Best Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ With Kids

Walkable, mostly-flat trails through cactus and desert-plant exhibits in Papago Park, with a dedicated children's garden area and rotating seasonal events (butterfly exhibits, evening light shows in cooler months). A genuinely different, calm activity that introduces kids to the Sonoran Desert ecosystem without the intensity of a full Jeep tour.

Watch out: Summer midday heat makes this uncomfortable in June–August afternoons — go at opening or check for evening event hours in cooler months instead. Limited shade on some trail sections; bring hats and water regardless of season. Combo tickets with the adjacent Phoenix Zoo (also in Papago Park) are worth checking if doing both.

Arizona's largest aquarium, notable for its desert location far from any ocean — a rotating tunnel system moves visitors past sharks and reef fish, alongside touch-tank areas and a sea lion show. Indoor and climate-controlled, making it the reliable answer to a scorching Scottsdale afternoon. Located right next to Butterfly Wonderland for an easy combo visit.

Watch out: Combo tickets with Butterfly Wonderland (next door) are worth it if doing both same-day — check current bundle pricing. Gets busy on summer weekday afternoons as families escape the heat; go at opening for a calmer visit. Some shows and encounters (sea lion, stingray touch) run on a schedule — check show times on arrival.

Open-vehicle tours through desert terrain with guides pointing out saguaro cacti (some centuries old), desert wildlife, and in some areas Native American historical and rock-art sites. A genuinely different landscape and activity type than most family-vacation destinations offer, and works well for kids who like being outdoors and asking questions rather than sitting through a museum tour.

Watch out: Book early-morning or late-afternoon slots in summer — midday desert heat is a real safety concern, not just a comfort issue. Open-vehicle tours mean real sun and dust exposure; sun protection and hats matter more here than on a typical scenic drive. Some rougher terrain sections can be bumpy for younger kids or anyone prone to motion sickness.

One of the largest butterfly conservatories in the country, next door to OdySea Aquarium in North Scottsdale, with thousands of free-flying butterflies in a climate-controlled greenhouse-style building. A calm, low-stimulation activity that works especially well for younger kids and pairs naturally with an aquarium visit on the same trip.

Watch out: It's a single large indoor space rather than a sprawling attraction — plan for about 90 minutes to 2 hours, not a full day. Warm and humid inside by design (butterflies need it); dress in layers you can adjust. Combo tickets with OdySea Aquarium next door are the better value if doing both.

A classic Scottsdale activity — a sunrise flight over the Sonoran Desert with sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains and desert landscape below, typically followed by a champagne (or sparkling cider for kids) toast on landing. A calm, sustained experience rather than an action-packed one, best suited for older kids who can handle an early wake-up and appreciate the scenery over a longer stretch.

Watch out: Significant cost for a family of 4 — budget accordingly and check the operator's minimum-age policy since some outfitters restrict young children. Weather-dependent; flights can be cancelled or rescheduled for wind, so build flexibility into your trip schedule if this is a priority. Early pre-dawn pickup times are real — set expectations with kids the night before.