McCormick Ranch
Considered by many to be one of the largest planned community developments in the country, McCormick Ranch is a model for mixed-use development. Encompassing approximately seven square miles of prime real estate in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, McCormick Ranch was once the site of one of Scottsdale's last big Arabian horse ranches.
Flattered by a just-right hint of California décor and design ambience, the homes in McCormick Ranch boast lush grass, tall towering trees and mature shrubbery. Styles range from beautiful single-family homes to luxury estates to gorgeous waterfront properties nestled next to one of the seven man-made lakes scattered throughout the community. In addition, McCormick Ranch is home to golf course villas, town-homes, condominiums, and patio homes...in other words, truly something for everyone and every lifestyle.
Today, McCormick Ranch is home to around 27,000 people, with 67 subdivisions, 10 gorgeous lakes and more extraordinary views than one could possible count. McCormick Ranch is characterized by green grass, 25 miles of bicycle paths, pedestrian pathways that are separated from vehicles, countless outdoor activities and, most of all, a welcoming community. In addition to homes, the Ranch contains a large variety of commercial properties and small businesses, implemented in the master plan to provide residents with all the amenities desired in community living. It is home to eight shopping centers, seven places of worship, two hotels, one wonderful medical center and a post office, all throughout the beautiful area. Most importantly, McCormick Ranch is the product of careful planning and 40 years of history.
Source: McCormick Ranch Property Owners' Association
McCormick Ranch Amenities
Golfers love McCormick Ranch Golf Club because it has two 18-hole golf courses that mirror the landscape of many of the community's homes – lush tree-lined fairways and a wealth of emerald-green grass. Both courses were designed by Desmond Muirhead and as its name implies, the Palm Course is graced with lots of soaring palm trees. The Pine Course is host to numerous mature pine trees that remind many residents of the Midwest. One of the favorite holes on this course is number 15, which is McCormick Ranch's number-one handicap hole, featuring an island fairway and green. Expert's advice: Aim your shot with just the right amount of power, because any shot over the green will find the water.
McCormick Ranch has several shopping centers within walking distance of most homes: The Borgata of Scottsdale, Scottsdale Fashion Square, the Scottsdale Seville, Paseo Village Shopping Center and Mountain View Plaza.
Winding alongside luxuriant Indian Bend Wash Greenbelts, some 25 miles of bicycle paths are a much-loved part of McCormick Ranch, so taking a leisurely ride, walk, or stroll through the community is always a pleasure, especially when it features more than 24 grade-separated crossings, meaning users can avoid major cross traffic. If boating and/or fishing is what you like, then you'll enjoy some of the ten fully stocked lakes that have become a signature characteristic of the community. A number of homes snuggled around these lakes even enjoy private boat docks for easy access to and from the water.
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is operated by the city of Scottsdale's Parks & Recreation Department. The 30-acre park, located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, is the most unique park of its kind in the country. Take a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and the 1950-vintage Allan Herschell carousel. Visit a variety of shops and museums, play on one-of-a-kind playgrounds, or just relax in the grass under a tree in one of Scottsdale's most beautiful parks.
There are many resorts showcasing high class casinos and spas within and around McCormick Ranch. Two featured AAA Four Diamond resorts in the community are Talking Stick Resort and Casino and The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, and are just two of many resorts in the area that were made to reflect the beauty, warmth and community spirit of the Sonoran Desert. Let your senses be pampered with fine dining, exclusive spa services, world class gaming, fitness centers, or any of each resorts' wonderful amenities.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick is the hub for baseball events and spring training facility of the Arizona Diamondback and Colorado Rockies. They also host many other large and small events throughout the year, from food festivals and concerts to corporate functions and birthday parties, Salt River Fields has something for everyone.
Butterfly Wonderland is a one-of-a-kind experience, and one of the best activities for families and visitors of all ages. It is the largest indoor butterfly pavilion in America, and should certainly top your list of "Things to do in Arizona" whether you're a tourist or a local. This amazing state-of-the art facility includes a magnificent glass atrium that provides the ideal tropical rainforest habitat where thousands of butterflies from around the world fly freely; a state-of-the-art theater for viewing the impressive and educational "Flight of the Butterflies" 3D movie; interactive nature exhibits for children, a gift shop and a café.
It is also home to the OdySea Aquarium and OdySea Mirror Maze that host a variety of adventures from Sea Trek helmet diving, touch pools, penguin interaction program, behind the scenes tours, Rainforest and Mayan Temple mirror mazes, as well as a laser maze challenge that will keep you and your family busy with hours of entertainment and delight for all ages!