Dry and hauntingly beautiful, Scottsdale, Arizona is a land of deserts, mountains, and stunning rock landscapes. Here, adventure seekers have a variety of things to do inside and outdoors. Bring the whole family and see all that this desert Mecca has to offer. After a long day of exploring, settle in at a family friendly Scottsdale hotel and resort – there are plenty to choose from. Let Arizona be the next big adventure for you and your family to experience.
Desert Delights
Gather up your kids and your hiking gear. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the perfect place to get some exercise and see the unique loveliness of the desert landscape. Over two-hundred miles of trails snake through the cactus forests and mountains. Rock-climbing, mountain-biking, and hiking are very popular activities here. There are guided tours and other activities to enjoy, too.
The Sonoran Desert UTV/ATV rides are also a lot of fun. Unless you are very familiar with the desert landscape, it is advisable to take a guided tour. Operators offer 2-hour tours with expert guides. Learn about the plants, animals and history of the area, while enjoying the freedom and fun of being on a 4-wheeler. Ride over washes and creeks, look for bobcats, coyotes, and saguaro cacti, and you may even see ruins.
Horseback Riding
Nothing says you’re out West better than being on horseback. Ranches around Scottsdale offer the full cowboy experience with campfires, roping and trail rides. If you would rather just ride the horses, then saddle up at MacDonald’s Ranch. Beginners can take a leisurely ride on the gentle horses. The guides will teach the basics of riding horses, as well as detailing plants and animals along the ride. There are also stagecoach rides – great for those wanting the feel of the ‘Old West’, and even moonlight rides for romantic souls.
Beat The Heat
Sometimes, the heat gets the best of you. When the hot air sends you seeking shelter, consider visiting the many museums, art galleries, and shops surrounding Scottsdale. Visit the Rosson House Museum to see how families lived in the 1800’s. The Queen Anne Victorian house was built in 1895. See the sewing room with the pedal machine, dark wood furnishings in the bedrooms, and steamer trunks at the foot of the beds. Cast-iron cook stoves, dress forms, and even medical instruments are all arrayed as they would have been used.
Wrigley Mansion
Who hasn’t heard of the Wrigley and Hormel families? See the home where these families lived in glamour and luxury. Are their ghosts still around? Listen to the narrated tours to find out. Guided tours take you up twin staircases, through massive ballrooms, and into elegant dining areas. Historic pieces of art and ornate carved furniture seem to hold the energy of times past.
On Thursday nights, join in the Artwalk for a feast of the senses. Glitter, Western, and classical art are all on display in the Main Street Art District, and street performers will keep you entertained as you enjoy snacks and even wine in some galleries. Explore and maybe purchase a souvenir for your home.