changing and examples of popular exhibits which 
have been on display in the past include Inspirational Journey: The Story of Lewis and Clark and the A.P Hays Spirit of the West Collection. The latter of which is a permanent exhibition and contains hundreds of authentic pieces from the wild west, examples of which include shiny Sherrif badges, leather saddles and spurs.
The Western Spirit Museum also boasts a large auditorium, where you can watch a movie about the wild west or watch a musical or theatrical performance, that will bring Scottsdale’s fascinating past to life. Depending on what time of year you visit, you may also have the opportunity to take a guided tour of the museum. Contrary to popular belief, museum tours aren’t always a bore fest. In fact, if you take part in a Western Spirit tour, your passionate tour guide will tell you nail biting tales of cowboys, outlaws and lawmen.
If you’re interested in veering off the beaten tourist track, you may be tempted to book an ATV tour of the beautiful Sonoran Desert, with Desert Wolf Tours. As part of your exciting desert tour, you’ll get to climb 
behind the wheel of a genuine, military grade TOMCAR ATV and explore parts of the Sonoran Desert that few people ever get the chance to explore. However, there’s no need to worry, you won’t be left for dead in the hot desert as you’ll be led by an experienced guide who’ll help you traverse the Sonoran’s Desert’s rugged terrain.
Better yet, your guide will even share their knowledge on how to survive in the desert and how to spot a variety of wildlife, including wild burros, coyotes, javalinas and scorpions. Each ATV tour lasts for 3 to 3.5 hours and if there is anyone in your party that is under 18, they can take part in the tour as a passenger.
If you’re tempted, you might be swayed to hear that each participant is given a free Desert Wolf Neck Buff. Just like the neck buffs, that are worn by contestants on the hit reality show Survivor.
If you happen to be in town on a Thursday night, it’s definitely worth planning to stroll through downtown Scottsdale to explore the Thursday night ArtWalk. Scottsdale ArtWalk is a free event that is hosted by Scottsdale’s world class art galleries. In fact, each Thursday night around 100 local art galleries, display their work for pedestrians to browse. If you’re curious, Scottsdale Artwork takes place between 7pm and 9pm, each Thursday.
Better yet, many of the art galleries encourage their artists to attend ArtWalk. So you may find yourself rubbing shoulders with some of Arizona’s finest artists. If you’re looking for a souvenir to take home, you may also find the perfect piece of art, at a competitive price. Even if you’re not a huge art fan and don’t have any interest in making any purchase, you’ll enjoy people walking as each Thursday hundreds of tourists and locals flock to the ArtWalk.
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a spacious 30-acre park which is run by Scottsdale’ Parks and Recreation Department and boasts a variety of shops, museums as well as an adventurous children’s 
playground. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll be sure to run to the vintage 1950 carousel.
If you’re jealous and wouldn’t mind taking a ride around the park yourself, you’re in luck as the park also offers a miniature train ride, that traverses through the park’s desert arboretum. Alternatively, you may be interested in taking a ride on the park’s number one attraction, the Paradise & Pacific Railroad. Especially if you’re a fan of historic steam trains.
If you have an interest in locomotive history, it’s also worth visiting the Scottsdale Railway Museum, which is located on-site and contains a variety of full size train carriages. Examples of which include the Baggage Car, which was built as a dining carriage in 1914 and was later converted to transport baggage during World War 2 and the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, which was built in 1928 for a hefty sum of $205,000. It also holds the distinct honor of carrying a variety of US presidents including Herbert Hoover and Dwight Eisenhower.
Butterfly Wonderland boasts the largest indoor butterfly pavilion in America. If you’re looking for a unique experience that your whole family will enjoy, it’s well worth visiting Butterfly Wonderland, a huge dome which is climate controlled and boasts over 3,000 unique butterfly species, from around the world. Best of all there is no glass between you and the butterflies, so you can get up and close and personal with thousands of gorgeous butterflies!
If you assumed that Butterfly Wonderland only showcased rare butterfly breeds, you’re wrong. Butterfly Wonderland also features a 3d theater and Tropical Waters of the World a large aquarium which is teeming with fish from the Amazon. Examples of which include the Amazon Pacu and African Cichlids. If you’re feeling peckish, Butterfly Wonderland also boasts a handy, on-site café.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re planning a trip to Scottsdale Arizona, it’s well worth pre booking a variety of fun activities such as world famous Desert Wolf Tours’ thrilling ATV tour through the Sonoran Desert. After all you haven’t truly experienced the beauty of Arizona, until you’ve explored the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Click Here to book now!
