The USA’s self-billed ‘The West’s Most Western Town’ is celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of Hollywood’s most iconic western movies.
Following its release in 1985, Pale Rider, starring Clint Eastwood who played a gunslinging preacher, grossed over $41 million at the box office, and became the best-selling Western movie of the 1980s.
And to mark the landmark anniversary Scottsdale, Arizona, is promoting its own Pale Rider-influenced experiences to help visitors find their inner cowboy and cowgirl.
Firstly, shop the look at Watson’s Hat Shop, which crafts classic, premium cowboy hat styles, or Rancher Hat Bar, where Western enthusiasts are invited to customise their own cowboy hat. Then finish off the look at Boot Barn, Tecovas, or Boot Junky, where timeless and unique Western-style clothing pieces await.
Once suited and booted, embark on an authentic tasting journey of the Wild West. Start off at Buffalo Chip Saloon, where dripping barbecued delights include pit-smoked beef brisket, and smoked Texas sausage. A rodeo bull is also on hand to take guests on “rides”, and there’s live country music and dancing lessons. Elsewhere, Roaring Fork grills flavourful dishes over an open flame, whilst Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon is referred to as ‘Scottsdale’s original Rib House’.
Scottsdale is also about immersive Western experiences.
Scottsdale Western Week (January 24-February 1 2026) will feature parades, Native American festivals, live music, and museum exhibits.
Meanwhile, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is a leading attraction that takes visitors through the rich history of the American West with art pieces, artifacts, and exhibits.
Finally, expertly capturing the soul of Cowboy culture, is Arizona Cowboy College. Where visitors can immerse themselves on a working ranch, gain hands-on training in horsemanship, cattle herding, and ranching techniques.
For accommodation, a Western-themed getaway is available at The Hermosa Inn. Once home to 1930s cowboy artist Lon Megargee, it embodies Old West charm and spirit: there are hacienda-style guest rooms and hand painted murals on the adobe walls.
visitarizona.com; expereincescottsdale.com
