Phoenix Family Fun Adventure: Discovering Arizona’s Heart

Family-Friendly Itinerary for

Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Apache Trail

Family-Friendly view of Apache Trail in

Why Visit?

**Family-Friendly Itinerary for Exploring the Apache Trail** **Day 1: Discovering the Superstition Mountains** - **Start at Lost Dutchman State Park**: Located 40 miles east of Phoenix, this park offers a perfect introduction to the scenic vistas of the Superstition Mountains. Begin your adventure with a morning hike on one of the family-friendly trails; Treasure Loop Trail is a great option, offering manageable paths and incredible views. Remember to carry plenty of water and sunscreen! - **Picnic Lunch**: After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated areas, where you can relax and indulge in the tranquil natural surroundings. - **Visit Goldfield Ghost Town**: Drive a short 10 minutes from Lost Dutchman to Goldfield Ghost Town. Here, step back in time to the 1890s with reconstructed buildings and historic displays. Don"t miss the guided tour of the mine or a ride on Arizona"s only narrow gauge train. **Day 2: Exploring Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat** - **Morning at Canyon Lake**: Start your day with a scenic 30-minute drive northeast from Goldfield Ghost Town to Canyon Lake. Rent a kayak or a paddleboat to explore the lake at your own pace, or if preferred, take a relaxing cruise on the Dolly Steamboat to spot wildlife and learn about the area"s geology and history. - **Lunch at Tortilla Flat**: Continue the drive for about 20 minutes along winding roads with spectacular views until you reach Tortilla Flat, an authentic remnant of an old western town with its own post office and the famous Superstition Saloon. Enjoy a hearty lunch here; the restaurant’s walls, covered in dollar bills from visitors around the world, make for a fascinating sight. - **Leisurely Afternoon**: Spend the afternoon strolling around Tortilla Flat, checking out the unique gifts shops and indulging in some homemade ice cream before heading back to your accommodation. This itinerary blends adventure with education, perfectly suited for a family eager to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Apache Trail.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Old Town Scottsdale

Family-Friendly view of Old Town Scottsdale in

Why Visit?

**Family-Friendly Itinerary in Old Town Scottsylvania** **Morning:** Start your day at the **Scottsdale Historical Museum** in the Little Red Schoolhouse. It opens at 10 AM and is easily accessible via Scottsdale Road. Dive into local history with exhibits showcasing Scottsdale’s development and culture. Engage the kids with tales of early settlers and the transformation of this vibrant city. **Lunch:** Around noon, stroll over to **5th Avenue Shops and Boutiques**, just a 5-minute walk east. This area offers various dining options along with fun, quirky shops that often intrigue kids with their eclectic treasures. **Afternoon:** Post-lunch, head to **Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West** (a 10-minute walk north). This museum is a treasure trove of Western art and artifacts. It also features interactive exhibits perfect for sparking children’s interest in the Old West. Check out their schedule as they often have live demonstrations or reenactments. **Mid-Afternoon:** By around 3 PM, wander towards **Old Town’s Main Street Arts District**. Here, you can explore numerous art galleries. Don’t miss the public art installations scattered around, which often become great photo ops with the kids. **Late Afternoon:** Cap your day with a visit to the **Scottsdale Waterfront**, an easy 15-minute walk from the Arts District. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy the scenic views, watch the sunset, and maybe even catch a live performance or event if you’re lucky. **Interesting Facts:** - The Little Red Schoolhouse was built in 1909 and has been a cornerstone of Scottsylvania’s educational and cultural growth. - “The West’s Most Western Town” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a living culture in Old Town, where the spirit of the Old West is preserved and celebrated. This itinerary offers a delightful mix of history, art, shopping, and relaxation that promises a memorable day for the whole family in Old Town Scottsdale.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Family-Friendly view of McDowell Sonoran Preserve in

Why Visit?