If you’re searching for action packed team building activities, continue reading to learn about Desert Wolf Tours’ team building adventures. All of which have been designed to help your group work as a team. Alternatively, if you’re planning a vacation to Arizona and are looking for activities for your group, that will get you off the beaten tourist trail, it’s also well worth reading about Desert Wolf Tours’ thrilling desert based adventures.
Is your team brave enough to transform into a special operations unit, for the day? Before, you suit up to complete three challenging missions, you’ll complete a training session where you’ll learn a variety of basic and advanced training techniques. As examples, you’ll learn how to safely clear rooms, breach doors and rappel down buildings. Better yet, your team will be equipped with realistic uniforms, specialist tactical gear and converted firearms. So you’ll look and feel the part of a special operations unit.
Once you’ve completed your training session, you’ll have the opportunity to complete three thrilling missions. You’ll get to rescue a hostage and organize a high value target raid, in order to capture a terrorist courier. Following two successful missions, your team will have the unique opportunity to take on Operation Neptune Spear. If Operation Neptune Spear, sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the name of the raid, that killed Osama Bin Laden, one of the most wanted men in the world.
If you only get to plan one team building activity this year, you can’t go wrong booking an Elite Combat Simulator experience as not only will your group get to know more about each other but you’ll also learn how to function as a team and how to identify and utilize each team member’s skills and strengths.
Desert Wolf Tours’ Off-Road Desert Tomcar ATV Tours has been rated the number one tour and activity in Arizona, by Tripadvisor. A hotly contested title. So if you’re looking for a once in a lifetime experience, for your next team building challenge, it’s well worth looking into booking the Off-Road Desert Tomcart ATV Tour.
As part of your tour, you’ll get to sit behind the driver’s wheel of a real, military grade Tomcar ATV. If any members of your team are under 18, they can still take part in the tour, as a passenger. During your fully escorted tour, your team will get to explore the spectacular Sonoran Desert, which is teeming with wildlife such as javalinas, rattle snakes and coyotes.
During your three hour tourr of the Sonoran Desert your friendly guide will provide you with a commentary, which includes tips on surviving in the desert and information about the desert itself. Lastly, each member of your team, will go home with a genuine Desert Wolf Neck Buff, to commemorate your team building desert adventure. If you’re a keen fan of the TV show “Survivor”, you may even notice that the buffs you receive are the same buffs that are given to “Survivor” parpicitants.
If you’re looking to book an ATV tour it’s well worth opting for the Off-road Desert Tomcar ATV tour as you’ll see much more than you would if you simply hired ATV vechiles.
The Desert Firearms Adventure, is an optional add on for groups who book Desert Wolf Tours’ ATV tour. If you’re looking for a team building activity, that is suitable for all fitness levels and personality types, you should seriously considering booking the Desert Firearms Adventure.
Desert Wolf Tours is the only company which holds a permit, to conduct shooting adventures in the Sonoran Desert. If you’re concerned about safety, there’s no need to worry as each adventure is run by a NRA certified instructor, who’ll teach your team how to safely shoot a firearm. Talking of firearms, during your Desert Firearms Adventure you’ll get to shoot a mixture of glocks, AK-47s and AR-15s. You’ll even get to shoot down bowling pins.
Nothing helps a team bond like a bit of friendly competition. The Top Shop Competition is unique as it allows confident shooters to compete against members of your team, who have never handled a firearm. Each Top Shop Competition, lasts for 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on the size of your group.
If you’ve always dreamed of staring on the Amazing Race, you may be interested in booking an Amazing Race themed team building adventure. Alternatively, Desert Wolf Tours is also able to organize traditional scavenger hunts. If you have a particular idea for a team building exercise, that you have in mind, it’s well worth contacting Desert Wolf Tours’ professional team as they have a wealth of experience, organizing award winning team building activities for international companies such as Google, Nike and Hewlett Packard.
The fun doesn’t have to stop, when the sun goes down! After a day rescuing hostages or driving through the desert in a Tomcar ATV, your team may be interested in enjoying dinner and a few drinks together. If you’re interested the Desert Wolf team can organize a post tour meal at the Road Runner Restaurant and Saloon. Best of all the Desert Wolf team can cater to your budget.
