Top Rated Attractions in Tempe

Located on 30 acres (12.14 hectares) of land, this park has undergone massive changes since its initial construction. A favorite of railroad enthusiasts and the little ones in the group, this is a perfect place for a family day out. The park features an Antique Carousel and Clock Tower. The Model Railroad Building, which houses various artifacts relating to trains and rail, has been reconstructed as a 19th-century style rail-shed. Try something from the snack bar served out of a Southern Pacific caboose. The ticket prices and timings of the attractions vary, check the website for further details.

This 70-acre (28.32 hectare) park in South Scottsdale has recreation facilities as well as meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 1000 guests. Facilities include five ramadas, one spray pool, two fishing lakes, two playgrounds and one basketball court. If taking a walk with your pooch is on the agenda, Vista Del Camino Park has the only dog run in Scottsdale. The 18-hole disc golf course is a fun place to spend an afternoon with friends or family.

Cosanti features handcrafted wind-bells and sculptures by artist Paolo Soleri. Ceramic, blended from Arizona clay, stoneware and water, form pieces that are cast-molded from a slip, hand carved with designs and finally kiln fired. Bronze bells have also been produced since 1959, using a sand-casting method. Purchase of any of these unusual and beautiful pieces helps support the resident artist. The building, an architectural wonder in itself, is a designated Arizona Historic Site making it a must visit attraction in Scottsdale.

Get out of the city and experience the beautiful sun-kissed Sonoran desert with its jutting peaks and unique desert wildlife. Pinnacle Peak Park is a perfect hiking destination for adventurers and thrill seeking tourists with even horseback rides available. The observation area at the summit gives you an unparalleled and splendid view of the ravine. The park is not without essential amenities and has a restroom, picnic tables, parking area, drinking fountain and ramada for convenience.

Want to go fishing while the kids enjoy a game of soccer? Then head to this 100-acre (40.46-hectare) park and have a lovely day out with family or friends. The gym and exercise courts at the community center include a variety of fitness options. An uncluttered pathway at Chaparral Park lets you choose between taking a walk or rollerblading. The ever-popular Mighty Mud Mania takes place every July and the kids will enjoy Tube Trouble where tubes grouped in sets of three form a challenging tunnel. With ballfields and soccer fields, basketball and volleyball courts, a swimming pool and relaxing ramadas, there's something for everyone at this park.

Scottsdale Center For The Performing Arts transformed a small western town into a well-respected cultural community. Throughout the years, the arts are explored through music, dance, drama, and other artistic mediums. Programs promoting the importance of the arts to children of all ages are conducted regularly. Lectures, workshops, and classes are held on a variety of thought-provoking subjects. The Virginia G. Piper Theater, Dayton Fowler Grafman Auditorium and other spaces within the center are available for rent.