I was looking for some great ideas for my family (my husband, me, our 22-year-old daughter, and 18-year-old son. Maybe some horseback riding, hiking, and a pool? An Old West town? What do you recommend? We are on a budget! A car show?

I have lived both in North Scotsdale and "old" Scottsdale and there are a million things to do here.  It sure does depend on what time of year you plan to come.  Some of our 5 star resorts have excellent "deals" in the summer although the summer heat can be "really hot"...everything is air conditioned here along with misters on the patios of most restaurants.  If you're on a budget that is probably your best time to come.  In North Scottsdale we have Keirland Commons which is a fun shopping (especially window shopping) experience.  In old Scottsdale we have one of the best Malls in the country Fashion Square Mall...has a great food court, etc.  Old town Scottsdale is great for shopping (and restaurants) and does have that "old westen feel" even though we're in the middle of a city!!  They also have a trolley that shuttles between several hotels, Old Town shopping and Fashion Square.  I'm not personally familiar with the horse back riding any more, here, but there are plenty of places to do a horse back ride...just get online and check it out!  We still have some beautiful desert areas for riding.  South of Phoenix down I-10 is "Rawhide Western Town"...that is always fun and there is also, in another area of the property a Casino..IF you are into that, there are several Casino's on the Indian Reservations on the East side of Scottsdale. Jan, Feb, March and April are the"spendiest" months for Scottsdale.  It's what we call the "in Season".  I sure hope I have helped some.  I'm headed to TN for 2 weeks but would be happy to help with any questions you may have.  Feel free to e-mail me after 1 Feb.  :)