Scottsdale, Arizona has numerous family-friendly activities that are sure to win anyone over to the Grand Canyon state. Whether you are looking for a full day of adventures, or a quick picnic at a park, Scottsdale has you covered. With all the sunshine available year-round, Scottsdale has incorporated many indoor and outdoor activities to encourage families to get out and explore the area.

Parks and Water Parks

George “Doc” Cavalliere Park

27775 N. Alma School Parkway
Scottsdale, AZ 85262

If you and your family are looking for a fun day outdoors, Cavalliere park has got you covered. This award-winning oasis has over 34 acres of park space with attractions, including: shaded playgrounds, picnic areas, fully-lit basketball courts, ramadas, and a casual hiking trail. The park is renowned for is wildflower gardens and the preservation of desert landscape while incorporating the traditional park offerings. George “Doc” Cavalliere Park is a perfect way to experience outdoor life in Arizona, while in a comfortable setting.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

7301 E Indian Bend Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85250

The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a train lover’s paradise. The park offers train rides, carousel rides, playground and picnic areas, and a 10,000 square foot train museum. Kids will be entertained for hours with all there is to explore at this unique park. This budget-friendly activity will be an instant hit for a family activity.

Big Surf

1500 N. McClintock Dr.,
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-994-2297

Just south of the Scottsdale area is a local-favorite, Big Surf. This waterpark offers a wave pool (rafts and boogie boards are available to rent), water slides, surfing lessons, and a kid’s themed pool for younger children. Big Surf is the third largest water park in the world and is sure to provide a day of fun in the sun.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center

15525 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy
Scottsdale, AZ 85255

McDowell Mountain Ranch Park is the ultimate oasis for Scottsdale visitors and residents. The park includes a fitness center, aquatic center, skate-park, sports fields, and a playground/park area. The aquatic center features multiple pools, slides, diving board, splash pads, lap pools, and a lazy river. Families can also rent out the island inside the lazy river for private parties or picnics. With all the amenities and space available at this park, everyone in the family is sure to find something to entertain themselves for hours on end.

Sports and Active Life

AZ Air Time

13802 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 145
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
480-427-2000

AZ Air Time is the top-rated trampoline park in the Scottsdale area. If your family is looking for an indoor activity that is fun for all ages, AZ Air Time is a great choice. Whether you want to practice your flips, play trampoline dodgeball, or play in the foam pit, there is an activity for everyone.

CrackerJax Family Fun and Sports Park

16001 N. Scottsdale Rd.,
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
480-998-2800

Families will love all the activities available at CrackerJax. The park offers laser tag, bumper boats, miniature golf, and more. There are activities for people of all ages, and plenty of opportunities for some good family competition.

Spring Training

*Locations throughout the valley, please visit their website for all locations and dates.

Spring training is a staple in Phoenix life. These affordable games give the family a simple outing that is enjoyable for all ages. Most fields offer both general seating along the first and third base lines, and leave the areas behind the outfield as a grassy area for families to picnic and hang out in the grass to watch the game.

Scottsdale Sports Complex

8081 E. Princess Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-312-7529

The Scottsdale sports complex is the athletic dream. The complex homes over 10 soccer/football fields, a lit basketball court, shaded playgrounds, walking paths, and open greenbelt areas. The fields can be rented out for practices and tournaments, but there are also “free play” fields to practice your skills on your own.

Legoland Discovery Center

5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle,
Tempe, AZ 85282
(877) 526-3960

Located just south of Scottsdale, is the Legoland Discovery Center. This massive indoor playground allows families to walk through massive Lego reproductions, go on rides, and use your imagination to build any project you desire with thousands of Legos.  If you have a Lego lover in the family, this is a must-see!

Wildlife Activities

OdySea Aquarium

9500 E. Via de Ventura,
Scottsdale 85256
(480) 291-8000

The OdySea Aquarium is a recent addition to the activities available in Scottsdale and has become a popular activity. The aquarium includes over 30,000 animals within 50 different exhibits in their 200,000 square foot building. Some experiences include the SeaTREK underwater experience, Living Sea Carousel, 3D theater, and touching pools.

