Scottsdale Quarter is a great place to hang out even if you only window shop and skip out on the expensive restaurants. I usually have my little one in tow with me so I come here to get some fresh air. First off, hey Mommys out there, this place has 2 amazing family restrooms! Both are equipped with a nursing area with low lighting, changing station and separate toilet. They are always clean, so it's actually a pleasant experience if you have to change a diaper etc.
I find the fountain area to be peaceful and like to watch the kiddos running around in the water. If your looking for a less expensive place to eat here try out the new C3 Kitchen. I have grabbed lunch here many times for around $8.
My favorite restaurant here has to be True Food Kitchen and Press for coffee.
I agree that the parking is awful, but I'm the sort who will drive around until I find a spot, which is probably a complete waste of time because they have 2 parking garages, but I do it anyways.