Phoenix, Arizona, is more than just a desert oasis; it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that will leave your kids beaming with joy.
It’s no secret I am always looking for fun things to do in Phoenix with the kids. We’ve had the pleasure of experiencing so many sensory-friendly and fun activities for the entire family. From outdoor escapades to captivating indoor experiences, Phoenix has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into my list of exciting things to do with your little adventurers.
Explore the Wonders of the Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is an enchanting haven for families to explore together. Nestled within the desert landscape, this garden offers a unique and educational experience for kids. Step into a world of vibrant cacti, blooming wildflowers, and desert critters. Your kids will love the outdoor activities and hands-on exhibits that offer a close-up view of the desert’s natural beauty. The garden hosts family-oriented events, workshops, and classes throughout the year. From guided walks to creative activities, these events engage kids and parents alike. The garden also features designated areas with engaging displays, hands-on activities, and exhibits tailored to younger visitors. These spaces allow kids to explore at their own pace.
You can embark on the trails and immerse yourself in the unique and exquisite desert plants that flourish in some of the world’s hottest and driest regions.
We’ve had a great time at numerous events including Juneteenth events, Flashlight Nights, and Las Noches De Las Luminarias
Website: dbg.org |1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | (480) 941-1225
Embark on a Wild Journey at the Phoenix Zoo
The zoo is one of our favorite pastimes. With over 3,000 animals representing nearly 400 species, the Phoenix Zoo provides a diverse range of animals for children to observe and learn about. From majestic lions to playful otters, the zoo showcases animals from different parts of the world. Offering kids the chance to witness creatures they might have only read about in books.
The zoo also offers various attractions tailored to young visitors, including a petting zoo, splash pad, and interactive play areas. These features create an environment where kids can have fun while also learning about animals and nature.
The zoo often hosts family-friendly events, such as holiday-themed celebrations, nighttime zoo experiences, and educational workshops. These events provide opportunities for families to bond, enjoy the zoo in a different light, and create lasting memories. Events like Boo at the Zoo and ZooLights, the Valley’s brightest holiday tradition. The ZooLights event shines with millions of lights, a three-story Christmas tree, hundreds of glimmering lights displays, and lakeside Music-in-Motion Light Show shows.
Website: www.phoenixzoo.org | 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | (602) 286-3800
Ignite Curiosity at the Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is a fantastic outing for kids due to its captivating blend of education, hands-on exploration, and interactive exhibits. The Arizona Science Center is dedicated to promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. The center’s exhibits and programs are designed to spark children’s curiosity and inspire their interest in STEM subjects. Which are crucial for their future academic and career success.
The center is thoughtfully organized into zones that cater to different age groups, ensuring that the content is engaging and suitable for kids of all ages. This segmentation allows the whole family to explore areas that are best suited for their children’s interests and developmental stages.
The center features a planetarium and an IMAX theater that offers captivating educational experiences. Kids can embark on cosmic journeys through the stars, learn about our universe, and enjoy visually stunning documentaries that make learning feel like an adventure.
Website: www.azscience.org | 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 | (602) 716-2000
Take a Magical Ride on the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
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 Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona, is the most unique park of its kind in the country. One of the main highlights of the park is its miniature train rides. The park features a meticulously designed, fully functioning miniature railroad that offers rides around the park’s grounds. The train ride provides a scenic tour of the park, passing through tunnels, bridges, and beautiful landscapes. The park is home to a sizable indoor model railroad building that features intricate model train layouts. And a vintage carousel.
There is no admission fee to visit the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Tickets to ride the train and carousel are $3.00 each, with children two and under riding free. Entrance to the Scottsdale Railroad Museum and the Model Railroad Building is free. The park is open 363 days a year, only closing on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving.
Website: www.therailroadpark.com | 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250 | (480) 312-2312
Immerse in Creativity at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Let your kids’ imaginations run wild at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. From building forts to experimenting with art, this hands-on museum is a hub of creativity and play. The museum’s exhibits are designed to allow children to actively engage with the concepts being presented. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of various subjects, from science and technology to art and culture. The museum is designed to be a safe and controlled environment where kids can freely explore and play. Parents can feel comfortable allowing their children to interact with the exhibits without worrying about safety hazards. Parents are also encouraged to join their children in exploring the exhibits, which can create meaningful bonding moments and enhance the educational experience.