Dolphinaris Arizona

9500 E. Via de Ventura,
Scottsdale AZ 85256
(480) 407-5161

Connected to the OdySea Aquarium is Dolphinaris Arizona. Families can meet and interact with the dolphins while being educated on conservation and protecting the ocean and its inhabitants. This unique adventure gives kids of all ages the opportunity to be up-close and personal with dolphins, in or out of the water.

Butterfly Wonderland

9500 E. Via de Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85256
(480) 800-3000

The Butterfly Wonderland is the largest indoor rainforest-conservatory in the U.S. The conservatory is not only home to over 3,000 butterflies, it also has exhibits of rainforest reptiles and bees. Families can walk throughout the facility and explore and if you sit still long enough, the friendly butterflies will even land on people and hang out with them for a little. This unique experience is sure to impress not only the children, but adults as well.

Pangea: Land of the Dinosaurs

9500 East Via de Ventura C-100
Scottsdale, AZ 85256
(480) 362-3466 (DINO)

Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs is an educational and interactive learning center. Entrants can enjoy over 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, fossil excavations, dinosaur rides, face-painting, food, and more!

Scottsdale has many family activities to offer that are bound to be a hit with everyone. So get out, enjoy the nice weather, and enjoy the activities available in Scottsdale, AZ. This article was brought to you by the Scottsdale Pediatric Dentists at Children’s Dental Specialty Group.

 

 

 

 

The first thought people have when imagining Arizona is a big, dry desert. While they may be correct, they are overlooking the many amazing sites and activities Arizona has to offer. The Phoenix area has been steadily expanding over the past few decades and the attractions and parks have grown with this expansion.

Parks and Water Parks

Wet N’ Wild

4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Rd.,
Glendale, AZ 85310
623-201-2000

Wet N’ Wild offers over 30 water slides and attractions and is a great way to escape the Arizona heat. The park not only offers large water slides for adults and older kids, they also have a Wet N’ Wild Jr. section for smaller children.

Encanto Park

2605 N 15th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Encanto Park is easily the most beautiful public park in Phoenix. The huge park includes a sports complex (basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, etc.), a large lake where you can fish or rent paddle boats, a huge green belt, and plenty of play structures for the kids. This is a perfect place to take your family for a picnic, day-outing, or family reunion.

Enchanted Island Amusement Park

1202 W Encanto Blvd
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-254-1200

This amusement park is actually located in the middle of Encanto Park. If the park activities are not enough to keep the kids entertained, the amusement park will certainly do the trick. The small amusement park offers bumper boats, splash pads, a train ride, carousels, small rides, rock climbing wall, and much more!

Papago Park

625 N Galvin Pkwy,
Phoenix, AZ 85008

Papago Park is located near the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden. This park offers an authentic desert park experience. The park backs up into a small mountain with caverns that can be explored. A splash pad is also included in the park, along with play structures and picnic areas.

Sports and Active Life

Altitude Trampoline Park

3921 E Indian School Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85018
(602) 522-8000

Altitude Trampoline Park is Phoenix’s top indoor trampoline activity center. With over 35,000 square feet of jumping space, there is room for plenty of activities and fun. The park offers both open jump times and the ability for private parties. Trampoline parks are a great way to get some exercise and have fun, no matter your age!

 Spring Training

*Locations throughout the valley, please visit their website for all locations and dates.

Spring training is a staple in Phoenix life. These affordable games give the family a simple outing that is enjoyable for all ages. Most fields offer both general seating along the first and third base lines, and leave the areas behind the outfield as a grassy area for families to picnic and hang out in the grass to watch the game.

