Top Things to Do in Scottsdale With Kids

Looking for what to do with kids in Scottsdale? There is so much family fun to be had in Scottsdale. Whether you’re looking for activities​ to entertain your kids where you can chill and just watch or prefer a place where the entire family can participate, here are some of our favorite things to do in Scottsdale with kids​.

 

Arizona Boardwalk

Arizona Boardwalk is the ultimate Scottsdale destination whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart. There are nine kid friendly attractions at the location, as well as restaurants and shops.

• OdySea Aquarium: At the largest aquarium in the Southwest, see everything from sharks and otters to sea lions, penguins, and sloths. There is also SeaTREK underwater ocean walking and touch pools. Kids love to take the giant submerged escalator into the deep ocean.
• Butterfly Wonderland: The country’s largest butterfly conservatory is also here in Scottsdale. Walk through the rainforest where they fly freely—and they may even land on you.
• Museum of Illusions: Spend time exploring mind-bending illusions and exhibits at this hands-on locale.
• Cluville: This escape room is designed for kids ages 6-13.
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: From the world’s tallest man to miniature sculptures, see and learn about unique and intriguing facts and objects.
• Laser + Mirror Maze: Children are challenged to find their way out of this unique maze of mirrors and lasers.
• UFO Experience: Explore a family-friendly exhibit on UFOs and alien life forms.
• Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs: More than 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs are displayed in true-to-life prehistoric habitats.
• Cyber Quest: A video arcade that features only non-violent game content, making it the perfect activity for families with young kids.

9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale

 

 

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Step back in time and enjoy dinner and a show. Enter the castle and watch and cheer as heroic knights on horses battle during the show with sword fights and jousting. The four-course meal is “hands-on”—as in no utensils. You’ll eat with your hands, as they did during medieval times.

9501 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale

 

 

iFly

Kids from age 3 to adults of any age can experience skydiving here without taking to the sky. This indoor skydiving facility in Scottsdale offers the sensation of flying in its state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnels. An instructor is present with each participant, and all levels and abilities are welcome.

9206 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

 

 

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

In the heart of Scottsdale sits a 30-acre park. Run by Scottsdale’s Parks & Recreation Department, there is ample space for kids to run and play, playgrounds, a 1950-vintage carousel to ride, shops, a model railroad museum, and trees. And true to its name, there’s also the Paradise & Pacific Railroad, a train you can ride on around the park. A right of passage as far as Scottsdale kids activities go! ​Family friendly events and festivals are also held here often.

7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale

 

Glow Putt Mini Golf

Go beyond your typical kids activities. Kick your round of mini golf up a notch with a game in the dark, where everything glows—from the décor and course to the golf balls.

9160 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale

 

MacDonald’s Ranch

Get a taste of the cowboy life at MacDonald’s Ranch, a working ranch with horseback rides, cowboy cookouts, a petting zoo, and a variety of seasonal events. Kids and adults alike love the giant yearly pumpkin patch festival, during the season its one of the best things to do in Scottsdale with kids​.

26540 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale

 

 

Splash Pad at Scottsdale Quarter

In the center of the outdoor lifestyle shopping destination Scottsdale Quarter, there’s a large splash pad that’s a perfect kids activity. There are pop-up jet fountains for them to play in (adults, feel free to join in, too!). The area is lined with palm trees and places to sit.

15279 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale

 

 

Octane Raceway

Slay your need for speed with go kart racing here. There’s a ½-mile indoor-outdoor track and options for both juniors and adults. Velocity VR, axe throwing, and an arcade are also available kids activities.

9199 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

 

Mavrix

Find fun for the entire family at Mavrix, which features tons of Scottsdale kids activities including, a​ 22 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, a giant arcade, ping pong, giant Jenga, billiards, corn hole, a restaurant, and a bar.

9139 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

 

Slick City

This indoor slide park has several locations around the Valley, and one is scheduled to open in Scottsdale in April 2025. There are lots of different slides to experience (such as the Twister and the Avalanche), an air court, and a junior jungle gym.

9189 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

These activities are some of our favorite things to do in Scottsdale with kids​.