Website: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org | 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034 | (602) 253-0501
Discover the Past at the Arizona Museum of Natural History
The museum features a wide range of exhibits that cover topics such as dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, geology, paleontology, and more. The exhibits often emphasize the natural world, including Arizona’s diverse ecosystems, plants, animals, and geological formations. Kids can gain a greater appreciation for the environment and the importance of conservation.
The main attraction is Dinosaur Mountain, with animatronic dinosaurs, a 3-story indoor waterfall, and a flash flood that happens every 30 minutes. In addition to dinosaurs, there are other educational activities visitors can pan for gold, learn about volcanoes, or discover Arizona’s connections to ancient civilizations, including the Maya!
Website: www.arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org |53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201 |(480) 644-2230 |*CAC
Wander Through the Enchanted Papago Park
Papago Park is a popular outdoor recreational area located in Phoenix, Arizona. While it may not have specific attractions designed solely for kids like a children’s museum or amusement park, it still offers a range of features and activities that make it a great place for families with children.
You can hike the trails, visit Hole-in-the-Rock, and let your kids marvel at the unique geological formations that make this park a true wonder. The park has biking trails and paths suitable for families. And a small pond where kids can observe ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. It’s perfect for nature lovers!
It’s conveniently located near other family-friendly attractions in Phoenix, such as the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden. It’s a great way to plan a day of exploring multiple attractions in the area!
Website: phoenix.gov | 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 | (602) 495-5458
Let Loose at Castles N’ Coasters
This amusement park offers an array of rides that cater to various age groups and levels of excitement. Imagine starting your journey on gentle kiddie rides, then ramping up the adrenaline with spine-tingling roller coasters and exhilarating water rides. And don’t worry, young explorers have their dedicated section of the park with rides perfectly crafted for them. These delightful attractions are designed to provide a safe and enchanting experience, leaving kids with smiles that stretch as wide as the sky.
But that’s not all. For families looking to channel their inner golf pros, the 18-hole miniature golf course beckons. It’s not just a game; it’s a lively and interactive activity that brings families together for rounds of friendly competition.
Website: www.castlesncoasters.com | 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051 | (602) 997-7575
Catch a Game
Phoenix offers a variety of professional games and sporting events that you can take your kids to for a fun and memorable experience. Phoenix offers a variety of professional games and sporting events that you can take your kids to for a fun and memorable experience. Catching a baseball game at Chase Field is a classic family outing. The Arizona Diamondbacks play their home games here, and the stadium often hosts family-friendly promotions and activities during games. If your kids are basketball fans, watching a Phoenix Suns game in Downtown Phoenix at the Footprint Center can be an exciting experience. The fast-paced action and energetic atmosphere make it a great choice for family entertainment in the downtown area. During the spring, we like taking the kids to the Cactus League Spring Training games. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your kids to baseball in a more relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Make Melodies at the Musical Instrument Museum
The museum offers an array of interactive exhibits that allow kids to touch, play, and explore musical instruments from around the world. This tactile engagement sparks curiosity and encourages active learning. The “Experience” galleries offer hands-on activities like playing a gamelan or a Theremin, providing children with the opportunity to actively participate in creating music. The MIM engages multiple senses through sound, sight, and touch, enhancing kids’ cognitive development and fostering a deeper understanding of music’s impact.
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) has taken steps to accommodate visitors with sensory sensitivities and make the museum environment more inclusive. They have designated sensory-friendly times, during which the museum aims to create a quieter and more comfortable experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities. These times often include dimmed lights, reduced noise levels, and limited crowds.
Website: https://mim.org/ | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 480.478.6000
Wildlife World Zoo
The zoo provides a chance for kids to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals from around the world. From feeding giraffes to petting farm animals, these interactions create memorable moments of connection and learning. The addition of a safari park allows kids to embark on exciting wildlife tours. They can observe animals in settings resembling their natural habitats, offering an immersive experience that sparks curiosity. In addition to the zoo, the aquarium provides a captivating underwater world where kids can discover marine life, learn about ocean ecosystems, and even touch some aquatic animals.