Zoo and Wildlife Activities

The Phoenix Zoo

455 N. Galvin Pkwy,
Phoenix, AZ 85008
602-273-1341

The Phoenix Zoo is a must-see for families in the Phoenix area, it is one of the largest non-profit, privately funded zoos in the country. The zoo has been under construction for the past few years in order to expand their offerings, and it is sure to impress! The new renovations include a larger area for the elephants, tigers, and lions, as well as an entire monkey village. Kids can explore the park on foot or take a ride on the safari train that escorts families on a tour around the huge park. The zoo allows kids an up-close view of the animals and even has some animals they can interact with, including: feeding the giraffes at the giraffe encounter and petting stingrays at stingray bay.

The park also offers a “splash pad” area, including the Yakulla Caverns and Leapin’ Lagoon, from March-October.

If you are in the area around the holidays, the Phoenix Zoo offers its popular display of “Zoo Lights.” This event is generally open November and December in the evenings and is an instant success with the kids. Don’t let the idea of being outside in December deter you, keep in mind this is Arizona, it will likely be 50 degrees and quite enjoyable.

SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium

5000 S. Arizona Mills,
Tempe, AZ 85282
877-526-3960

A little further south from Phoenix, you will find the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium. This aquarium offers over 5,000 different marine life animals for kids to explore and learn about. They also offer interactive activities in the touch pools, and have a 360-degree tunnel through the aquarium for an inside look at ocean life.

Desert Botanical Garden

1201 N. Galvin Pkwy.,
Phoenix, AZ 85008
480-941-1225

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is the world’s largest collection of desert plants. This park offers five different trails that lead you through the park and display the Sonoran Desert plants and scenery. The gardens also have exhibitions that change throughout the year, so check their website for the current exhibit.

Museums

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

215 N. 7th St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-253-0501

This interactive learning experience is ideal for children ages 1-10, but can entertain kids and adults of all ages. The museum implements over 300 interactive art activities throughout the museum, allowing kids to touch and explore.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

4725 E. Mayo Blvd.,
Phoenix, AZ 85050
480-478-6000

This unique museum is entertaining for all ages due to the wide offering of exhibits. The museum allows entrants to play musical instruments from around the world and learn how they are made. They also have a MIM Kids program that offers dance/music class for small children, music classes for elementary age children, and many other unique and fun musical activities.

Arizona Science Center

600 E. Washington St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-716-2000

The Arizona Science Center is a must-see in Phoenix. The center not only has hundreds of hands-on learning exhibits, it also includes a 5-story IMAX theater and a planetarium. A family can easily spend hours in the Science Center and not experience all of the amazing things they have to offer.

Whether you are visiting for a day or new to the area, Phoenix has many activities that you can enjoy with the family. This article was brought to you by the North Phoenix Pediatric Dentists at Children’s Dental Specialty Group.

The valley has an active calendar of events year-round for locals and tourists alike, to enjoy the amazing weather and activities Arizona provides. Scottsdale is a popular area for events and has unique activities each month for families to get out into the community.

January

Phoenix Balloon Festival

The Phoenix Balloon Festival is an event your family will remember for years to come. Families have the opportunity to take a ride above the valley in one the famous Hot Air Balloons, listen to live music, enjoy delicious local foods, and even watch a firework show!

Arizona Coyotes Games

Enjoy the thrill of the Arizona Coyotes hockey team anytime from September through the beginning of April.

February

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

Scottsdale is hosting the annual Arabian Horse Show with a blow-out event that includes: competitions, international cuisine, gala events, educational seminars, and over 300 vendor booths.

Schnepf Farms Peach Blossom Festival

A short drive southeast of Scottsdale, in Queen Creek, you can explore over 80 acres of peach trees and farm area any Thursday-Sunday in February. At the farm you can enjoy a guided trolley ride, rent bicycles to tour the farm, take a hayride, eat some delicious food, and more!

