WestWorld of Scottsdale Is More Than You Think
For many Scottsdale residents, WestWorld of Scottsdale is a familiar part of the community. It is where we go for Barrett Jackson, equestrian events, the Arabian Horse Show, rodeos and other major events.
But WestWorld is much more than a venue for a handful of signature Scottsdale events.
On the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Cassie Johnson, Interim General Manager of WestWorld, to talk about the venue’s future, the major projects underway and why WestWorld plays such an important role in Scottsdale.
Johnson has a unique connection to the City of Scottsdale. She began her career with the city as an intern in the Scottsdale Police Department and went on to hold several leadership roles involving strategic planning, budgeting, public safety and city operations. She eventually became involved with WestWorld through a special assignment focused on helping implement the venue’s strategic plan.
That experience gave her an entirely new perspective on a place she had known for years.
From Rodeos to World Class Events
Johnson explains that WestWorld can mean something completely different depending on who you ask.
For some people, it is the place where they went to a rodeo as a child. For others, it is where they attend Barrett Jackson or one of the many equestrian competitions held throughout the year.
For Johnson, WestWorld has evolved from a place she knew professionally through public safety into an opportunity to bring together strategic planning, city operations and community events.
One of the things that surprised her most was seeing just how quickly the property can transform.
WestWorld can go from a major automotive event to an international equestrian competition in a matter of weeks. In fact, Johnson explains that the same area used for the Barrett Jackson auction can be transformed into a dirt arena for horses just a few weeks later.
That flexibility is one of WestWorld’s greatest strengths.
Major Improvements Are Coming to WestWorld
Johnson took on the role of Interim General Manager at a time when several significant capital projects are already underway.
One of the biggest areas of focus is drainage.
Because WestWorld sits on Bureau of Reclamation land that was originally intended to help hold floodwaters, heavy rain can create significant challenges for a property that hosts horses, vehicles and thousands of visitors.
The first phase of a major drainage project is already underway, with additional projects planned over the next several years. The goal is to reduce flooding and standing water throughout the property and create a better experience for event producers, exhibitors, animals and visitors.
Other improvements include better wayfinding and signage, expanded shade and improvements to parking and access.
These projects are part of WestWorld’s council approved master plan, which was adopted in December 2025.
WestWorld Has Something for Everyone
One of the biggest takeaways from Alicia’s conversation with Johnson is just how diverse the WestWorld calendar has become.
While equestrian events and automotive shows remain a major part of the venue, WestWorld is also hosting events that many Scottsdale residents might not immediately associate with the property.
Recent events have included gaming competitions, home shows, collectible events, reptile shows, art events and other specialty gatherings.
Johnson says the goal is to continue thinking creatively about what WestWorld can offer.
The property includes large climate controlled spaces that can provide opportunities for sports, entertainment and other events that may not otherwise be practical in Scottsdale during the summer months.
A New Event Space at Monterra
Another exciting development is the addition of Monterra to the WestWorld event portfolio.
The property was originally built in 1990 and has served several purposes over the years. The City of Scottsdale acquired the facility in 2024, and it is now being refreshed as a new event space.
Monterra will offer a different type of venue from the Equidome and North Hall, with a ballroom and banquet style setting that can accommodate weddings, celebrations and other events. Food and beverage services will be available through M Culinary.
Why WestWorld Matters to Scottsdale
WestWorld is not simply a place where people attend events.
It is also a significant economic driver for Scottsdale and the region.
Johnson says WestWorld generates more than $160 million in regional economic impact. Visitors coming to the venue do more than attend an event. They stay in Scottsdale hotels, eat at local restaurants, shop in the community and use local transportation and airports.
That makes the continued investment in WestWorld important not only for the venue itself, but for Scottsdale’s broader tourism and economic development strategy.
Johnson says collaboration will be an important part of that future, including partnerships with Experience Scottsdale, economic development, tourism, parks and recreation and other community organizations.
Being a Good Neighbor
With so many events taking place throughout the year, WestWorld also has to consider its impact on surrounding neighborhoods.
Johnson acknowledges that traffic and event related congestion can be frustrating, particularly when large events bring thousands of people to the area at the same time.
That is one reason improvements to wayfinding, parking and access are so important.
WestWorld is also working on communication strategies designed to keep nearby residents informed about what is happening at the property.
The goal, Johnson says, is to improve both the producer and visitor experience while also being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.
What Is Next for WestWorld of Scottsdale?
Johnson sees tremendous opportunity ahead.
The venue already has a strong history, a loyal group of event producers and an incredible amount of space. The challenge is figuring out how to use that space in new and creative ways while continuing to support the equestrian events and Western traditions that helped establish WestWorld in the first place.
Her message to potential event producers is simple: bring the ideas and start the conversation.
WestWorld wants to explore new opportunities that can benefit Scottsdale and its residents while continuing to build on what has already made the venue successful.
And for Scottsdale residents who may think they already know WestWorld, Johnson has another message.
There is always something happening there.
The WestWorld website features a calendar of upcoming events, and some events are free and open to the public. Johnson encourages residents to explore the calendar and discover some of the events they may never have considered attending.
Listen to the Full Conversation
Hear Alicia Haygood and Cassie Johnson talk about the future of WestWorld of Scottsdale, the major improvements coming to the property, the economic impact of the venue and the surprising variety of events happening right here in Scottsdale.
Listen to the latest episode of Scottsdale Vibes wherever you get your podcasts.
Because WestWorld has something for everyone.