Website: www.wildlifeworld.com |16501 W Northern Ave, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 | (623) 935-9453
Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Situated within the picturesque Encanto Park, it provides a beautiful and natural setting for family outings and fun. Enchanted Island is designed to be a safe and family-friendly environment where parents can feel comfortable letting their kids explore and have fun. The park features a variety of rides suitable for kids of different ages. These may include classic amusement park rides such as a carousel, a train ride, a kiddie roller coaster, a mini Ferris wheel, and more. The park includes play areas with features like climbing structures, slides, and interactive water play elements, creating opportunities for physical activity and imaginative play.
One of the best things about Enchanted Island is its boat rentals. Families can rent pedal boats and take a leisurely ride on the park’s lagoon, enjoying scenic views and a relaxing experience.
Encanto Park, where Enchanted Island is located, provides ample picnic areas where families can enjoy outdoor meals and relaxation.
Website: https://www.enchantedisland.com |1202 W. Encanto Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85007 | 602-254-1200
Goldfield Ghost town
Goldfield Ghost Town is a historic tourist attraction located near the Superstition Mountains in Apache Junction, Arizona. The Ghost Town is built on the site of a former gold mining town that boomed in the late 1800s. The town’s buildings, structures, and decor aim to capture the essence of the Old West during the gold rush era. Many of the buildings in Goldfield Ghost Town are original structures that have been preserved, restored, or reconstructed to reflect the historical period. Visitors can explore saloons, a general store, a jail, and more.
Goldfield Ghost Town offers a blend of history, entertainment, and nostalgia. It provides a unique experience for visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era. It’s a destination where learning about the past is engaging, and where the allure of the Old West comes to life in a desert landscape.
Website: http://goldfieldghosttown.com/ | 4650 N. Mammoth Mine Rd. Apache Junction, AZ 85119 | (480) 983-0333
Taliesin West
Experience a side of Scottsdale and the Sonoran Desert unlike any other by exploring Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and desert laboratory. Taliesin West is a unique architectural gem designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Exploring its innovative design, organic integration with the desert landscape, and use of natural materials can be an inspiring and educational experience for kids. The site offers guided tours that are engaging for all ages. Expert guides share stories and insights about Wright’s creative process, design philosophy, and the history of Taliesin West.
Some of the youth and family programs include Girl Scout Programs, ABC Story Hour: Architecture, Books, and Crafts. Taliesin West will offer a STEAM-based story and craft hour, FREE of charge for the youngest visitors and their parents or guardians. This program is taught in the outdoor classroom so that children can be inspired by the same Sonoran Desert landscape that sparked Frank Lloyd Wright’s imagination 80 years ago. The selected book and activity each month will be geared toward children aged 4-8. Homeschool Explorations, Kids will explore nature, science, engineering, the arts, and architecture at Taliesin West! Each lesson focuses on a new concept, and every activity takes inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, the Sonoran Desert, and the wonderful World Heritage Site, Taliesin West. Each class will be taught outside in a partially shaded area.
Website: franklloydwright.org |12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259 | (480) 627-5398
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona is the ultimate indoor LEGO® playground, ideal for families with children between the ages of 3-10. With 2 indoor rides, a 4D Cinema, multiple LEGO building areas, and a MINILAND, it’s the ultimate destination for LEGO creativity and fun! Miniland is a detailed miniature cityscape built entirely out of LEGO bricks, showcasing iconic landmarks and scenes from Arizona and beyond.
Website: www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com | 5000 Arizona Mills Circle, STE 135, Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 565-7072
Jake’s Unlimited
Jake’s Unlimited offers a diverse array of attractions under one roof, including arcade games, bowling, laser tag, mini-golf, go-karts, bumper cars, and more. This variety ensures that visitors of all ages can find something that appeals to them. The complex features a large arcade with a wide selection of video games and ticket redemption games. Visitors can win tickets in exchange for prizes. Jake’s Unlimited has a modern bowling alley with lanes suitable for both casual and competitive bowling experiences. The laser tag arena provides an immersive experience where players engage in laser tag battles, using strategy and teamwork to outscore their opponents.
We actually love Jake’s so much we had our son’s birthday party there! I should also mention they have a really great buffet that’s included with admission. It’s the perfect place for the entire family.
