The Low-Down on Child-Friendly Scottsdale

Momaboard is thrilled to partner with the Scottsdale Moms Blog for this wonderful Scottsdale city guide. These ladies are passionate about encouraging other Scottsdale Moms to get out in their great community and to try new things all the while making life richer for everyone! “The West’s Most Western Town” has grown into a city of nearly 250,000 people making it easy to get lost in the crowd!

Scottsdale Mom’s Blog says:

Scottsdale is 31 miles, stretched out in a long, narrow rectangle, running north and south. It is separated into four general areas: North Scottsdale, Central Scottsdale, Downtown (referred to by the locals as Old Town), and South Scottsdale. No matter which part of Scottsdale you choose to visit, you will not be disappointed. In each of its four sections you will find resorts, golf courses and fun activities for the whole family.

Where to Stay:

Although you can find hotels in every price range and rating, one to consider with kids is the Westin Kierland. Located in North Scottsdale, it has a lazy river in its pool, story times, swim lessons, a kids program run by staff and much more.

Places to Visit/Things to do with Kids:

The Phoenix Zoo: Our zoo is right on the border of Phoenix and Scottsdale. It is one of the best in the country. You can go inside the monkey exhibit, feed the giraffes, pet sting rays and ride camels. During the warmer months of the year, two splash pads and a shaded tree house are also open for play.

The Railroad Park: Pack a picnic and spend the day at this unique and beautiful park in Central Scottsdale. There are picnic tables, ramadas, playgrounds, and grass fields to enjoy. Take a ride on the train pulled by a real steam engine or take a turn on their antique carousel. Children under 3 ride for free.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center: Although all of the hotels have pools, this rec center pool is a fun spot to go to, especially if you choose a more economical hotel. The prices are lower than other water parks and include great features like a tube slide, lazy river, and water features.

Hiking, Farmer’s Markets and Spring Training Baseball Games are also local favorites.

Places to Eat:

In each of the neighborhoods, you will find any type of restaurant or food you are in the mood for. Some of my favorites, however, that you won’t find anywhere else include:

Italian Grotto: This is a little hidden treasure in Old Town. The food is delicious but the service is even better. Although they are always kind and accommodating to my children, it is definitely a nicer experience without children.

Sugar Bowl: Also found in Old Town, the Sugar Bowl is a fun little ice cream parlor that has served the people of Scottsdale and its visitors for nearly 50 years. They serve comfort food and tasty desserts. It is a favorite destination for all children.

Macayo’s: You can’t come to the Southwest without getting Mexican food! One family owned spot is Macayo’s. The food is great and the place is kid friendly. If you like a little spice, try their baja sauce! It’s my kids’ favorite.

Or leave the children with a sitter and enjoy a night out. Blanco has a great vibe and delicious blood orange margaritas.

Places to Shop:

Grocery and typical chain stores will have any items you may have forgotten while visiting. There are a couple of great spots if you want something uncommon, too. Zoolikins has natural baby items like cloth diapers and feeding supplies. Moonbeams brings unique style and gifts to Scottsdale’s kiddos.

Things to Avoid:
Old Town Scottsdale has a vibrant club and night scene on the weekends. We tend to avoid that area in the later weekend evenings with the children. The only other thing to keep in mind is you will probably want to avoid the hot summer months. With temperatures reaching well into the triple digits, this city is certainly most enjoyed from October to March.

Additional Travel Tips:

- In Old Town, a free trolley will take you around the area.

- This is the Desert and even in the winter months, the sun is strong. Wear sunblock and hats when you go out. There is a reason the locals are in the shade. One too many vacations have been spoiled here with sunburns!

- It is also easy to get dehydrated. If you feel itchy or your lips are chapped, you probably aren’t getting enough water so make sure to drink lots of it!

- Due to the abundance of pools in the area, all of our children learn to swim at a very early age. If your kids don’t swim yet, make sure to keep a careful eye on them. If they need to cool down but don’t want to swim, splash pads are a great alternative to pools. They are scattered throughout the city and in most parks.