Parks and Things to Do with Kids in Scottsdale
Best parks, activities, and family-friendly places across Scottsdale
Why Scottsdale Is Great for Kids
Scottsdale is built for outdoor living, making it one of the best places in Arizona for families with kids.
From parks and playgrounds to biking paths and family events, there’s always something to do year-round.
If you’re relocating, explore moving to Scottsdale with kids and where to live.
Explore the best neighborhoods
Best Parks in Scottsdale for Kids
Scottsdale has some of the best parks in the Phoenix area, with playgrounds, open space, and family-friendly amenities.
Top parks include:
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: train rides, playgrounds, and open space
Chaparral Park: large park with lakes, playgrounds, and sports fields
Horizon Park: popular North Scottsdale park with shaded playgrounds
Many of these parks are located near areas like 85250 and 85258.
The Scottsdale Greenbelt
The Scottsdale Greenbelt is one of the best features for families, connecting miles of parks, paths, and open space.
It runs through central Scottsdale and connects multiple neighborhoods, making it perfect for biking, walking, and outdoor play.
This is a major reason families choose areas like Park Scottsdale.
Explore Scottsdale Neighborhoods
Family Attractions & Activities
Beyond parks, Scottsdale offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions.
Popular activities include:
- OdySea Aquarium: indoor attraction perfect for kids
- Butterfly Wonderland: interactive and educational
- Topgolf Scottsdale: family-friendly entertainment
- Diamondbacks: spring training baseball games
These attractions are located near areas like 85254 and 85255.
Events & Things to Do Year-Round
One of the biggest advantages of living in Scottsdale is access to major events and year-round activities that families can enjoy together.
Parada del Sol Parade & Trail’s End Festival takes over Old Town Scottsdale every year with a family-friendly parade, western theme, and community atmosphere.
The WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale brings energy to the area each winter and is one of the most well-known events in Arizona.
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale is another major annual event that brings national attention and excitement to the city.
In addition to large events, places like McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park host seasonal and holiday events that are perfect for families.
Living near areas like 85250 and 85258 puts you close to many of these events and activities year-round.
Ask Kelie about family-friendly areas
Work With a Scottsdale Relocation Expert
Choosing the right neighborhood means having access to parks, activities, and lifestyle that fits your family.
We help families find homes near the best parks, schools, and community areas.
Schedule a consultation or learn more about our team.
Schedule a consultation
Scottsdale Parks & Family Resources
- Moving with Kids
- Where to Live
- Safest Neighborhoods
- Schedule Consultation
- Scottsdale Parks & Recreation
- Experience Scottsdale
FAQs Things to Do with Kids in Scottsdale
1) What are the best parks in Scottsdale for kids?
Top parks include McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Chaparral Park, and Horizon Park.
2) Is Scottsdale good for families with kids?
Yes, Scottsdale offers parks, schools, and activities ideal for families.
3) What is the Scottsdale Greenbelt?
The Greenbelt is a connected park system with trails, lakes, and playgrounds across Scottsdale.
4) Are there kid-friendly attractions in Scottsdale?
Yes, including aquariums, museums, and outdoor spaces.
5) What are fun indoor activities for kids in Scottsdale?
OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland are popular indoor options.
7) Are there free things to do with kids in Scottsdale?
Yes, parks, playgrounds, and community events are free.
8) What outdoor activities are available?
Biking, hiking, parks, and sports activities are available year-round.
9) Is Scottsdale walkable for families?
Some areas like Old Town and the Greenbelt are walkable and family-friendly.
10) Can you help us find a home near parks?
Yes. Schedule a consultation.
Find a Home Near the Best Family ActivitiesStart Your Home Search the Right Way
We’ll help you choose the right neighborhood for your lifestyle
We help families find homes close to parks, schools, and everything Scottsdale has to offer.
Contact Kelie to get started
KEEP EXPLORING
Your next useful stop.
SCOTTSDALE, ONE AREA AT A TIME
Find your part of Scottsdale.
Choose a ZIP code on the map or below to start exploring.
Select a Zip Code
85254
The Magic Zip Code (85254)
One of the most in-demand areas for buyers relocating to Scottsdale. Known for its location, convenience, and strong long-term value, this area sits right near Kierland, Desert Ridge, and top shopping and dining.
