Just east of Phoenix, you can find Scottsdale, a desert city in Arizona that is famous for its spa resorts and golf courses. In Scottsdale, you will find plenty of family fun, especially outdoors. Whenever you want to take a break from exploring the outdoors, there’s a lively dining and shopping scene waiting to be explored. From sampling the Southwest cuisine or exploring the desert in the Sonoran preserve, here are the best things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
1. OdySea Aquarium
Children and adults alike will love exploring the OdySea Aquarium, one of the newest and most unique aquariums in the United States. It might seem odd to have an aquarium in such close proximity to the Sonoran Desert but don’t let that fool you. Once you step inside, you’re bound to be amazed!
The aquarium spreads over 200,000 square feet (18,580 square meters) with highlights like the Penguin Point, where you can get up close and personal with actual penguins. There’s also the Deep Ocean Escalator that will plunge you deep underwater where you can spot sharks and different fish species.
OdySea Aquarium
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura A-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Website: OdySea Aquarium
2. Butterfly Wonderland
This is one of Scottsdale’s most impressive and unique facilities - an indoor rain forest that supports a butterfly pavilion, which is the largest in the United States. Get ready to see thousands of butterflies from around the world as you explore the tropical rain forest.
Highlights of Butterfly Wonderworld also include a live ant colony and a honey bee exhibit. Children will definitely love this unique experience, but so will adults!
Butterfly Wonderland
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Website: Butterfly Wonderland
3. Downtown Scottsdale
Take a walk in Old Town Scottsdale to get a grasp of what the city used to look like in the bygone years. Many of the buildings in the area date back to the 1920s, giving you an idea of how the city looked almost a hundred years ago.
The downtown area is filled with chic boutiques, cafes and souvenir shops, so there will be plenty to explore for all budgets. You can also check out the Scottsdale Historical Museum if you’re tired of shopping and want to learn some of Scottsdale’s history.
Downtown Scottsdale
Website: Downtown Scottsdale
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. McDowell Sonoran Preserve
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve marks another record for Scottsdale. This is the largest preserve of its kind in the US and definitely a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you will find over 200 miles (321 kilometers) of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails in over 74,000 acres (30,000 hectares) of pristine desert.
Access and parking are free all day long, so take your time relaxing and exploring. Bajada Nature Trail is a must. Don’t forget to stick around for sunset, either, as it looks amazing from here.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Address: 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Website: McDowell Sonoran Preserve
5. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Right in the heart of Scottsdale, the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has train and carousel rides for all ages. The many green spaces in the park are perfect for a picnic with the family, while the history behind the train and railroad artifacts will fascinate any train lover.
The park is also home to various events around the year, so make sure you check in advance. Even if you don’t catch an event, there will still be plenty to see and explore at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Address: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Website: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
6. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
Different from any zoo or animal park you’ve seen before, the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center is a wild animal rescue center that teaches children valuable lessons on animal rescue. The animals that make a full recovery after rescue are later set free into the wild, but there are also animals that remain in the shelter on a permanent basis. The staff at the center are always friendly and ready to share a story or two about their work and the animals here.
Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
Address: 27026 N 156th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
7. Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Hashknife Pony Express Arrival and Celebration; Feb. 10, 2017 at Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West. Photo Courtesy the City of Scottsdale.
Posted by Western Spirit Scottsdale's Museum of the West on Tuesday, 14 February 2017
There’s no better place to feel the Western spirit than at the Scottsdale Museum of the West. Incredible artifacts such as John Wayne’s signed business card or blankets that once belonged to Navajo Chiefs will paint a vivid picture of the past - as will the museum’s Western art. The story continues outside, where visitors get to wander through a courtyard with a sculpture garden and an outdoor amphitheater.
Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Address: 3830 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
8. Penske Racing Museum
Penske Racing Museum is a definite must-see for race car aficionados. With over 9,000 square feet (836 square meters) of amazing race cars, trophies, and memorabilia on display, this two story museum is open to the public and free of charge. Spot the stock car that Rusty Wallace raced to his final victory in 2004 as you enter the museum!
Penske Racing Museum
Address: 7125 E Chauncey Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85054
Facebook: Penske Racing Museum
9. FnB Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
After all the outdoor exploring, you will definitely be hungry and in search of a great place to eat. FnB Restaurant is located in downtown Scottsdale and the first thing that will impress you will be the charming decor and setting.
Once you take a seat and open up the menu, you’ll have plenty of choices. Whether it’s local or globally inspired dishes that interest you, everything here is made from locally-sourced ingredients of the best quality. Previous guests recommend the butterscotch pudding as a must-try for dessert and the halibut or rib-eye as great dinner choices.
FnB Restaurant
Address: 7125 E 5th Ave #31, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: FnB Restaurant
10. Octane Raceway
Octane Raceway is an indoor/outdoor go-karting venue for all ages that features a third-mile (.5 kilometer) track. The track is a lot of fun for all skill levels and will take you through both indoor and outdoor sections.
The entertainment doesn’t stop here, however, as the venue has plenty more to offer, such as a bowling alley, a pit crew challenge, and arcade games. This is definitely the right place for a few fun hours with friends or family.
Octane Raceway
Address: 9119 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Website: Octane Raceway
11. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Take a walk down history lane to discover an era long gone. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament offers a unique experience featuring horsemanship and falconry, as well as a medieval-style four-course dining experience without any utensils, in a castle-like setting. The shows paint a very vivid and accurate picture of medieval battles. You’ll see clashes between costumed warriors on horses, an impressive flight of the majestic royal falcon, and an unparalleled equine spectacle.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Address: 9051 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Website: Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
12. Taliesin West
Currently the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s headquarters, Taliesin West was previously the winter home and school of Frank Lloyd Wright, up until he died in 1959. Today, the location is open for guided tours. Visitors can learn more about the American architect, his life, and design style, and take a peek inside what used to be his private quarters. Since the house and its surroundings are spectacular, many private events are held here, so make sure you check the schedule in advance.
Taliesin West
Address: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
Website: Taliesin West
Opening hours: Thu, Sun: 10am - 3pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 7pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
Price: 40 USD
13. Arizona Boardwalk
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Family-friendly, entertainment-packed Arizona Boardwalk is Scottsdale’s fun hotspot, where there’s always something going on. The entertainment destination was created with both tourists and locals in mind in the hope of offering everyone a place to unwind, relax, and always find something to do or explore. Today, Arizona Boardwalk is home to Odysea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Laser & Mirror Maze, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, but also dining and shopping options galore.
Arizona Boardwalk
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Website: Arizona Boardwalk
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
14. Pinnacle Peak Park
A hiking and rock climbing paradise, Pinnacle Peak Park spreads on 150 acres (60 hectares) of land and is one of Scottsdale’s best outdoor spots. You can follow the trail that will take you to Pinnacle Peak’s top and stop along the way to take in the spectacular views. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife too: roadrunners, jackrabbits, mule deer, and even coyotes or mountain lions might be seen roaming around. Although the peak itself looks so steep and imposing, the Pinnacle Peak Park trail has moderate difficulty and is suitable for all hiking abilities.
Pinnacle Peak Park
Address: 26802 N 102nd Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
15. Talking Stick Entertainment District
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Views ?
Posted by Talking Stick Entertainment District on Tuesday, January 5, 2021
A day is never enough to enjoy and experience everything Talking Stick Resort has to offer. From family-friendly activities to nightlife entertainment, you’ll find anything you want here. There’s a casino on-site, where visitors can play poker, slots, keno, and table games. Meanwhile, those looking for a more relaxing alternative can head over to the spa for a full-body treatment. Dining opportunities are plentiful, whether you’re looking for fine dining with a view, authentic Creole cuisine, or Southwestern hearty food.
Talking Stick Entertainment District
Address: 9120 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Website: Talking Stick Entertainment District
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
16. Arizona Rafting by Wilderness Aware
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Wilderness Aware Rafting on Wednesday, June 3, 2020
Explore Arizona’s wild side and go on a rafting adventure with Arizona Rafting by Wilderness Aware. Tackle Upper Salt River’s challenging rapids to reach calmer water, where you’ll get to marvel at the stunning surrounding landscape. Depending on your skill level and how adventurous you feel you are, they offer various rafting trips, from a quick half-day to longer options that will give you plenty of time to practice your skills on the water.
Arizona Rafting by Wilderness Aware
Website: Arizona Rafting by Wilderness Aware
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: From 125 USD
17. Fiesta Bowl Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Whether you’re a football fan or not, Fiesta Bowl Museum is an interesting spot to explore. The college football museum features all kinds of football equipment, trophies, memorabilia, as well as an impressive collection of 130 helmets. Besides being a museum, the space also hosts various business and social events, where guests get to participate in teambuilding activities or attend a festive dinner or a cocktail party.
Fiesta Bowl Museum
Address: 7135 E Camelback Rd #190, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: Fiesta Bowl Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
18. Jack Knife - Ed Mell Sculpture
Nestled on Main Street in Scottsdale’s Arts District, Jack Knife is one of the city’s popular sculptures, inspired by the city’s official seal. The bronze sculpture was created by Ed Mell, a well-known local artist, and it’s actually his first large-scale sculpture in Scottsdale. Although the ranger and horse have their origin in the Old West, the way they’ve been created brings a modern twist to this traditional theme.
Jack Knife - Ed Mell Sculpture
Address: 7038 E Main St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
19. Sugar Bowl
Sugar Bowl is your go-to place for dessert in Scottsdale. The restaurant is located in Downtown Scottsdale, making it easily accessible when you take a break from sightseeing and want to calm your sweet tooth, or you’re looking for a place to enjoy a delicious lunch. As soon as you step foot inside the restaurant, you’ll instantly be transported back to the late ‘50s, as Sugar Bowl hasn’t changed much since 1958 when they first opened their doors. The menu includes a wide selection of sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers, salads, and meats. Still, they’re really famous for desserts. Don’t leave before you try their Turkish Coffee or Chocolate Chip ice creams. Other popular items on the menu include the Creamed Walnut Fudge Sundae and the sugar bowl parfaits. The restaurant is kid-friendly and vegetarian-friendly.
Sugar Bowl
Address: 4005 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm
20. Orange Sky
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Dine in style at Orange Sky, the staple rooftop restaurant at Talking Stick Resort. The only thing that can top the exquisite fine-dining dishes is the sun setting over Scottsdale, as seen from the restaurant terrace. The restaurant is located on the 15th floor and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows for the most breathtaking vistas. Their menu features starters such as wild arugula and fennel salad, or pumpkin seed-crusted spicy shrimp, as well as shared plates, beef, and various meat dishes, all perfectly paired with the finest wine; ask the waiter.
Orange Sky
Address: 9800 East, Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Website: Orange Sky
Nearby things to do
21. Desert Botanical Garden
Part of Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona, Desert Botanical Garden is a spectacular 140-acre (56-hectare) garden boasting unique plants from different corners of the world. Follow the paved trails and immerse yourself in a natural oasis like no other. Marvel at endless cactus plants, listen to hummingbirds sing and smell the blooming wildflowers. The Desert Botanical Garden also hosts various events, and it features educational programs for the little ones.
Desert Botanical Garden
Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Website: Desert Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
22. Phoenix Zoo
Located in Phoenix, the Phoenix Zoo is a non-profit organization that is more than just a zoo and is actively involved in the conservation of plant and animal species. Explore the many zoo trails to discover the wide variety of species it hosts. Keep your eyes peeled for mighty lions, giraffes, and gazelles on the Africa Trail, gaze at plants native to the Sonoran Desert on the Arizona Trail, and observe Komodo dragons and Asian elephants on the Tropic Trail.
Phoenix Zoo
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Website: Phoenix Zoo
Opening hours: 9am - 3pm (daily)
Price: 25 USD
23. South Mountain Park and Preserve
Whether you’re into outdoor sports or are looking to take a scenic drive and enjoy nature’s spectacle, check out South Mountain Park and Preserve in Phoenix, Arizona. The largest municipal park in the United States features a plethora of hiking and biking trails. Make it a day to remember and stay for a picnic; there are plenty of covered picnic and barbecue spots throughout the park. The park is a year-round attraction, but it can get boiling in the summer months.
South Mountain Park and Preserve
Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Website: South Mountain Park and Preserve
Opening hours: 5am - 7pm (daily)
24. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Children's Museum of Phoenix on Friday, October 16, 2020
Take the little ones to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and let them explore and get creative. The museum is recognized as a great place for fun, creativity, and imagination. Here, kids are allowed (and encouraged even) to touch absolutely everything, as part of a sensorial experience meant to teach them and stir their imagination and cognitive development. The museum hosts over 300 play experiences and organizes various educational programs. Hence, there is plenty to choose from with your little one.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Address: 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Website: Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: 15 USD
25. Pueblo Grande Museum
History in and around Phoenix, Arizona, dates back to prehistoric times, so whether you’re a history buff or not, make time to visit Pueblo Grande Museum, along with its archaeological sites and ruins. The museum hosts multiple indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a Children’s Gallery and an Outdoor Trail that will take you to see pit houses and an agricultural garden that once belonged to the prehistoric Hohokam people.
Pueblo Grande Museum
Address: 4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Website: Pueblo Grande Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 4:45pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Explore Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona is one of those cities that has something new to offer around every corner. From desert trails and chic downtown art galleries to a butterfly sanctuary and a fun encounter with penguins at the new OdySea Aquarium, Scottsdale is a city for all ages. So get ready to be amazed!
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
5 Best Resorts With Lazy River In Scottsdale, Arizona - Updated 2024Alyssandra Raiza -
-
-
-
-
Create an account to