WestWorld of Scottsdale has been highlighted as a significant contributor to the local economy, according to discussions held at a recent City Council work study session on August 18. The venue hosted 80 unique events during fiscal year 2024/25, including 39 equestrian competitions and 41 special events in various spaces such as the Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center and the Polo Fields.
These events led to activity at WestWorld for 257 days out of the year, with multiple events occurring simultaneously on most days. The site’s flexibility has allowed it to host a range of activities from horse shows and auto auctions to art exhibitions and martial arts competitions.
A study conducted by Arizona State University’s Seidman Research Institute found that WestWorld contributed $163.6 million to Arizona’s GDP in fiscal year 2023/24. This analysis focused on major ticketed events and underscored tourism’s role in generating revenue for Scottsdale businesses, including hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and transportation services.
The study also reported $85.6 million in labor income, $4.8 million in direct state and local tax revenues, and support for 1,813 jobs statewide through WestWorld-related activities.
Among notable events at WestWorld were two Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctions, the Global Champions Arabian Tour—which is set to return through 2028—the annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, an increased turnout at the National Reined Cow Horse Association show, growth of The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships featuring Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week with galleries from across North America, the first-ever Scottsdale Fair and Festival, and United Fight League’s mixed martial arts competition.
To maintain its competitiveness as an event destination, several capital improvements were completed during fiscal year 2024/25: one horse barn was replaced; concrete flooring and restrooms were added to South Hall; and $1.9 million was spent resurfacing parking lots. Planned projects for FY 2025/26 include another barn replacement, flood drainage upgrades, and full renovation of Monterra banquet venue.
Tourism remains vital for city revenue streams such as sales taxes and bed taxes. City Manager Greg Caton stated: “WestWorld is a shining example of how strategic public investment can deliver economic returns for the community,” adding that its growth has helped fund city services and support jobs while enhancing Scottsdale’s profile nationally.
During the council meeting on August 18, users—mainly from the equestrian community—spoke about facility needs such as improved drainage infrastructure. Craig Jackson of Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction described ongoing drainage issues that have threatened their event operations.
City Manager Caton committed to providing short-term repair plans within 90 days (including fixes for portable horse stalls and sound systems), delivering a comprehensive infrastructure master plan within 120 days (with $18 million in projects slated), and completing a long-term strategic plan within six months. Recruitment is underway for an assistant general manager with equestrian experience to ensure continued focus on core user groups as WestWorld evolves.
