Stop by the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park for all things train-related! Photo courtesy of the railroad park

Top Attractions in Scottsdale, AZ for Families

1. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

I literally have never stopped in Scottsdale without visiting McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (you'll hear locals call it the "train park"). Here kids can ride on a vintage train and classic carousel, explore the train museum, break free on the playground (there are two!), and use circuits to operate the train sets running through a miniature replication of metropolitan Phoenix.

2. The Pavilions at Talking Stick Shopping Center

Kids could spend an entire weekend just at this center, visiting one entertainment spot after another. Here's just some of the awesome attractions at Talking Stick:

• Octane - High-speed go-kart racing, arcade, axe throwing, virtual reality
• D-Bat Scottsdale - Baseball training facility with 15 batting cages
• Mavrix - Bowling, laser tag, arcade, billiards
• KTR Scottsdale - Indoor action sports playground with trampolines, a ninja warrior course, a skate park, parkour, and more
• Bam Kazam Escape Room - The world's first "livecade"—an arcade where the games are real and include physical and mental challenges
• iFly Indoor Skydiving - Indoor skydiving
• Popstroke - Putting golf courses, outdoor gaming area, playground

Gaze at the marine life as you ride down the Deep Ocean Escalator at OdySea Aquarium. Photo courtesy of the OdySea Aquarium

3. OdySea Aquarium

This aquarium is a must-visit—where else are you going to see penguins, sharks, and otters in the desert? This attraction is part of the Arizona Boardwalk, which also houses kid-friendly attractions like Butterfly Wonderland and Pangaea, as well as Ripley's Believe It or Not!, the Museum of Illusions Scottsdale, Cyber Quest Arcade, Laser + Mirror Maze, and the UFO Experience.

RELATED: 45 Fun Things To Do in Phoenix, Arizona with Kids

Step back in time at Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs. Photo courtesy of the venue

4. Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs

Dino lovers will go wild at Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs, which features more than 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, a fossil dig, an excavation, and an arcade. Ages 2 and under are admitted free.

5. Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland is the largest indoor rainforest conservatory in the United States. Kids can meet more than 3,000 butterflies from around the world, as well as other bugs and reptiles. This butterfly mecca has been designated as a Pal Place, an inclusive facility for guests with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The multiplying fun of mirrors creates the illusion of infinite space at the Museum of Illusions. Photo by Jody Mercier

6. Museum of Illusions Scottsdale

At this unique immersive experience, visitors can enjoy more than 60 mind-bending exhibits featuring optical illusions, brainteasers, and more that are meant to trick the brain. Be turned upside-down, have your head served up on a platter, and take more wacky photos.

7. Cactus League Baseball

Though airfare to Arizona can get pricey during spring, it's worth it to visit Scottsdale for MLB spring training. There are 10 baseball stadiums throughout the region, where many MLB teams practice leading up to Opening Day, including two in Scottsdale: Scottsdale Stadium and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick.

A young girl rings the gong at the Musical Instrument Museum. Photo courtesy of An Pham for Experience Scottsdale

8. Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Kids (and adults) from anywhere in the world can speak the universal language of music at MIM. The museum features more than 7,500 musical instruments from over 200 countries. In addition to seeing these fascinating instruments, visitors have a chance to play some in the interactive Experience and Encore Galleries. Check out the MIMKids programs, which introduce children of all ages to the power of music.

9. As You Wish Pottery

Unleash the creative juices while enjoying necessary air-conditioning at this pottery studio. With six Valley locations, including one at Desert Ridge Marketplace in Phoenix, As You Wish offers fully stocked studios and ready-to-go creations. Check the online calendar for special events and classes for kids.

10. Four Peaks Mining Co. 

Arizona is known for its one-of-a-kind rocks, so why not make a day out of discovering these geological mysteries? Four Peaks Mining Co. at the Arizona Boardwalk has an interactive mine where kids can wear miner's helmets and explore the natural grounds. Check out the UV-lighted mineral room and a selection of materials about gems and minerals, including rock tumblers and collection kits.

11. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

Check out theater, live music, shows, and arts festivals at the Scottsdale Center for the Arts. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) sits on the same campus and can enhance a visit to the city with gorgeous art.

12. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre

Watch a kids, production of shows like Mean Girls Jr., Finding Nemo Jr., The Spongebob Musical, and more. The DST Academy offers acting workshops, classes, and school-break camps.

