SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale has launched a new “Experience Passport” program designed to help visitors explore Old Town while connecting them with local businesses.
Announced May 1, the interactive program encourages guests to visit participating locations, collect stamps and enter weekly drawings for $100 prizes.
The city said the passport is intended to help visitors build their own itineraries as they move through Old Town.
The program highlights the area’s southwestern charm, public art and locally owned shops. It is organized around five themes tied to Old Town’s tourism offerings: Dine, Discover, Pamper, Sip and Shop.
Forty local businesses are participating in the program. Many are offering promotions, including discounts on food and beverages, buy-one-get-one-free deals and gift-with-purchase offers.
Visitors can also complete a bonus “free space” by taking selfies with Old Town’s public art installations.
“Often when visiting a new area, visitors are curious how best to explore and where to go first,” said Kevin Burke, Scottsdale’s senior director of economic development and tourism. “The Experience Passport guides tourists throughout all the different areas of Old Town and inspires them to create an itinerary, while providing a fun and creative challenge.”
Burke said the program is also intended to benefit local businesses early in a visitor’s trip.
“The Experience Passport provides local businesses with an opportunity to connect with visitors early in their trip,” he said. “It supports local commerce and encourages more foot traffic throughout Old Town.”
The city said the program is meant to serve both as a guide for visitors and a way to direct attention to participating businesses across Old Town, offering a structured but flexible way to experience the district.
Visitors can access the Experience Passport at OldTownScottsdaleAZ.com by searching “Experience Passport.”
The city did not say how long the program will run but said weekly $100 prize drawings are part of the launch.
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