Things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona with kids- the ultimate list when you want to get out and have a fun time!

We’ve now been in Scottsdale, Arizona for eight years. A few years ago I wrote a post about ten things you can do in Scottsdale, Arizona with kids. I was talking with the kids about what we are going to do this summer and decided we needed an update for the post! So, we’ve updated and added, just for you! If you ever head this way, let me know, we’d love to see you!

1. Cosanti link

You can tour the grounds of architect Paolo Soleri’s home. Isn’t that amazing?

The first time Nate visited, he asked me if we were visiting Star Wars. Right there – I knew we had a hit! I love wandering the garden paths. The staff pours bronze and ceramic wind bells on site. If they are pouring that day, you are in for a special treat! The staff does an amazing job of explaining the process of the pour to even the littlest visitor.

2. Trails

There are many trails within the city limits that are perfect for hiking with kids! The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a large, permanently protected, sustainable desert habitat.

The Gateway Trail-head and the Lost Dog Trail-head are two of my favorite places to start. They have trails perfect for all skill levels.

3. Butterfly Wonderland

The Butterfly Wonderland is  a brand new attraction here in Scottsdale. It is the largest butterfly atrium in America – WOW! Butterfly’s are everywhere – landing on visitors and making everyone smile. It is definitely one of our favorite places to take visitors.

4. Sugar Bowl

Do you remember the cartoon, The Family Circus? Well, the artist Bill Keane could be found here, drawing the cartoon. The Sugar Bowl was the setting of many of those cartoons.

Today, you can order delicious food, have a bowl of ice-cream and play at the arcade in the back. It is a perfect afternoon outing for cooped up kids!

The staff has always been very nice and friendly – no matter how loud our kids get!

5. Ollie the Trollie

Catch Ollie over by Fashion Square and take a fun ride around the town. The kids always love this! It is such a sweet way to see Old Town.

6. The Simple Farm

Located at 9080 E Cactus Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 is a sweet farm run by Lylah and Michael. They open their farm up every Thursday morning and allow the public to come share in their French Market. Be sure to check their website before you go for seasonal hours.

Coffee, caramels and conversation make for a very lovely morning at this wonderful local treasure!

7. The Spire

At the intersection of Frank Lloyd Wright and Scottsdale Rd. is the amazing Spire. In the evening, it is completely lit up and turns a beautiful shade of blue. Also, there is a beautiful sculpture garden at the base of the Spire. It’s easy to pass by, but absolutely worth a little time.

8. Fountain Hills

Just a short drive west is a beautiful town with an amazing attraction – a 560 foot fountain! There is a wonderful playground just next to the fountain with splash pads for the littles. The drive is stunning. If you head back to Scottsdale at sunset, be ready for the most amazing sunset!

9. Musical Instrument Museum

If your children like music – this is the perfect place to wander! Their collections are second to none!

About a month ago, my husband treated me to a special concert by Bela Fleck. Their theater was so intimate. I loved every minute. Be sure and check out their upcoming performances!

10. Splash Pads

At almost every shopping center – there are splash pads for the kids to play in!

Some of my favorites are The Quarter, Kierland Commons and Desert Ridge. These are the perfect place in the evening or morning to run off a little extra energy.

11. Desert Botanical Gardens

I couldn’t leave this one out! This is a must see for each visitor that braves the desert. It is so amazing to see our local plants thriving and beautiful. In the summer, be sure and go in the early morning to beat the heat.

12. McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Park

We went for the first time last week and I cannot believe we haven’t been before!

It is an amazing water park and it is right here in our back yard! My favorite was the lazy river – so relaxing.

13. Frank Lloyd Wright – Taleisin West  link

14. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park link

Your little ones will absolutely love this park! It is always a family favorite. You can ride the train or the carousel for just a few dollars. There is also a wonderful playground, perfect for running out some wiggles.

15. MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain Restaurant and Antique Shop

Circa-1928 soda fountain with wooden booths, vintage decor & retro food & drinks such as phosphates. It is so cute and the kids always love a good excuse to eat ice cream.

16. Haus Murphy in Glendale link

Such a fun little German restaurant. The food is great, the atmosphere is wonderful, and you can wander the town square after you eat. There are tons of great antique shops and fun places to window shop!

17. El Encanto in Cave Creek link

Take a beautiful drive out to Cave Creek down Scottsdale Road. Eat at El Encanto and let your kiddos feed the ducks! Then wander across the street to their Old West style fort. My kids always loved this and it made for a perfect afternoon outing.

**The next few are a little bit of a drive, but perfect for day trips**

18. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park link

Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. The bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.

19. Payson – Woods Canyon Lake link

Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most accessible of the Rim lakes and has a very scenic setting in a heavily forested area on the edge of the Mogollon Rim. The landscape is gorgeous. Visitors can expect very pleasant temperatures in the spring and summer months, perfect for a day trip to escape the summer heat.

20. Payson – Zane Grey’s Cabin link

This was my grandmother’s personal favorite! She loved reading his novels, and to see where he wrote and dreamed was a huge treat for her.

21. The Children’s Museum link

You can’t skip this classic! When we were talking about these places last night and Julia smiled and said “remember the noodle forest?” So many years later, and great memories.

Have a great time exploring!

What are some of your favorite places? Did I leave any must-sees out?