Scottsdale, Arizona, has been our home for the last five years, thanks to my partner’s job relocation. During this time, we’ve uncovered some fantastic spots perfect for family fun! Even after all this time, our kids still love showcasing these treasures when we have visitors. Here are ten of our favorite kid-friendly activities in Scottsdale.
- Cosanti. Explore the enchanting grounds of Paolo Soleri’s unique home, an American-Italian architect who made Scottsdale his home in 1956. Soleri, a local icon, created a visually stunning space where you can park easily. When my daughter first visited, she exclaimed it looked like a scene from a sci-fi movie, which made me realize we found a hidden gem! Strolling through the garden paths is delightful, and if you’re lucky, you might catch the staff pouring bronze and ceramic wind bells right on-site. Best of all, visiting is completely free!
- Hiking Trails. Scottsdale boasts numerous trails that are ideal for family hikes. Two of our top picks are the Gateway Trailhead and the Lost Dog Trailhead. Each trail is well-marked with maps, distance indicators, and designated turnaround points.
- Butterfly Wonderland. This newest attraction in Scottsdale features the largest butterfly atrium in the United States. The sight of butterflies fluttering around and landing on visitors is simply magical. Beyond the butterfly conservatory, there’s a live ant colony, a honey bee exhibit, and a touch tank filled with stingrays. The staff has truly made it engaging for young explorers!
- Sugar Bowl. This nostalgic eatery was once frequented by cartoonist Bill Keane, creator of The Family Circus. Today, it serves delicious meals and ice cream, plus an arcade for the kids to enjoy. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and have fun, even if your little ones get a bit rowdy—the staff is always welcoming!
- Ollie the Trolley. Catch this delightful trolley ride near Fashion Square for a fun tour around the town. The kids absolutely adore it! The Downtown route takes you past the Waterfront, 5th Avenue, and Old Town, showcasing the area’s charm.
- The Simple Farm. Run by the lovely couple Mia and Jake, this local farm opens its doors every Thursday morning for visitors to enjoy seasonal harvests. Sip coffee and savor homemade caramels while chatting with the friendly hosts. They also offer classes like backyard orchard pruning and canning.
- Desert Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for any family, this garden highlights the beauty of local flora. With special events year-round, you can often find unique activities to enjoy. My kids love wandering the paths and sharing their favorite cacti stories, and there are plenty of shaded benches to relax on.
- Fountain Hills. Just a short drive away lies this picturesque town, home to a breathtaking 560-foot fountain. Next to it, a fantastic playground with splash pads awaits younger visitors. After playing, families can refuel at nearby pizza and ice cream shops.
- Musical Instrument Museum. If your kids have a passion for music, this museum is a perfect destination! Its extensive collections are impressive. I recently attended a concert featuring Bela Fleck, which was an unforgettable experience. Be sure to check out their schedule for upcoming performances!
- Splash Pads. Almost every shopping center in Scottsdale features splash pads where kids can cool off and play. Before moving to Arizona, I had never even heard of splash pads! Some of my favorites include The Quarter, Kierland Commons, and Desert Ridge, which are fantastic spots to let off steam in the mornings or evenings.
Have any other family-friendly favorites in Scottsdale? Share them in the comments!
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Summary
Scottsdale offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, from exploring Cosanti and hiking scenic trails to enjoying the wonders of Butterfly Wonderland. Whether you’re indulging in ice cream at the Sugar Bowl or exploring the Musical Instrument Museum, there’s no shortage of fun for kids and parents alike. Don’t forget to check out local events and attractions that make Scottsdale a vibrant place to visit!