Arizona Renaissance Festival

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a local favorite. Many schools take field trips to the festival to delve into life during the Renaissance. Patrons can enjoy watching a live jousting match, comedy shows, musical performances, incredible food and drinks (turkey legs, steak on a stick, local made ciders, and more!).

Street Eats Food Truck Festival

Hosted at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, this is the food truck festival you do not want to miss. This event brings in over 50 different food trucks for attendees to enjoy. In addition to the amazing food options, there is also live music, cooking demonstrations/classes, and of course, food eating contests!

March

Scottsdale Arts Festival

Come explore the artwork of over 170 artists during this 3-day festival. Art exhibits are available for viewing and purchase. There is also live music throughout the festival, food, and activities for the children.

Spring Training

With 15 teams that come to Arizona for their Spring Training, there are plenty of options throughout the valley to find a game near you. Seating at Spring Training games can be traditional seating along the 1^st and third base lines, while the entire area behind the outfield is grass seating for families to bring blankets and picnic while watching a game.

April

Scottsdale Culinary Festival

Scottsdale Culinary Festival is a great way to try food from as many local restaurants as your stomach will allow. With over 40 restaurants, 30 breweries, and 20 live bands there will be plenty of options to please everyone in the family. The event also includes a teen cook-off challenge, chef demos, a family zone, and a wine garden.

Arizona Bike Week

AZ Bike Week is the largest motorcycle show in the Southeast. Families can walk around and look at bikes and vendor booths, or watch stunt shows, demos, and contests. Live music and food will also be provided at the event.

May

Phoenix Rising Soccer Games

Arizona has recently introduced their first USL (United Soccer League) team to the family. Bring the family out to their newly built stadium and have fun cheering on our local team.

June

Arizona Diamondbacks

Looking for an activity to escape the heat? Go watch Arizona’s Major league Baseball team from the comfort of an indoor stadium. Check their game schedule for special promotions and themed nights at the games!

July

Scottsdale’s Fourth of July at WestWorld

This Fourth of July celebration offers both indoor and outdoor activities that are sure to impress the whole family. They will have a BMX stunt show, live entertainment, game and vendor booths, and a 9pm firework show.

Fourth of Zooly

Join the party at the Phoenix Zoo to celebrate the Fourth of July. This All-American style event includes a BBQ, live entertainment, children’s activities, and a perfect view of the firework show at Tempe Town Lake.

August

Prowl and Play at the Phoenix Zoo

Join in the magic at Phoenix Zoo and bring the family to meet popular fairytale characters (including Harry Potter, Tinker Bell, and Mermaids), ride on magical water slides, and have a kiddie dance party with a live DJ. The event will also involve roaming magicians, jugglers, and illusionists. For those looking for an interactive learning experience, there will also be a Wizarding School and a Mad Science class families can attend.

September

Children’s Learning and Play Festival

This indoor/outdoor event is 100% geared towards kids. The event will include authors and artist to read and draw with children, learning activities and speakers, hands-on fun, and more!

October

Arizona Taco Festival

Each year, over 50 taco vendors gather at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick for an all-out taco extravaganza. Each vendor sells $2 tacos all day long, along with local alcoholic beverages. In addition to the delicious tacos, the event also includes a lucha libre wrestling contest, taco eating contest, Chihuahua beauty contest, photo booths, and more!

November

Zoo Lights

Each year the Phoenix Zoo transforms at night into a lit-up zoo, with life-size animals made out of lights, lit up “monkey island”, hot chocolate and churros, and more!

December

Christmas at the Princess

 

Every holiday season the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a magical, winter wonderland. The event includes ice skating, Build-A-Bear Workshop, light shows, meeting Santa, Princess express train ride, and even a light up boat that sails through their lake.

This article was brought to you by the Scottsdale Pediatric Dentists at Children’s Dental Specialty Group.

