If you’re looking for a city getaway with plenty of activities and world-class hotels, look no further than the beautiful city of Scottsdale.
This area has plenty of shopping and dining options. It is next to impossible to run out of exciting and fun things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Scottsdale is known for its impeccable golf courses, and it’s easy to see why. With close to 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s no surprise that this area is one of the world’s most sought-after golf destinations.
Old Town Scottsdale’s nightlife scene is full of fun activities. Plenty of bars and restaurants cater to different types of people. So whether you’re looking for a casual drink or a VIP experience, this area has something for everyone.
The article covers all the exciting tourist attractions in Scottsdale, Arizona!
Where is Scottsdale, Arizona?
Located in the eastern part of Arizona’s Maricopa County, the city of Phoenix is known as the city of Scottsdale.
The name originated from a former US Army chaplain, Winfield Scott. The city’s population grew to 2,000 in 1951.
The city’s population has gradually increased over the years. According to the 2020 census, Scottsdale has a total of 241,361 residents. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
The city of Scottsdale is approximately 31 miles long and 11.4 miles wide at its widest point.
It shares boundaries with various entities and municipalities. It shares the northern edge of the city with the Tonto National Forest.
If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, how about you check out the things to do in Phoenix and best things to do in Yuma?
Fun Things to Do in Scottsdale, Arizona
Although it’s known for its impeccable golf courses, the city of Scottsdale also has plenty of other attractions that are not just for professionals. The city has museums, nature trails, and vehicles.
Below are the best and fun things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona:
1. McDowell Sonoran Preserve
One of the most popular attractions and easily one of the best things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
This natural area is home to multiple hiking trails suitable for everyone. One of the most challenging trails is the Gateway Loop, which is very rocky.
Bring all your hiking equipment if you’re planning on hiking in this area.
If you’re searching for a calm yet thrilling way to get in touch with nature, consider visiting the Brown’s Ranch.
This area offers a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for everyone. These include the Bell Pass, the Sunrise, and the Wingate.
Address: This Amusing Preserve 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, USA
2. Butterfly Wonderland
People searching for a more family-oriented place to spend family time can head to the butterfly wonderland.
This impressive facility is in a beautiful tropical rainforest. It features a glass atrium that’s filled with thousands of butterflies.
One of the fascinating things to do in this area is to visit Wild Animal Park.
This natural area is home to various interactive exhibits and a movie theater.
The kids will enjoy watching Flight of the Butterflies in 3D.
Address: This Fun Place is at 9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256.
3. Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
This museum is located in the historic Old Town and is full of fascinating artifacts and facts about the nineteen western states.
It’s also regularly updated with new exhibitions and gallery tours.
The museum features 19 exhibits designed to bring a bit of Western heritage to life.
One of the famous exhibits at the museum is the Cowboy Artists of America, which features the contributions of 77 artists.
The museum staff members are very knowledgeable about the various subjects featured in this exhibit.
In addition to displaying art, the museum also has a gift shop that sells high-quality products.
Address: This Attractive Museum is at 3830 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ, 85251.
4. Penske Racing Museum
The Penske Racing Museum is located within the car dealerships and is a perfect place for car enthusiasts.
It features a variety of different types of vehicles and various racing memorabilia.
Many racing cars used by the organization known as Team Penske are also on display. It allows the museum’s visitors to better understand the history of these fantastic vehicles.
One of the cars you’ll see is the Miller Lite Dodge, which Rusty Wallace used in 2004.
This car was able to help him win his 37th and final championship with the team.
Address: The Penske Racing Museum is at 7125 E Chauncey Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85054.
5. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
One of the best ways to introduce the kids to the world of wild animal rescue is by visiting the Southwest Conservation Center.
This facility provides a safe and nurturing environment for injured, abandoned, or orphaned wild animals.
It rehabilitates these animals and then releases them back into the wild.
The kids will love meeting the facility’s staff members because of their expert knowledge.
In addition to being able to share their knowledge, donations are also greatly appreciated.
Address: The Conservation Center is at 27026 N 156th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262.
6. Arizona Cowboy College
If you’re a fan of Western culture and want to learn more about how to be a cowboy, check out the Arizona Cowboy College.
This facility has been in business since 1969. Its instructor, Rocco Wachman, is known for his work on the television show “The Original Cowboy Series.”
The courses offered at the facility provide the participants with the necessary skills to be successful in their chosen profession. In addition, this is an excellent family-friendly experience.
Address: The Arizona Cowboy College is at 30208 N 152nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262.
7. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
If the family enjoys playing with trains, visit the McCormick-Stillman Railway Park.
This facility features various model railroading activities and attractions for the kids.
These include a large 15 in. gauge train, a railroad museum, and a Magma Arizona Railroad locomotive.
The park features hundreds of square feet of dioramas, each with interactive buttons that allow visitors to control various features of the train.
It also has a gift shop and a variety of play areas.
Address: The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is at 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Tri-Cities
8. Old Town Scottsdale
You can take a family stroll through the Old Town to taste what this area offers.
This area is near the city of Phoenix and consists of various restaurants, art galleries, and souvenir shops.
