Many people who live in Northern Scottsdale AZ and drive up and down Scottsdale Road frequently are probably accustomed to seeing MacDonald’s Ranch on the side of the road – but have never visited.
I think that we all forget that beyond the shoulder of the road are the original ranches and farms that cover large areas of the desert. Over the last two years I’ve visited Mac Donald's Ranch multiple times to take little ones over for a pony ride, to visit the petting zoo and to even “dig” in a ";mine"; for precious stones. We also hosted a two year old's birthday party there with a BBQ and a singing cowboy.
The owner hosts are always congenial and it’s a very laid back atmosphere. For the older folks, there are trail rides that can be booked in advance and you have the chance to ride throughout the 1,200 acre ranch and enjoy the Sonoran desert.
This time of year is very exciting at Mac Donald's Ranch. The annual Halloween celebration is in full-force.
The petting zoo features the little pig, Charlotte along with her son, Jimmy Dean. My favorites are the miniature pony named Chocolate, and Pete and Repeat, the miniature donkeys. Pony rides are available at no charge, but don’t forget a nice tip for the Wrangler that walks the horse for your little one.
After spending some time in the main area, jump aboard the hay wagon and head out to the hay maze. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick out your very own pumpkin (priced from $3 to $12) to take home and carve.
Once you visit Mac Donald’s Ranch once, you will surely put it on your list of places to visit throughout the year. They always have something going on and the petting zoo residents change often.
During the Halloween celebration, there is an admission fee of $7 per person, but feel free to bring your picnic lunch and spend some time under the shade trees watching all of the activities around you.
Mac Donald's Ranch
26540 N Scottsdale Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 585-0239
www.macdonaldsranch.com
Comments(0)