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50+ Best Things to Do in Scottsdale with Kids (2024)

Scottsdale, Arizona, often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Sonoran Desert, is a vibrant city that boasts a rich blend of cultural attractions, stunning outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Scottsdale offers an array of delightful options for families with children. Here are over 50 of the best things to do in Scottsdale with kids in 2024.

1. Scottsdale Zoo

The Scottsdale Zoological Park is a must-visit for animal lovers. Featuring a variety of species from around the world, interactive exhibits, and a petting zoo, it’s the perfect place for kids to learn about wildlife conservation.

2. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

This enchanting park is home to a fascinating railway museum with miniature trains, carousel rides, and playgrounds. Kids will love taking a ride on the park’s train and exploring the various models on display.

3. Butterfly Wonderland

Immerse yourselves in the tropical rainforest environment of Butterfly Wonderland, where children can marvel at thousands of butterflies as they flutter around. The experience includes an interactive exhibit and a 3D movie.

4. Scottsdale Waterfront

Take a leisurely stroll along the Arizona Canal, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are benches for rest, public art displays, and engaging open spaces for children to run around.

5. Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden

A short drive from Scottsdale leads you to this beautiful garden filled with desert flora. Kids will enjoy the interactive trails and scavenger hunts that make learning about plants fun.

6. OdySea Aquarium

As the largest aquarium in the Southwest, the OdySea Aquarium features unique exhibits and hands-on experiences. Children can enjoy animal encounters, including stingrays and sharks.

7. Old Town Scottsdale

Explore the charming streets of Old Town, filled with quaint shops, eateries, and art galleries. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for window shopping and soaking in the local culture.

8. Pinnacle Peak Park

For families who enjoy the outdoors, Pinnacle Peak Park offers hiking trails that are suitable for kids and adults alike. The panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort.

9. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

Introduce your kids to the world of art at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. The kid-friendly exhibits and workshops make it a fun and educational visit.

10. Turf Paradise

Spend a day at the races at Turf Paradise, where kids can learn about horse racing and even see horses up close. Family-friendly events are often held throughout the race season.

11. Cactus Park

One of the best playgrounds in Scottsdale, Cactus Park offers various play structures, sports fields, and picnic areas. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic.

12. Desert Troon Park

Located in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, Desert Troon Park features excellent hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic overlooks that kids will love exploring.

13. The Arizona Canal Trail

Biking along the Arizona Canal Trail is a fantastic way to appreciate the natural beauty of Scottsdale. Rent bikes and enjoy the scenery together as a family.

14. Scottsdale Fashion Square

For a family shopping day, visit Scottsdale Fashion Square. With a variety of shops, eateries, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone.

15. Golfing at TopGolf

Whether you’re seasoned golfers or complete novices, Topgolf offers fun for the entire family. The interactive golf games are easy to learn and great for all ages.

16. Kierland Commons

This outdoor shopping centre features a variety of family-friendly restaurants and shops, as well as frequent events like outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals.

17. Arizona Science Center

Just a short drive away in Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that will ignite your child’s curiosity and love for science.

18. The Heard Museum

Take a little trip to this excellent museum that showcases Native American art and culture. It’s an enriching experience where children can engage with crafts and storytelling activities.

19. Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a thrilling experience, book a hot air balloon ride. Floating above the stunning landscapes provides a memorable family adventure.

20. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

Choose from an array of hiking and biking trails in this vast park, perfect for families who enjoy outdoor excursions. The park offers ample chances for wildlife spotting.

21. Scottsdale’s March for Parks

Participate in this annual event to promote Scottsdale’s parks and recreation. This fun family day includes games, entertainment, and a chance to enjoy the outdoors together.

22. Pueblo Grande Museum

Located in Phoenix, this archaeological site showcases ancient Hohokam culture. Kids can learn about history and participate in hands-on activities designed for young explorers.

23. Wildlife World Zoo

It’s worth the drive to visit the Wildlife World Zoo which features a diverse range of animals, an aquarium, and the chance to feed and interact with various species.

24. Saguaro Lake

Spend a day by the water at Saguaro Lake, where kids can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddle boating, and fishing in the stunning desert surroundings.

