Top 10 indoor activities in Scottsdale

Toca Madera Staff

7 min read

Ever wondered what makes Scottsdale a magnet for eclectic experiences?

Imagine soaring without wings, marveling at the largest aquarium in the Southwest, or even spicing up your week with a unique Tuesday night restaurant event.

From the depths of immersive aquariums to high-flying adventures in indoor skydiving, Scottsdale is your playground for indoor thrills.

Let's dive in.

1. OdySea Aquarium

We begin with OdySea Aquarium, a marvel in Scottsdale, Arizona, that's the largest aquarium in the Southwest. Housing over 30,000 animals, it's a living, breathing spectacle that's open seven days a week, usually from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Imagine walking through a tunnel with sharks swimming above you. The aquarium offers this and much more, including special events and unique experiences that make it more than a simple visit; it's an oceanic adventure.

Whether you're interested in the fun of the OdySea Mirror Maze or watching the antics of playful otters, there's something for everyone in this 200,000-square-foot aquarium.

2. A Time to Remember at Toca Madera

Picture a place in Scottsdale where the weekend's electric vibe comes alive at any point of the week. Looking for a weekday thrill? Indulge in a late-night happy hour treat. Want to kickstart the week on a high note? Mezcal Mondays or Toca Tuesdays have you covered. All of these weekly events have something in common: they are tailored to offer an exciting blend of drinks, delicious food, and live entertainment. They are a spectacle, a feast for the senses where fire dancers light up the room and live bands and DJs make you forget it's a weeknight.

If you are looking for a romantic evening or an all-around luxurious and interesting option, dining at Toca Madera is also a great idea. Regardless of the type of event you are looking for, Toca Madera's multiple affairs and offerings are bound to have something that catches your eye.

To guarantee a seat at any of the available luxurious indoor experiences available at this restaurant, we recommend booking a reservation. You don't want to be left out of the fire dancers, the mixologist-recommended cocktails, and the mouthwatering food options, right?

3. Scottsdale Fashion Square: a luxury shopper's dream

Welcome to Scottsdale Fashion Square, where luxury and variety meet. Here, you'll find over 200 high-end stores that cater to your every desire.

Names like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Apple are more than stores here, they're an experience. You'll find limited-edition products and exclusive launches that you won't see anywhere else.

Forget the hassle of parking; valet services are at your disposal. Need a style consultation? Personal shopping services are available to guide you.

From the moment you arrive, you'll feel like more than a shopper - you're a valued guest. Concierge services are also ready to assist, making your shopping day effortless and enjoyable.

4. Octane Raceway

Next: get your heart racing at Octane Raceway! Their high-speed karts can zoom up to 45 miles per hour on a unique 1/3 mile track, the only full-time indoor/outdoor track in the U.S.

Step into another dimension with Velocity VR, the first free-roam multiplayer virtual reality games arena in the Western United States.

Switch gears and head to their entertainment complex. They feature popular video games like Jurassic Park and Time Crisis 5. Axe throwing is also on the menu, a game that's fun for both kids and adults.

5. iFly Phoenix

Ready to defy gravity? iFly Phoenix offers an experience that will make your heart race. Their state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnels give you the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of an airplane.

But the experience offers more than thrills. iFly Phoenix also offers educational STEM field trips where students learn about science and technology before taking their own flight.

Planning a birthday or a corporate event? iFly Phoenix has you covered with a range of options. They offer unique experiences for both kids and adults, ensuring your event will be memorable, come rain or shine.

And if you're worried about scheduling, don't be. iFly Phoenix is open seven days a week, with varying hours to fit your busy life.

The Museums of Scottsdale

Whether it's indigenous art, global music, historical exhibits, or the lore of the American West, Scottsdale's museums offer something for everyone with pricing options to suit all budgets.

6. The Heard Museum

Stay indoors at the Heard Museum, and you're instantly transported into the world of Native American art and culture. From intricate jewelry to compelling history exhibits, this museum is a must-visit. It's an activity suitable for anyone interested in indigenous cultures.

7. Musical Instrument Museum

Feel the rhythm at the Musical Instrument Museum, where you can find an Elvis Presley exhibit that will make you want to shake, rattle, and roll. Don't miss the Taylor Swift tribute, either. This museum is a rainy-day activity that hits all the right notes.

8. Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West

Western Spirit offers an in-depth look into the American West's history and art. From Andy Warhol's pop art to the intricate sculptures, this museum is a visual journey. It's an exhilarating activity that history buffs will love.

Other Scottsdale Museums Worth Checking Out:

  • Idea Museum
  • Sharlot Hall Museum
  • ASU Art Museum

9. WestWorld of Scottsdale

WestWorld of Scottsdale is a playground for horse lovers and event-goers alike. With 386 acres and over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space, it's a hub for everything from Arabian horse shows to rodeos.

The venue boasts 11 arenas, making it a prime location for horseback rides, stagecoach rides, and pony rides. Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or just looking for some family-friendly fun, WestWorld has you covered.

10. Also worth checking if you're staying indoors in Scottsdale

  • Scottsdale Fashion Square: a shopper's dream.
  • Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Scottsdale Plaza Resort, and Adero Scottsdale: treat yourself to these renowned resorts with various pricing options.
  • Macdonald's Ranch: an alternative to WestWorld.

Wrapping Up

From the awe-inspiring OdySea Aquarium to the adrenaline-pumping Octane Raceway, Scottsdale offers a range of indoor exciting activities suitable for all.

Experience a weeklong spectacle at Toca Madera, where every bite turns into a mini fiesta. Reserve your spot and make your time at Scottsdale unforgettable.

With Scottsdale's sizzling temperatures, our suggested indoor activities are your ticket to cool thrills, all year round.

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