When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
MacDonald's Ranch
Why MacDonald's Ranch is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nestled on 1,280 acres of the pristine Sonoran Desert in Scottsdale, Arizona, MacDonald's Ranch stands out as a cherished destination for horseback riding and authentic western experiences. Since its establishment as Old MacDonald's Farm in 1970, it has blossomed into a premier adventure operation offering a wide range of activities tailored for families, corporate groups, and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy guided horseback rides across tranquil desert landscapes, scenic hayrides, and historic stagecoach tours. The ranch accommodates guests of all ages, with special features such as a petting zoo, children's play areas, and old west games, making it an ideal meetup spot for families and friends seeking both fun and a taste of western heritage. Guests can also reserve Cowboy Cookouts during the cooler months, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience with a classic cowboy meal under the desert sky. The friendly and professional wranglers and guides, many of whom have years of expertise, ensure safety and personalized service for all visitors. Strategically located just minutes from major Valley resorts, hotels, and airports, MacDonald's Ranch combines convenience with the rustic charm of the Old West, making it a memorable gathering place for small parties, large groups, and corporate events.
Here's what people think of MacDonald's Ranch
As of recent, MacDonald's Ranch holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1124 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise MacDonald's Ranch for its authentic western ambiance, attentive staff, and the peaceful beauty of its desert setting. Positive reviews often highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides who make horseback riding enjoyable and safe for riders of all experience levels. Families appreciate the child-friendly attractions such as the petting zoo and play areas, while group and corporate events frequently receive commendation for seamless organization and customization. Many guests express delight at the cowboy cookouts, describing them as nostalgic and delicious, adding a unique complement to the outdoor experience. Additionally, the ranch's setting in the Sonoran Desert offers breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere, which reviewers find rejuvenating. On the other hand, some negative remarks include occasional limited availability during peak seasons requiring advance booking, and a few commenters note that the pricing is higher compared to simpler horseback riding venues, though most acknowledge the value provided. Some also mention closure on certain weekdays and holidays, which potential visitors should consider when planning. Overall, reviews convey a strong appreciation of MacDonald's Ranch as a special place to experience Scottsdale's western heritage with family and friends in a safe, picturesque environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lidia S
This was our second visit to McDonald’s Ranch, and we absolutely love it! The scenery is breathtaking, making for a beautiful and peaceful ride through the desert. The horses are incredibly well-trained, making it an enjoyable experience for riders of all skill levels. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do. Our guide, Lauren, was amazing—so sweet, knowledgeable, and made our ride an absolute delight. She ensured we were comfortable and made the experience even more enjoyable with her kind and positive attitude. If you’re looking for a fantastic horseback riding experience in Arizona, McDonald’s Ranch is the place to go. We can’t wait to come back!
Rob Jacklin
The family did the sunset trail ride and had a good time. From beginner to expert, the staff was easy to work with and very knowledgeable. Can't speak to the other activities they have on the ranch, but the trail ride was fun and worth the time.
Clare Lees
Amazing spot to enjoy the desert and the beautiful horses. Andrew and Kyle were amazing guides and went above and beyond to help and talk to the littles ones so much, which gave them so much courage to ride the horses. I would love to go on a sunset tour or enjoy the cowboy dinner. The morning trail ride was an awesome experience for out of towners ☀️
Joey Photo
This is a must experience, not fast pace but really nice horses and team that manage. Lots of horses.?the one hour tour is more than enough due to horses walking slow. Very nice for a family as well. Great nature scenery as well
Ellis Wylie
As a horse owner, I’m kind of a snob when it comes to trail outfits when I’m traveling, and these guys passed muster! Horses are fit, clean, and well cared for. Staff are friendly, the trails are beautiful, and I think I saw more wildlife on this ride than I have on any other ride I’ve had in my life.
How to reach MacDonald's Ranch
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Why MacDonald's Ranch may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at MacDonald’s Ranch with your friends? Because it offers an authentic Western adventure set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, making it the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones. With a stellar 4.7-star rating based on over 1,100 reviews, MacDonald’s Ranch combines scenic beauty, a wide variety of engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere that suits every age and interest. Whether you crave the thrill of horseback riding, the charm of old-west games, or simply want to relax together around a cowboy cookout, this ranch creates a unique environment that brings people together naturally. Its location just minutes from Scottsdale’s hotels and resorts makes it easily accessible while still feeling like a remote escape into nature and history. The staff are highly experienced wranglers and guides, ensuring safety and personalized service, so your group can focus on bonding and having fun without worries. For anyone looking to host a meetup, family gathering, or casual hangout that’s both fun and memorable, MacDonald’s Ranch provides an unbeatable blend of rustic adventure and modern convenience.
What activities are available at MacDonald’s Ranch and why are they ideal for group meetups? The ranch spans 1,280 acres of pristine desert and caters to small parties, large groups, and corporate events alike. The highlight is, of course, the horseback rides, which are guided by professional wranglers who tailor the experience to riders’ skill levels. Group horseback riding offers a shared adventure that’s both exciting and immersive, perfect for bonding as you explore beautiful desert trails together. In addition, visitors can enjoy stagecoach rides, a nostalgic experience that transports participants back to the Old West era. These rides can comfortably accommodate multiple guests, making them a social and scenic group activity. For a more relaxed, fun vibe, the ranch offers hayrides, great for families or friends who want to enjoy the outdoors without strenuous activity. Groups can also reserve cowboy cookouts, which are specially organized dining experiences held from November through May where friends and family gather around campfires to enjoy hearty Western meals, enhancing camaraderie and creating a festive atmosphere. The ranch’s various old west games and kid-friendly areas such as the petting zoo and play zones ensure that visitors of all ages stay entertained, broadening its appeal for mixed-age groups.
