McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Scottsdale

There's a lot of fun to be had at Railroad Park! From the moment you arrive, you are taken in by how well cared for this 30-acre park is. There is an antique carousel that children can ride on, and an ice cream store with great ice cream! A large playground provides endless climbing and exploring, and is fitted with misters for the summer.

On the other side of the park, my son loved the Wild West town that is child-sized and two levels, and features a wagon, a prison, and a bank (where the robbers go before they end up in prison).
Near the playground, you can go inside a 1928 Pullman train car that was used for presidential whistle-stop tours. President Roosevelt signed the Ogdensberg Declaration in this train car.
You can also take a mini train ride around the park. There are lots of huge shady trees, which is rare in Phoenix, and makes this a popular location for large family parties. Boy do those trees look good after you've been tree-starved for a while!
If you're hungry, head over to Scottsdale Fashion Square, on Scottsdale Rd at Camelback, where you can walk beside the luxury buildings, cooled by misters, and eat at any of a number of different restaurants or cafes.
Nearby is a pretty drive through the flower-filled neighborhood of Paradise Valley with stunning views of Camelback Mountain.

Directions

On the corner of Indian Bend Rd, and Scottsdale Rd, at 7301 E Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250.
From the 51 Freeway North, take the E. Glendale Ave. Head east. The road becomes Lincoln Drive. Stay on it for a while until you come to Scottsdale Rd. Then turn left on Scottsdale Rd. Turn right on Indian Bend Rd and pull into the large parking lot on the right.
Rides are only $2.
There are restrooms.

Click on map for interactive view