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Phoenix - Scottsdale, Arizona Attractions
If the name Phoenix reminds you of the mythical bird rising from the ashes, you know something already about the sixth largest city in the United States. In 1870, a prospector reopened the irrigation canals of the Hohokam people, abandoned centuries before. This led to the establishment of a new town, and the name "Phoenix" was an appropriate suggestion that stuck.
These days, Phoenix, Arizona is a well-organized city with plenty of family attractions -- great museums, parks, and other activities for the whole family. They don't call it the Valley of the Sun for nothing -- though summer temperatures can be brutal, there is low humidity and over 300 days of sunshine per year, guaranteed! Nearby Scottsdale is incredibly scenic and offers families a wealth of outdoor recreation and fun activities.
Great Fun for the Kids
(Toddler to Age 8)
Phoenix Zoo
455 North Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008
602/273-1341
The Phoenix Zoo features thematic trails that take visitors everywhere from Arizona to the Tropics, encountering mountain lions, bighorn sheep, cheetahs, rhinos, orangutans and many other species along the way. The really fun Leapin' Lagoon area opens in the summer with water spraygrounds, a climbing wall, and a lake complete with canoes and family-sized rafts.
Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse
5700 West North Loop Road
Chandler, AZ 85226
480/502-5600 or 800/527-1880
Mosey on down for some rootin' tootin' fun at this old west playland. Shows, games, rides, attractions, shopping -- all with a western theme provide hours of enjoyment. When your stomach begins to rumble, head to the Rawhide Steakhouse for western fare and live music or on select Saturdays Sundown Cookouts are great for some delicious BBQ under the stars.
Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting
6101 East Buren Street
Phoenix, AZ 85008
602/275-3473
Among the five exhibit galleries in this museum are the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes, a fire engine for boarding and picture-taking, and a fire safety area with hands-on activities. In a post 9-11 world, this is a particularly interesting look at America's heroes.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
7301 East Indian Bend Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
480/312-2312
All aboard, all aboard! For little kids (and lots of their fathers) who love to ride trains, this is the place. Climb aboard "The Paradise and Pacific Railroad," ride the restored Charros Carousel, view historical exhibits and enjoy picnic and playground areas. And a perk for the youngsters and their parents: children under 3 ride for free with a paying adult.
Goldfield Ghost Town
4650 North Mammoth Mine Road
Goldfield, AZ 85219
480/983-0333
Once a prosperous gold ore mining town of Arizona, the unfortunate town of Goldfield became a dilapidated and forgotten destination for decades until its revival as an amusement attraction in 1988. From Apache Trail tours to panning for gold at the Prospector's Place, kids will love exploring this wild Western frontier. Be warned - this town doesn't take too kindly to strangers, and gunfights are likely to ensue. Open daily from 10am to 5pm.
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