The valley has an active calendar of events year-round for locals and tourists alike, to enjoy the amazing weather and activities Arizona provides. North Phoenix offers unique activities each month to encourage families to get out into the community and to help support local businesses

January

Phoenix Balloon Festival

 The Phoenix Balloon Festival is an event your family will remember for years to come. Families have the opportunity to take a ride above the valley in one the famous Hot Air Balloons, listen to live music, enjoy delicious local foods, and even watch a firework show!

Dinosaurs in the Desert

Special event hosted at the Phoenix Zoo. Over 20 prehistoric creatures have been placed throughout the trail system at the Phoenix Zoo to allow patrons to see not only the live animals that live at the zoo permanently, but to explore animatronic dinosaurs as well and learn about their history.

February

Arizona Renaissance Festival

The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a local favorite. Many schools take field trips to the festival to delve into life during the Renaissance. Patrons can enjoy watching a live jousting match, comedy shows, musical performances, incredible food and drinks (turkey legs, steak on a stick, local made ciders, and more!).

Spring Training

With 15 teams that come to Arizona for their Spring Training, there are plenty of options throughout the valley to find a game near you. Seating at Spring Training games can be traditional seating along the 1^st and third base lines, while the entire area behind the outfield is grass seating for families to bring blankets and picnic while watching a game.

Food Truck Friday

Starting February 23, Phoenix will host Food Truck Friday, recurring weekly on Fridays from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm. Join the party for lunch and try out a new food truck each week!

March

McDowell Mountain Music Festival

The annual McDowell Mountain Music Festival (M3F) is a must-see event for music lovers. This year’s line-up includes artists, such as: Father John Misty, Nick Murphy, Big Gigantic, Griz, and O.A.R.

Ostrich Festival

An annual, Arizona tradition that attracts families from all over the valley is the Ostrich Festival. Join the fun by watching ostrich races, a parade, rides, musical performances, and some amazing fair food. This event is held  a little south at Tumbleweed Park, located in Chandler, AZ

April

Disney on Ice Presents Frozen

Join in the magic of Disney on Ice, with a popular favorite, Frozen! Take the family to a night of wonder, ice skating, music, and more!

Phoenix Rising Soccer Games

Arizona has recently introduced their first USL (United Soccer League) team to the family. Bring the family out to their newly built stadium and have fun cheering on our local team.

May

First Friday at Desoto Central Market

 

Join local artisans and boutiques for a unique and entertaining shopping experience. First Friday not only includes shopping, but food, music, and art exhibits as well. Perfect for a family outing to explore the local businesses in the valley and come away with some great finds!

June

City Lights Movie Nights at Cityscape Phoenix

Each month families are invited to bring their blankets, chairs, bean bags, and everything they want for a free movie night out at the Cityscape in Phoenix. In addition to the movie there will be contests, prizes, games, and more!

*Follow the link above to their Facebook page to find out which movie is playing this month!

Arizona Diamondbacks

Looking for an activity to escape the heat? Go watch Arizona’s Major league Baseball team from the comfort of an indoor stadium. Check their game schedule for special promotions and themed nights at the games

July

Fabulous Phoenix Fourth

The Fabulous Phoenix Fourth is one of the largest firework shows in the Southwest. This family-friendly, non-alcoholic event is a great way to get out in the community and enjoy a festive and entertaining 4^th of July. There are two stages at the event with live music playing all day, food and craft vendors, and a car display. For the more kid-focused activities the event offers rides, inflatables, and a water spray zone.

Fourth of Zooly

Join the party at the Phoenix Zoo to celebrate the Fourth of July. This All-American style event includes a BBQ, live entertainment, children’s activities, and a perfect view of the firework show at Tempe Town Lake.

August

Prowl and Play at the Phoenix Zoo

Join in the magic at Phoenix Zoo and bring the family to meet popular fairytale characters (including Harry Potter, Tinker Bell, and Mermaids), ride on magical water slides, and have a kiddie dance party with a live DJ. The event will also involve roaming magicians, jugglers, and illusionists. For those looking for an interactive learning experience, there will also be a Wizarding School and a Mad Science class families can attend.