As an example if you’re hosting a large scale corporate event, the Desert Wolf team may be able to hire a private chef for your event. In the past Desert Wolf Tours have even organized a celebrity chef to attend a corporate event. So if you have any special requests, it’s well worth letting Desert Wolf Tours’ team know as there is every chance that they’ll be able to cater to your requests.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re in charge of organizing a team building weekend, it’s well worth further investigating Desert Wolf Tours’ extensive range of fun, action packed, team building activities. No matter which activities you choose, your team is guaranteed to have the time of their lives. So don’t be surprised if your team mates continue to talk about their Desert Wolf Tours’ adventure, for years to come.
Click Here to go to our Team Building Activities page and select your perfect Team Building Activity!
When it comes to visiting Arizona, there are a wide variety of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. In fact, one of the most popular options is riding ATVs and UTVs across scenic desert trails.
Not only is this a great way to enjoy the warm sunshine, it also offers plenty of opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the Southwest in a unique way. But, many people wonder what it takes to obtain the necessary equipment and safety gear to tackle such an adventure.
For many, the option to rent equipment seems like an easy way to enjoy the scenery and fresh air. However, there’s a second option that many overlook—guided tours using ATVs and UTVs. Here are a few benefits of choosing tours over Phoenix ATV rentals on your next family vacation.
One of the biggest reasons to skip renting an ATV and enjoying a tour instead is that the process is safer. Many inexperienced drivers often over estimate their driving ability on rough desert terrain, and there are plenty of injuries each year to prove the point. In contrast, tour companies have little to no injuries, which is incredibly important. After all, they fully understand that vacation is no fun for anyone if you end up in the emergency room!
ATV tour in the Sonoran Desert near Phoenix-Scottsdale.
With a tour, you can also eliminate the risk of getting lost. Desert trail systems can be confusing, as there are hundreds of miles of it in the Phoenix area; it is very easy to get turned around when you least expect it. For many, the terrain begins to look the same and can even appear completely different at various times of day. Add in trails that can change or deteriorate due to weather and incomplete maps and you could be setting yourself up for a nightmare instead of a good time.
Reputable guided ATV tour companies have experienced off-road guides, know the terrain well, and are well-versed with all applicable safety precautions. They’ve also obtained all necessary permits to enjoy Bureau of Land Management lands, Tonto National Forest lands, and State Trust lands—without which you could be in for a hefty fine.
One of the downsides to companies that offer ATV rentals in Phoenix is that they don’t come with a dedicated guide who knows the area by heart.
With an ATV and UTV tours, your family gets to enjoy a bit of added education by having an experienced professional to take you out to the best places in the area and offer interesting information on desert history, plants, cactus, animals, and more. A guide can also give insight into special survival skills needed for spending time in the desert. This is a great way for children and teens to learn about a habitat they’ve likely never experienced before in a way that they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.
Going on vacation can certainly be expensive, but the risk associated with renting an ATV is even heftier. Did you know that some rental companies make the sizable portion of their income by charging for damage done to their equipment by ATV renters? In fact, one local ATV rental company has stated that up to 33 percent of their annual profit actual comes from these added customer charges! Furthermore, many personal insurance company policies do not extend to cover ATVs and other similarly rented off-road equipment.
By renting an ATV in Phoenix, you also run the risk of mechanical breakdowns. These types of vehicles can often be hard to repair without specialized tools and parts, meaning your family could wind up stuck in the middle of the desert heat until help arrives instead of enjoying your trip. With a guided tour, there’s none of that added hassle.
Additionally, rental companies are not required to maintain equipment appropriately. That means that you could end up with a piece of junk that will fall apart the moment you take it out on a trail. With tour companies, regulations are different and require regular inspections that ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.
Desert Wolf Tours is proud to offer visitors and locals the chance to enjoy the desert scenery in a unique manner. We have a very strong reputation in the area and offer some of the best tours available in the area.
In addition to guided ATV excursions, we also provider Phoenix UTV tours designed to entertain the whole family and create many memories that will be remembered for years to come. We are ranked number one by guests on TripAdvisor and are proud to have even been inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame.
Are you ready to find out more information about Phoenix and Scottsdale ATV tours? Please contact our knowledgeable and friendly team at Desert Wolf Tours today by calling (877) 613-WOLF. Or, simply click the Book Now button for real time pricing and availability.
Oakley, the Desert Wolf
From golf and hiking to an unforgettable world-famous off-road ATV adventure with Desert Wolf Tours, Phoenix is a bit of an outdoor lover’s paradise. But adrenaline-pumping adventure isn’t the only way to enjoy this great city of the southwest United States, as there’s also a great deal of culinary delight that you can experience during your stay in the “Valley of the Sun.” With that in mind, here’s a look at Oakley’s Top Five Phoenix Restaurants to check out the next time you’re in town:
Beckett’s Table
Chocolate dipped bacon s’mores? It’s just one of several unique dishes that are offered at Beckett’s Table, and the cool thing is that the eatery’s menu of American cuisine is always changing – so you’ll never really know what is offered until you pick up the menu. The ambiance is great too, from the patio to a brick-lined bar.
Quiessence at the Farm is an ideal venue for couples seeking that romantic dinner out that don’t want to be bothered by any kids. Yes, the restaurant is an adults-only eatery in the intimate setting of a renovated home. It features a European menu, which the staff knows down to a “t,” and, despite its expense, is a meal to remember.
Looking to cut loose a bit on your evening meal? The Yard could be the place for you. In addition to its delicious food and craft beer selection, it also offers the opportunity to participate in drinking games (but in a classy way, not in a frat party way). Located in downtown Phoenix, it’s a great first stop (or final stop) on a big night out.
Postino Wine Bar
If you’re looking for a high-class experience, look no further than Postino. It’s best known as a wine bar, with a rotating list of bottles to choose from, but also doubles as a pretty good restaurant too, perhaps best known for its bruschetta. In addition to a vast selection of wines, Postino also offers a pretty solid beer menu to boot.
If you’d like to experience fine dining with a terrific ambiance, Different Pointe of View is right for you. Consider enjoying a meal here on the last evening of your trip, as the cuisine combined with terrific floor-to-ceiling panoramic views from the top of the North Mountain will be hard to top. The service is great, the food is excellent, and, just because it’s worth mentioning again, you can’t top the view.
If you’re yearning for a vacation to remember, it should begin with one of the world-famous ATV tours that we offer at Desert Wolf Tours. But your experience certainly shouldn’t end there, noting the aforementioned dining options throughout the city and via TripAdvisor Scottsdale.
How long has Desert Wolf Tours been doing ATV tours?Desert Wolf Tours began doing Tomcar ATV tours in the Sonoran Desert in 2006. We are Scottsdale’s “original” Tomcar desert off-road ATV tour company and actually bought the 3rd Tomcar ever produced for the non-military market. Since our humble beginnings, we have grown in popularity each year and have been ranked as Scottsdale’s #1 Outdoor Activity on TripAdvisor for the last 6 years.
We currently do not offer guest pickup at this time because we have found that most guests prefer to arrange for their own transportation. There are several good reasons for that. Firstly, most of our guests want to enjoy a relaxing meal and beverage at the on-site RoadRunner Restaurant and Saloon before or after their tour. For many, this “locals” hangout is part of the Arizona Experience. In addition, many guests want to spend some time at the close-by Anthem Outlet Mall, the Pioneer Living History Museum, or charming Cave Creek, AZ. When we provide transportation, you are not be able to enjoy these things because you will arrive right before your tour and depart right after your tour. Secondly, there are many great transportation options in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. Most resorts have car rentals available right at the resort for a very reasonable price. And, for those that don’t, rental car agencies are located all over the valley. In addition to this, there are numerous transportation companies that will provide round trip transportation on your schedule, not ours. And, quickly growing in popularity are taxi services such as Uber or Lyft. Scottsdale/Phoenix visitors quickly find that they have lots of great transportation options that allow them to maximize their vacation fun.
Tour departure times vary throughout the year, depending on the tour you select. Please check the booking
calendar for the day you are interested in to see tour availability and departure times. If you have already booked a tour, please check your confirmation email for the exact time that you need to arrive for your tour. You won’t want to be late or you may very well miss the tour.
Most of our adventure tours last between 3 and 3.5 hours.
We meet on the outside patio of the RoadRunner Restaurant and Saloon to get acquainted and sign waivers and agreements – 47801 N. Black Canyon Highway, New River, AZ, 85087. You can receive directions via email by sending an email to [email protected] Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour departure time.
No. Our vehicles are very safe and we leave the minimum age to the discretion of the parents or guardians. We have had kids as young a 1 year old who enjoyed our tours. We just ask that the parents or guardians take care of their children on the tour so that all the guests have an enjoyable time. All riders under the age of 18 must wear a DOT-approved safety helmet which we provide.
Anyone aged 18 or older with a valid driver’s license may drive. You must have your driver’s license with you.
