Cattle Track Arts Compound
A historic artist colony in Scottsdale, Arizona, featuring working studios, live music, and a vibrant community spirit.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Studios often open, events scheduled
Cattle Track Arts Compound
Best Time
Studios often open, events scheduled

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic artist colony in Scottsdale, Arizona, featuring working studios, live music, and a vibrant community spirit.
"It was a unique place. The outside looks totally deserted and cluttered."
Check Studio Hours
Studios may close early. Confirm hours or contact artists for specific visits. :camerawithflash:
Look for Events
Outdoor concerts and workshops are common. Check their schedule for a lively experience. :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Working Artist Studios
Various locations throughout the compound
Explore diverse studios showcasing painting, pottery, woodworking, and more. Meet passionate artists and witness their creative process firsthand.

Live Music & Performances
Dance hall and outdoor venues
Experience intimate concerts featuring local musicians like Trio Rio and The Dusty Ramblers Project. A unique, low-key entertainment option.

Architectural Exploration
TSOA (The School of Architecture) and historic buildings
Discover experimental building designs and the historical roots of this artist community, influenced by figures like Frank Lloyd Wright.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected
Timing is Key for Studios
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Studio Hours
Studios may close early. Confirm hours or contact artists for specific visits. :camerawithflash:
Look for Events
Outdoor concerts and workshops are common. Check their schedule for a lively experience. :musical_note:
Embrace the Rustic Charm
The compound has a unique, sometimes cluttered, aesthetic. It's part of its authentic appeal. :sparkles:
BYOB for Concerts
Many outdoor events are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage). Plan accordingly! :wine_glass:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Studio Hours
Studios may close early. Confirm hours or contact artists for specific visits. :camerawithflash:
Look for Events
Outdoor concerts and workshops are common. Check their schedule for a lively experience. :musical_note:
Embrace the Rustic Charm
The compound has a unique, sometimes cluttered, aesthetic. It's part of its authentic appeal. :sparkles:
BYOB for Concerts
Many outdoor events are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage). Plan accordingly! :wine_glass:
Connect with Artists
Visitors often find artists warm and welcoming. Don't hesitate to chat! :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe Cattle Track Arts Compound as a unique, albeit initially unassuming, destination. While the exterior might appear cluttered or unwelcoming, the passionate and skilled artists within offer enriching experiences, from studio tours to live performances. Many appreciate the rich history and the opportunity to connect with creators.
"It was a unique place. The outside looks totally deserted and cluttered. All the buildings, if they have windows or doors, are covered with blinds so you can’t see into anything. So it feels very unwelcoming and like a ghost town. I happened to see somebody pop outside the one building and so I was able to meet them and get the tour of the place. The artists there are very passionate about their work and they are very skilled. There’s a pottery place, woodworking, painting, colored pencil artist, old blacksmith shop, dance hall, theatre where they hold shows and musical events. I’m glad I stopped in and they were willing to chat with me for a bit."
Abbey
"Trio Rio is Always the best when playing at such a welcoming environment with so much Arizona history ❤️"
Judith Merritt
"I don't think many people know about this place...I know I didn't. Met up with friends for an outdoor concert that was fun and low key. Trio Rio played country standards and shared stories of their adventures in music and traveling. I'll be back again when the artists'studios are open (they were already closed when I got there). I also heard they're going to open a restaurant in the main building. Will need to check it out."
Alisa Sever
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cattle Track Arts Compound is located just off McDonald Drive in Scottsdale, Arizona. While it might appear 'deserted' from the outside, it's a working artist colony. Driving is the most common way to access it, with parking available on-site. It's recommended to use GPS for precise directions.
Public transportation options to Cattle Track Arts Compound are limited. It's best to check local Scottsdale transit routes, but driving or ride-sharing services are generally more convenient for reaching this artist enclave.
The compound is a collection of studios and performance spaces. Walking is the best way to explore once you've parked. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general grounds of Cattle Track Arts Compound is typically free, allowing you to explore the exterior and common areas. However, specific events like concerts or workshops may require tickets or have associated fees. It's always best to check their official schedule or social media for event details and pricing.
The compound itself doesn't have strict 'operating hours' as it's a working artist colony. Individual artist studios may have their own hours, and these can vary greatly. Events are scheduled at specific times. It's advisable to check their social media or website for any announced open studio days or event schedules.
For most events, especially concerts, booking tickets in advance is recommended, particularly if they are popular or have limited capacity. This helps ensure you secure a spot. Check the event organizer's ticketing platform or contact them directly for booking information.
While some artists may welcome spontaneous visitors, it's not guaranteed. Many visitors recommend checking for advertised 'open studio' days or contacting artists directly if you have a specific interest in their work. This approach maximizes your chances of a productive visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use at Cattle Track Arts Compound, especially in common areas and during events. However, always be respectful of artists and their work. If you plan to take professional photos or use flash extensively, it's courteous to ask for permission from the artists whose studios you are photographing.
The compound offers a unique, rustic aesthetic with murals and interesting architectural elements. The working studios themselves, with their creative output, also make for compelling photographic subjects. Keep an eye out for unique textures and the vibrant art installations scattered throughout.
During live music events, casual photography for personal memories is usually fine. However, avoid using flash photography, as it can be disruptive to performers and other attendees. Professional or commercial photography during events may require prior arrangement or permission.
🎫 🎶 Music & Arts
Cattle Track Arts Compound is home to a diverse range of artists. You can find painters, potters, woodworkers, sculptors, and more. The compound also hosts musical performances, theater, and dance events, showcasing a vibrant and multifaceted arts community.
Yes, TSOA (The School of Architecture) at Cattle Track Arts Compound offers classes and workshops, fostering a culture of experimental building and artistic learning. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming educational opportunities.
Trio Rio and The Dusty Ramblers Project are frequently mentioned as performers at Cattle Track Arts Compound, known for their country standards and organic music. The compound hosts a variety of musical genres.
Absolutely! Many artists at Cattle Track Arts Compound welcome direct sales. Visiting their studios provides a unique opportunity to connect with the artist and acquire original pieces of art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
🎶 Music Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of Cattle Track Arts Compound
The compound has a connection to influential figures in Arizona's art and architecture scene. Its history is intertwined with the broader artistic landscape of Scottsdale, making it a significant cultural landmark. Visitors often remark on the 'rich history of Arizona arts' that can be discovered here. The blend of historical significance and contemporary artistic practice makes Cattle Track a compelling destination for those interested in the arts and local heritage.
Recent developments include the expansion of artist studios and the potential for new dining establishments, indicating a continued evolution of the compound. This dynamic nature ensures that each visit can offer something new, whether it's witnessing a new construction project or experiencing a fresh artistic endeavor. The community's welcoming nature also plays a key role in its enduring appeal.
Experiencing Live Performances at Cattle Track
The atmosphere at these events is typically described as 'fun and low key,' making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening out. Visitors are encouraged to 'BYOB' (Bring Your Own Beverage) for many outdoor concerts, adding to the casual and community-oriented vibe. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable experience for a wide range of attendees looking for unique entertainment options in Scottsdale.
Beyond music, the compound also hosts other performing arts, contributing to its reputation as a multifaceted cultural hub. The intimate setting ensures a close connection between performers and the audience, creating memorable experiences for everyone involved. Keep an eye on their event listings for upcoming performances that showcase the vibrant local arts scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit