MomSkoop
Scottsdale offers amazing adventures that will make your kids smile from ear to ear. From colorful butterflies to desert animals, this Arizona city has something special for every young explorer. Your family will discover exciting places where learning feels like playing, and every day brings a new adventure waiting to happen.
1. Butterfly Wonderland
Thousands of tropical butterflies flutter around you in this magical indoor rainforest. Kids can walk through the conservatory while butterflies land gently on their shoulders and heads.
The 3D theater shows amazing movies about butterflies and other insects that will amaze your children. Watch caterpillars turn into beautiful butterflies in the emergence gallery.
Your family can also visit the reptile exhibit and honey bee display. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring this colorful world that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
2. Phoenix Zoo
Over 4,000 animals call this world-class zoo home, making it perfect for curious kids who love wildlife. Your children will see lions, elephants, giraffes, and many other amazing creatures from around the world.
The zoo train takes families on a fun ride around the park, giving tired little legs a break. Interactive exhibits let kids touch stingrays and feed friendly farm animals.
Special programs like keeper talks teach children about animal care and conservation. Pack plenty of water and comfortable shoes for a full day of animal adventures your family will never forget.
3. Downtown Scottsdale
Art galleries, shops, and restaurants create a family-friendly atmosphere in this charming downtown area. Kids love the colorful sculptures and street art that decorate the sidewalks and buildings.
Many galleries welcome children and offer hands-on activities during special events. The area hosts festivals throughout the year with live music, food trucks, and activities designed just for kids.
Walking tours help families learn about Scottsdale’s history while exploring the area together. Your children can collect stamps from different shops and galleries to create their own downtown adventure scavenger hunt.
4. Desert Botanical Garden
Cacti and desert plants from around the world create an outdoor classroom where kids learn about desert life. Your children will be amazed by giant saguaro cacti and colorful desert flowers.
The children’s trail features interactive stations where kids can touch different plant textures and learn fun facts. Butterfly and hummingbird gardens show how desert animals and plants work together.
Evening events include flashlight tours that reveal nocturnal desert animals like bats and owls. Bring hats and sunscreen for daytime visits, and prepare for an educational adventure that makes science come alive.
5. Adventure Tours
Jeep tours take families into the Sonoran Desert where kids can spot roadrunners, javelinas, and other desert wildlife. Professional guides share exciting stories about desert survival and Native American history.
Horseback riding adventures let children experience the desert like cowboys and cowgirls once did. Many tour companies offer special family packages with shorter rides perfect for young riders.
Hot air balloon rides provide breathtaking views of the desert landscape from high above the ground. Most tours include snacks and drinks, making these outdoor adventures comfortable and memorable for the whole family.
6. Scottsdale Railroad Museum
Real train cars and locomotives spark imagination as kids climb aboard historic railroad equipment. Your children can ring the bell, blow the whistle, and pretend to be train conductors from long ago.
Model train displays show detailed miniature towns and landscapes that fascinate visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits teach kids how trains work and why they were so important for building the American West.
Special events include train-themed birthday parties and holiday celebrations with decorated train cars. The museum’s small size makes it perfect for younger children who might get overwhelmed in larger attractions.
7. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
Rescued animals like bears, wolves, and mountain lions live safely at this wildlife sanctuary dedicated to animal care and education. Kids learn about wildlife conservation while seeing animals up close.
Educational programs teach children about desert ecosystems and why protecting wildlife habitats matters for our planet. Professional staff answer questions and share amazing animal facts during guided tours.
Photography opportunities let families capture memories while learning about responsible wildlife viewing. The center’s mission to help injured and orphaned animals shows kids how people can make a positive difference for wildlife in need.
8. Papago Park
Red rock formations create a natural playground where kids can hike easy trails and explore unique desert landscapes. Hole-in-the-Rock offers spectacular views and photo opportunities that amaze young adventurers.
Picnic areas provide perfect spots for family lunches surrounded by beautiful desert scenery. The park’s fishing lagoons let children try their luck at catching bass and bluegill fish.
Hiking trails range from easy walks suitable for toddlers to longer adventures for older kids. Pack plenty of water and snacks for outdoor fun that combines exercise, nature exploration, and family bonding time.
9. Scottsdale Stadium
Spring training baseball games create exciting family entertainment where kids can watch professional players practice and play. The intimate stadium setting lets children see their favorite players up close.
Autograph opportunities before and after games give young baseball fans chances to meet their heroes. Kid-friendly concession stands serve classic ballpark treats like hot dogs, peanuts, and cotton candy.
Special family events include youth baseball clinics and meet-and-greet sessions with team mascots. Even kids who don’t usually watch baseball get caught up in the excitement of America’s favorite pastime in this welcoming stadium atmosphere.