**Family-Friendly Itinerary at McDowell Sonoran Preserve** **Morning: Gateway Trailhead Start** Begin your adventure at the accessible Gateway Trailhead, which offers ample parking and facilities. Here, you can grab a trail map and explore interactive exhibits at the trailhead that introduce the local flora and fauna. Opt for the easy, family-friendly Gateway Loop Trail (4.5 miles), perfect for kids as it"s not too strenuous but still offers stunning desert views. **Fun Fact:** McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one of the largest urban preserves in the United States, spanning over 30,500 acres! **Midday: Bajada Nature Trail** After your morning hike, drive over to the Bajada Nature Trail near the southern region of the preserve. This is an easy 0.5-mile loop that is fully accessible and features educational signs about the desert environment. It"s perfect for little ones and offers a quick but informative nature experience. **Lunch Break: Picnic at Brown’s Ranch Trailhead** Pack a picnic and head to Brown’s Ranch Trailhead, where you’ll find picnic tables and a scenic spot to relax. After lunch, explore some of the easy trails starting from this point, like the Jane Rau Trail, a short 0.5-mile interpretive loop that’s both educational and engaging for children. **Afternoon: Horseback Riding Adventure** Conclude your day with a pre-booked guided horseback riding tour through the preserve, a unique way to experience the stunning landscape and possibly spot some wildlife. Tours typically start from nearby stables and require reservations. **Interesting Fact:** The preserve is home to more than 50 mammal species, including mule deer and javelina, which you might spot during your visit! This family-friendly itinerary offers a balance of education, nature, and fun, making your visit to McDowell Sonore Preserve an unforgettable experience.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Scottsdale Fashion Square

Family-Friendly view of Scottsdale Fashion Square in

Why Visit?

Welcome to Scottsdale Fashion Square, the premier shopping destination in Arizona, perfect for a family day out! Begin your adventure by arriving early to secure convenient parking in the Camelback Road lot, allowing easy access to the mall"s numerous entry points. ### Morning: Exploration and Education Start your morning at the western entrance near Nordstrom. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere with a visit to the first-floor concierge to collect a mall directory and any special event details—Fashion Square often hosts family-friendly activities and workshops. Did you know? Scottsdale Fashion Square is one of the top 30 largest malls in the US, boasting a vast area to explore! ### Midday: Dining and Delights By noon, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head to the Food Court located on the upper level for a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. Post lunch, take a leisurely stroll to the interactive pop-up experiences that frequently take place near the Palm Court. These are not only fun but educational, offering insights into local culture and new trends. ### Afternoon: Entertainment and Shopping After lunch, venture to the Harkins Theatrices (exit through the east wing for a quick walk). Catch a family-friendly movie in their plush theaters, providing a relaxing break for everyone. Following the movie, explore stores like the LEGO Store and the Disney Store, perfect for children to immerse themselves in imaginative play, while adults can explore nearby fashion outlets. ### Late Afternoon: Sweet Treats and Scenic Views Conclude your visit by indulging in some gelato from the Gelato Spot located near the center"s north entrance, and take a scenic walk around the nearby Scottsdale Waterfront. This beautiful area offers picturesque views and is a relaxing way to wind down your bustling day. Scottsdale Fashion Square combines shopping, dining, and entertainment in a beautifully designed space, making it an ideal destination for families to enjoy and create lasting memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)

Family-Friendly view of Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) in

Why Visit?

**Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)** **Morning Arrival & Exploration:** Start your day at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, ideally situated in Old Town Scottsdale. Doors open at 11 AM, perfect for families. Parking is conveniently free in the nearby Civic Center Library garage. Grab a light breakfast at one of the local cafes before heading to the museum. **Engaging with Art:** SMoCA, known for its striking architecture by award-winning architect Will Bruder, houses five galleries filled with modern and contemporary art. Upon entry, engage your little ones with a scavenegette game – find a piece of art in each gallery that might represent a season, emotion, or historical event. This activity helps kids look more closely at art and sparks interesting discussions. **Interactive Displays and Family Activities:** Check out the museum"s Family Guide available at the entrance. This guide offers insights and fun activities tailored towards children, making the artwork more relatable and engaging. Don"t miss the ‘SMoCA Lounge’ – an interactive space where families can relax and let their creativity flow with available art materials. **Lunch Break:** Around 1 PM, head to the museum’s outdoor courtyard. This area offers a serene setting for a family picnic with food brought from home or picked up from a nearby eatery. **Special Programs:** Post-lunch, participate in one of the museum"s family-friendly programs, which might include guided tours, artist talks, or hands-on workshops (check the museum’s calendar prior to your visit for specific events and timings). **Departure:** Wrap up your visit by 3 PM, making sure to stop by the museum shop for unique art-inspired gifts and educational toys as a memory of your cultural outing. SMoCA offers a compact yet enriching experience, making it an ideal spot for family exploration and learning within the realm of contemporary art.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.