Consider the Family Fun attractions as the frosting on the cake. Things to do in addition to the myriad of activities you do as a family in the outdoor paradise of Scottsdale.

Need a break from swimming, tubing, biking, desert jeep tours, and hiking? McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a great family venue with enough to keep everyone busy and happy. This scenic 30 acre park is centrally located at the southeast corner of Scottsdale and Indian Bend Roads.

At McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park ride the Paradise and Pacific Railroad and a beautifully restored carousel (rides are $1 each!). Train exhibits make history come alive- a 1914 dining car becomes a museum, a restored depot serves as a general store where you can have an ice cream cone and choose a Thomas Train souvenir. Playgrounds and picnic areas are thoughtfully provided. Of special interest are 2 Navajo hogans on the site. They are 2 of only 3 that exist off the reservation.

When you visit Out of Africa Wildlife Park at 9736 N. Fort McDowell Rd., you can watch the big cats swim with their keepers, take in the Giant Python/Reptile Show and maybe get to pet an animal during Creature Feature. This Park is not considered a zoo or a circus. The Park philosophy is to understand the animals, treat them with respect and allow them as much freedom as possible.

Rawhide Wild West Town, at 23023 N.Scottsdale Rd. and Pinnacle Peak, has entertained visitors for 30 years and is billed as "Arizona’s largest theme attraction". Mosey down Main Street, pan for gold, dodge bullets, and see the Sonoran Desert while aboard a WellsFargo Stagecoach. You can also bungee jump, scale a cliff, ride a real horse or a mechanical bull. With over 20 games, rides and attractions Rawhide is filled with excitement for the entire family.

When you have worked up an appetite stop by the famous Rawhide Steakhouse, known for its mesquite grill and fun Western entertainment.

Tip: Out of Africa at 9736 N.Fort McDowell Rd. is reached by going east on McDowell Rd. and then going northeast on Beeline Hwy 87 toward the mountains. You can see the Verde River by going a short distance beyond Out of Africa on Beeline Hwy.