Things to Do in Scottsdale with Kids: Fun for the Whole Family

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a fantastic place to visit with your family. With its sunny weather, stunning desert scenery, and tons of activities, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids. Whether your little ones are adventurous explorers or budding artists, Scottsdale has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best kid-friendly activities you can enjoy together.

Scottsdale Map

1. OdySea Aquarium

OdySea Aquarium

If your kids love marine life, the OdySea Aquarium is a must-visit. It’s one of the largest aquariums in the Southwest, featuring over 30,000 animals. The aquarium has several interactive exhibits that allow kids to get up close with sea creatures like sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Don’t miss the 3D theater, where the kids can enjoy exciting underwater adventures.

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2. Butterfly Wonderland

Next door to the OdySea Aquarium, you’ll find Butterfly Wonderland. This is an incredible indoor rainforest filled with thousands of butterflies. Kids will love walking through the lush gardens and watching these colorful creatures flutter around. It’s educational, fun, and a great way to get the whole family exploring nature together.

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3. Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

If your kids are fascinated by trains, this park will be a hit. Located in the heart of Scottsdale, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has model trains, a carousel, and even a historic train ride that takes you around the park. The kids can also enjoy the playground, and there’s plenty of space for a family picnic. It’s a lovely spot to relax while the little ones play and explore.

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4. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden isn’t just for plant lovers—it’s a great spot for kids to learn about the desert environment. The garden offers family-friendly activities, including a special area where kids can explore and touch different plants. The garden even hosts seasonal events and outdoor exhibits that make learning about nature fun and interactive. Be sure to check out the Butterfly Pavilion, where you can get an up-close look at the local butterflies.

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5. Talking Stick Discovery Center

Perfect for hands-on learning, the Talking Stick Discovery Center is an interactive museum that engages kids in science, technology, and art. With exhibits that cover everything from physics to art creation, this is a great place for curious minds. There are also outdoor activities, like a playground and a splash pad, to keep the kids entertained. It’s educational and fun, making it a great way to spend an afternoon.

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6. Salt River Rafting

Salt River

For adventurous families, a trip down the Salt River is a must. While this might be better for older kids, the experience of rafting through the desert with beautiful views of the mountains is unforgettable. You might even spot wild horses along the riverbanks! Many companies offer family-friendly rafting tours that are safe and enjoyable for kids. It’s a fun way to cool off and experience nature up close.

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7. Scottsdale Civic Center Park

Scottsdale’s Civic Center Park is a spacious, scenic spot that’s perfect for a family day out. The park has walking paths, fountains, and plenty of grassy areas for kids to run around. If you’re visiting on a weekend, you might catch one of the many local events or festivals that happen here. It’s a peaceful place to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather.

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8. Arizona Boardwalk

The Arizona Boardwalk is an exciting entertainment complex where you can find various attractions like the OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, and more. But it also features fun spots like a mirror maze and a laser tag arena—perfect for a bit of competitive fun with the kids. It’s an all-in-one place that lets families enjoy multiple activities without having to travel far.

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9. Golfland Sunsplash

Golfland Sunsplash

For a day of water-filled fun, head over to Golfland Sunsplash. This water park features a variety of slides, a lazy river, and splash pads that are perfect for kids of all ages. There’s also a mini-golf course and arcade games for when you need a break from the water. It’s a great way to spend a hot day and keep the whole family entertained.

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10. Sonoran Desert Adventure

Sonoran Desert

If your family loves the outdoors, consider taking a guided hike through the stunning Sonoran Desert. There are various trails suitable for families, and many guides offer kid-friendly tours where they’ll learn about desert wildlife and plants. Some companies even offer jeep tours if you prefer a more relaxed experience while taking in the incredible desert scenery.

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11. Old Town Scottsdale

For a family-friendly cultural experience, head to Old Town Scottsdale. Here, you can stroll through historic streets, check out local shops, and enjoy delicious meals. There are also fun art galleries and southwestern shops that kids will find interesting. Old Town is great for an afternoon walk, and you might even catch a local performance or event while you’re there.

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Final Thoughts

Scottsdale is full of family-friendly adventures, so no matter your kids’ interests, there’s something exciting to do! Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the desert, visiting interactive museums, or just enjoying a relaxing day at the park, Scottsdale has plenty of options for families to enjoy together. Plan your trip and get ready for an unforgettable time in this sunny, vibrant city!

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FAQs 

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Q: What are the best things to do in Scottsdale with kids?

A: Some of the best things to do in Scottsdale with kids include visiting the OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.

Q: Are there outdoor activities in Scottsdale for kids?

A: Yes! Scottsdale offers outdoor fun like hiking in the Sonoran Desert, visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, and rafting on the Salt River.

Q: What can kids do at Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park?

A: At McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, kids can enjoy train rides, a carousel, and explore model trains, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Q: Is Scottsdale good for a family vacation with kids?

A: Absolutely! There are plenty of things to do in Scottsdale with kids, including interactive museums, outdoor activities, and fun attractions.