September

Children’s Learning and Play Festival

This indoor/outdoor event is 100% geared towards kids. The event will include authors and artist to read and draw with children, learning activities and speakers, hands-on fun, and more!

October

Arizona State Fair

Every year the Arizona State Fair attracts families from all across Arizona to take party in the festivities. Each day has a different line-up of live bands, artists, and vendors, in addition to all the traditional fair activities and of course, fair food!

*The Arizona State Fair also offers the “Read and Ride” program, which allows children ages 5-14 to read 3 books and complete a book report form, found here, and turn it in at the fair in exchange for 3 free ride passes!

November

Zoo Lights

Each year the Phoenix Zoo transforms at night into a lit-up zoo, with life-size animals made out of lights, lit up “monkey island”, hot chocolate and churros, and more!

December

Lights of the World

The largest light and lantern display in North America takes place in Phoenix, at the AZ fair grounds.  With over 10 million lights, 75 exhibits, live music, performances, and food, this event will be memorable for the whole family.

This article was brought to you by North Phoenix Pediatric Dentists, Children’s Dental Specialty Group.

Scottsdale is full of fun activities and adventures for families. With all there is to do around Scottsdale, there has to be equally amazing restaurants as well. Scottsdale has begun to utilize more patio based dining options in order to allow families to enjoy their meal in the sun and let the kids explore. All throughout Scottsdale there are family-friendly restaurants in all different varieties. The list below is some of the top family-friendly restaurants that we would recommend!

Brat Haus

3622 N Scottsdale Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85281

(480) 947-4006

Brat Haus is the ideal family destination because of their great food, casual atmosphere, and large beer garden in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. This is the perfect spot for a relaxed, friendly lunch or dinner. Not only do they have hand-crafted brats that will blow your mind, but they also offer burgers, salads, sides, and plenty of options for the kids. While the kids are playing in the gardens, parents can enjoy one of the 28 craft beers on tap. Then enjoy a family game of ping-pong, darts, bean bag toss, or life-size Jenga to finish off your perfect family meal.

Isabella’s Kitchen

8623 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy.
Scottsdale, AZ 85255

(480) 502-3100

Isabella’s Kitchen is a local favorite, and for good reason. They offer incredible, fresh food at affordable prices with an atmosphere that makes you want to keep coming back. The restaurant offers traditional indoor seating, as well as outdoor seating on the patio, terrace, and the rooftop. Nestled in the Grey Hawk Golf Club, the views with this meal are worth the trip – incredible mountain views and idyllic sunsets. Families are always welcome here because everyone is treated like family.

Modern Grove Views

9500 East Vía de Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85256

Modern Grove Views is an instant favorite for one main reason, the view. This restaurant overlooks the dolphin exhibit at the OdySea Aquarium, giving kids the ability to eat the meal and be entertained by the dolphins. The upstairs patio area gives a 360 degree view of the valley and has plenty of room for families to gather. The menu includes local, fresh comfort food served with a smile.

American Girl Bistro

15059 N Scottsdale Rd, #100
Scottsdale, AZ 85254

You read that right, American Girl, as in American Girl dolls. The American Girl doll retail store in Scottsdale now includes a bistro for families! If you have a daughter or any children that are into all things dolls and pink, this restaurant will be sure to amaze. If you come to lunch without your own American Girl doll, don’t worry, they will let you borrow one to share your meal with.

Rehab Burger Therapy

7210 East 2^nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

(480) 621-5358

Rehab Burger Therapy is on the top of almost every food list for Scottsdale, and for good reason. The burgers here are unique, fresh, and mouth-watering. The laid-back vibes at Rehab Burger Therapy make it a great restaurant for families. Kids can enjoy sliders, a “quesadillio,” and some amazing desserts while mom and dad kick back and enjoy the extensive alcoholic beverage menu.

