Scottsdale’s OdySea in the Desert Complex Has Been Renamed

The Scottsdale entertainment complex of OdySea Aquarium has a new name and soon will be home to several new attractions.

OdySea in the Desert, located just off the Loop 101 Pima Freeway and Via de Ventura, will become Arizona Boardwalk effective immediately, officials announced Thursday.

Ran Knishinsky, the complex’s chief marketing officer, said in a press release that the name change was made in part to eliminate confusion about the OdySea Aquarium being its only attraction.

OdySea Aquarium will not be changing its name as part of the adjustment, Knishinsky said.

“The name Arizona Boardwalk is reminiscent of family-fun, adventure and excitement – and helps set the stage of what to expect in this type of destination,” Knishinsky said in the release. “The new name allows us to showcase our wide-ranging entertainment options and special events.”

The 35-acre complex — home to several attractions, restaurants, shopping options, and special events — will also be adding some new features in the near future.

A 155-room Hyatt Place Hotel will be built on the property and will break ground in May, according to the release.

The complex will also soon be home to an inflatable that spans more than 10,000 square feet and has giant obstacle courses, pop-ups and mazes.

In late March, the VR Xtreme virtual reality exhibit will arrive with 24 experiences ranging from driving skills to a roller coaster ride.

The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Not interactive exhibit filled with oddities will make a stop in late 2020.

Arizona Boardwalk is hosting an event over President’s Day Weekend to commemorate the name change and new features. It runs through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Click here for more information on Arizona Boardwalk.