Scottsdale Activities

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The many things to do in Scottsdale offer a wealth of activities! You can enjoy exhilarating hikes or a stroll through a museum or park — there’s something for everyone!

Are you always on the move? Maybe you need to find some of the most popular Scottsdale activities, so you don’t get bored during your upcoming holiday! Fortunately for you, there are dozens of indoor and outdoor excursions that will make your vacation one of the best you have ever had.

Hiking

If you are an outdoor lover, Scottsdale is the place for you. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the nearby area, and close proximity to some of the tallest mountains in the state with just a short driveway, this is the ideal base for hiking gurus. Try the local Fort McDowell Park, Gateway Loop Trail, Bajada Trail, or Tom’s thumb Trail. For something a little more adventurous and not for those who have a fear of heights, try Echo Canyon Summit Trail!

Biking

Want to explore the city on two wheels? If so, you are not alone! Biking in Scottsdale is very popular due to the numerous mountain biking trails, Sonoran Desert, and city paths. We recommend heading to Brown’s Ranch Trailhead for over 120 miles of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Or, you can try the National Loop in South Mountain Park and Preserve for more advanced riders.

Get in Tune with Nature at our Scottsdale Activities

Outdoor activities in Scottsdale are plentiful for those who enjoy getting some exercise, taking in the amazing views, and breaking a sweat. Relaxing In one of Scottsdale Rentals‘ beautiful homes or apartments after a long day on the mountain!

Fort McDowell Adventures

This unique company offers a wide range of activities from kayaking, land and river tours, desert Segway adventures and so many more. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or something more serene, you’ll find it with Fort McDowell Adventures. You can schedule corporate, special event, retreats, and even wedding parties at Fort McDowell.
14803 N. Hiawatha Hood Road, Scottsdale
480-816-6465.

Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland, in the heart of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community houses a tropical rainforest that is home to thousands of butterflies from around the world. In addition to the butterflies, there are several galleries with interactive exhibits, a modern theater, and even educational laboratory spaces. This is a perfect place for a family adventure or even a romantic stroll through the gardens. 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480-800-3000

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a unique railroad park offering a look at the history of the railroad. The park is home to a one-of-a-kind Model Railroad Building, housing a model railroad, four model railroad clubs, and a Magma Arizona Railroad locomotive. This interactive railroad museum offers a variety of objects and artifacts related to the railroad industry including the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, the Merci Train, and the Model Railroad. The park also has several playgrounds, picnic areas, and a charming antique carousel, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.
7301 E. Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale
480-312-2312

Octane Raceway

Octane Raceway is an indoor/outdoor racing venue offering a casual and competitive kart racing for all ages. Octane Raceway features a third-mile track, which winds indoors and outdoors, with European electric race karts that travel up to 45 mph. Visitors can come in, register and race, and their race is scored in a Fastest Lap format. Octane Raceway also caters private and special events such as corporate and team building events and birthday parties. The Raceway also has a Trackside Bar & Grill, and several other entertainment facilities, including a Pit Crew Challenge, bowling alley, a games arcade, and billiards.
9119 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale
602-302-7223

Chocolate Tour of Scottsdale

Those with a sweet tooth will love exploring the sweet side of Scottsdale on a guided walking tour that visits all the town’s best chocolate destinations. You’ll visit a variety of chocolatiers and local shops where you’ll have the opportunity to discover the history of this confectionery and how the products are made and sample varieties of the world’s most popular treat, including truffles, hot chocolate, ice-cream, cupcakes, and other baked goods made with or from chocolate and meet the owners and chocolate-makers of some of Scottsdale’s best chocolate stores, while at the same time soaking up the wonderful ambiance of this vibrant town.
4225 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale
408-421-8868

Desert Splash Adventures

Desert Splash Adventures is your go-to source for scenic flights over some of Arizona’s most dramatic, breathtaking landscapes, ending in an exhilarating water landing on Roosevelt Lake or Lake Powell. Operated by Island Air Express, Desert Splash Adventures provides an exclusive and unique desert adventure experience from the comfort of a Cessna Caravan Amphibious Seaplane. Highly experienced commercial bush pilots, (who are based in Alaska in the off season), fly the planes, and they guarantee absolute safety throughout the journey. Start your adventure conveniently located near the Scottsdale Airport, in an executive lounge that is a luxurious space to relax before the flight. Desert Splash Adventures also offers a range of other adventures ranging from gourmet brunches on a private island to canyoneering in the magnificent rock formations of the Sonoran wilderness.
15115 N Airport Drive, Landmark Aviation (FBO), Scottsdale
877-588-8819