Arcadia Farms

7014 East 1^st Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

(480) 941-5665

Arcadia Farms actually has TWO family-friendly options, both of which are a must-try. Both of the restaurants partner with local farms to provide sustainable, local food. Arcadia Farms Café is only open for breakfast and lunch, but provides a warm, comfortable atmosphere for the family. Arcadia Farms Marketplace is not only a marketplace selling cookies, pastries, and breads, but also serve breakfast, lunch and coffee for those looking to grab a quick bite and enjoy it on the Farm grounds.

Culinary Dropout

7135 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 125
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

(480) 970-1700

Culinary Dropout has multiple locations throughout the valley and they each have something different to offer. The Scottsdale location is right next to Fashion Square Mall, which makes it a convenient stop for the family after shopping. Each location also offers different activities such as corn hole and life-size Jenga. Culinary Dropout has an upscale feel, but has moderately priced food that is delicious. The pretzels and fondue are a must-have, every single time.

O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery

15681 N Hayden Rd, #112
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

(480) 948-3159

Prepare yourself for a unique experience when you dine-in at O.H.S.O. With locations throughout the valley, this local favorite serves up good food and good times. Each location has different offerings, but can include bean bag toss, patios and greenery, blocks, and more! The décor inside the restaurant is an adventure on its own. The Scottsdale location has bicycles strung from the ceiling and a viewing area where the kid can look into the distillery.

Proof

10600 E. Crescent Moon Dr.
Scottsdale, Arizona 85262

*Located inside Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale

(480) 513-5085

Proof’s motto is “casual, comfort, community” making it a perfect family-friendly restaurant. The serve home-style comfort food from across the U.S. allowing for a new experience every time you visit. The patio area is ideal for warm days in the sun with the family while enjoying delicious food.

Butters Pancakes + Café

*Two Scottsdale Locations

8390 East Via de Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258

(480) 629-4333

14795 N. Northsight Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

(480) 991-0011

Butters is a popular brunch option in Scottsdale, and is only open for breakfast and lunch. It will tough to pick just one thing off the menu because they are all superb. They even offer a separate kid’s brunch menu, including favorites such as: Mickey Mouse pancakes, French toast, grilled cheese, and chicken fingers.

The family-friendly eating options in Scottsdale are seemingly endless. Almost every corner has something to offer, and they’re all delicious! Whether you are looking for a casual brunch spot or a big juicy burger for dinner with the family, Scottsdale is the place to be. This article was brought to you by Scottsdale Pediatric Dentists, Children’s Dental Specialty Group.

Let’s face it, taking your kid out to eat is always stressful. As much as you teach them to behave, sitting still for that long is a struggle for any child. This can create awkward situations in certain restaurants where people are unaccustomed to children. Luckily, many restaurants have made changes to ensure that families with children can still eat at their restaurant and have a good experience. This list includes a few of the top restaurants in North Phoenix that are family friendly.

Camp Social

6107 North 7^th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014

(480) 750-0506

What kid doesn’t love camping and s’mores? As soon as you walk into Camp Social it is as if you have been transported to a campground in the mountains. The fun, festive atmosphere and delicious food make this an ideal family restaurant. Enjoy local influenced foods along with American classics. Fun experience for the whole family, and completely out of the norm.

Tip: If you get there early, you may be lucky enough to get seated at a table inside a camper!

Rustler’s Rooste

8383 South 48^th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85044

(602) 431-6474

A little south is The Rustler’s Rooste – a honkey-tonk steakhouse that provides live entertainment and impressive views of the valley. This family-friendly restaurant has been family owned and operated for over 40 years and continues to serve as a top dinner destinations for Arizona families. Rustler’s Rooste has a live long horn on their property that the kids will love, as well as a slide into the dining room (stairs are available for the less adventurous). If the atmosphere isn’t enough to win the kids over, the food surely will – they even have rattlesnake on the menu.

