Scottsdale’s Railroad Park to Get Upgrades, Including Splash Pad and Indoor Play Area
Photo and rendering courtesy of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is undergoing significant upgrades aimed at enhancing visitor experiences during the hot summer months. Construction on these new features began last month, with completion expected within a year.
The centerpiece of the $13.1 million project is The Roundhouse, a new 10,000-square-foot building that will house a train-themed indoor play structure designed like a locomotive engine and a multipurpose room. This addition is set to provide a much-needed retreat from the summer heat.
Alongside The Roundhouse, the park will see the installation of new restrooms to accommodate both the indoor facility and outdoor visitors. A 5,000-square-foot splash pad, a highly anticipated feature among regular patrons, is also in development. This new play area is designed to offer a refreshing escape for children during peak summer temperatures.
Further enhancements include a revamped entry plaza adjacent to Stillman Station, complete with seating areas, vibrant plantings, and public art. The park will also receive upgrades to pathways, exterior lighting, and landscaping, which aim to improve overall accessibility and enjoyment.
Funding for these improvements draws from multiple sources. A significant portion is covered by a 2019 bond measure approved by Scottsdale voters, specifically allocated for adding a splash pad and improving park walkways. Additional financial support is provided by the Scottsdale Railroad & Mechanical Society, the park’s nonprofit partner, which is purchasing the indoor play structure. The remainder of the funding comes from the city’s general fund, park revenues, and tourism funds.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, known for generating about $2.5 million in annual revenue, continues to be a flagship attraction in Scottsdale. For more information, visit scottsdaleaz.gov.
Cave Creek Museum to Host Stamp Mill Sundae Ice Cream Social
The Cave Creek Museum is set to conclude its 2023-24 season with a Stamp Mill Sundae Ice Cream Social on Friday, May 31. Open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the museum invites visitors to join in on a day filled with engaging activities and a sweet tribute to the museum’s dedicated volunteers.
From 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., the museum will honor the hard work and dedication of its volunteers with a special recognition ceremony.
Attendees can indulge in a gold slurry ice cream with a caramel topping, dusted with edible elements inspired by the Sonoran Desert. It’s a flavorful homage to the rich mining history of Cave Creek’s historic district and an inventive way to cap off the season.
The museum, with a storied 53-year history, stands as a custodian of the region’s cultural heritage, spotlighting the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education and exhibits.
The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Dr., in Cave Creek. To be a part of the closing day festivities, RSVP to [email protected]. For more information, visit cavecreekmuseum.org.
Kierland Commons Presents May Music Series
Photo courtesy of Kierland Commons
The May Music Series returns to Kierland Commons this month. Set in the Center Plaza in front of Shake Shack, the series features free, live performances every Friday evening at 6 p.m.
May 3: Garth Tribute
May 10: Rock Lobster
May 17: Elton John Tribute
May 24: Jacob Morris
May 31: Common Good
Kierland Commons is located at 15210 N. Scottsdale Rd., in Scottsdale. For more information, visit, kierlandcommons.com.