Our fleet of Tomcars seat up to 4 passengers per car.
Our tours are “rain or shine”, so we recommend that all of our guests dress accordingly. During the winter months, it can be very chilly in the morning or after the sun goes down. Please come prepared (hats, gloves, etc.). Tomcars are open-sided vehicles and we tour the most bio-diverse and largest desert in the United States (the Sonoran Desert). We go overboard to make sure that every guest is kept safe while on tour. But, it’s not a controlled environment. Expect the unexpected. And, PLEASE check the local weather report for the day of your tour!
Yes. The Sonoran Desert is a gorgeous place. You will encounter some breathtaking views and will probably want to capture these memories by taking pictures. Also, our guides are more than happy to take pictures with your camera upon request.
We always bring along large coolers filled with plenty of ice and water. If you prefer your own non-alcoholic beverage, you are more than welcome to use our coolers.
Yes. All reservations must be made in advance.
We require a 48-hours advance notice (prior to your scheduled departure) in order to receive a 100% refund.
Our tours depart “rain or shine”. Please dress for the weather and expect the time of your lives. Our guests are (mostly) sheltered from the rain in their Tomcars. You will probably get a little wet if it rains. But that’s part of the adventure, right? The quality of our tours are never dampened by rain.
No. We recommend that guests use facilities located within the RoadRunner Saloon prior to departure.
How safe are the Tomcars?Tomcars were originally designed for Israeli Defense Forces. They weigh just under 1,800 pounds, boast independent front and rear suspension systems, and have a wide wheel base making them one of the safest off road vehicles in the World. And all of our Tomcars are equipped with a 4-point safety harness system.
Our guides work very hard to make sure that everyone has an exceptional time and always appreciate the thoughtfulness of their guests. Tip income goes a long way toward making Guiding a viable career options.
This is entirely up to the guest and the discretion of their doctor. However, if you are experiencing contractions, we think you’ll have a much different adventure waiting for you at the hospital. You can take a tour with us another time. And, please remember, once the tour goes out, there is no way to get back other than come back with the tour.
We are a group guided adventure that takes a convoy of vehicles out into the desert. Most of our Tomcars are 4 seaters. Groups of 3 or 4 will have their own private car. Depending on the mix of guests that we have for your scheduled tour time, a group of 2 may or may not have another group of 2 in their car. That said, all guests will have plenty of time to drive if they choose and are sure to have a spectacular time. Are you a group of 2 that would like to reserve your own private car? We have you covered. You may reserve your own private vehicle at the time of booking for a nominal upgrade fee.
Federal regulations now require that anyone under the age of 18 where a DOT-approved safety helmet, and we will provide these.
Our desert tour departure location is approximately 3 miles North of Phoenix city limits and is about 30 to 40 minutes from both downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Off-road adventurers having a great time on a Desert Wolf ATV rental tour.
If you’ve always longed for an insider’s perspective of the stunning Sonoran Desert of Scottsdale, AZ, there’s no better place to begin living your dream than at Desert Wolf Tours. Offering world-famous off-road ATV tours that take you up close and personal with the most interesting of desert flora and fauna, Desert Wolf Tours has been rated the #1 outdoor activity by TripAdvisor Scottsdale for six years in a row. And when your tour concludes and you turn in your TomCar, continue your adventure at one of Scottsdale top five eateries:
Virtue Cafe, Scottsdale
In 2013, Phoenix-based chef, Gio Osso, fulfilled his lifelong dream and opened Virtu inside the Bespoke Inn in Old Town Scottsdale. Featuring a level of Mediterranean cuisine unrivaled in the area, Virtu immediately caught the attention of Esquire magazine and was tagged one of the Best New Restaurants of 2013. Since then, it’s been a satisfying climb to the top of the list of things to do in Scottsdale. If you’re in the mood for an intimate experience in fine dining, make a reservation for one of the twenty-five seats available at Virtu and settle in to enjoy such delicacies as grilled orata or smoked duck.
The Mission is the go-to spot for a sophisticated, yet casual dining experience in Latin cuisine. Fronted by the talented Chef Matt Carter, The Mission combines an authentic Latin atmosphere with music and mood lighting to create an experience you’ll never forget. When you’re in the mood for the best Chilean Salmon or grilled street corn that Scottsdale has to offer, stop by The Mission Restaurant and Lounge.
