The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, located on Indian Bend and Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale, AZ, has long been a hidden gem in the Phoenix Valley. Arizona rancher Fowler McCormick donated 100 acres to the City of Scottsdale in 1967 on the stipulation that the city used the land as a public park. Guy Stillman was the creative force behind the park, which included faithful replicas of the Century Narrow Gauge Railway equipment.

Since its official opening in 1975, the park has added further attractions and amenities including a vintage carousel, train exhibitions, railroad clubs, playgrounds, shops and concessions. Admission to the park is free. Tickets cost $1, with discounts available on purchases over 10. The paradise and Pacific Railroad – a replica steam train – costs two tickets while the carousel and railroad exhibit cost one ticket each. Children under three are free with a paying adult.

In the summer, the park offers a free concert series every Sunday evening while a fantastic holiday lights exhibition brightens every December. The holiday lights display is a busy event that brings a little bit of the North Pole to the Arizona desert. Lines for the train ride through the exhibition can reach up to one hour. Coffee and hot chocolate is available at very reasonable prices.

The park has amenities for special events and caters to birthdays, parties and any other event just as any park would see fit. This hidden gem is no longer in hiding as numerous publications and television shows have highlighted the park and its old-time atmosphere. Children love the real-working steam trains and the wide range of playground equipment. Parents love the quiet escape from city life.

The McCormick-Stillman Park is located close to some of Scottsdale’s finest shopping and dining establishments.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
[where: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250]
480-312-2312
www.therailroadpark.com