The Teapot

818 North 5^th Ave.
​Phoenix, AZ 85003

(623) 522-6027

The Teapot is an adorable café near downtown Phoenix that caters to families. Located in a historic, renovated home The Teapot is perfect little spot for a casual, stress-free lunch. The yard of the home is converted to a “play area” for children, so there is no worries as to how to keep the kids sitting through the meal. Perfect spot to catch up with friends while the kids can play.

Note: There is a $2 charge per child (ages 1-8) for use of the play yard in order to keep up with maintaining the toys and yard.

Angry Crab Shack

2808 E. Indian School Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 956-3088

If you’re looking for a messy, fun meal with the family then Angry Crab Shack is your spot. Kids will have a blast trying to crack open the crab legs and enjoy the hand-on aspect of this meal. For the extra adventurous, they also offer crab legs or alligator nuggets. This unique restaurant will provide a memorable family dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Short Leash Hot Dogs & Rollover Doughnuts

This delicious restaurant has two Phoenix locations.

110 E Roosevelt Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

602-795-2193

2502 E Camelback
Phoenix, AZ 85016

602-954-4712

This restaurant started out as a food truck, but after it’s instant success they upgraded to an official storefront and they just keep on growing! It’s no surprise why they have become an instant success, due to their gourmet hot dogs, served on homemade naan bread. That’s right, no hot dog bun, naan. The restaurant has recently expanded their offerings to now include hand-crafted doughnuts that will guarantee you leave with a smile. Kids can enjoy corndogs, Polka Dot Casserole (mac n’ cheese with hot dog bites), or even a Frito pie.

Ocotillo

3243 North 3^rd Street
Phoenix, AZ 85012

(602) 687-9080

Ocotillo is a casual dining destination in midtown Phoenix. Their indoor/outdoor restaurant is ideal for families due to their unique garden spaces, such as the Chef’s garden, Mesquite terrace, Lucy’s lawn, and the beer garden. The restaurant provided plenty of space for kids to explore and wander without bothering other patrons.

Luci’s at the Orchard

7100 North 12^th St., Building Two
Phoenix, AZ 85020

Luci’s is a local shop that is completely family friendly. Their café and coffee bar provide food and drinks made from local ingredients, in order to promote the support of local businesses. In addition to the café, there is also a marketplace to purchase local goods and foods. The Orchard has plenty of space for children to run around safely and allows for a fun family outing. There is also a vintage ice cream shop that will bring out the kid in everyone.

Chelsea’s Kitchen

5040 North 40^th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85018

This popular, neighborhood-casual restaurant is a perfect spot for a family meal. They strive to use organic, non-processed foods throughout their menu, in a casual, affordable setting. Not only do they have high-quality, delicious, healthy food, but they also have creative menu items for kids, such as their PB&J sushi. How fun!

The Farm at South Mountain

6106 S 32nd St
Phoenix, AZ 85042

(602) 276-6545

The Farm at South Mountain offers three amazing restaurants, but the best family-friendly option is The Farm Kitchen. Here they serve farm to table food in picnic baskets. Guests are encourage to take their baskets to a picnic table outside, wander the groves and make your own picnic, or find a spot indoors. The groves provide plenty of space for children to roam and it is pet friendly as well!

Jason’s Deli

There are numerous locations throughout Phoenix, including the following location

10217 N Metro Pkwy W
Phoenix, AZ 85051

Jason’s deli is a casual café, focusing on sandwiches, soups, and salads that are all made with wholesome ingredients. The casual setting and simple foods make it an easy choice for families. Plus, they also offer all-you-can-eat soft-serve ice cream, which is every kid’s dream (and every adult’s too if we’re honest).

Phoenix has a lot of family-friendly restaurants and activities to offer. Many restaurants have adopted an expanded patio seating layout I order to promote a family-friendly setting and take advantage of the beautiful sunshine and weather Arizona provides. This article was brought to you by North Phoenix Pediatric Dentists, Children’s Dental Specialty Group.