Roaring Fork, Scottsdale
If you’re in the mood for plain, old-fashioned American cuisine that mimics the hearty flavors of the Old West, head on out to Roaring Fork and enjoy the Roaring Fork Big Ass Burger with fries or the braised beef short ribs. All entrees offered at Roaring Fork are cooked over wood, either over an open-flame grill, by wood fire rotisserie, or roasted in a wood-fed oven. If it’s the flavor of America’s rugged Old West you’re craving, mosey on over to the Roaring Fork.
Executive Chef, Shinji Kurita crafts the best of Japanese dishes at Shinbay. Nominated for numerous awards including the coveted James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant and Best Chef Southwest, Shinbay is a versatile experience in Asian cuisine. Featuring the famous Chef’s Tasting Course, diners are introduced to a variety of exquisite flavors from grilled to steamed to deep-fried delights. When you’re ready to experience blue shrimp, washugyu beef, or steamed Asari clams with Japanese mushrooms, visit Shinbay.
Chef Matt Pilato knows artisan pizza. And when you stop by the eatery that’s affectionately known locally as Lamp’s Pizza, you’ll be treated to a menu that includes nearly 20 different varieties. Together with wife, Lindsey, Matt has been crafting some of the areas best pies since 2011. When you’re looking for pizza in the Scottsdale area, give Lamp’s gourmet menu a try.
So the next time you find yourself in the Scottsdale area, remember that adventure begins at Desert Wolf Tours, and it ends at any one of a number of top-rated eateries in the area. Book your Scottsdale vacation today.
If you are considering a trip to Phoenix or Scottsdale for Cactus League spring training baseball, you’ll be happy to know that the area has plenty of fun and interesting things to do. You’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous landscape of the Sonoran Desert during your stay in Phoenix. It’s the perfect backdrop for an array of outdoor activities. Sure, you’ll check out the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kansas City Royals, Colorado Rockies, Oakland A’s and other teams, but you’ll also have a blast enjoying everything the valley has to offer.
A great view of Scottsdale Baseball Stadium
Cactus league games represent the perfect outing for the entire family. The kids will have a blast watching their baseball heroes from the Los Angeles Angels, Chicago Cubs, and other teams. Parents will relish the opportunity to kick back in the beautiful Arizona weather, drink a few adult beverages and take in America’s pastime. Singles, couples without children, seniors, and others might simply want to get out to the park to check out the prospects and stars on teams like the Seattle Mariners, Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, etc.
Cactus League Stadium Map
The best part about visiting Arizona for Cactus League baseball is that you aren’t limited to watching a single team. A total of 15 teams play ball in 10 unique stadiums and sports complexes across Phoenix. You’ll have the chance to watch all of your favorite teams and players including some of the hottest up-and-coming prospects in baseball. One day you’ll check out the Arizona Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. The next day you’ll take in a Chicago White Sox game at Camelback Ranch. Perhaps your family will find that they prefer a stadium like Tempe Diablo where the Los Angeles Angels play. You can head right back to your favorite stadium throughout your stay if you so desire. The beauty of taking a trip to Arizona for Cactus League spring training baseball is that you get to shape the experience in your own unique way. Some choose to write out a schedule of games and outdoor events for their stay in the valley. Others ad-lib it on the fly, picking and choosing games and activities as their valley stay unfolds. Regardless of how you choose to experience Cactus League baseball and everything Phoenix has to offer, there is no doubt that you’ll have the time of your life.
While you are in the area, be sure to take advantage of all that Phoenix has to offer. There is no shortage of things to do in Phoenix. If you enjoy the greater outdoors, you’ll feel right at home in this world-class city. You can go hiking, biking, rock climbing, golfing, horseback riding, or take a ride in a hot-air balloon. Don’t worry about overcast skies or rain. The greater Phoenix area receives an incredible 300 days of sunshine per year.
Tomcar ATV rental tour heading up a Phoenix mountain trail.
If you are looking for something different to do besides the typical outdoor activities like golfing and hiking, check out Desert Wolf Tours. Of all the things to do in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Desert Wolf Tours ranks right at the top. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor and you’ll see why tourists and locals love this off-roading experience. This tour outfit allows you to self-drive an authentic TomCar off-road vehicle. It’s quite fast, easy to maneuver and plenty of fun. Take your TomCar on out to one of the many proprietary attractions that aren’t available through any other company. This is the type of unique and exciting adventure that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. You can embark on a Desert Wolf Tour with your family, your significant other, or even with a group of friends. The specialized off-road vehicle is incredibly comfortable and each tour is led by expert Adventure Guides. This is your chance to explore the vast desert wilderness in all its glory. The ATV tours lead guests to challenging trails and stunning vistas.
