What Makes McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Special?
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to step back in time while creating memories that’ll last a lifetime? McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers exactly that magical experience. This 30-acre oasis isn’t just another park – it’s a transportation wonderland that combines nostalgia, education, and pure family fun into one unforgettable destination.
Nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, this unique attraction has been captivating visitors since 1975. What sets it apart from your typical city park? It’s the perfect blend of authentic railroad history and modern family entertainment. Think of it as a time machine that transports you to the golden age of railroads while providing contemporary amenities that keep everyone comfortable and engaged.
The park serves as a living museum where the romance of the railroad era comes alive. You’re not just observing history here – you’re participating in it. From the moment you hear the whistle blow, you’ll understand why this place holds such a special spot in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
A Brief History of the Park
The story of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park begins with a vision shared by two remarkable men: Fowler McCormick and Guy Stillman. McCormick, grandson of Cyrus McCormick (inventor of the reaping machine), was passionate about preserving railroad heritage. Stillman, a Scottsdale resident and railroad enthusiast, shared this vision.
In 1967, McCormick donated his collection of railroad cars and equipment to the city of Scottsdale. This generous gift included a 1928 Baldwin steam locomotive and several vintage railroad cars. The park officially opened its doors in 1975, creating a unique space where families could experience railroad history firsthand.
Over the decades, the park has evolved and expanded while maintaining its core mission: preserving railroad heritage and providing educational entertainment for all ages. Today, it stands as one of Arizona’s most beloved family attractions, welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually.
Location and Accessibility
Located at 7301 East Indian Bend Road in Scottsdale, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park enjoys a prime position that’s easily accessible from anywhere in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The park sits in the heart of Scottsdale, making it a convenient stop whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring the area.
Getting there is straightforward, with clear signage directing you from major roadways. The park provides ample parking, including designated spaces for visitors with disabilities. Public transportation options are limited, so driving remains the most practical way to reach the park.
The facility is designed with accessibility in mind. Paved pathways connect all major attractions, and the park complies with ADA requirements to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience. Whether you’re pushing a stroller, using a wheelchair, or simply prefer easier walking surfaces, you’ll find the park accommodating.
Top Attractions at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The Paradise & Pacific Railroad
The crown jewel of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is undoubtedly the Paradise & Pacific Railroad. This isn’t just a simple train ride – it’s a journey through carefully landscaped grounds that showcase the beauty of the Sonoran Desert while providing an authentic railroad experience.
The railroad features a 15-inch gauge track that winds through the park’s 30 acres. As you settle into your seat, you’ll feel the excitement building. The train’s whistle echoes across the park, signaling the start of your adventure. Children’s eyes light up, adults smile with anticipation, and everyone settles in for a delightful journey.
What makes this railroad special is its attention to detail. The trains are meticulously maintained replicas that capture the essence of historic railroading. The conductors, dressed in period-appropriate uniforms, add to the authenticity while ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Train Routes and Schedules
The Paradise & Pacific Railroad operates on a carefully planned schedule that maximizes visitor enjoyment while maintaining safety standards. Trains typically run every 15-20 minutes during peak hours, reducing wait times and keeping the excitement flowing.
The main route takes approximately 10-12 minutes to complete, winding through landscaped areas that showcase native Arizona plants and wildlife. You’ll pass by picnic areas, playgrounds, and the museum, giving you a comprehensive overview of everything the park offers.
Special longer routes are available during certain times of the year, extending the journey to include additional scenic areas. These extended trips provide more opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting, making them particularly popular with visitors who want to savor the experience.
Special Themed Train Rides
Throughout the year, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers themed train rides that add extra magic to your visit. These special events transform the regular train experience into something truly extraordinary.
The Halloween Ghost Train is particularly popular, featuring spooky decorations and costumed characters that delight children without being too frightening. During the holiday season, the Polar Express-inspired rides create a winter wonderland complete with hot chocolate and visits from Santa Claus.
