All Aboard

Steam on over to the new-and-improved McCormick Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale

Whoo whoo! Calling all kids (and kids at heart). Today’s the day that Scottsdale’s beloved McCormick Stillman Railroad Park rolls out its new landmark $3.6M Exhibition Building. Housing interactive railroad-themed exhibits and featuring a series of sprawling, crazy-realistic model railroad displays, the building is designed to give visitors an up close look at AZ’s deep railroad roots.

Never been to the RR Park? You’re only missing out on one of the Valley’s most charming, kid-friendly gems. Here, you’ll find plenty of playgrounds, party ramadas and grassy open spaces, as well as a classic carousel ride. But the real draws are the dozens of historic railroad cars that you can explore, as well as the small-scale railroad that chugs passengers throughout the park on a one mile track. Be sure to check out the authentic steam-powered engine they roll out every Saturday and Sunday.

As for the new Exhibition Hall, this handsome, environmentally-friendly building was designed by Phoenix’s Holly Street Studio as an homage to the traditional train shed. For example, the structure’s high-tech heating and cooling systems were all hidden beneath the flooring, to give the roof that distinctive shed-like shape. Meanwhile, the light-and-airy interiors feature expansive window walls to capture views of the surrounding trains and the miniature railroad steaming past, all while staying shaded from the searing summer sun thanks to extra-deep roof overhangs. Overall, it looks like park officials really did choo-choo-choose a winner.

Hop On: 7301 E. Indian Bend Rd., 480-312-2312