After you’ve checked out teams like Milwaukee Brewers, Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres, played some golf, and enjoyed an ATV tour, you might want to cool down with some indoor activities. Thankfully, Phoenix and Scottsdale have plenty to do in climate-controlled indoor environments. You can take in a show, check out a ballet or symphony and visit one of the many local museums that are chock full of Native American art. You can watch the Phoenix Suns play basketball, enjoy a five-star meal, visit an art gallery, or go shopping at one of the many local malls. Some will decide to head right on back to their hotel after taking in spring training baseball. There’s no shame in that. The area’s lodging accommodations are incredibly luxurious. You’ll find three dozen luxury resorts placed throughout the valley. These facilities feature diverse culinary delights, relaxing spas, and all sorts of other treatments that will put your mind and body at ease after spending the day at a Cactus League baseball game.
Looking for some fun things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 10 different fun-filled activities you can do in sunny Scottsdale, whether you’re a long-term resident or just visiting.
You could…
Desert Wolf ATV rental tour heading out to the desert!
Specifically, a Desert Wolf Tours adventure, which is ranked the #1 adventure activity in Scottsdale on TripAdvisor. This adventure will lead you deep into the desert, where you may see a number of wild animals — coyotes, rattlesnakes, scorpions, bobcats, wild burros and javalinas have all been seen on the tour — and all are indigenous to the area. You’ll drive a off-road military-grade TomCar yourself, and a professional off-road tour guide who knows all about the area will drive a separate TomCar, leading you through the adventurous and challenging trails. If adrenaline-pumping action is more your thing, you could instead perform a targeted combat simulator raid on a terrorist messenger with the use of non-lethal firearms, or go on a hostage rescue mission. You can even perform a true-to-life raid called Operation Neptune Spear, which was the very raid that killed Osama Bin Laden. All of these activities are available at Desert Wolf Tours.
If you’re a baseball fan, this stadium is a must-see! The Scottsdale Stadium is the one-and-only home of the San Francisco Giants and features 12,000 seats. It also has all of the baseball food, beverages and treats you could ever dream of.
The Fashion Square is a massive shopping mall with over 250 stores and counting, including brands like Crate & Barrel, Aeropostale, H&M, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, and Prada. After you’re all shopped out you could visit the food court, which has a ton of dining options, including Kona Grill and Z’Tejas (if you’re in the mood for Mexican food).
The Park offers over 40 miles of hiking/running, biking and horseback riding trails. The trails range in difficulty, from the easy-peasy to the strenuous. If you’re looking for a laid-back hike, give the 3.1-mile North Trail a try, but if you’re looking to break a sweat or go on a lengthy horseback ride, you should try the 15.3-mile Pemberton trail instead. All of the trails at the McDowell Mountain Regional Park are multi-use unless any signs that say otherwise. You can also park an RV there to make it a fun-filled camping trip.
This railroad park features the both the Paradise and Pacific railroads, a railroad-themed museum, an arboretum filled with desert flowers and plant life, and an antique carousel. You can also visit an array of railroad souvenir shops or take the kids to one of the spacious playgrounds. There are also a number of picnic pavilions on the grounds.
Specifically, the Camelback Mountain, a 2,704-foot mountain that can be tackled by novice and expert climbers alike. Because the mountain is located in the center of the Phoenix Valley, it has sweeping, picturesque views. The mountain is a quicker climb, but that doesn’t make it the views any less stunning. There are two trails in total: the Echo Canyon and the Cholla, with Echo Canyon being the steeper one and Cholla being the longer trail.
The Butterfly Wonderland lets you see various desert, Amazon River and rainforest creatures up close, such as scorpions, walking sticks, spiders, butterflies, stingrays, Amazon Pacu fish, and much, much more. The rainforest, river and desert triple-experience also allows you to watch an enchanting 3D butterfly movie, where the butterflies will jump off the screen and fly around your head.
Old Town Scottsdale is coined as the place where the Old West and the New West meet. It has a large number of fun things to do in the way of dining, shopping, art galleries, museums, nightlife, and more. Old Town Scottsdale has a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a daytime art gallery like the Art of Merlot, or a nighttime activity such as the Derby Public House. It even has a wide array of southwestern cultural attractions, such as the Scottsdale Museum of the West.
