In the heart of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert lies Scottsdale, a sun-drenched playground where family memories bloom like desert flowers after a rare rain. the things to do in scottsdale with family. While this sophisticated enclave might be famous for its spa retreats and golf courses, it’s also a treasure trove of family adventures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend inspiration or planning the perfect desert getaway, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to experiencing Scottsdale with your crew in tow.
Quick Navigation
- Outdoor Adventures
- Cultural Experiences
- Family-Friendly Dining
- Indoor Entertainment
- Seasonal Events
- Planning Tips
Outdoor Adventures
Desert Botanical Garden: Where Nature Meets Wonder
Picture this: your little ones’ eyes widening as they encounter their first towering saguaro cactus, standing like a sentinel against the azure Arizona sky. The Desert Botanical Garden isn’t just a collection of desert plants; it’s an outdoor classroom where families can explore five themed trails, each telling its own story of desert life. Pro tip: Visit during the early morning hours when the desert air is crisp and the crowds are thin.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Nature’s Playground
For families who love to venture off the beaten path, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers more than 30,500 acres of pristine desert landscape. With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, it’s perfect for families of all activity levels. The Gateway Loop Trail, in particular, offers a moderate 4.5-mile journey that even younger children can tackle with proper preparation.
Cultural Experiences
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Think museums are stuffy? Think again. This immersive experience brings the Old West to life with interactive exhibits that’ll have your kids trading their iPads for cowboy hats faster than you can say “yeehaw.” The museum’s “Spirit of the West” program offers hands-on activities where children can try their hand at traditional Western crafts.
Family-Friendly Dining Options
Top Family Restaurants in Scottsdale
| Restaurant | Kid-Friendly Features | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Sugar Bowl | Retro ice cream parlor, classic games | $$ | Desserts & Light Meals |
| Rustler’s Rooste | Wild West theme, slide entrance | $$$ | Dinner & Entertainment |
| Butterfield’s Pancake House | Interactive pancake decorating | $$ | Breakfast |
| Old Town Tortilla Factory | Outdoor patio, kids’ menu | $$$ | Lunch & Dinner |
Indoor Entertainment
OdySea Aquarium: Desert Meets Ocean
Who says you can’t find ocean life in the desert? The OdySea Aquarium turns this notion on its head with over 2 million gallons of aquatic wonder. The penguin encounters and SeaTrek experiences offer unforgettable moments that’ll have your kids talking for weeks.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
For thrill-seeking families, iFLY offers the exhilarating experience of freefalling without actually jumping out of a plane. It’s safe, supervised, and suitable for ages 3 and up – perfect for creating those “remember when” moments.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Average Temp | Special Events | Crowd Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 75-85°F | Scottsdale Arts Festival | High |
| Summer | 90-105°F | Night Markets | Low |
| Fall | 70-85°F | Canal Convergence | Moderate |
| wintertime | 65-75°F | Holidayy Lights | High |
Planning Tips
Essential Items for Your Scottsdale Family Adventure
- Refillable water bottles (one per family member)
- Wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers for temperature changes
- Camera for capturing memories
Where to Stay
Looking for family-friendly accommodations? Consider these top picks:
- The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
- Kids’ club activities
- Multiple pools with waterslides
- Family-sized suites available
2. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa
- 2.5-acre water playground
- Camp Hyatt for kids
- Spacious rooms with desert views
The Bottom Line
Scottsdale isn’t just another destination on your family travel bucket list – it’s a place where desert magic meets family fun in ways you never expected. From educational adventures at the Desert Botanical Garden to splash-filled afternoons at OdySea, every moment here is an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Book activities in advance during peak season (January-March)
- Take advantage of early morning hours for outdoor activities
- Look for combo tickets to save on multiple attractions
- Consider visiting during shoulder season for better rates and smaller crowds
