Some of the best Arizona memories are built around simple traditions.

When my daughters were young, Tuesday nights were Family Night in our house.

It started with a cork board covered in cut out pictures. One section was dinner. Another was the activity. The last was the treat.

• Pizza
• The McCormick Ranch Railroad Park
• Dairy Queen

That combination won more times than I can count.

We would grab a pizza to go, head over to the park, and sit at the picnic tables for dinner. We would eat together and talk before moving on to the rest of the night.

After dinner, the girls would head to the playground. Then we would ride the train, ride the carousel, and then head over to Dairy Queen for ice cream.

During the holidays, it was even better. The lights, the decorations, and the energy at the park made Family Night feel special every single time.

Those Tuesday nights are some of my favorite Arizona memories. They were simple, they were fun, and they were time spent together as a family.

A Park Rooted in McCormick Ranch History

McCormick Ranch Railroad Park is more than a playground or a weekend stop. It sits alongside the history of McCormick Ranch, one of Scottsdale’s first and most influential master planned communities.

The land that became McCormick Ranch was originally part of the McCormick family ranch. When the community was developed, it was intentionally designed around greenbelts, open space, lakes, and shared gathering areas. That vision helped shape what Scottsdale would become, and the railroad park fits perfectly into that story.

The park was created to celebrate Arizona’s railroad heritage and has grown into one of the most loved family destinations in the city. It blends education, recreation, and nostalgia in a way that appeals to kids, parents, and grandparents alike.

What Makes the Railroad Park Special

There are plenty of parks in Arizona, but this one stands out for a few reasons.

The train rides are a centerpiece. They are just long enough to feel like an adventure, especially for younger kids, and they create a shared experience that slows everyone down for a moment.

The antique carousel adds another layer of charm, and the playground gives kids space to run, climb, and explore. Throughout the year, the park hosts seasonal events, concerts, and festivals that keep it feeling fresh no matter how many times you visit.

And during the holidays, the lights transform the entire park into something magical. It is one of those traditions families return to year after year.

Why It Matters

Places like McCormick Ranch Railroad Park are part of what makes living in this area special. They are not just amenities. They are memory makers.

For our family, it was pizza on a bench, kids laughing on the playground, and one more ride on the train before heading home. Years later, those moments still matter.

If you are looking for fun things to do in Arizona, especially with kids, this park belongs at the top of the list. And if you ever want to talk about living in McCormick Ranch or nearby communities, I am always happy to help.

Michael Hankerson with Hankerson Team | Luxury Division

602.770.7205

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