The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (SWCC) is home to a lot of endangered species, and helps to bring them out of endangerment and back into the wild. The SWCC rescues and rehabilitates wild animals that are native to Arizona. It takes in animals that have lost their habitats due to development, or are found abandoned, orphaned or injured.
The Civic Center is a landmark in downtown Scottsdale, and features water fountains, statues, and lots of greenery. It’s a nice place to go to people watch or to go on a stroll, and it’s located within walking distance to a number of shops and restaurants.
This list of things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale could go on and on, but we’ll stop there — we hope you enjoy your stay! And, don’t forget to come out and have some fun with us!
When you visit the Sonoran Desert, do not limit your freedom to the main roads. If you stick with pavement-tour, you will miss out on the true nature of the desert. Imagine the grandeur, limited-access areas, wildlife, and history in the desert. Unlike Jeep Tours, we make every accommodation to NOT limit what you see. We don’t want your trip to the desert to become something you could peruse at the library; it should explode in your mind.
Fortunately, Desert Wolf Tours has an excellent alternative for the run-of-the-mill things to do in Scottsdale: TomCar ATV Tours. Let’s take a look at how a TomCar Tour is the only way to really see what the desert keeps secret.
Compared to Jeep and Hummer Tours, which Desert Wolf Tours also offers, ATV tours offer unmatched comfort for a superior, smoother ride. With a TomCar, you can embark into the desert sun without being restricted to the bumps, bangs, and bruises of a Jeep Tour. An ATV tour is much smoother than a traditional Jeep tour.
TomCars have enhanced suspension systems and cannot compare to a Hummer, Jeep, or other desert touring van. If you want to see what a highway in the desert looks like, then a Jeep is fine. If you want to actually see what the desert looks like without the modern engineering feat of pavement, you need to check out how smooth a TomCar is on the open desert.
The best thing about our ATV tours is that you get to be the driver! Who wants to be stuck in a Jeep with a driver making every turn, stopping at each crossroads, and pushing the gas? Well, at Desert Wolf Tours, anyone with a valid driver’s license and over the age of 18 can drive a TomCar. These ATVs are easy-to-drive and safe. For the protection of minors, we provide DOT-approved helmets, which are now required in Arizona. If you’re over 18, the choice of wearing a helmet is entirely your own. Also, in our side-by-side atv tours, you get to experience the power of driving in the open desert, away from the confines of the road, away from the stereotypical tourist destinations, and into the land where many lived in once-thriving Indian villages and ghost towns.
So, maybe a Jeep has been to some of the secret desert attractions, albeit over a jostling ride, but few can get to the hard-to-reach areas where a TomCar can go. Sneak up on the wildlife in their natural habitat, and find out what is really hiding out in the desert. You can completely avoid the tourist-hotspots, where your “natural wildlife” photo may have another tourist in the background. Since ATV rentals are aerodynamic, high-set, and extremely durable, they can practically soar above shrubs, plants, and running water, provided the water isn’t a full-on, roaring river. Pitch around the jagged boulders and Sonoran cacti without becoming concerned, and bask in the glow of the steady desert sun. With the power of the TomCar, which seats four passengers, you can drive deep into the legendary desert and see some amazing vistas. Now, how quickly do you think it would take to see all the desert has to offer?
Since our ATV rentals do not have the confines and bang-factors of a Jeep, you can get to your destinations faster. This means you get to see even more of the desert than you would in a Jeep Tour. What fun is there in sitting in the back of a Jeep while coasting along towards the end of the road? None! Imagine how it feels to see the true desert landscape slithering under the TomCar at twice the speed. In fact, Desert Wolf Tours covers twice the distance, if not more, of a typical Jeep tour.
Now, you may be asking what happens if it rains? Well, we have a solution: we are going anyway! Our desert tours depart regardless of the weather, so you should wear something that can wet. Wear something that will get dirty. Wear something that will always carry the memory of a real desert journey.
Some touring companies only want to go out during a set time in the morning or afternoon, but we understand the magic of a twilight desert tour. Each evening in the summer, an army of TomCars swarms into the desert, and your dreams of seeing a different desert view come true. Have you ever thought of what spending a night in the middle of nowhere would look like? It’s not hard to imagine when you are heading out to uncover desert gems after dinner.
With all these great reasons to try out ATV tours, why would you settle for less? Let us show you why a TomCar atv tour, not a Jeep Tour, is one of the best things to do in Scottsdale and Phoenix.
