Scottsdale Travel FAQ

Come for the mission. Stay for the mountains.

FORGE is bringing leaders from government, industry, and academia together in the heart of Scottsdale. Here is everything you need to plan a smooth arrival—and enjoy a little Arizona sunshine while you are here.

✈️ Which airport should I use?

Best choice: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport — PHX

Phoenix Sky Harbor is the primary airport for FORGE attendees. It offers the greatest selection of airlines and nonstop flights and is approximately 11 miles from the hotel. Depending on traffic, the drive will generally take about 20–30 minutes. (Hilton)

Alternative: Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport — AZA

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway may be convenient for travelers using select low-cost carriers, but it is approximately 35 miles from the hotel. Allow additional time for the drive, particularly during morning and afternoon traffic. (Hilton)

Scottsdale Airport — SDL

Scottsdale Airport is approximately 9 miles from the resort and primarily serves private and corporate aviation. (Hilton)

FORGE travel tip: For most attendees, PHX will be the easiest and most flexible option.

🏨 Where is FORGE being held?

Embassy Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Resort

5001 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, Arizona 85250

The resort is located just north of Old Town Scottsdale, close to restaurants, shopping, galleries and entertainment. It is less than a mile from Old Town and only a few minutes from Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Hotel highlights include:

  • Spacious two-room suites
  • Complimentary made-to-order breakfast
  • Complimentary evening reception
  • Two heated outdoor pools
  • Fitness center and tennis courts
  • On-site restaurant
  • Complimentary self-parking
  • Resort shuttle service within a three-mile radius from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Check-in: 4:00 p.m.
Check-out: 11:00 a.m.

Reserve early!

ITEA has secured discounted room rates for both government and industry/academia attendees. The reservation cutoff is October 2, 2026, but the hotel may sell out before that date.

Our advice: Reserve your room now. Scottsdale is popular in November—and this property will book quickly.

🚕 What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel?

Rideshare

Uber, Lyft and other rideshare services operate 24 hours a day at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Designated pickup locations are available at Terminals 3 and 4 and at PHX Sky Train stations. (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport)

For one or two travelers who plan to remain near the resort and Old Town, rideshare is usually the simplest option.

Taxi

Taxi service is available from Phoenix Sky Harbor, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. Major credit cards are accepted. Taxi fares to Scottsdale are metered rather than covered by the airport’s downtown Phoenix flat-rate program. (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport)

Private car service

Attendees preferring scheduled transportation may arrange a private sedan or car service in advance. Use a confirmed provider and do not accept unsolicited transportation offers at the terminal.

Hotel airport shuttle

The Embassy Suites Scottsdale Resort does not provide an airport shuttle, so attendees should plan to use rideshare, taxi, private transportation or a rental car.

🚗 Do I need a rental car?

Not necessarily.

A rental car is probably unnecessary when:

  • You are staying at the FORGE hotel.
  • Your primary plans involve the conference and Old Town Scottsdale.
  • You are comfortable using rideshare for dinners or short excursions.

A rental car may be worthwhile when:

  • You plan to hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
  • You want to visit several areas of the Phoenix–Scottsdale region.
  • You are extending your trip to Sedona, the Grand Canyon or another Arizona destination.
  • You are sharing transportation with several colleagues.

Phoenix Sky Harbor’s Rental Car Center houses the airport rental-car companies. It is connected to the terminals by the free PHX Sky Train, which operates around the clock. Advance reservations are strongly recommended because walk-up vehicle availability may be limited. (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport)

Bonus: Self-parking at the FORGE hotel is complimentary.

🥾 Can I fit in a hike?

Absolutely. November is one of the best times to experience the Sonoran Desert.

