Our City Expert's Tips

No Scottsdale arts experience is complete without a visit to Cattle Track. In recent years, new studio and exhibition spaces have been added to fortify the existing arts colony. But arts aficionados have long known about Cattle Track (and most likely worked alongside the late Rachael Ellis or her daughter Janie) for decades. Arizona arts luminaries Philip C. Curtis and Fritz Scholder also spent many prolific years living and painting at Cattle Track.

Looking through the lens of Cattle Track's historic architecture and preserved desert landscape, it's easy to be transported back to the early days of Scottsdale, when Rachael's greyhounds roamed the land in packs and such celebrated "creatives" as Louise Nevelson might come for a stay. Yet most locals have probably driven by this hidden gem numerous times without even knowing of its existence. And once you get there, you understand: Cattle Track is its own little universe smack dab in the heart of Scottsdale--a true piece of living history.

Tips From Other Travelers