Is MacDonald’s Ranch family-friendly and what amenities support group comfort? Absolutely. The ranch has been a beloved family destination since its public opening in 1970 and goes to great lengths to accommodate families and groups with children. The kid-friendly activities include a petting zoo where children can interact safely with animals and various yard games like Jenga, Connect 4, horseshoes, and cornhole that invite friendly competition among all guests. The ranch’s pumpkin patch during the fall season adds a festive twist with offerings like carnival games, hay-bale climbs, gold panning, and pony rides, creating an engaging environment for children and adults alike. The spaciousness of the ranch allows for picnic areas that can be reserved for private events or casual group meetups. The staff is known for customizing amenities and services to fit the group's unique needs, whether that’s a casual gathering, birthday party, or corporate retreat. Parking availability and accessibility are additional conveniences that ease planning for large groups. Importantly, the ranch maintains a no-pets policy to ensure safety and clean play areas, which is an important consideration for families. Although MacDonald’s Ranch does not provide on-site food year-round unless booked for events, it offers nearby dining recommendations, encouraging groups to extend their experience before or after visiting.
How does MacDonald’s Ranch accommodate special occasions and private events? The ranch is expertly equipped to serve as a venue for a wide range of private occasions, from corporate gatherings to family reunions and celebrations. Their team of professional wranglers and event coordinators customizes services to accommodate groups large or small, tailoring activities and amenities to the specific needs of the party. A popular option is the Cowboy Cookout events, which bring the western experience to life with traditional cowboy meals shared around bonfires under the desert sky—a unique way to host a festive get-together. The ranch also offers private horseback and stagecoach tours reserved exclusively for your group, providing a more intimate and personalized adventure. Indoor and outdoor spaces can be arranged for games, socializing, or dining, making MacDonald’s Ranch flexible for varying event formats. The picturesque desert and western scenery also provide a perfect backdrop for photoshoots, ideal for milestone celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or even weddings. With careful reservation coordination to avoid conflicts with public events, the ranch ensures privacy, comfort, and a memorable experience tailored to your gathering.
What makes the location of MacDonald’s Ranch convenient yet uniquely appealing? Situated just north of Phoenix in Scottsdale, Arizona, MacDonald’s Ranch enjoys a location that combines ease of access with a feeling of desert escape. Guests staying in Valley resorts, hotels, or flying into nearby airports can reach the ranch within minutes, making last-minute plans and group coordination simple. Despite its proximity to urban amenities, the ranch’s 1,280 acres of Sonoran Desert offer a stark contrast to city life, immersing visitors in expansive, pristine natural surroundings. This balance lets groups enjoy a peaceful retreat without a long commute, which is especially beneficial for time-constrained workshops or family getaways. The desert environment is vibrant and photogenic year-round, offering stunning sunrises, sunsets, and unique flora and fauna that enrich the overall experience. Whether your group is interested in adventure, nature, or just a tranquil setting to reconnect, MacDonald’s Ranch’s location makes it a practical and captivating destination all year.
What are the operating hours and seasonal considerations that groups should know? MacDonald’s Ranch has carefully structured hours that align with seasonal weather patterns to maximize visitor comfort and safety. During the cooler months of fall, from October through December, it is open from 9 am to 5 pm, closed on Tuesdays and some holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. Summer hours are more limited, generally open early morning from 7 am to 10 am and evenings from 5 pm to 7 pm to avoid the midday desert heat, with closures on Mondays and Tuesdays. It is important for groups to check availability in advance, especially if planning popular activities like horseback or stagecoach rides which require reservations due to limited capacity. The famous Pumpkin Patch and expanded activity lineup happen only seasonally in October and includes a nominal entry fee — perfect for festive group outings. Outside of these times, the ranch keeps to a simpler activity roster, which still includes guided tours, the petting zoo, and yard games. This seasonal approach allows the ranch to provide optimal experiences year-round while ensuring groups remain comfortable and safe.
Why should your next meetup be planned at MacDonald’s Ranch? MacDonald’s Ranch uniquely blends adventure, natural beauty, and old-west charm into one accessible and family-friendly destination that appeals to a broad range of interests and group sizes. Its high-quality guided horseback and stagecoach rides create memorable shared experiences, while its array of games and interactive activities ensures none of your group members—including children—feel left out. The staff’s professionalism and willingness to customize events mean your meetup can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want. Its location near Scottsdale’s hospitality hubs means convenience without compromising the feeling of an authentic desert escape. Finally, the ranch’s 4.7-star rating and extensive positive reviews testify to the consistent satisfaction it delivers, making it a trusted and beloved spot for gatherings. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a corporate retreat, or just a fun day out with friends, MacDonald’s Ranch offers the full spectrum of activities and atmosphere to energize, entertain, and connect your group.