Looking for a break from the intense Arizona desert sun? Scottsdale offers an incredible array of indoor attractions that provide both entertainment and cool relief. From marine wonders to mind-bending illusions, we've compiled the ultimate guide to staying cool while having fun in this vibrant desert city.
What You'll Discover Below In this post, we'll walk you through our top 10 indoor activities in Scottsdale, complete with visitor tips, location details, and why each spot deserves a place on your itinerary. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, these air-conditioned havens will keep you entertained regardless of the temperature outside.
Why Go Indoors in Scottsdale? Scottsdale may be famous for its stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures, but when temperatures climb, the city's indoor attractions truly shine. These air-conditioned spaces offer everything from educational experiences to family fun, making them perfect for visitors and locals alike.
1. OdySea Aquarium: Underwater Wonders in the Desert As the largest aquarium in the Southwest, OdySea stands as a true oasis in the desert. Watch sharks glide overhead in the walk-through tunnel, meet playful otters, or marvel at graceful sea turtles. The penguin exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these charming birds, while interactive displays engage visitors of all ages.
2. Museum of Illusions Scottsdale Prepare to question reality at this mind-bending museum where nothing is quite as it seems. The Museum of Illusions features interactive exhibits that play with perception, making it both educational and incredibly entertaining. We've found it perfect for capturing unique photos that will have your friends doing double-takes.
3. Butterfly Wonderland Step into a lush conservatory and find yourself surrounded by thousands of colorful butterflies in flight. Beyond butterflies, visitors can explore educational displays about these fascinating creatures. The immersive environment of Butterfly Wonderland creates a peaceful retreat from the Arizona heat while offering learning opportunities for guests of all ages.
4. UFO Experience at Arizona Boardwalk For something truly out of this world, check out the UFO Experience . This interactive attraction explores extraterrestrial encounters through immersive exhibits and displays. Whether you're a believer or skeptic, this unique attraction offers an entertaining few hours for the whole family.
5. Arizona Boardwalk Entertainment Complex More than just home to individual attractions, the Arizona Boardwalk is an indoor entertainment destination housing multiple venues under one roof. From the OdySea Aquarium to Butterfly Wonderland, you can easily spend a whole day exploring without stepping back into the heat.
6. Indoor Shopping Experiences When the midday sun becomes too intense, Scottsdale's indoor shopping destinations provide the perfect retreat. With stores ranging from luxury brands to local boutiques, as well as restaurants and entertainment options, these air-conditioned spaces offer hours of enjoyment that extend beyond shopping.
Scottsdale Fashion Square has over 225 retailers, many of which provide a high-end shopping experience. Scottsdale Quarter is a trendy, open-air shopping experience with dining options and live music. The Promenade features indoor shopping, offering a mix of well-known retail stores, specialty boutiques, and dining options. 7. Indoor Play Centers for Kids Families with energetic children will appreciate Scottsdale's variety of indoor play centers. These spaces feature climbing structures, interactive games, and activities designed specifically for kids to burn energy while parents relax in comfort.
8. Theaters and Live Shows Catch a performance at one of Scottsdale's theaters or entertainment venues. From musical performances to dramatic plays, the local arts scene thrives indoors. We recommend checking event calendars before your visit to secure tickets to special events happening during your stay.
9. Science and Technology Exhibits Curious minds will find plenty to explore at Scottsdale's science-focused attractions. Interactive displays and hands-on exhibits make learning fun for visitors of all ages. These educational experiences blend entertainment with valuable insights about the world around us. The Arizona Science Center is an excellent place for the whole family and is conveniently located in Phoenix, just a short drive away.
10. Art Galleries and Cultural Exhibits Explore Scottsdale's vibrant art scene by visiting the numerous galleries throughout the area. The city showcases a diverse range of art, from Southwestern to contemporary works by local and international artists. Gallery hopping provides both cultural enrichment and a welcome relief from the desert heat.
Old Town is filled with art galleries to match anyone’s taste. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in a thoughtfully redesigned mid-century movie theater created by architect Will Bruder. Inside, visitors can explore several rotating exhibitions alongside a permanent collection of approximately 2,000 pieces.
Planning Your Indoor Scottsdale Adventure Based on our experience helping visitors make the most of their Scottsdale trips, we recommend:
Checking attraction websites for current hours and any special events Considering combination tickets if visiting multiple attractions at the Arizona Boardwalk Planning to spend a few hours at each major attraction Bring a light jacket, as some venues keep temperatures quite cool Explore Scottsdale’s Top Museums Scottsdale and Phoenix offer a rich array of museums that celebrate the American West, global art, and innovative design.
Explore world-class exhibitions at the Phoenix Art Museum , discover hands-on learning at the Arizona Science Center , learn about Native American culture and heritage at the Heard Museum , or take a global tour through sound at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) .
Dining and Shopping Between indoor activities, you'll find plenty of places to refuel. Scottsdale boasts an impressive culinary scene with options ranging from quick bites to fine dining. Many indoor attractions also feature their own restaurants or are located near dining districts.
Discover the Top Indoor Activities in Scottsdale and Unwind in a Comfortable Vacation Rental While Scottsdale is well known for its outdoor attractions—like scenic hiking trails, premier golf courses, and open-air shopping and dining—it also offers a wide range of indoor activities perfect for beating the heat or escaping a rare rainy day.
From immersive museums and art galleries to indoor entertainment centers and spas, there’s no shortage of ways to stay entertained indoors.
Discover our vacation rentals for a stylish and relaxing place to stay during your visit.
