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10 Engaging Activities to Enjoy with Children in Scottsdale
Having relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona, five years ago due to my husband’s job transfer, our family has thoroughly explored the region, uncovering delightful activities ideal for children. Even after five years, our kids still love showing guests the exciting places we discovered. Here’s a curated list of ten of our favorite family-friendly activities in Scottsdale.
- Cosanti: Discover the unique architecture of Paolo Soleri, an American-Italian architect who made Scottsdale his home in 1956. Visitors can explore the picturesque grounds, and parking is conveniently available. On our first visit, my son exclaimed if we were at a Star Wars set! The gardens are enchanting, and if you’re fortunate, you may witness the bronze and ceramic wind bells being crafted. The staff is excellent, providing informative tours that engage even the youngest visitors, and best of all, entry is free.
- Trails for Hiking: Scottsdale boasts numerous trails perfect for family hikes. Notable starting points include the Gateway Trailhead and Lost Dog Trailhead, both equipped with clear maps, mile markers, and designated turnaround spots.
- Butterfly Wonderland: This new attraction is the largest butterfly atrium in the United States. Visitors can marvel at butterflies fluttering all around, and there’s also a live ant colony, a honey bee exhibit, and a stingray touch tank. The staff has successfully created a kid-friendly atmosphere that enhances the experience.
- Sugar Bowl: A nostalgic spot where the cartoon “The Family Circus” was inspired by the original artist Bill Keane. Enjoy delicious meals, indulge in ice cream, and have fun at the arcade. This venue is perfect for a family outing, and the staff is notably accommodating, even in noisy situations.
- Ollie the Trolley: Catch Ollie near Fashion Square for a delightful ride around Scottsdale. The kids love this charming way to explore Old Town, particularly the Downtown route, which showcases the Waterfront, 5th Avenue, and Old Town’s unique character.
- The Simple Farm: Managed by local farmers Lylah and Michael, this charming farm opens its doors every Thursday for the public to partake in seasonal harvests. It’s a lovely way to connect over coffee and homemade treats while engaging in conversations about sustainable farming practices. They also offer classes on topics like backyard orchard pruning and canning.
- Desert Botanical Gardens: A must-visit to witness the splendor of local flora. The gardens host various events throughout the year, so it’s wise to check their calendar for special happenings. The kids and I enjoy wandering the paths, identifying our favorite cacti, and there are ample benches for resting in the shade.
- Fountain Hills: A short drive away, this picturesque town features a spectacular 560-foot fountain. Adjacent to the fountain is a playground equipped with splash pads for younger children. Nearby eateries offer pizza and ice cream, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.
- Musical Instrument Museum: An excellent venue for music lovers, showcasing an extensive collection of instruments from around the globe. My husband surprised me with tickets to a concert by Bela Fleck, which was an unforgettable experience. Be sure to check the museum’s schedule for upcoming performances.
- Splash Pads: Scattered throughout shopping centers, these splash pads are fantastic for kids to expend their energy. My favorites include The Quarter, Kierland Commons, and Desert Ridge. They are ideal spots to cool off and play during the warmer months.
If you have other child-friendly favorites in Scottsdale, please share them in the comments!
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In summary, Scottsdale offers an array of engaging activities that cater to families, making it a wonderful place to explore with children. From nature trails and botanical gardens to exciting museums and splash pads, there is something for everyone to enjoy.