Scottsdale with Kids — Family Guide

Scottsdale is known as a couples destination, but families with kids will find plenty to do — especially if your kids are curious about nature, animals, and the desert.

Top Family Attractions

OdySea Aquarium (Salt River area) — Arizona’s largest aquarium. Penguins, sharks, sea lions, and a revolving theater inside a fish tank. Part of the OdySea in the Desert complex, which also has Butterfly Wonderland (largest butterfly atrium in America) and the interactive Mirror Maze.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park — A park built around railroad history. Ride a 5/12-scale model train around the park, explore vintage train cars, play on the playgrounds, and visit the model railroad building. Free admission (small fee for train rides and carousel).

Desert Botanical Garden — 140 acres of desert plants, including massive saguaro cactus gardens. The Flashlight Nights (seasonal evening events with illuminated plants) are magical for families. Kids enjoy the nature trails and the butterfly exhibit.

Desert Outdoors

McDowell Sonoran Preserve — Easy, flat desert trails with saguaro cacti, wildflowers (spring), and jackrabbits. The Gateway Loop (4.5 miles, easy) is manageable for active kids. Bring water and go early — desert trails are hot by mid-morning.

Salt River Tubing (summer) — Float down the Salt River on inner tubes. Family-friendly sections with gentle current. Life jackets available. A quintessential Arizona summer experience.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park (1 hour north, Camp Verde) — Safari-style wildlife park with big cats, giraffes, and the Predator Feed show. More interactive than a traditional zoo.

Resort Pools

Most Scottsdale resort pools welcome families during the day:

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Multiple pools including a beach-entry pool with a water slide for kids.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch — 2.5-acre water playground with a sand beach, waterslides, and a lazy river.

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