25. Desert Hills Trailhead

Perfect for family hiking adventures, the Desert Hills Trailhead offers easy trails that provide a fantastic introduction to the beautiful desert landscapes.

26. Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Explore this dynamic museum in Phoenix where children can engage in creative and interactive exhibits specifically designed to spark imagination and inquiry.

27. Bowlero

Enjoy a family bowling night at Bowlero, where you can bowl in a fun atmosphere complete with glow-in-the-dark lanes and arcade games.

28. Riverview Park

This park in nearby Mesa features a splash pad, playgrounds, and walking paths – perfect for a relaxing family day outdoors.

29. ArtWalk

Attend the Scottsdale ArtWalk held every Thursday evening. It’s a great way for families to explore art galleries and engage in the creative community.

30. Black Canyon City

Just a short trip away, this park features family-friendly hiking trails and opportunities for rock climbing and exploring unique desert wildlife.

31. Parks and Recreation Programming

Check local listings for educational and recreational programming designed for children in Scottsdale’s public parks. Activities often include sports, arts, and summer camps.

32. Horseback Riding

Experience Scottsdale’s stunning desert landscapes on horseback. Various ranches offer guided tours that cater to families.

33. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Observation Park

For aviation enthusiasts, this free park offers an elevated view of the airport where you can watch planes take off and land — a hit with kids.

34. Pump It Up

Visit Pump It Up, an indoor inflatable playground that provides hours of fun with giant bouncers and obstacle courses.

35. The Miracle Mile Deli

Take a family break and enjoy a meal at this beloved local deli known for its hearty sandwiches and kid-friendly options.

36. Sonoran Desert Skydiving

For adventurous families with older kids, skydiving over the stunning desert landscape offers a thrilling experience.

37. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Explore the natural beauty of Tonto Natural Bridge, the tallest natural bridge in the world, with fun hiking options suitable for kids.

38. Footprint Center

Catch a family-friendly event or concert at the downtown venue, which often hosts shows appealing to audiences of all ages.

39. Scottsdale Public Library

For book-loving families, the Scottsdale Public Library offers reading programs, events, and a fantastic collection of children’s books.

40. Golfing at Talking Stick

For golf enthusiasts, the Talking Stick Golf Club offers a family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful courses and facilities.

41. Desert Ridge Marketplace

Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment at this outdoor marketplace that features children’s activities throughout the year.

42. Arizona State Fair

If your visit coincides with the Arizona State Fair, don’t miss out on the rides, games, and delicious fair food that kids will love.

43. Cultural Events and Festivals

Scottsdale hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar for kid-friendly activities during your visit.

44. Salt River Rafting

Experience a fun family day out with a rafting trip on the Salt River, where children can enjoy calm waters and stunning scenery.

45. Scottsdale Airpark

Take a tour of the Scottsdale Airpark and learn about private aviation, a fascinating experience for budding aviators.

46. Camelback Mountain

For families looking for a challenge, hiking Camelback Mountain is an exhilarating experience that older kids will enjoy. Just make sure to bring plenty of water!

47. Massages and Spa Days

Many spas offer family packages, allowing parents to unwind while children enjoy special treatments tailored for them.

48. Ice Cream at Sweet Republic

Stop by Sweet Republic to indulge in some of the best handcrafted ice creams in town, with inventive flavours that will delight kids and adults alike.

49. Family Movie Nights at the Park

Check local listings for family movie nights in the park. Bring a blanket and enjoy a film under the stars together.

50. Golf Lessons for Kids

Consider enroling your kids in golf lessons at one of Scottsdale’s family-friendly courses where they can learn the fundamentals of the game in a fun environment.

51. Phoenix Children’s Museum

Though a little outside Scottsdale, this facility is dedicated to learning through play and should not be missed. Interactive exhibits and educational workshops engage kids and spark curiosity.

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Scottsdale is a fantastic destination for family outings, combining outdoor fun, rich culture, and adventurous experiences. Whether your family enjoys wildlife, art, sports, or simply exploring nature, there’s never a shortage of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Start planning your family adventure in Scottsdale today!

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