The McCormick Stillman Railroad Park is easily the most popular park in all of Scottsdale. Kids love it for the trains that you can ride, the carousel, and the amazing model railroads that are ever changing and evolving. Especially now that the weather has (finally!) cooled off, the Railroad Park is busy from sunrise to sunset.
On October 7th and 8th, they are hosting their annual Railfair.
There are additional exhibits and events going on throughout the weekend. Vintage railroad equipment will be brought out and displayed. You can also learn about Arizona railroad history. The Roald Amundsen Pullman Car and Scottsdale Railroad Museum will be free (all rides are still $2).
This event has been very busy in prior years so I'd recommend going early. Go to their website for all of the details.
Have fun!
Finally! Summer is subsiding and the temps are only supposed to be in the upper 80s this weekend. We've survived yet another summer here.
With the cooler temperatures, we're all ready to start going outside again. It's now patio season for restaurants. You can workout in the morning without having to be out the door by 6. I went to the McCormick Stillman train park a few days ago with my son and there were lots more kids out playing. None melted, either!
So, this week's event will keep you outside and enjoying the fresh air.
On Saturday, September 23rd, head to the Scottsdale Civic Center Park for the 8th Annual Brazilian Day Festival. This is put on by the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The festival goes from 2-9 pm.
From their website:
Check out the live bands, DJs, dancers and performances. You also will be able to enjoy stunning sequined costumes, samba dancing, a drum procession and a parade. And, of course, the main stage will feature bands keeping the samba, funk, and pagode going from daytime festival to nighttime Carnival!
Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids 3-11. Kids 2 and under are free.
The second round of Restaurant Week is upon us! With all of the amazing restaurants in and around our neighborhood, this could almost be two full weeks of events. Scottsdale has always been known for some of the best dining in all of the valley. Restaurant Week is a great time to try new ones as well as revisit all of your old favorites.
All of the participating places have a 3 course meal at a fixed price of $33 or $44 per person (tax, gratuity, and cocktails are usually extra). Some are also $44/couple. It begins on Friday, September 15th and runs through Sunday, September 24th.
There are around 100 restaurants in all participating. While it would be impossible to highlight them all, here are the ones in and around McCormick Ranch.
6 Degrees Urban Kitchen: 8989 N Scottsdale Rd, #608, 85253: If you are looking for the hip new restaurant, stop by 6 Degrees. They are already making a name for themselves with great food and great drinks. $44/person.
Ajo Als: 9393 N 90th St, 85258: Ajo Als has been a staple for Mexican Food in the area. At just $44/couple (including cocktails!), you'll get your fill at a great price.
Alto: 7500 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, 85258: Located inside the Hyatt Regency, Alto is an Italian Restaurant known for their wine and wine pairings. $44/person.
Chart House: 7525 E McCormick Pkwy, 85258: The Chart House is a long standing seafood restaurant in the heart of McCormick Ranch. $33/person.
Grassroots Kitchen And Tap: 8120 N Hayden Rd, 85258: Since 2011, Grassroots has always cast a spell on us. They offer great food with a southern flair and fantastic cocktails. If you can't make it during Restaurant Week, go back during happy hour. $33/person
Ling & Louie's: 9397 E Shea, 85260: If you want an American-Asian fusion, this is the place to come. At just $44/couple, Ling & Louie's makes for an inexpensive night out.
The Melting Pot: 8260 N Hayden Rd, 85258: This is the standard when it comes to fondue. $44 gets you a 4 course meal, starting with cheese and ending with their decadent chocolate.
Sonata's: 10050 N Scottsdale Rd, #127, 85323: Sonata's is a relatively newer restaurant that is already starting to get a great following. They are known for their Lithuanian heritage and European cooking styles. $33/person.
SWB: 7500 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, 85258: SWB is located inside the Hyatt Regency at Gainey. They feature a Southwestern cuisine and a wood-fired oven. $33/person
Twisted Grove: 8220 N Hayden Rd, 85258 Run by the same owners at Grassroots, this is another exceptional place to dine at in McCormick Ranch. They create upscale American cuisine at a very reasonable price. $33/person
