Scottsdale, Arizona, a beautiful city located just east of Phoenix, is a popular golf and spa destination for a family vacation. There are, however, many additional reasons to visit this desert locale. Whether in the heat of summer or during the moderate temperatures of winter, adventure and fun await those who choose to stay at a family friendly Scottsdale hotel and resort.
Outdoor Adventure
Arizona is well-known for its desert setting and extreme heat but there’s much more to the landscape than sand and cacti. Throughout the state, beautiful hills and mountains draw outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Just outside of Scottsdale, the McDowell Mountains provide easy access for visitors seeking outdoor adventure.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve encompasses the McDowell Mountains and includes over 30,000 acres of Sonoran desert. This designated area offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Over 200 miles of trails provide access to hiking, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. Three of the trails were built with accessibility in mind to create an enjoyable experience for all. Other trails are more technical for those who want a more challenging adventure. Just be sure to take extra water on your outdoor adventures!
Art & History
For those interested in museum or art, or those seeking respite from the heat, Scottsdale has many indoor attractions to explore. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art houses exhibits that celebrate modern art, design and architecture. The museum also hosts a variety of free and paid events. Those interested in art and architecture will also enjoy a visit to Taliesin West. This National Historic Landmark was famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s own work of art and beloved winter home. The Museum of the West is a huge museum dedicated to the art, culture, and history of the West. The museum is located in Old Town Scottsdale, which is a destination worth exploring in itself. Old Town Scottsdale offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options with plenty to see along the way great for a family vacation. Electric bikes are also available to explore this beautiful and historic district.
Family Entertainment
Scottsdale proudly hosts the San Fransisco Giants for their spring training season every year. Tickets are available in February through March for spring training games at Scottsdale Stadium.
Featuring a conservatory with over 3,000 butterflies for visitors to enjoy, Butterfly Wonderland is an indoor destination the whole family will enjoy. It is just one of the attractions located at Scottsdale’s entertainment destination known as OdySea in the Desert. This venue frequently hosts free and paid events and includes four other exciting attractions. OdySea Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Southwest, housing more than 30,000 animals. Dolphinaris Arizona offers visitors the opportunity to play with dolphins, and Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs entertains visitors with fascinating animatronic dinosaurs and interactive activities and rides. Everyone will keep their minds and bodies engaged at the Laser and Mirror Maze attraction, while the Bodies Revealed, provides an incredible learning opportunity with an in-depth look at the human body.
Whether your family is seeking indoor or outdoor entertainment, Scottsdale is definitely a destination worth exploring and great for a family vacation. From the mountains to OdySea, a family friendly Scottsdale hotel and resort can meet everyone’s interests and needs.
