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.

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.

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.

Located in the McDowell Mountains foothills, this National Historic Landmark was the former Winter home and school of the famed architect. Wright had been visiting Phoenix for years and he had stated that Arizona needed its own architecture. So in-between these visits, he purchased the land for a paltry sum and then subsequently began construction and attracting students. The structure today is the main campus of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture and is open for tours. Some of the highlights include Wright's former office, The Garden Room, the pool, theater and Main Studio.

Scottsdale Museum Of Contemporary Art displays a variety of frequently changing contemporary art exhibits and hosts special events for adults and families. Photographs, paintings and sculpture are just some of the highlighted mediums. Devoted to the art, architecture and design of our time, SMoCA offers free art lectures, symposiums, workshops and readings, providing a forum where visitors can interact with contemporary artists. Thursday is the best day to visit the museum as guest can take advantage of the free entry.

The ASU Kerr Cultural Center is named after the famous stage artist Louise Lincoln Kerr. This terra-cotta building is one of the city's major hubs for art and culture events. Equipped with fabulous acoustics and a cozy ambiance, the historic venue has hosted many live music shows, concerts as well as storytelling and theatrical performances. ASU Kerr is also an excellent space for any occasion and is rented for private and corporate functions. With its charming and elegant setting, it is one of the city's most noteworthy establishments in the entertainment sector.