Valentine’s Day brings romantic dinner trains for couples, while summer months feature sunset rides that showcase the stunning Arizona desert landscape in golden hour lighting. Each themed ride offers a unique perspective on the park and creates memories that last long after your visit ends.
The Scottsdale Railroad Museum
Step inside the Scottsdale Railroad Museum, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the rich history of American railroading. This isn’t your typical static museum – it’s an interactive experience that brings the golden age of trains to life.
The museum houses an impressive collection of railroad artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of how railroads shaped the American West. You’ll discover how the railroad industry influenced the development of Arizona and the Southwest, making it an educational experience that complements the fun.
Interactive displays allow visitors to experience what life was like during the heyday of passenger rail travel. You can explore authentic railroad cars, see how mail was sorted on moving trains, and learn about the brave men and women who worked on the railroads.
Historic Train Cars and Exhibits
The museum’s collection includes several restored railroad cars that showcase different aspects of rail travel. The Roald Amundsen Pullman car, built in 1928, represents the luxury of first-class rail travel. As you walk through its elegant interior, you can almost hear the conversations of well-dressed passengers from decades past.
The Santa Fe Railroad caboose offers a glimpse into the working life of railroad crews. Children especially enjoy climbing aboard and imagining themselves as conductors or engineers. The attention to detail in these restorations is remarkable, with period-appropriate furnishings and equipment that transport you back in time.
A replica of a 1950s railroad depot completes the museum experience. Here, you’ll find ticket windows, waiting areas, and all the accouterments of a busy train station. It’s easy to imagine the hustle and bustle of travelers waiting for their trains to arrive.
Interactive Learning Experiences
Education meets entertainment in the museum’s interactive exhibits. Children can operate model trains, learning about signals, switches, and safety procedures. These hands-on activities reinforce the educational aspects of the visit while keeping young visitors engaged.
The museum regularly hosts educational programs for school groups, scout troops, and other organizations. These programs combine historical information with interactive activities, making learning about railroad history both fun and memorable.
Special exhibits rotate throughout the year, featuring topics like women in railroading, the impact of trains on Native American communities, and the role of railroads in wartime. These changing displays ensure that repeat visitors always find something new to discover.
Allan Herschell Carousel
No visit to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is complete without a ride on the beautifully restored Allan Herschell carousel. This isn’t just any carousel – it’s a piece of American history that continues to bring joy to children and adults alike.
Built in 1950, this carousel represents the craftsmanship and artistry of a bygone era. The hand-carved horses, with their flowing manes and expressive faces, seem to come alive as the carousel turns. Each horse is unique, with its own personality and character that children love to discover.
The carousel’s music adds to the magical atmosphere. Traditional carousel melodies fill the air, creating a soundtrack that perfectly complements the visual spectacle. It’s impossible not to smile when you hear those familiar tunes and see the delight on children’s faces.
Playgrounds and Recreation Areas
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park understands that children need more than just train rides to stay entertained. That’s why the park features multiple playground areas designed for different age groups and interests.
The playgrounds incorporate railroad themes while providing modern safety features and equipment. You’ll find climbing structures shaped like locomotives, slides that resemble train cars, and swings that let children imagine they’re flying through the desert landscape.
Safety is paramount in all playground areas. The equipment meets current safety standards, and the surfaces are designed to cushion falls. Shade structures provide relief from Arizona’s intense sun, allowing children to play comfortably even during warmer months.
Age-Appropriate Play Zones
The park’s playground areas are thoughtfully divided into age-appropriate zones. Toddlers have their own dedicated area with smaller equipment designed for developing motor skills and confidence. The surfaces are softer, the structures are lower, and everything is scaled to their needs.
Older children enjoy more challenging equipment that encourages physical activity and imaginative play. Climbing structures, balance beams, and interactive panels provide opportunities for both individual and group play. The railroad theme is woven throughout, maintaining the park’s cohesive identity.
Teenagers and adults aren’t forgotten either. Exercise stations scattered throughout the park provide opportunities for fitness activities. These stations offer a way for parents to stay active while supervising their children’s play.
