- Attraction: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
- Location: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
- Industry: Railroad Theme Park
- Website: https://www.therailroadpark.com/
Whistle blasts and childhood dreams converge at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, where the romance of America’s railroad heritage comes alive across 30 spectacular acres in Scottsdale’s heart.
This extraordinary destination stands as the most unique park of its kind in the entire country, seamlessly blending authentic railroad history with modern family entertainment since opening in 1975.
From the moment you hear the Paradise & Pacific Railroad’s distinctive whistle echoing across the grounds, you’ll understand why this beloved attraction has been creating magical memories for multiple generations of Arizona families.
Historic Train Experiences
Paradise & Pacific Railroad: The crown jewel of the park features a 5/12th scale railroad with 3,800 feet of mainline track winding through diverse landscapes, multiple trestles, and even a tunnel.
The 20-minute journey aboard authentic-styled trains offers breathtaking views while providing a genuine railroad experience that captures the excitement of America’s golden age of rail travel.
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Keep Exploring →Presidential Pullman Cars: Step inside history by exploring authentic dining and sleeping cars that once carried four U.S. presidents across the nation.
These meticulously preserved 1914 and 1928 Pullman cars showcase the luxury and elegance of early 20th-century rail travel, complete with period furnishings and historical artifacts.
Vintage Steam Engine: The park’s impressive 1907 Baldwin 2-6-0 steam locomotive serves as a magnificent static display, allowing visitors to examine up close the massive engineering marvels that powered America’s expansion westward.
Historic Depot Buildings: Three authentic railway stations – the Aguila depot (1907), Peoria depot (1895), and Maricopa depot (1930s) – have been carefully relocated and restored to house specialty shops, creating an authentic Old West railroad town atmosphere.
World-Class Model Railroad Building
Massive Indoor Displays: The spectacular 10,000-square-foot Model Railroad Building houses one of the most impressive collections of operating model trains in the Southwest. Multiple scales from N-gauge to G-scale create intricate miniature worlds with incredible attention to detail.
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Discover MoreInteractive Experiences: Children and adults can operate various model train displays, while the building’s innovative design provides 360-degree viewing opportunities and wheelchair accessibility to all exhibits.
Educational Components: The facility serves as both entertainment and education, teaching visitors about railroad engineering, American transportation history, and the crucial role railroads played in developing the American West.
Family Entertainment Features
1950 Allan Herschell Carousel: This beautifully restored vintage carousel features hand-painted horses and plays classic organ music, providing a perfect complement to the railroad theme while offering gentle fun for younger visitors.
Adventure Playgrounds: Multiple railroad-themed play areas feature imaginative equipment designed specifically for different age groups, with many structures providing shade – essential for Arizona’s intense sunshine.
The Roundhouse: A brand-new 10,000-square-foot indoor facility featuring a locomotive-shaped play structure and multipurpose rooms, specifically designed to extend the park’s appeal during Phoenix’s challenging summer months.
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Keep Exploring →Splash Pad: The recently added 5,000-square-foot water play area provides cooling relief and interactive water features, making the park enjoyable year-round for families with children.
Special Events and Programs
Seasonal Celebrations: The park transforms for major holidays with elaborate decorations, themed train rides, and special programming that draws visitors from across the Southwest.
Educational Programs: School field trips and group educational experiences teach students about transportation history, engineering principles, and Arizona’s development through engaging, hands-on activities.
Birthday Parties: Comprehensive party packages include access to historic railroad cars for celebrations, making children’s birthdays truly memorable with an authentic Old West atmosphere.
Other Considerations
Exceptional Value: Park admission is completely free, with individual ride tickets for the train and carousel costing just $3 each (children 2 and under ride free).
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Discover MoreThe museum charges only $2 for adults with free admission for children under 13 with paying adults, making this one of Arizona’s best family entertainment values.
Accessibility: The park welcomes visitors with mobility challenges, offering wheelchair rentals and accessible pathways throughout most areas. Pet-friendly policies allow leashed dogs to enjoy the grounds with their families.
Parking and Location: Free parking is abundant, and the central Scottsdale location makes the park easily accessible from throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Operating Hours: Open daily from sunrise to 10:30 PM for park grounds, with train and carousel operations varying seasonally. The extended hours allow for evening picnics and leisurely exploration.
Picnic Facilities: Multiple ramadas and open grass areas provide perfect settings for family gatherings, with nearby concessions offering snacks and beverages.
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Keep Exploring →Gift Shopping: The restored depot buildings house specialty shops selling railroad memorabilia, model trains, and unique souvenirs that extend the experience beyond the visit.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
📍 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
