Curator’s statement
Scottsdale is one of my favorite places to go with my kids. There are so many diverse activities to do at all times of the year. Yes, even in that Arizona Summer heat! From fabulous hotels boasting pools that'll make your kids jump for joy to mouthwatering dining options and desert trails just a stone's throw away, Scottsdale has something for everyone.
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Things to do in Scottsdale
Camelback Mountain
Embrace the great outdoors with Camelback Mountain. It's a short yet immensely rewarding hike with a beautiful city view. Choose between the Echo Canyon or Cholla trail; Cholla is more family-friendly, while Echo Canyon offers a bigger challenge for older kids. With young kids, I definitely recommend Cholla trail, but keep in mind they are both moderately challenging.
Papago Park
Venture to nearby Papago Park, where the striking red rocks set the scene for a breathtaking hike, perfect for toddlers and a mesmerizing sunset stroll. This is a better hike with your younger kids.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Little ones will adore this park, featuring a free train museum, an old tourable train, and delightful playsets. During the holidays, the themed train rides are so much fun, especially the Christmas-themed ride with "snow" in the desert.
Odysea Aquarium
Dive into fun at Odysea Aquarium, a delight for all ages. And don't miss the surprisingly amazing bathroom with a jaw-dropping shark display.
Phoenix Zoo
One of my personal favorite zoos, the Phoenix Zoo boasts spacious animal exhibits and fantastic play areas with splash pads for the kids.
Scottsdale Fashion Square
Where retail therapy meets family fun. While you peruse the latest trends, your kids can embark on exciting adventures and play to their hearts' content.
Day Trips
Exploring the Lakes
Take a refreshing day trip to the nearby lakes: Saguaro or Canyon Lake are closer, but Roosevelt is the best in my opinion.
Salt River Tubing
In the summer, don't miss tubing down the Salt River. Rent a tube for a relaxing river adventure, complete with a convenient bus ride back to your car.
Historical Treasures
History buffs, you're in luck! Explore ancient Indian Ruins at Montezuma Castle, Tonto National Monument or Casa Grande Ruins, all within a few hours of the city.
Places to eat & drink in Scottsdale
Breakfast
Butters or Butterfields: They're the same restaurant, so choose whichever is closest to you or less busy. Their fresh-squeezed orange juice is to die for and anything on their menu is phenomenal. I'm partial to French Toast, but my son got pancakes and my daughter got crepes. I ate all of their leftovers.
Dinner or Lunch
Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers: This place has the most unique burgers; my husband's personal favorite Peanut Butter Jelly Bacon Chipotle Burger. It sounds weird, but trust me it's delicious. They have a great kids menu and tableside s'mores roasting.
Spinatos: Seriously delicious pizza and the kids menu comes with gelato. Last time we went to Spinatos they even gave my one-year-old a free shirt. Just a great, family-friendly place. One of my favorite restaurants to go to with kids, especially because the prices are reasonable.
Dessert
The Sugar Bowl: Technically you can eat here for dinner, but I have only gone for dessert. Sugar Bowl is like an old-school ice cream parlor. Their sundaes are both delicious and so cute. The Top Hat Sundae is one of my favorites, but I have never had anything I did not love.
Frost: You can find Frost in other cities in Arizona too, but their gelato is just so delicious.
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Travel Advisor
Chelsey Price
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Kayla Zimmerman’s guide, Bachelorette Weekend in Scottsdale, AZ.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Scottsdale.