Picnic Areas and Facilities
Nothing beats a family picnic in a beautiful setting, and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining. Picnic tables are strategically placed throughout the park, offering both sunny and shaded options depending on your preference and the weather.
The picnic areas are well-maintained and equipped with trash receptacles to help keep the park clean. Many tables offer views of the train route, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while watching the trains go by. It’s like dinner theater, but with locomotives instead of actors.
Barbecue grills are available in designated areas for families who want to cook their own meals. These facilities are popular during cooler months when grilling becomes more comfortable. Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.
Planning Your Visit: Essential Information
Park Hours and Admission Fees
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park operates year-round, but hours vary by season to accommodate Arizona’s climate. During cooler months (October through April), the park typically opens earlier and stays open later to take advantage of pleasant weather conditions.
Summer hours are adjusted to help visitors avoid the intense midday heat. The park often opens early in the morning and may close during the hottest part of the day, reopening in the late afternoon when temperatures become more comfortable.
Admission to the park itself is free, making it accessible to families on any budget. However, individual attractions like the train rides and carousel charge modest fees. These charges help maintain the equipment and facilities while keeping costs reasonable for families.
Best Times to Visit
Timing your visit to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park can significantly impact your experience. Arizona’s desert climate means that certain times of year are more comfortable than others for outdoor activities.
The ideal visiting months are October through April when temperatures are mild and pleasant. During these months, you can comfortably spend the entire day at the park without worrying about excessive heat. This is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Summer visits require more planning but offer their own advantages. Early morning and late afternoon visits can be quite pleasant, and you’ll encounter smaller crowds. The park’s shade structures and indoor museum provide relief from the heat when needed.
Parking and Transportation
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park provides ample free parking in well-maintained lots surrounding the facility. The parking areas are clearly marked and include designated spaces for visitors with disabilities, RVs, and oversized vehicles.
During peak seasons and special events, parking can fill up quickly. Arriving early in the day ensures you’ll find a convenient parking spot close to the main entrance. Overflow parking is available during busy periods, though it may require a slightly longer walk to the park entrance.
Public transportation options to the park are limited. While some city bus routes serve the general area, they don’t provide direct service to the park. Most visitors find that driving or using ride-sharing services provides the most convenient access.
Special Events and Seasonal Activities
Holiday Celebrations
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park truly shines during holiday celebrations, transforming into a magical wonderland that captures the spirit of each season. These special events have become traditions for many local families and attract visitors from across the region.
The Halloween celebration features decorated trains, costumed characters, and spooky (but not scary) activities perfect for children. The entire park takes on a festive atmosphere with pumpkins, hay bales, and autumn decorations that create perfect photo opportunities.
Christmas brings perhaps the most spectacular transformation. The park becomes a winter wonderland with thousands of lights, holiday music, and special train rides. The Polar Express-inspired events are particularly popular, complete with hot chocolate service and visits from Santa Claus.
Birthday Parties and Group Events
Planning a memorable birthday party becomes easy at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The facility offers several party packages that include train rides, carousel rides, and access to designated party areas.
The park’s staff handles much of the party planning, allowing parents to focus on enjoying the celebration with their children. Party packages can include decorations, refreshments, and even special themed activities that tie into the railroad atmosphere.
Group events for schools, scout troops, and other organizations are welcomed and encouraged. Educational programs can be incorporated into group visits, making them both fun and instructive. Advanced reservations are required for large groups to ensure the best possible experience.
Dining and Shopping Options
Food Vendors and Concessions
While McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park encourages picnicking, it also provides convenient food options for visitors who prefer not to pack their own meals. The concession stands offer classic park fare that appeals to both children and adults.
You’ll find traditional favorites like hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and soft drinks. During special events, additional food vendors may be present, offering more diverse dining options. The quality is consistently good, and portions are generous.
Ice cream and frozen treats are particularly popular during Arizona’s warmer months. Nothing beats a cold treat after spending time in the desert sun. The concession stands also sell bottled water and sports drinks to help visitors stay hydrated.
