Weekend Activities and Day Trips from Scottsdale — Scottsdale…

Weekend Activities and Day Trips from Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for every family type to enjoy. This guide covers the best weekend activities within Scottsdale as well as exciting day trips that are just a short drive away.

Weekend Activities in Scottsdale

1. Explore the Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden illustrates the beauty of the desert flora with over 50,000 plants from around the world. Located just a short drive from the heart of Scottsdale, this 140-acre garden features:

• Interactive exhibits that appeal to children.
• Seasonal events including butterfly and flower festivals.
• Nature trails that provide comfortable walking paths for strollers.

2. Visit the Phoenix Zoo

Located just 15 minutes from Scottsdale, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect family outing. With over 1,400 animals, interactive exhibits, and a petting zoo, it’s enjoyable for kids of all ages. Highlights include:

• Giraffe Encounter: Feed giraffes from a raised platform.
• Monkey Village: A multi-species habitat that lets you walk through and watch furry friends at play.
• Splash Park for hot summer visits.

3. Wade in the Waters at Chaparral Park

Families can enjoy a beautiful day at Chaparral Park, featuring:

• A large lake perfect for paddle boating or picnicking by the water.
• Playgrounds and sports facilities, ensuring that kids have fun while parents relax.
• A community center offering scheduled events and activities.

4. Discover the Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is a lively district filled with art, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Perfect for a weekend stroll, be sure to check out:

• ArtWalk on Thursday evenings, showcasing local artists.
• Unique shops, including Western wear stores and art galleries.
• Family-friendly restaurants like The Mission for tasty Mexican cuisine.

5. Hit the Trails

For families that enjoy the outdoors, Scottsdale’s hiking trails are a treasure trove. Old Town has easy access to:

• Camelback Mountain: Though a bit challenging, it offers scenic views and a memorable family hike.
• McDowell Sonoran Preserve: With varied trails catering to all skill levels, this vast preserve is great for walking, biking, and horseback riding.

Day Trips from Scottsdale

If you’re willing to venture just a bit further, several exciting destinations are within a 1-2 hour drive from Scottsdale.

1. Take a Scenic Drive to Sedona

Sedona is known for its breathtaking red rock landscapes and is about a 2-hour drive from Scottsdale. Make a day of it by:

• Stopping at Bell Rock for photos and easy hiking trails.
• Visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a beautiful architectural marvel set against stunning backdrops.
• Exploring local shops and cafes in the charming downtown area.

2. Enjoy Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Just over an hour away, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is perfect for families looking for water activities. It offers:

• Boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
• Picnic areas and playgrounds, ideal for a family picnic.
• Hiking trails around the lake, providing fantastic views.

3. Visit the Historic Town of Prescott

Known for its rich history and vibrant downtown, Prescott is only 1.5 hours away. Family-friendly activities include:

• Exploring Whiskey Row for its historic saloons.
• Visiting the Phippen Art Museum for a dose of culture.
• Relaxing in Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza, often hosting local events.

4. Adventure at the Goldfield Ghost Town

For a fun and educational day trip, the Goldfield Ghost Town is just a 50-minute drive away. Here, you can:

• Tour the historic buildings and learn about the gold rush era.
• Take a mini-train ride for a unique perspective of the area.
• Try your luck at panning for gold!

Seasonal Activities

Different seasons in Scottsdale bring unique opportunities for family fun:

• Spring: Enjoy the Scottsdale Arts Festival, showcasing local art, live music, and food.
• Summer: Cool down at Scottsdale’s water parks like Big Surf or Wet ‘n’ Wild.
• Fall: Experience the Scottsdale Pumpkin Festival, a great way to kick off the holiday season.
• Winter: Don’t miss out on the Scottsdale Christmas Festival, complete with a parade and festive activities.

FAQs

Q: What is the best family-friendly activity in Scottsdale?

A: The Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden are both excellent options that combine learning and fun for children.

Q: Are there any free activities in Scottsdale?

A: Yes, Chaparral Park and Old Town Scottsdale offer free access to enjoy walking, dining, and browsing local shops.

Q: How far is it to Sedona from Scottsdale?

A: Sedona is approximately a 2-hour drive, making it ideal for a scenic day trip.

For more detailed insights about living in Scottsdale and family-oriented activities, visit our [Scottsdale city guide](/az/scottsdale), explore our [Scottsdale guides](/az/scottsdale/guides), or read through other informative [Scottsdale articles](/az/scottsdale/articles).

Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, hike a new trail, or embark on a day trip with your family, Scottsdale is a fabulous base for adventure and exploration!