Parks, Outdoors & Things to Do

THE family park in Scottsdale. 30 acres with train rides ($3), vintage carousel, railroad museum, playgrounds, splash pad, and picnic ramadas. Free entry.

Largest urban preserve in the US: 30,000+ acres, 230+ miles of trails, 11 trailheads. Try Gateway Trail (moderate, 4.4 mi) or Tom's Thumb for experienced hikers. Bring water!

Southwest's largest aquarium with 30,000+ animals. Touch pools with stingrays, a shark tunnel, and penguins. Don't miss the bathroom on the 1st floor, sharks swim above the sinks.

Largest butterfly conservatory in North America. 3,000+ butterflies in a rainforest atrium, 3D film, reptile exhibits. Combo tickets are available with OdySea.

9 attractions in one complex: aquarium, butterflies, dinosaurs, mirror maze, alien exhibit, arcade, carousel, and shops. Summer survival HQ, everything is air-conditioned. Combo passes save 40%.

100-acre park on the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt. Inclusive playground (beyond ADA), 10-acre fishing lake, 3-acre dog park, sand volleyball, sports fields.

Iconic 2-mile desert hike with 1,300 ft elevation gain and sweeping views. Designated rock climbing areas. Start early, minimal shade.

Heart of Old Town. Plush lawns, shaded paths, LOVE sculpture, public art. Home to the Performing Arts Center and Museum of Contemporary Art. Hosts major festivals.

Indoor waterpark resort at 84°F year-round. Water slides, lazy river, toddler splash areas, arcade. Perfect for birthdays or when summer temps hit 110°F.

Shopping, galleries, Western charm, and public art. 100+ galleries, turquoise jewelry, walkable arts district. Thursday night ArtWalk is a must.

1,280 acres of Sonoran desert. Horseback riding (ages 6+), stagecoach rides, petting zoo. Fall pumpkin patch with hay maze and gold panning. Real cowboy experience.

600+ species, just 15 minutes from Scottsdale. Children's Trail, petting zoo, themed exhibits. Pair with the adjacent Desert Botanical Garden for a full day.

Free trolley service around Scottsdale. Great for Old Town, shopping districts, and downtown without fighting for parking. Check routes and schedules here.

Free library card unlocks programs, events, story times, teen activities, and more. Multiple branches. One of the first things to do when you move in.

Official directory of all 40+ city parks. Filter by amenities: playgrounds, sports, dog parks, and aquatics. Find the park closest to your new neighborhood.