McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is one of those rare family destinations that delivers genuine joy at a price point that feels almost too good to be true. Located in central Scottsdale on 30 acres of manicured grounds, this park combines a ride-on railroad, antique carousel, extensive playgrounds, and railroad history exhibits -- all for free admission and $2 per ride. It is consistently rated the best value family outing in the Scottsdale-Phoenix area.

The centerpiece is the Paradise & Pacific Railroad, a scale replica train that carries passengers on a 15-minute loop around the entire park property. The locomotive is a scaled-down version of a real steam engine, complete with a clanging bell and blowing whistle. Kids sit in open-air passenger cars that are sized for families (adults fit comfortably alongside children).

At $2 per ride, most parents let kids ride it two or three times -- the delight does not diminish on repeat rides, especially for toddlers.

The antique carousel is a beautifully restored 1950s Allan Herschell model with hand-painted horses and chariots. Also $2 per ride, it operates year-round and adds a classic amusement park element to the outing. Between the train and carousel, a family of four spending $15-20 total gets an hour of ride entertainment.

The playground area is substantial, featuring train-themed climbing structures, slides, swings, and a sandbox. For toddlers and preschoolers, this is easily the main attraction -- the playground alone provides 45 minutes to an hour of entertainment without spending a cent. The grounds include open grassy areas perfect for running, kicking a ball, or spreading a picnic blanket.

Railroad history buffs (of all ages) will love the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, a 1914-era private rail car that once belonged to the president of the Pullman Company. It is displayed on tracks and visitors can walk through the ornate interior -- mahogany paneling, brass fixtures, and a full kitchen. The model train building houses detailed HO-scale layouts depicting Arizona landscapes, with trains running through miniature desert towns, past tiny cacti, and through model mountain tunnels.

These layouts are maintained by volunteer hobbyists and fascinate kids who love miniatures.

Seasonal events make the park even more special. The Holiday Lights event during December transforms the entire park with festive lighting, and the train runs evening rides through the illuminated grounds. These sessions sell out quickly -- purchase tickets online well in advance. Spring and fall weekends occasionally feature special themed events with extended hours.

Practical notes: the park is mostly outdoors with limited shade. From May through September, the Arizona sun makes afternoon visits uncomfortable to dangerous. Visit in the morning (before 11 AM) during warm months, or save this outing for the October-April season when temperatures are mild.

Covered ramadas with picnic tables and BBQ grills are available on a first-come basis -- packing a picnic lunch is the smart play.

Parking is free in the lot off Indian Bend Road. The park is centrally located in Scottsdale, making it easy to combine with other area activities. Strollers navigate the flat, paved paths easily. Restrooms are available near the entrance and playground area.