Fun Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ (Even in the Summer)

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Fun Things to do in Scottsdale, AZ
Outdoor Activities in Scottsdale+−
Pool Time at Scottsdale Arizona Hotels+−
- Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort
- The Phoenician
Fun Indoor Things to do in Scottsdale+−
Make Plans to Experience Scottsdale

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly luxury resorts, bucket-list adventures, world-class golf courses or Old West outdoor fun, Scottsdale, Arizona has got you covered. Head to the Sonoran Desert to discover an abundance of fun things to do in Scottsdale—even when it’s hot outside!

The writer was hosted on this trip.

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pin image with text reading things to do with kids scottsdale arizona even when it's hot picture of hot air ballons against desert landscape — Scottsdale Arizona is known for its very warm climate but there are some amazing things to do, even when it’s hot! These kid-friendly outdoor adventures include area horseback riding, desert exploration and hot air balloon rides. Find out where to stay, which hotel pools are the best for swimming and water play as well as air-conditioned indoor fun to escape the summer heat! Use the interactive map to find the best location for your AZ vacation! Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Fun Things to do in Scottsdale, AZ

From the moment I arrived, I knew my Scottsdale getaway was going to be full of surprises. I had been expecting a dusty southwest desert landscape but found myself instead surrounded by pink mountains at sunrise, blooming cacti, towering palm trees and colorful blossoms at every turn. The city is vibrant and full of eclectic art and a number of yummy restaurants; the desert is buzzing with woodpeckers and roadrunners; the luxurious resorts are stunning with acres of shimmering pools. There are so many exciting things to do in Scottsdale. I could hardly wait to get started. But first, sunscreen.

Outdoor Activities in Scottsdale

Desert Botanical Garden

When flying in to experience Scottsdale, you will land at Phoenix Sky Harbor, so make your first stop the nearby Desert Botanical Garden. Located just 15 minutes from the airport, this outdoor wonderland of more than 50,000 arid-land plants is the perfect place to stretch your legs.

Follow five themed granite trails to discover the plant diversity of the Sonoran Desert. If you’re like me, you will be blown away by the vast number of wildflowers and cactus blossoms. There are bursts of color at every turn, plus hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and the occasional roadrunner.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hot air balloons over Scottsdale Arizona — Cross hot air ballooning off your bucket list in Scottsdale, Arizona! Photo credit: Heidi Gollub.

Don’t miss your chance to see the sunrise over the mountains from 5,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon. Sure, you’ll have to wake up early to make it happen, but you’ll be rewarded with a French breakfast and mimosas (or orange juice for the kids) upon landing.

Hot Air Expeditions offers hour-long flights in wicker baskets that hold ten people, and kids as young as five can join in the fun. On a clear day, you may have visibility in excess of 100 miles which will allow you to see mountains in Flagstaff!

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Another great way to spend an early morning is hiking the Gateway Trail Loop in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This free preserve in the City of Scottsdale has eight trailheads that lead to a host of hiking trails. The Gateway Trailhead will lead you to a moderately difficult hike on a 4.5-mile loop through the Sonoran Desert.

I recommend hiring an REI guide to accompany your group, to share their wealth of knowledge about the surrounding flora and fauna. These guides know the trails well and carry a first aid kit for emergencies. REI also offers guided biking tours, if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Horseback Riding

Wranger on horseback at MacDonald's Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona — Learning about the saguaro cactus on MacDonald’s Ranch. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

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It cannot be overstated that all outdoor fun in Scottsdale is best enjoyed before the heat of the afternoon sun. With that in mind, another great morning outing is a visit to MacDonald’s Ranch. Here, kids can explore a free petting zoo, complimentary pony rides for children age 10 months to 10 years and a pint-sized old west town with plenty of wide-open space to play.

For a fee, guests age six and up can ride join an hour-long trail ride on docile horses that are well trained by the resident wranglers. This guided tour is educational and interactive. Ask questions and you may learn about tarantulas, cactus wren nests and packrat dens as you pass by huge saguaro cacti. The experienced guides are delighted to share fun facts about the wildlife and plants on their 1,280-acre stretch of Sonoran Desert.

Pool Time at Scottsdale Arizona Hotels

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort

Adult pool at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale — The adult pool at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Once that afternoon sun I warned you about hits in full force, it’s time to find a pool. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa has got you covered. Framed against the majestic McDowell Mountains in North Scottsdale, the resort’s 2.5-acre water playground includes a sand beach and a three-story waterslide.

If you can sneak away, I also highly recommend booking a treatment at Spa Avania. Designed by a former student of Frank Lloyd Wright, this sprawling indoor/outdoor spa covers 2.7 acres of treatment rooms, gardens, pools and relaxing spaces. Relax in the Himalayan Salt Room, order lunch by the pool and don’t miss the chance to get a massage. It’s your vacation, too.

Pool at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa. — Spa Avania pool. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

The Phoenician

The AAA Five Diamond Phoenician is the perfect blend of contemporary luxury and family fun. Rise with the sun and hit the resort’s on-property cactus garden. This mini botanical experience will introduce you to 250 variants of cacti and succulents without needing to head into the desert.

Then, explore the rest of the expansive resort and you will encounter koi ponds, lakes, ducks, geese, golfing and pools galore. Kids will enjoy the sprawling new splash pad and adults will feel spoiled by the view of Camelback Mountain as they lounge poolside.

Fun Indoor Things to do in Scottsdale

Butterfly Wonderland

For more kid-friendly entertainment when the sun is too hot to handle, head to Arizona Boardwalk to visit Butterfly Wonderland. Here, you can visit the largest butterfly conservatory in the world which is home to more than 60 butterfly species. Pick up a scavenger hunt and butterfly guide to make your visit more interesting.

OdySea Aquarium

Fish swim over the escalor at OdySea Scottsdale — Even taking the escalator is an experience at OdySea Aquarium. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

OdySea Aquarium, also located at Arizona Boardwalk, has a rotating aquarium experience with sea turtles, sea lions and sharks. OdySea is a great escape if you want to spend a good deal of time in the a/c.

There are two levels of marine activities and experiences, including a stingray touch pool and a penguin encounter. But, one of the coolest aquarium experiences can be found inside the bathrooms near the entrance. Check out this view while you wash your hands!

Aquarium view at Odysea in Scottsdale — Best bathroom ever. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Visit Old Town Scottsdale

Scottsdale Museum of the West. Photo credit: Heidi Gollub

Once the evening welcomes back cooler temps, it’s time to head to the walkable Old Town Scottsdale. Here you’ll find a large selection of shops, restaurants and museums, all located within a few blocks of Main Street.

In about one square mile, you can explore nine districts, including the Arts District, Brown and Stetson District, Entertainment District (for nightlife!), Historic Old Town, Fifth Avenue Shopping District, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale Civic Center Park and Scottsdale Waterfront and Southbridge Districts.

I recommend hitting New Wave Market for homemade ice cream, stopping by LDV Winery for a wine tasting treat for the adults (kids are welcome both inside and on the outdoor patio) and making a reservation to dine at The Mission for delicious Mexican fare. To enjoy some western and Native American art and culture, walk over to the Museum of the West.

Make Plans to Experience Scottsdale

There are so many things to do in Scottsdale, this vibrant desert town can easily be a stand-alone getaway. But, if you want to explore beyond the greater Phoenix area, consider a day trip to Sedona, or travel on to the Grand Canyon. Here are a few of our favorite activities from Get Your Guide: