McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park - train tracks with trees on either side
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McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

4.8
·7k reviews·Scottsdale, United States

A beloved Scottsdale park featuring miniature train rides, a carousel, playgrounds, and impressive model railroad displays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park - train tracks with trees on either side

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beloved Scottsdale park featuring miniature train rides, a carousel, playgrounds, and impressive model railroad displays.

4.8
(7k reviews)

"Highly recommend and such a great value!"

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TIP

🎯 Wristband for Unlimited Rides

Get a $12 wristband for unlimited train & carousel rides – great value for families!

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the park's many attractions.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Roundhouse Indoor Playground

The Roundhouse Indoor Playground

Indoor Play Structure

A 10,000-sq.-ft. train-themed wonderland with a 3-story play structure and A/C. Perfect for active kids!

Miniature Train Ride

Miniature Train Ride

Park Grounds

A charming 8-10 minute ride around the park, offering scenic views and a classic railroad experience.

Model Railroad Display

Model Railroad Display

Model Railroad Building

An incredibly impressive and large model train display with interactive buttons. A must-see for all ages!

Spook-Track-Ula Halloween Ride

Spook-Track-Ula Halloween Ride

Park Grounds

A festive and spooky Halloween-themed train ride, a popular seasonal event for families.

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Beat the Heat Indoors

Scottsdale's summer heat is no joke! The new 10,000-sq.-ft. Roundhouse indoor play structure offers a cool escape for kids, with timed sessions to manage crowds. TikTokInstagram+1

Value for Money

Many attractions are free, but train rides and the carousel have a small fee. Consider the $12 wristband for unlimited train and carousel rides, a great deal for families. InstagramReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
October evenings
Why
Spook-Track-Ula event
Crowd
High
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Indoor play, beat the heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale is ready for Christmas! 🚂💚
@southwestsweettooth
51K likes • 1M views

🎯 Wristband for Unlimited Rides

Get a $12 wristband for unlimited train & carousel rides – great value for families! InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the park's many attractions. Reddit

🚨 NOW OPEN! 🚨 All aboard for Roundhouse Playtime at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park! 🚂🎉 🕐 Choose your adventure: 1️⃣ Hour Play or 2️⃣ Hour Play — sessions are timed with color-coded wristbands 🎟️✨ 📢 Staff will announce exits every half hour, and last entry is 30 minutes before closing! 🎟️ PRICING: $6 = 1 hour ⏱️ (2 tickets) $12 = 2 hours 🕰️ (4 tickets) ⭐ Kids 2 & under play FREE (adult must pay i...
@_littles.and.lattes_
8.2K likes • 150.7K views
🚨 NOW OPEN! 🚨 All aboard for Roundhouse Playtime at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park! 🚂🎉 🕐 Choose your adventure: 1️⃣ Hour Play or 2️⃣ Hour Play — sessions are timed with color-coded wristbands 🎟️✨ 📢 Staff will announce exits every half hour, and last entry is 30 minutes before closing! 🎟️ PRICING: $6 = 1 hour ⏱️ (2 tickets) $12 = 2 hours 🕰️ (4 tickets) ⭐ Kids 2 & under play FREE (adult must p...
_littles.and.lattes_
5.7K likes • 201.5K views

📱 Check Roundhouse Availability

Timed sessions for the indoor playground, book ahead if possible. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Especially during popular events or weekends, parking can fill up quickly. TikTok

Super fun kid-friendly / family Halloween activity in Scottsdale. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park set up a really cool train ride that takes you through some fun and spooky Halloween setup. This was fun even for us adults. There are other activities and decorations there so you can wander around the park after. 📍 McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
eatswithevey
5.8K likes • 170.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wristband for Unlimited Rides

Get a $12 wristband for unlimited train & carousel rides – great value for families! InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the park's many attractions. Reddit

📱 Check Roundhouse Availability

Timed sessions for the indoor playground, book ahead if possible. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Especially during popular events or weekends, parking can fill up quickly. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring water bottles or purchase them at the snack bar, especially during warmer months. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park as a fantastic, family-friendly destination offering great value. The park is praised for its clean grounds, engaging attractions like the miniature train and carousel, and the impressive model railroad displays. While some paid attractions exist, they are considered reasonably priced, and the free admission makes it accessible for all. InstagramReddit

"Such a neat place! Large retired train cars throughout the park. They have a small train ride that's about an 8-10 min ride, a large carousel that you can ride either for $3 per person. Ages 2 and under are free. Huge outdoor playground with many unique obstacles. Lots of space to run and play. Small restaurant, museum, gift shop and a large miniature train set with interactive buttons. You can pay $12 for a wrist band for unlimited train and carousel rides for the day. Highly recommend and such a great value!"

Larry Diehl

"This place was great. Mostly free except for the train ride and the carousel which are 3 dollars per person which I thought was reasonable. Very clean and well maintained. Great places for kids to play, water fountains all around or bottles of water in the market. The model train museum was amazing. The largest display I have ever seen and really well put together. So much to see. It’s also air conditioned inside so it’s nice to get in a get a break from the heat. We had a great time."

Aaron B (Foodie Dad)

"Highly recommend!

Kids had a wonderful time here. Very reasonably priced $3 a ticket to ride the carousel or the train. (Helpful tip for a family of 4, they sell a $20 pack of 8 tickets).
The playground is fun. We all loved the miniature train displays.
We enjoyed touring the old train...there was a very sweet lady in the last car that shared a lot of cool historical info.

Overall everything was clean and well kept."

Tony K

What People Like

Great value for money
Impressive model trains
Clean and well-maintained

What People Dislike

Parking can be challenging
Splash pad lacks shade

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located at 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, though it can fill up during peak times. TikTok Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the park. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during popular events or weekends, as parking lots can fill up quickly. TikTok

Absolutely! With its variety of attractions like train rides, playgrounds, and indoor play areas, it's perfect for a full day of family fun. Instagram+1

The park generally operates daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific attractions like the Roundhouse or during special events. Instagram

While there has been ongoing development, including a new entry plaza and indoor play structure, most attractions are now open and fully operational. TikTokReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is free! However, there are fees for specific attractions like the miniature train ride and the carousel. InstagramReddit

The miniature train ride typically costs $3 per ticket per person. A pack of 8 tickets can often be purchased for $20, which is a good deal for families. InstagramReddit

The Roundhouse indoor playground has timed sessions. It costs $6 for 1 hour of play or $12 for 2 hours of play. Children aged 2 and under are free. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, tickets for special events like the Spook-Track-Ula can often be purchased online in advance. It's recommended to check the park's official website for online ticketing options. TikTok

While not always advertised, purchasing ticket packs for the train and carousel can offer savings. The $12 wristband for unlimited rides on both is also a great value. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

The park features a miniature train ride, a carousel, a large outdoor playground, the Roundhouse indoor play structure, model railroad displays, and retired train cars to explore. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, there's a huge outdoor playground with many unique obstacles and recently added sun sails for shade. InstagramReddit

The Roundhouse is a new, 10,000-square-foot indoor play structure with a train theme. It's air-conditioned and features a multi-story play area, perfect for escaping the heat. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, the park hosts popular seasonal events like the Spook-Track-Ula during Halloween, offering a festive train ride experience. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The park has several retired train cars on display that visitors can explore. Some even have interactive elements or historical information shared by staff. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a small restaurant and a snack bar on-site offering food and drinks, including ice cream. Reddit

The park has plenty of space and seating, making it a great spot for a picnic. Bringing your own food is generally allowed. Reddit

Yes, there's an ice cream/snack bar where you can purchase refreshments. Reddit

Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but typical park snack bars usually offer standard fare. It's best to inquire directly or pack your own if you have specific needs.

Yes, there is a small restaurant available for dining within the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vintage train cars, the miniature train, the carousel, and the colorful Roundhouse indoor playground offer great photo opportunities. The seasonal decorations, especially during Halloween, are also very photogenic. TikTokInstagram+1

Definitely! With retired train cars, a miniature train ride, and extensive model railroad displays, it's a paradise for train enthusiasts and photographers alike. TikTokInstagram

Yes, photos are generally allowed inside the Roundhouse, capturing the vibrant indoor play structure. Instagram

No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially of children. TikTok

Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while evenings during events like Spook-Track-Ula provide unique, atmospheric shots. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a dream for families! The Roundhouse indoor playground is a lifesaver on hot days, offering hours of active fun. TikTokInstagram+1 Don't miss the miniature train ride and carousel, which are affordable and beloved by all ages. InstagramReddit The huge outdoor playground provides ample space for kids to burn energy, and the model railroad displays are fascinating for curious minds. InstagramReddit

Consider purchasing the $12 wristband for unlimited train and carousel rides to maximize value. InstagramReddit Pack snacks and water, or utilize the on-site food options. Reddit Arrive early, especially on weekends or during special events, to secure parking and avoid long lines. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

This park is fantastic for budget-conscious travelers! General admission is free, allowing you to enjoy the grounds, retired train cars, and the impressive outdoor playground without spending a dime. InstagramReddit The model railroad displays are also free to view and incredibly detailed. Instagram

For a small fee, you can enjoy the miniature train ride and carousel ($3 per ticket, or a pack of 8 for $20). InstagramReddit The $12 wristband for unlimited rides on both is an excellent value if you plan to ride multiple times. InstagramReddit Bringing your own picnic lunch and water bottles will further keep costs down. Reddit

☀️ Summer Visitors

Beat the Scottsdale heat at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park! The new Roundhouse indoor playground is a game-changer, offering a cool, air-conditioned escape with a fantastic train-themed play structure. TikTokInstagram+1 Timed sessions help manage crowds, so check availability. TikTokInstagram The splash pad is another great way to cool off, and there's plenty of shaded seating nearby. InstagramReddit

While the outdoor attractions are best enjoyed in the cooler morning or late afternoon hours, the indoor options ensure fun regardless of the temperature. Remember to stay hydrated, as even with shade, the Arizona sun can be intense. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of the Park: From Construction to New Attractions

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has undergone significant transformations, most notably with the recent addition of the Roundhouse, a 10,000-square-foot indoor play structure. This state-of-the-art facility offers a train-themed adventure with a multi-story play area, complete with slides and climbing structures, all within a cool, air-conditioned environment. TikTokInstagram+2 This development addresses the need for family-friendly activities that can withstand Scottsdale's intense summer heat, making the park a year-round destination. TikTok

Beyond the Roundhouse, the park has also seen upgrades to its outdoor amenities. A new splash pad provides a refreshing way to cool off, and the outdoor playground has been enhanced with sun sails for much-needed shade. InstagramReddit These improvements, alongside the existing beloved attractions like the miniature train ride and carousel, ensure that McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park continues to be a premier family destination, blending historical charm with modern play spaces. TikTokInstagram

Visitors have noted that while there was construction, the park remains open and enjoyable. The ongoing development aims to enhance the visitor experience, with new entry plazas and improved facilities contributing to the park's overall appeal. Reddit The park's commitment to providing diverse and engaging activities, from historical exhibits to active play, solidifies its reputation as a valuable community asset. TikTok

Experiencing the Magic of Miniature Trains

The heart of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park lies in its dedication to all things trains. The miniature train ride is a perennial favorite, offering a delightful 8-10 minute journey around the park's scenic grounds. InstagramReddit This charming ride is perfect for young children and adults alike, providing a nostalgic and enjoyable experience. Reddit

Complementing the ride is the model railroad display, housed in a dedicated building. This is not just any model train setup; it's described as incredibly impressive and one of the largest displays many visitors have ever seen. Reddit With interactive buttons and intricate details, it captivates both train enthusiasts and casual observers. Instagram The park also features several retired train cars that visitors can explore, offering a glimpse into the history of rail travel. Reddit

For those looking to maximize their train and carousel fun, purchasing a $12 wristband for unlimited rides is highly recommended. InstagramReddit This offers exceptional value and allows visitors to enjoy the train and carousel as many times as they wish throughout the day. Reddit

Seasonal Delights: Halloween and Beyond

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park truly shines during its seasonal events, with the Spook-Track-Ula Halloween train ride being a standout. TikTokInstagram+1 This popular event transforms the park into a festive and spooky wonderland, with the train ride taking visitors through creatively decorated scenes. Instagram It's an experience that's enjoyed by children and adults alike, offering a fun and slightly thrilling way to celebrate Halloween. Instagram

Tickets for the Spook-Track-Ula typically include the train ride, carousel, and mini-golf, making it a comprehensive entertainment package for a set price. TikTok Due to its popularity, arriving early for parking and tickets is strongly advised. TikTok

Beyond Halloween, the park is known for its festive Christmas decorations and train rides, creating a magical atmosphere during the holiday season. TikTok These special events add another layer of appeal to the park, encouraging repeat visits throughout the year to experience different themes and celebrations. TikTok

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