Let your kids go wild at Out of Africa Wildlife Park in nearby Camp Verde, Ariz., where trolleys take you on a safari-like adventure through the habitats of more than 400 animals. Catch glimpses of lions, tigers, rhinoceros, javelina and more while drifting through the air in a hot air balloon, soaring up to 400 ft. If you prefer to stay grounded, hay rides and horseback tours are sure to satisfy your family's appetite for an untamed escapade through the wilderness. No matter which way you choose to explore the park, be sure to bring a camera! For more information call (928) 567-2840.

If you're looking for an authentic Wild West adventure, Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse at Wild Horse Pass has everything from staged shootouts to mule-drawn stagecoach rides. You can even put your own cowboy skills to the test on The Widowmaker, Rawhi de's mechanical bull, or perfect your aim at the Shootin' Gallery. Once the hands-on action wears you and your little buckaroos out, relax and enjoy a show at the Spirit of the West Theater or take in the majestic views on a desert train ride before you head to the family friendly steakhouse for traditional cowboy cuisine. For media information, contact Norma O'Loughlin at norma@rawhide.com or (480) 705-2907.

For a culturally rich experience, stroll through downtown Scottsdale's streets and take in more than 20 eye-catching public art pieces as you pass the shops where you will find treasures like Western wear and books, to gallerie s, home decor, and Southwest jewelry. Finish up the tour with a treat from Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor & Restaura nt, an old-fashioned ice cream and soda shop that has served food and fun for more than 50 years. Shakes, parfaits, malts, sundaes, pies and floats make this stop simply irresistible. As if the sugary sweets aren't enough, Sugar Bowl's arcade parlor serves scoops of excitement for your entire gang. For more information call (480) 946-0051.