Desert Cool: 10 Best Nightlife Spots in South Scottsdale

Maya Day and Nightclub, named for an ancient deity that is known for spinning illusions and dream, is one of the most popular dance clubs in Scottsdale. The nightclub is known for elaborate dance floor shows, including dancers swinging from the rafters, fire breathers, and other high-octane tricks of the trade. The crowd is young, energetic and dressed to impress. The Maya is known for hosting minor celebrities and attracts A-list DJs from around the globe. There is a $10 cover charge for females and $15 for males at the door for non-ticketed days and nights. The dance club frequently holds special events, so make sure to check the website for upcoming attractions.

Established in 1959, this family-owned bar is one of the oldest nightlife venues in Scottsdale. The Coach House is a friendly neighborhood tavern located in Old Town Scottsdale, where locals and visitors mingle in an unpretentious spot known for its long history and Southwestern hospitality. Hang out on the patio, or lounge inside where football or baseball, depending on the season, is playing on the televisions. If you're looking for a quiet spot away from the glitz and expensive cocktails of Scottsdale's trendy club and bar scene, the Coach House tavern is the place to go. A great place to enjoy a beer and watch the game.

Dakota is a popular Old Town Scottsdale food, drink and nightlife spot. The ambiance at this hybrid restaurant, bar and nightlife venue is casual and fun with a touch of glam. The venue features a large, four-sided white marble bar; distinctive white-washed wood accents; and birdcage lighting. There is also a comfortable street-side patio that offers great people-watching in the heart of the entertainment district. At night, DJs play the latest dance mixes, and bottle service is available. Hungry? The kitchen has you covered. Dakota offers a full kitchen menu featuring shareable appetizers, sandwiches, salads, entrees and a full cocktail menu.

Wasted Grain is a laid-back restaurant, bar and dance club that has something for everyone. Want to play a round of corn hole with friends while drinking your favorite beer? Check. Looking to burn up the dance floor with your hot moves? Head to the second story, where a DJ is pumping out the latest EDM hits. Or maybe you just want to relax on the patio and enjoy a cocktail with friends? Wasted Grain is a nightlife destination that will appeal to most people looking for a fun-filled night out with friends. Come as you are to Wasted Grain: there's no cover charge and no dress code.

This casual, relaxed, C&W spot attracts a loyal following of locals and out-of-towners with live music most afternoons and evenings. Regional and local acts perform primarily country tunes with a little rockabilly and blues thrown into the mix. Peanut shells crunching underfoot and a collection of dollar bills tacked to the wooden walls are accurate indicators of the completely laid-back atmosphere of the Scottsdale favorite. Check out the renovated vault of this one-time bank; liquor, not cash, is now carefully guarded within. As one of the oldest bars in Scottsdale, this local institution has seen its share of celebrity visitors, including Clint Eastwood and Vince Vaughn.

This low-key bar may not be as fashionable as the dance clubs up the road, but rest assured it's just as much fun. Pool, greasy bar food, big comfy booths, and live music are just some of the more enticing aspects of Rogue Bar. The dance floor is a great place to boogie down after a hard week's work. On most Saturdays, you can find a DJ spinning records and reigning over a dance party on the main floor. The live music calendar is full of up and coming rock and indie acts, so this is a good place to catch the next hot thing before they make it big.

Tucked away from the bustle of Scottsdale, this wine bar has a distinctly subterranean feel, thanks to subdued lighting, softly-playing jazz, and wine casks that line the walls. The decor is heavy on stained glass and stone, imbuing the spot with a sense of mystery. Select from a truly staggerring wine list — over 1,500 varieties are available. Management has thoughtfully whittled the gargantuan list down to a top 50 list, and servers provide additional guidance if you're still overwhelmed. Nothing so mundane as a happy hour here; instead, you'll catch drink specials during the "early evening hours of joy."

Rockbar Inc. in Scottsdale bills itself as the city's top rock 'n roll destination, and this boast may not be too far off. The club, lounge and music venue features live music, rock DJs and exclusive performances from local and national acts. Rockbar is also home to one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city, perfect for taking in the glittering lights of downtown Scottsdale. Doors open at 4 pm and the bar is open seven days a weeks and 365 days a year. When you're looking for a party in downtown Scottsdale, head to this always-rocking live music venue.

Eminently laid-back during the day, this no-frills joint transforms into a lively club in the evenings. Locals flock here daily for inexpensive drinks, a comfy heated patio, pool tables, and of course, plenty of room to dance. DJs spin on Friday and Saturday nights, and Pattie's also functions as a favorite site for get-togethers and special events. The absence of a cover charge adds considerably to the appeal. Pattie's First Avenue Lodge is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, convenient to the shops and attractions of downtown. Shuffleboard and table-tennis tournaments take place regularly. Crowds here on the weekends, so be brace yourself for lines at the bar.

This elegantly hip restaurant is famous for its burgers, sandwiches, and "galettes," a crispy flat bread topped with cheese, olives, bacon, and onions. Although the fare is simple, the preparation is perfection. Expect to be impressed by fresh ingredients, plentiful sides, and hamburgers that feature over a half pound of choice ground sirloin grilled to order. Located conveniently in Old Town Scottsdale at the Civic Center Mall, AZ88 provides rich ambiance with views of fountains and green spaces. Cocktails are served until 1:30 in the morning, while late-night dining continues 12:30 am. Perfect place for a relaxing nightcap with friends.