Scottsdale, Arizona, is one of the best towns to go to all year round. It doesn’t matter if you want to come here in the summer to enjoy the beautiful hiking, in the winter to go down the ski and snowboard slopes, or in the fall to enjoy the changing of the leaves — you can always find things to do here with your family. Whether you have small kids or rowdy teenagers, Scottsdale offers tons of outdoor activities, indoor shopping centers, unique shops, and cool restaurants that are suitable for people of all ages and interests.
But what if you don’t want to spend a fortune on your upcoming vacation? Instead of spending thousands of dollars per week, or per day, on your family holiday, we have a few “budget” things to do that are still fun and exciting! Just because you aren’t spending lots of money, it doesn’t mean that you aren’t taking full advantage of your vacation.
Scottsdale has free activities, inexpensive places to visit, and multiple green spaces and parks that make it perfect for those who are looking to have a memorable vacation on a budget. Let’s check out the best family-friendly Scottsdale events (besides hiking on one of the many trails!) in Scottsdale that won’t leave you cursing your bank account at the end of the trip!
Visit Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale feels like you stepped back in time. There are cool historical buildings, architecture that is reminiscent of centuries past, and cool shops that are great for exploring and finding the best deals on souvenirs, clothes, and decorations. Head here with your children to have a fun family night out, visiting one of the local restaurants that offer great Mexican food, like mouthwatering burritos and cheesy nachos. For families who are interested in doing something out of the ordinary, we recommend exploring Old Town Scottsdale by segway, bike, or carriage ride!
Scottsdale Civic Center Mall
This cool shopping center in Downtown Scottsdale is great for those who want to find some great deals on clothes, decor, souvenirs, and much more! Just because it is a shopping center, it doesn’t mean it is expensive or filled with all designer shops. Head here to go shopping and then sit outside with a nice smoothie, iced coffee, or picnic lunch at the common space in the Civic Center Mall.
Plus, once you are done shopping here, head to the Scottsdale Public Library for some educational time with your kids. This library is free to enter and offers a great respite from the hot summer sun or the bitter cold during the winter months.
OdySea Aquarium
Although this is not necessarily free, the aquarium is a low-priced day out on the town that is perfect for those who want to do something unique without breaking the bank. Did you know this aquarium is actually the largest in the entire state? This 200,000-square-foot attraction features over 370 species of marine wildlife, making it the perfect place to learn something with your kids!
Head here to bring your children to do family-friendly activities, like coloring marine wildlife, Sketching the Seas drawing activity, using the hands-on water table, or doing one of the many marine-related activities.
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
Scottsdale is home to many unique activities — and this one really takes the cake! This cool dinner and show event in South Scottsdale is fun for kids and adults of all ages. You can travel back in time to have a mouthwatering four-course dinner, watch the medieval jousting competition, and take part in the interactive medieval show. This fun attraction is great for kids of all ages, keeping toddlers and teenagers entertained the entire time!
Scottsdale Events and Best Accommodation
Doesn’t this sound like the best vacation? We think so too! Scottsdale is one of the best places for those who are interested in doing unique things, getting outside in the beautiful weather, and experiencing family-friendly activities that won’t leave you broke at the end of your holiday. Along with finding the best things to do to keep your kids entertained, you need to find an inexpensive place to stay that still offers enough space for your entire family.
Luckily for you, we have you covered! I Love Scottsdale offers spacious, luxurious, and high-end rental properties that are perfect for families of various sizes. We have properties in downtown Scottsdale, houses in the hills, and everything in between to suit your unique needs.
Do you need a 3-bedroom house with an outdoor pool? Got it! Do you want a 2-bedroom condominium with a balcony? We have that! I Love Scottsdale offers numerous properties, top-notch customer service, and high-end amenities that are perfect for vacationers.
Contact us today to book the vacation home of your dream and keep your holiday budget as low as possible!