RELATED: Sedona with Kids: Best Things To Do in Sedona, Arizona

Scottsdale offers the perfect backdrop for a day of riding the trails.

Fun Outdoor Things To Do in Scottsdale with Kids

13. Horseback Riding

My kids and I really enjoyed horseback riding through the picturesque landscape of Scottsdale, Arizona. When finished with their rides, my girls proudly took home certificates of completion and painted horseshoes from the horses they rode. There are a variety of local guides, like MacDonald's Ranch, to take groups out—just check participating ages.

14. Golf Courses

For future PGA players, Scottsdale is the place to visit in regards to golf courses. There are gorgeous golf courses every few miles (maybe even blocks), so check out the area you're in or even the Scottsdale resort you're staying at.

15. Papago Park

On the border of Phoenix and Scottsdale, beautiful Papago Park houses Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, a golf course, hiking trails, fishing ponds, and more. You'll see the notable park's buttes from quite a distance! As with most outdoor activities in Arizona, make sure to pack water, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

RELATED: 40 Things To Do In Denver with Kids, Other than Hiking

Scottsdale has no shortage of splash pads for cooling down on hot days.

16. Splash Pads

Splash pads are perfect for the spring and summer—a miraculous reprieve from the sweltering heat. Both the free water playgrounds at area parks and shopping centers and the fancier paid splash pads are great spots to pass the time and cool off. In fact, Scottsdale is so hot in the summer that your kids will probably dry off by the time they get to the car.

17. McDowell Sonoran Preserve

The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a massive desert habitat that includes multi-use trails (hiking, biking, and horseback riding) available from multiple entrance locations. This free park is open from sunrise to sunset and welcomes dogs.

18. Hiking and Biking

Scottsdale is home to many nature preserves and parks with lovely trails for hiking and biking. Check out AllTrails.com's list of the best kid-friendly trails in Scottsdale.

The Spooktacular Balloon Festival at Salt River Fields is a great place for a hot air balloon ride! Photo courtesy of the Spooktacular Balloon Festival.

19. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Get a completely new view of Scottsdale from thousands of feet above ground. Because of Arizona's reliable weather, hot air balloon rides make a great morning activity. There are a variety of tour companies to contact, such as Rainbow Ryders. Many list a minimum age requirement of 5 years old.

Scottsdale Neighborhoods and Shopping Centers to Visit with Kids

20. Old Town Scottsdale

This charming town showcases Scottsdale's rich history of cowboy culture, with many original buildings and storefronts, old saloons, sculptures, and monuments. Old Town Scottsdale is also chock full of shops, restaurants, museums, and more. I especially love bringing my kids to Old Town Candy & Toys, an adorable candy and toy shop.

21. Scottsdale Quarter

Arizona is known for its massive outdoor shopping centers, and Scottsdale Quarter is one that's not to be missed. In addition to the awesome splash pad, this popular resource features Puttshack (a modern mini golf experience), a movie theater, Lip Lab (where visitors can create custom lipsticks), and stores and tasty restaurants (both sit-down and casual).

22. Scottsdale Fashion Square

Shop until you drop at the ultra popular Scottsdale Fashion Square, with kid-friendly spots like Build-A-Bear Workshop, multiple toy stores, Pressed Juicery, a bubble tea joint, and more.

"FLARIO" by Walther Productions was one of the featured public art installations at Canal Convergence 2023 at the Scottsdale Waterfront in Old Town. Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Arts.

Family-Friendly Scottsdale Events

23. Canal Convergence

The first week of November provides an "authentic and immersive art experience" around the Scottsdale Waterfront. In addition to the fascinating interactive events, this art festival also includes live performances and a series of free educational activities.

24. Prada del Sol Parade & Trail's End Festival

I remember going to this parade when I was a little girl, so it's heartwarming that I now get to bring my own kids to this fun event. Old Town Scottsdale hosts the historic parade followed by a huge block party featuring live concerts, food, and the KIDZ ZONE.

25. Rodeo Scottsdale

See a real-live rodeo and lots of cowboys at this March event that lasts four days. Also known as the Parada del Sol Rodeo, this Scottsdale rodeo features bull riding and seven other exciting events.

26. Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Car Auction

This is one of the biggest car shows/auctions in the country, and families who love cool cars will absolutely love it.

