Will be in the Scottdale area solo while my husband is at conference. What shall I do and where shall I go? Outlet shopping? Jeep and hiking tours all interest me.

I just got back from a solo trip to AZ.
There is plenty to do. I recommend a meal at El Paso BBQ. Yummy salads, fish, ribs and chicken.

As far as outlet shopping, the two which are closest are Arizona Mills and one that contains a VF discount store (you can find them both on the web.) Get a brochure for Arizona Mills at your hotel as it contains a coupon to get a coupon book and shopping bag for free at Arizona Mills' information kiosk.

You can also go to the Heard Museum which is a wonderful southwestern museum and there is also the art museum, but that is not as impressive as the Heard Museum.

There are plenty of art galleries in Scottsdale and it is fun to check them out.

Enjoy your visit to Arizona.

I wouldn't miss the Scottsdale Fashion Mall- freakin' huuuuuuge mall. I am really not a shopaholic but I got lost there for a day.

Just did this myself two weeks ago. I also loved Fashion Square and Kierland Commons. I wanted to get to Arizona Mills so badly but ran out of time! You can go to Old Town Scottsdale for shopping and eating, but be warned--the stores open & close at odd times. It's as if they don't have any requirements for opening & closing!

I didn't do a hiking tour but if I had time I would have. Instead I drove myself to Sedona (two hours), stopped at Montezuma's Castle, then the Chapel of the Holy Cross along the way. Then I hiked in Boynton Canyon (do a search on this forum and you'll see the report & inquiries).

Where are you staying?

A tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's home is worthwhile. Figure with the drive up and back, plus the tour, it'll take about 2 hours.