Gift Shop and Souvenirs
The park’s gift shop offers a wonderful selection of railroad-themed merchandise and souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for a small token to remember your visit or a special gift for a train enthusiast, you’ll find options to suit every budget.
Children especially love the toy trains, engineer hats, and railroad-themed books available in the shop. These items extend the park experience beyond your visit, allowing children to continue their railroad adventures at home.
The gift shop also features locally made crafts and Arizona-themed souvenirs. These items provide a nice way to remember not just your park visit, but your time in the beautiful Scottsdale area.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
What to Bring
Preparing properly for your McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park adventure ensures you’ll have the best possible experience. Arizona’s desert climate requires some specific considerations that might be different from other destinations.
Sunscreen is absolutely essential, even during cooler months. The Arizona sun is intense, and you’ll be spending considerable time outdoors. A wide-brimmed hat provides additional protection and helps keep you comfortable throughout your visit.
Comfortable walking shoes are important since you’ll be exploring the park’s 30 acres. While paved pathways connect major attractions, some areas have natural surfaces that are easier to navigate with appropriate footwear.
Photography Guidelines
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park provides countless opportunities for memorable photographs. The combination of historic trains, beautiful desert landscaping, and happy families creates perfect conditions for capturing special moments.
The best lighting for photography occurs during the golden hours shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the harsh Arizona sun softens, creating warm, flattering light that makes everyone look their best.
While photography is encouraged throughout the park, be mindful of other visitors and follow any posted guidelines. Some areas may have restrictions during special events or busy periods to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Nearby Attractions in Scottsdale
Your visit to McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park can easily be part of a larger Scottsdale adventure. The city offers numerous attractions that complement your park experience and provide additional family entertainment options.
Old Town Scottsdale, just a short drive from the park, offers shopping, dining, and cultural attractions that showcase the area’s Western heritage. The shops and galleries feature local artisans and provide unique souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Desert Botanical Garden provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the unique plants and wildlife of the Sonoran Desert. This educational attraction pairs well with your railroad park visit, offering a different but equally engaging outdoor experience.
For families with older children, Scottsdale offers numerous hiking trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. These trails range from easy walks suitable for beginners to challenging hikes that reward visitors with spectacular desert vistas.
Conclusion
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of trains and the importance of preserving our transportation heritage. This remarkable facility offers something for everyone, combining education, entertainment, and nostalgia into an experience that creates lasting memories for families.
Whether you’re a longtime train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique family outing, the park delivers on all fronts. The authentic railroad equipment, beautifully maintained facilities, and dedicated staff work together to create an atmosphere that transports visitors to a simpler time while providing modern amenities and safety standards.
As you plan your visit to Scottsdale, make sure McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is on your itinerary. It’s more than just a park – it’s a journey through history, a celebration of American ingenuity, and a place where memories are made one train ride at a time. All aboard for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park suitable for very young children?
A: Absolutely! The park is designed with families in mind and offers attractions suitable for all ages. Toddlers will love the gentle train rides and age-appropriate playground equipment. The park provides stroller-friendly pathways and plenty of shaded areas for rest breaks.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the park?
A: Yes, outside food and beverages are welcome at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Picnic tables are available throughout the facility, and many families enjoy bringing their own meals. However, glass containers and alcoholic beverages are not permitted for safety reasons.
Q: Are pets allowed in the park?
A: While pets are generally not allowed in the park for safety and health reasons, service animals are always welcome. The park’s policy helps ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all visitors, especially young children who might be frightened by unfamiliar animals.
Q: How long should I plan to spend at the park?
A: Most families spend 3-4 hours at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, which allows time to enjoy the train rides, explore the museum, ride the carousel, and let children play on the playgrounds. During special events or if you’re planning a picnic, you might want to allow additional time.
Q: Is the park accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is fully ADA compliant. Paved pathways connect all major attractions, accessible parking is available, and the trains can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. The staff is trained to assist visitors with special needs to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.