Delicious Scottsdale Restaurants for Families

27. Sugar Bowl

I have been visiting this bright pink ice cream parlor since I was a child, and today's kids continue to cool off with Sugar Bowl's sweet treats. Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Sugar Bowl opened in 1958 and has remained a state landmark, known for delicious ice cream served in dainty glass dishes. Soups, sandwiches, and salads are also available.

28. Brat Haus

Fill up on a dog or two at the Brat Haus! This sausage-loving eatery serves decadent hot dogs, totchos, burgers, barbecue sandwiches, and more.

29. Wildflower Bread Company

I'm obsessed with Wildflower's huge menu, especially the baked goods and pastries. The dinner menu includes all sorts of sandwiches, salads, pastas, and more. There are a few locations throughout metro Phoenix and Scottsdale, so take your pick. Children will appreciate the extensive kids' menu.

30. Pita Jungle

Pita Jungle is a fun and delicious way to add some healthy food into your child's daily intake. Forget buttered noodles and cardboard pizza—this kids' menu allows little ones to create their own meal by choosing a protein (turkey, chicken, lentils, hummus, or tofu), a veggie, a grain (with options that include brown rice and organic red quinoa), and seasonal fruit.

31. Jojo's Shake Bar

This '80s- and '90s-inspired restaurant serves delicious milkshakes, classic diner dishes, desserts, and cocktails for the adults. Kids will love the arcade game tables, and there's a walk-up window for those on the run.

32. That's Amore Gelato

There's nothing better than ice cream... unless it's gelato! Located near Grayhawk, That's Amore features a huge menu of creative flavors, including hazelnut, stracciatella, salted caramel, and more.

33. Butterfield's Pancake House

Butterfield's is an awesome restaurant to bring children to for breakfast or lunch, with a kids' menu featuring pancake flavors like S'moreo, Blueberry Danish, Berry Bliss, and more. The regular menu is huge and even better, with a variety of omelettes, pancakes, crepes, and more for breakfast and burgers, sandwiches, and salads for lunch.

34. Old Town Tortilla Factory

This beloved restaurant located in Old Town Scottsdale serves delicious Southwestern specialities like tacos, enchiladas, and pollo margarita chicken. The kids' menu features beef taquitos, mac and cheese, mini beef chimichangas, and more.

RELATED: Best Family Resorts with Water Parks

Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale offers a thrilling escape for families. Photo courtesy of the lodge

Kid-Friendly Scottsdale Hotels

35. Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale/Salt River, AZ

Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale offers so many kid-friendly amenities, you may never want to go home! Features include an indoor water park, a ropes course, an interactive MagiQuest scavenger hunt, mini golf, an arcade, dance parties, and more. For extra excitement, stay in one of the themed suites.

36. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch

The Gainey Ranch features a state-of-the-art spa and swim-up bar for adults, a rock-climbing wall and massive water playground for youngsters, and more. Though there is an amazing pool complex, it is currently closed for renovation and is set to reopen in February 2024.

37. Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

Make use of Arizona's sunny weather at Westin Kierland's Adventure Water Park, which features a flow-board simulator, a lazy river, a water slide, poolside cabanas, and more fun water features. The property features beautiful rooms, a lush golf course, a relaxing spa, and more.

38. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Enjoy the desert ambience of the Four Seasons Resort's authentic casitas with a Southwestern motif. The resort offers guided hiking and biking tours, the signature Kids for All Seasons camp program, an on-site ice cream bar, a family game room, and a pool just for kids.

39. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess sits in the heart of the city's action. The sprawling property features six pools, five restaurants, and the Trailblazers Kids Club. This club offers families the option of bringing kids for a day full of fun, including activities like s'mores, nature walks, sports, and more. The Princess also puts on amazing seasonal events.

40. The Phoenician

One of the most iconic resorts in the Phoenix/Scottsdale region is The Phoenician. Besides the luxe accommodations, this Scottsdale hotel offers lots of family programming. Family activities (depending on the schedule) include cookie decorating, a cactus garden tour, A stuff-a-buddy toy workshop, family candy bingo, team trivia, and more.

Unless noted, photos by the author

Disclosure: We may earn a small commission if you click through our links and make a purchase. This revenue helps us maintain this site, so thank you for supporting us.