Buckle Up

Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona—where desert adventure meets luxury living! Known for its stunning Sonoran Desert landscapes, world-class resorts, and vibrant Old Town, Scottsdale is the perfect mix of outdoor thrills, quirky attractions, and family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re hiking among giant cacti, exploring Wild West history, or cooling off in a lazy river, Scottsdale has something for every road-tripping family. So grab your sunglasses, hiking boots, and a big bottle of water—let’s explore! 🌵☀️🚗

1. Must-See Attractions & Family Favorites

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

A must-visit for families, this historic railroad park features a fully operational train, a vintage carousel, train exhibits, and a playground. Kids can ride a miniature train through the park, check out an actual Pullman train car, and explore the museum’s model railroad display.

📍 Location: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: therailroadpark.com
🚂 Kid Favorite: The Paradise & Pacific Railroad ride is a hit with all ages!

OdySea Aquarium

Dive into Arizona’s largest aquarium, featuring shark tunnels, interactive tide pools, sea lions, and even a rotating aquarium theater. Located in the Arizona Boardwalk entertainment district, it’s the perfect stop for marine-life lovers in the middle of the desert.

📍 Location: 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: odyseaaquarium.com
🐠 Must-See: The SeaTREK Helmet Dive lets you walk underwater with tropical fish!

Butterfly Wonderland

Right next to OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland is a massive indoor rainforest habitat filled with thousands of butterflies, tropical birds, and even a honeybee exhibit. Kids can feed butterflies, watch them emerge from cocoons, and learn about conservation efforts.

📍 Location: 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: butterflywonderland.com
🦋 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are when butterflies are most active!

2. Offbeat & Hidden Gems

Old Town Scottsdale & The Cowboy Experience

Step into the Wild West in Old Town Scottsdale, where historic buildings, saloons, and cowboy culture bring Arizona’s frontier past to life. Families can take a horse-drawn carriage ride, pan for gold, or visit the famous Rusty Spur Saloon (kid-friendly by day).

📍 Location: Old Town Scottsdale
🌎 Website: oldtownscottsdaleaz.com
🤠 Must-See: Snap a pic at the Old Town Cowboy Statue!

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

For a fun and interactive history lesson, visit Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. This museum is packed with Native American artifacts, cowboy gear, and exhibits on famous Wild West figures.

📍 Location: 3830 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: scottsdalemuseumwest.org
🪶 Kid-Friendly Tip: Ask about their scavenger hunt activities!

3. Outdoor Adventures & Active Fun

Camelback Mountain

For families who love hiking and breathtaking views, Camelback Mountain is one of the best hikes in Arizona. There are two main trails, but Echo Canyon Trail is the most popular for experienced hikers.

📍 Location: Echo Canyon Trailhead, 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ
🌎 Website: phoenix.gov/parks
🥾 Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water—it gets HOT fast!

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

If Camelback is too challenging, McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers easier desert trails perfect for families, young kids, and beginner hikers. The trails are lined with giant saguaro cacti, desert flowers, and sometimes even wild horses!

📍 Location: 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: mcdowellsonoran.org
🌵 Best Trail for Kids: The Gateway Loop Trail is easy and scenic!

Salt River Tubing (Seasonal)

From May to September, families can float down the Salt River on giant inner tubes, spotting wild horses and stunning desert scenery along the way. It’s the ultimate lazy river adventure!

📍 Location: 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ
🌎 Website: saltrivertubing.com
💦 Best Time to Go: Mornings are cooler and less crowded!

4. Best Places to Eat (Kid-Approved & Unique!)

Sugar Bowl

A Scottsdale institution since 1958, Sugar Bowl is a retro pink ice cream parlor serving up old-fashioned sundaes, shakes, and comfort food.

📍 Location: 4005 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: sugarbowlscottsdale.com
🍦 Best Treat: The Banana Split is legendary!

The Mission

For families who love Mexican & Latin-inspired food, The Mission offers tableside guacamole, tacos, and incredible churros.

📍 Location: 3815 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ
🌎 Website: themissionaz.com
🌮 Best Dish: The Al Pastor Tacos and homemade tortillas!

Hash Kitchen

A great breakfast and brunch spot, Hash Kitchen is famous for its crazy Bloody Mary bar (for parents) and over-the-top pancakes (for kids!).

📍 Location: Multiple locations in Scottsdale
🌎 Website: hashkitchen.com
🥞 Kid Favorite: Funfetti Pancakes with sprinkles & whipped cream!

5. Easy, Eco-Friendly & Mindful Travel Tips

• Stay Hydrated! – The desert heat is no joke, so always carry refillable water bottles.
• Use the Scottsdale Trolley – A free trolley connects major attractions in Old Town.
• Support Local – Look for local boutiques in Old Town to find unique souvenirs.

6. Nearby Adventures & Day Trips

Desert Botanical Garden (30 Min Drive)

See the Sonoran Desert in full bloom at this stunning garden filled with towering cacti, desert wildflowers, and unique desert plants.

📍 Location: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ
🌎 Website: dbg.org

Jerome, AZ (2 Hour Drive)

This quirky ghost town-turned-artist-community is packed with haunted history, cool shops, and stunning mountain views.

📍 Location: Jerome, AZ
🌎 Website: visitarizona.com

Are We There Yet?

From hiking among giant cacti and exploring Wild West history to floating down a desert river, Scottsdale is a family road trip paradise. Whether you’re riding a miniature train, feeding butterflies, or devouring a banana split at Sugar Bowl, this desert city is packed with unforgettable adventures.

💬 Have you visited Scottsdale? Tag us in your adventures with #TheFamilyRoadTrip and share your favorite spots!