Visit McCormick Stillman Railroad Park
Scottsdale's Place for Train Buffs and Family Fun
Feb 26, 2009
The western United States, once an untamed wilderness, was largely settled after the railroad was built through the rugged mountainous terrain. In Scottsdale, Arizona, the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers an opportunity to relive the early days of life on the Wild West frontier with an informative railroad museum and authentic small scale train to ride. Originally part of the McCormick Ranch, this 30 acre scenic park was donated to the city of Scottsdale for everyone to enjoy.
The McCormick’s son, Guy Stillman, built a 15” gauge narrow gauge railroad replica that is one of the main attractions of the park. Children and adults take a train ride through the grassy parklands and reminisce about the Old West railroad days. With shaded picnic areas, playgrounds and museums, a family could easily spend an afternoon enjoying the many activities.
Things to Do
The Paradise and Pacific Railroad travels on a one mile track throughout the park. The nostalgic trip passes trestles, water tanks and model cars that add to the old time atmosphere. Steam locomotives and diesel engines carry riders on a relaxing and scenic trip that also provides an overview of the other attractions in the park.
One of the best examples of antique carousels in the country, the Scottsdale Charro Carousel thrills children who enjoy riding on a beautifully detailed painted horse or chariot. The carousel is registered with the National Carousel Association and adds colorful charm to the park.
Several original railroad engines and Pullman cars are situated on the property and are fun places for both children and adult train buffs to explore. The Railroad Museum is located in one of the original dining cars built by the Pullman Co. for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. Extensive railroad memorabilia is housed in the Baggage Car Museum. Several local railroad clubs, including the Scottsdale Model Railroad Club, actively participate in miniature railroad collections and allow visitors to view the scaled reproductions in the historic McCormick Ranch Bunkhouse.
Keeping with the theme of an earlier America, Hartley’s General Store sells hand dipped ice cream, sodas and snacks. Several covered picnic areas are open to the public or may be reserved for larger groups. There are a variety of well equipped playgrounds to keep all ages of children busy.
Hours and Prices
The park is open all year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. In the winter, spring and fall seasons the train runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The summer months train schedule starts at 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a break until 4:00 p.m. and then begins again until 9:00 p.m. Viewing hours of the railroad clubs vary, information can be found by calling the park at (480) 312-2312.
Admission to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is free. Tickets for the train ride are $1.00 each and children under 3 years old are free with an adult.
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park provides a relaxing and entertaining place to reminisce about earlier days on the railroads and to enjoy a peaceful day in Scottsdale.
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