Neighborhoods:
- Kierland area
- Paradise Valley Village nearby
- Tatum Corridor
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Central location near shopping, dining, and major roads
- High demand area with strong resale and long-term value
- Close to Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter
Best For:
- Buyers relocating who want a safe, proven area
- Families looking for convenience and access
- Buyers focused on long-term value and demand
85251
Old Town Scottsdale (85251)
The most walkable and active area in Scottsdale. If you want to be close to restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and entertainment, this is where everything is happening.
Neighborhoods:
- Old Town Scottsdale
- Scottsdale Arts District
- Scottsdale Waterfront
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Walkable lifestyle with restaurants, bars, and shopping
- Close to Scottsdale Fashion Square and entertainment
- Strong demand for condos, second homes, and short-term living
Best For:
- Young professionals
- Second-home buyers
- Buyers who want an active, urban Scottsdale lifestyle
85257
South Scottsdale (85257)
One of the best areas for buyers looking to get into Scottsdale at a more approachable price point. This area is close to Old Town, ASU, and Tempe, with strong upside for long-term value and growth.
Neighborhoods:
- Scottsdale Estates
- Inmar Terrace
- Trails at Scottsdale
Why Buyers Choose It:
- More affordable entry point into Scottsdale
- Close to Old Town, ASU, Tempe, and major freeways
- Strong potential for appreciation and investment
Best For:
- First-time buyers
- Investors and rental property buyers
- Buyers looking for value with long-term upside
85250
Park Scottsdale (85250)
One of the best areas in Scottsdale for buyers who want a true neighborhood feel close to everything. This is classic Scottsdale living with established homes, strong community feel, and easy access to Old Town, the Greenbelt, and major shopping.
Neighborhoods:
- Park Scottsdale
- Village Grove
- New Papago Parkway
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Central location with quick access to Old Town and Loop 101
- Established neighborhoods with character (not cookie-cutter)
- Greenbelt access with parks, lakes, and biking paths
Best For:
- Buyers relocating to Scottsdale who want a safe, proven area
- Families looking for community and convenience
- Buyers who want central access without paying North Scottsdale prices
85258
McCormick Ranch & Gainey Ranch (85258)
One of the most established and desirable areas in Scottsdale, known for lakes, golf courses, greenbelts, and a true resort-style feel in a central location.
Neighborhoods:
- McCormick Ranch
- Gainey Ranch
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Lakes, golf courses, and mature landscaping
- Central location with easy access to everything
- Strong reputation as a classic upscale Scottsdale area
Best For:
- Move-up buyers
- Second-home buyers
- Buyers wanting a resort-style Scottsdale lifestyle
85259
East Scottsdale (85259)
A quieter, more private part of Scottsdale with larger lots, mountain views, and upscale communities. This area offers a more residential feel while still being close to everything.
Neighborhoods:
- Ancala
- Stonegate
- Rio Montana
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Mountain views and scenic desert surroundings
- Gated communities and larger homesites
- Less traffic and a quieter overall feel
Best For:
- Luxury buyers wanting privacy
- Families looking for quieter neighborhoods
- Buyers relocating who want space and views
85260
Central Scottsdale & Shea Corridor (85260)
A highly practical and central location that gives buyers access to everything. This area offers a wide range of home types, strong convenience, and easy commuting across Scottsdale.
Neighborhoods:
- Shea Corridor
- Scottsdale Airpark nearby
- Central Scottsdale communities
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Central location with quick access across Scottsdale
- Wide range of homes and price points
- Close to shopping, dining, and business centers
Best For:
- Relocation buyers who want flexibility
- Families needing convenience and access
- Buyers looking for value in a central location
85255
North Scottsdale (85255)
Known for newer communities, luxury homes, and a more spacious desert feel. This area offers golf, mountain views, and some of Scottsdale’s most desirable master-planned neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods:
- DC Ranch
- Grayhawk
- McDowell Mountain Ranch
Why Buyers Choose It:
- Newer homes and master-planned communities
- Mountain views, golf, and upscale lifestyle
- Strong appeal for luxury and relocation buyers
Best For:
- Luxury buyers
- Families wanting newer homes and communities
- Buyers relocating for lifestyle and space
GOOD PEOPLE. A CLEAR NEXT STEP.
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kind of home.
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