As you walk through the site, you’ll likely feel like you’re in a time machine as you pass the Little Red Schoolhouse, Rusty Spur Saloon, and the Cavaliere’s Blacksmith Shop.
If you’re searching for a place to sit and watch the world go by, there are a variety of cafes nearby.
Address: This Fun Place is at 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
9. House of Broadcasting Museum
If you’re a fan of television history and are interested in learning more about the history of Arizona, then make sure that you visit the Arizona Broadcast History Museum.
This facility is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the state’s broadcast history.
This museum features a vast collection of movie and television memorabilia.
You’ll be able to see various photos and memorabilia from the early broadcasting years that you can’t find anywhere else.
Free admission is provided by the museum, which is a non-profit. It also accepts donations.
Address: The House of Broadcasting Museum is at 7150 E 5th Ave A, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
10. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
The Center for the Performing Arts in Scottsdale is home to over a thousand performances each year and hosts various other events and programs.
These include festivals and learning programs. As a result, it is known as one of the top performing arts facilities in the country.
This facility has various attractions and events for the entire family to enjoy.
However, if you want something a bit different, then make sure you visit the Center for the Performing Arts gift shop. This area is also home to several restaurants.
Address: The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is at 7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
11. MacDonald’s Ranch
Spend a fun-packed day with the entire family at MacDonald’s Ranch, a renowned horseback riding facility.
You can take guided rides there and enjoy various activities, such as hayrides and cowboy cookouts, and the Sonoran Desert is the backdrop.
The staff at the facility are knowledgeable about the horses, and all riders are safe.
You can also take a casual ride through the area to taste the local fauna and flora.
Address: This Beautiful Ranch is at 26540 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
12. Odysea Mirror Maze
This is a brain-twisting educational facility that will keep the entire family entertained.
It features a variety of games and mirrors that will keep everyone engaged as they try to figure out the actual path to freedom.
The bridge you’ll be navigating through is in a rainforest, and the sounds of the animals roaming around you will be disturbing.
Address: This Attractive Maze is at 9500 East Vía de Ventura #200, Scottsdale, AZ 85256.
13. The Comedy Spot
The Comedy Spot, located in the Center of downtown Phoenix, is known for being the only comedy club in the area. It’s also prevalent among both locals and visitors.
You can watch various comedy acts and leave the kids home with their relatives.
Address: This Amusing Spot is at 7117 E 3rd Ave Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ 85251-3891.
14. Xeriscape Garden
One of the hidden attractions in the city of Phoenix is the Desert Botanical Gardens. This garden features various types of cacti and other interesting plants.
It’s an excellent place for adults to get away from it all and enjoy quality time with the kids. It is one of the most fun things in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Address: This Beautiful Garden is at 5401 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250.
15. Glow Putt Mini Golf
The Glow Putt Mini Golf course is an indoor safari-themed miniature golf course designed to glow in the dark. It features 18 holes of play, lit with UV lights.
The balls on this course shine brightly whenever they pass through specific areas.
Address: The Glow Putt Mini Golf is at 9160 E Shea Blvd #110, Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
16. Octane Raceway
If you’re looking for an exciting and fun way to spend time with the family, head to the local racing facility known as the Octane Raceway.
This facility features a 1/3-mile track that’s perfect for competitive racing.
If you’ve never experienced the thrill of racing in a car capable of going over 45 mph, then this is the time to try it.
Address: This Intriguing Raceway is at 9119 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ, 85250.
17. Singh Farms
Family-friendly Singh Farms is located in the beautiful city of Scottsdale. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables on a Saturday morning.
This farm is also known for its homemade bread and other food products.
Address: The Singh Farm is at 8900 E Thomas Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States
18. Desert Splash Adventures
There are eight different locations that guests can choose from when it comes to experiencing the wonders of Arizona through the eyes of a skilled Seaplane pilot.
It is one of the most exciting things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you’re in Scottsdale, you can join the Desert Splash Adventures tour.
Address: This Adventurous place is at 15115 N Airport Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
19. Chocolate Tour of Scottsdale
The Chocolate Tour is one of the best ways to spend time with the family and enjoy some of the best chocolate in the area.
During this tour, you’ll visit various local establishments known for their unique and delicious creations.
20. Arizona Outdoor Fun
You can take a guided tour if you’re in Scottsdale and want to see more of the area through an expert’s eyes.
This tour will take you to the Bradshaw Mountains and provide a beautiful view of the desert.
21. Scottsdale Fashion Square
This luxury shopping center features some of the best names in the business.
It has over 2 million square feet of space and is one of the largest malls in the country.
This facility is also known for its numerous luxury stores.
Address: TheScottsdale Fashion Square is at 7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
See Also: Fun Things to Do In Bolivia
Best Time to Visit Scottsdale, Arizona
The best time to visit the city of Scottsdale is during the spring and late fall.
However, the months of September through November and March through May are ideal for both outdoor and pool activities.
Cost of a Trip to Scottsdale, Arizona
For a single person, the average cost for a one-week trip to Scottsdale is approximately $1607, while a family of four is estimated to spend around $5,411 and $2,900 for a couple.
There are also various accommodations in the area that range from $70 to $478.