Scottsdale Family Fun: Exploring, Eating, and Adventuring!

Discover Scottsdale: Where family fun meets desert beauty!

19 July 2023

Scottsdale, located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert of Arizona, offers an incredible family-friendly experience with its stunning landscapes and abundance of attractions. Families can explore the fascinating Desert Botanical Garden, home to thousands of cacti and unique desert flora. With its luxurious resorts, vibrant arts scene, and endless outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding, Scottsdale promises a delightful trip that will keep the whole family engaged and entertained.

Day trip plan

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Day

Chillin' in Scottsdale

  • Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at Butters Pancakes & Cafè, where fluffy pancakes will make your taste buds swoon.
  • Head to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, where mini-train rides and antique carousel spins will transport you to a whimsical wonderland.
  • Explore Old Town Scottsdale, a vibrant hub filled with art galleries, boutiques, and Southwest charm. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the iconic LOVE sculpture.
  • Time to cool off at OdySea Aquarium – dive deep into the sea without getting wet! From penguins to sharks, this aquatic paradise will leave you gawking in awe.
  • Treat your taste buds to a family-friendly feast at The Sugar Bowl, a retro ice cream parlor that serves up mouthwatering sundaes dripping with nostalgia.
  • End the day with a glorious sunset hike at Pinnacle Peak Park – embrace your inner adventurer and marvel at the breathtaking views from the summit.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Scottsdale, United States by plane is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport which is located 10 miles away from Scottsdale. There are many airlines that operate frequent flights to Phoenix from major cities around the world.

Car

The best way to reach Scottsdale by car would be to rent a car and drive to the city. Scottsdale is located in Maricopa County, which is connected to major highways like I-10, I-17, and Loop 101.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Scottsdale. The nearest Amtrak station is in Maricopa, which is 38 miles south of Scottsdale. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car.

Boat

Since Scottsdale is an inland city, there are no boat services that connect to it directly.

Bus

Scottsdale is well-connected by bus. Greyhound operates regular services to Phoenix from many cities around the US. From Phoenix, you can take local buses to reach Scottsdale.

More travel plans

Scottsdale Adventures on a Shoestring Budget

Explore the natural beauty of Scottsdale by hiking the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or taking a bike ride along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt. Enjoy a free art walk through downtown Scottsdale's galleries and museums every Thursday evening. Save money on accommodation by booking a budget hotel or Airbnb outside of the city center.

Scottsdale in 5 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun!

Visiting Scottsdale on a limited budget is possible with some careful planning. Start by taking advantage of free activities, such as hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or exploring Old Town Scottsdale. Consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb outside of the main tourist areas to save money on accommodations.

Escape to Scottsdale: A Romantic Weekend Getaway

Experience a romantic getaway in Scottsdale, Arizona, where you can indulge in luxurious spa treatments and world-class dining. Take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Sonoran Desert or hike up Camelback Mountain for breathtaking views. End the day with a relaxing stroll through the charming Old Town Historic District.

Scottsdale Safari: A Wild West Family Adventure in 4 Days

Scottsdale offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, with its wide range of activities and attractions. Families can explore the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden, go hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Children's Museum of Phoenix. With its sunny climate and bustling shopping and dining options, Scottsdale guarantees a fun-filled and memorable experience for the whole family.