Relaxed desert experience: Gateway Loop Trail

Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Gateway Loop offers classic desert scenery with a moderate incline. It is a strong choice for attendees looking for a real hike without tackling Scottsdale’s most technical terrain. (Sanctuary Camelback Mountain)

Scenic and approachable: Pinnacle Peak

Pinnacle Peak features a maintained trail, broad desert views and a rewarding climb. It is a good option for active visitors who want a scenic outing without the scrambling associated with Camelback Mountain. (ScottsdaleAZ)

Iconic but demanding: Camelback Mountain

Camelback is Scottsdale’s signature mountain experience—but it is steep, strenuous and not a casual walk. The Echo Canyon and Cholla routes include sustained climbing and sections where hikers may need to use their hands.

Choose this only when you are physically prepared, have proper footwear and can allow sufficient time.

For experienced hikers: Tom’s Thumb

Tom’s Thumb delivers dramatic rock formations and sweeping views in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. It is best suited to experienced hikers with enough time for a longer desert outing. (mcdowellsonoran.org)

Desert hiking rules

  • Start early.
  • Carry more water than you think you need.
  • Wear sturdy shoes.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Never assume that mild November temperatures eliminate dehydration risk.
  • Turn around before you become tired—the return trip still counts.

FORGE trail wisdom: The desert is beautiful, dramatic and completely unimpressed by your conference credentials.

🍽️ Where should we eat?

Old Town Scottsdale has more than 100 dining and nightlife options, with many located a short rideshare from the hotel. Reservations are recommended, especially for groups. (Experience Scottsdale)

Modern Arizona: FnB

A Scottsdale favorite known for seasonal, locally sourced cooking, vegetable-forward dishes and an Arizona-focused wine program. Excellent for attendees who want a distinctive regional meal. (Experience Scottsdale)

Modern Latin: The Mission

A lively Old Town choice featuring modern Latin cuisine, tableside guacamole, wood-fired meats and a dramatic atmosphere. (Experience Scottsdale)

Polished but relaxed: Citizen Public House

A locally loved New American gastropub with creative comfort food and cocktails. A good choice for colleagues who want an elevated dinner without making the evening overly formal. (Experience Scottsdale)

Steakhouse energy: Maple & Ash

A contemporary steakhouse with wood-fired dishes, a bold atmosphere and space for larger gatherings. (Experience Scottsdale)

Outdoor Arizona evening: The House Brasserie

Located in a historic Old Town home with a tree-lined patio. This is a strong option for a quieter dinner or special evening. (Experience Scottsdale)

Casual and quick

For an easy meal between activities, consider:

Group dinner tip: Make reservations early and ask about private or semi-private dining. Scottsdale enters its busy visitor season in the fall.

☀️ What will the weather be like?

November in Scottsdale is usually sunny, dry and comfortable.

Typical conditions include:

  • Average daytime high: approximately 78°F
  • Average nighttime low: approximately 45°F
  • Warm sunshine during the day
  • Cooler temperatures after sunset
  • Low humidity compared with many parts of the country (Experience Scottsdale)

Actual temperatures can vary, so check the forecast shortly before traveling.

What should I pack?

Think desert layers:

  • Business attire for conference sessions
  • A light jacket, wrap or sweater for mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable shoes for walking around the resort and Old Town
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Hiking shoes and activewear when heading to the trails
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Smart-casual clothing for Scottsdale dinners

Conference rooms can feel cool even when the afternoon is warm, so a light layer is always useful.

🌵 Will I have time to explore Scottsdale?

Yes—especially when you arrive early or extend your stay.

Popular nearby options include:

  • Old Town Scottsdale
  • Scottsdale Arts District
  • Scottsdale Fashion Square
  • Scottsdale Waterfront
  • Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
  • Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Taliesin West
  • McDowell Sonoran Preserve
  • Desert botanical and architectural tours

The hotel’s location makes it easy to combine FORGE programming with dinner, shopping, art or a quick outdoor adventure. Old Town includes distinct, walkable districts devoted to dining, shopping, art and entertainment. (Experience Scottsdale)

⭐ Final FORGE advice

Book the hotel early. Fly into PHX. Bring layers. Make dinner reservations. Drink water. Leave a little time for the desert.