Website: www.jakesunlimited.com | 1830 E Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ 85204 | (480) 926-7499
Odysea Aquarium
OdySea Aquarium is a popular family-friendly attraction located in Scottsdale, Arizona. It’s the largest aquarium in the Southwest United States and offers a captivating underwater journey that showcases a diverse range of marine life from around the world. OdySea Aquarium isn’t your run-of-the-mill place, though. It’s like an awesome mix of fun and education all rolled into one. Imagine theme-park-style fun meeting super cool aquatic life presentations that’ll have you hooked.
The Aquarium features more than 65 exhibits, 370 species, the world’s only Russian Sturgeon touch exhibit as well as 2 Stingray touch exhibits and a tide touch pool! OdySea is also home to Voyager, where guests take their seats in a stadium-seating style theatre with 46 ft. viewing windows for the “world’s only revolving aquarium experience. Additional interactive activities include SeaTREK® underwater walking, fun & engaging Penguin & Sloth Encounter programs, walk-about “Animal Ambassadors”, and Question & Answer sessions with the Animal Care specialists.
Website: www.odyseaaquarium.com | 9500 E Via De Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256 | (480) 291-8000 | *CAC
Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland is located at Arizona Boardwalk, Scottsdale’s one-of-a-kind entertainment destination that features nine marquee attractions. Creating a mesmerizing tropical rainforest haven, the magnificent glass conservatory welcomes thousands of butterflies from across the globe to flutter freely. To set the stage before guests step into this paradise, a captivating 3D movie unfolds the incredible journey of the monarch butterfly. Following that, a tour guides visitors through the Emergence Gallery, offering an up-close encounter with live chrysalis as they transform into exquisite butterflies.
That’s not all – alongside the graceful butterflies, the experience extends to other rainforest inhabitants. The Spineless Giants Gallery showcases insects and spiders, while the Tropical Waters Gallery reveals an array of vibrant and exotic fish. Additionally, the Rainforest Reptiles Gallery introduces guests to unique reptiles and amphibians.
Butterfly Wonderland awaits you daily from 9 a.m., and you’re more than welcome to bring your cameras along for the journey. Get ready for an adventure that’ll leave you captivated by the wonders of nature!
Website: https://butterflywonderland.com/ | 9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256 | 480.800.3000 | *CAC
Idea Museum
The museum is one of the best places for kids because it’s all about hands-on learning experiences. It offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that engage children’s curiosity and encourage them to explore, experiment, and discover concepts in science, art, and technology in a fun and engaging way. The IDEA Museum nurtures children’s creativity and imagination through its art-focused exhibits. Kids can engage in open-ended art projects, experiment with various art mediums, and express themselves in a supportive environment that values their individuality. The museum seamlessly blends art and science, providing a holistic learning experience that appeals to different interests.
The IDEA Museum often hosts special events, workshops, and programs that cater to different themes and interests. These events can offer unique experiences and opportunities for deeper engagement. And while kids are having a blast, they’re also absorbing important educational concepts.
Website: ideamuseum.org |150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201 | (480) 644-2468 | *CAC
Golfland Sunsplash
Sunsplash Water Park provides a variety of water-based attractions, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas. It’s a perfect destination for families looking to cool off and have fun during the warmer months. Golfland offers various mini-golf courses with creative themes and challenges. It’s a classic family activity that combines skill and enjoyment for all ages.
Golfland Sunsplash is a popular destination for hosting birthday parties, corporate events, and group outings. And it’s probably because of the laser tag, bumper cars, race cars, and bumper cars.
Website: golfland.com |155 W Hampton Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210 | (480) 834-8319
Hurricane Harbor
Hurricane Harbor Phoenix typically operates during the warmer months, usually from spring to early fall. Overall, Hurricane Harbor Phoenix provides a fun and refreshing way to beat the Arizona heat, offering a variety of water attractions for individuals, families, and groups to enjoy together. Whether you’re seeking high-speed thrills, family-friendly activities, or a place to relax, the water park offers something for everyone looking to make a splash.
There are designated kid-friendly zones for the youngest visitors, featuring smaller slides, splash pads, and gentle water activities suitable for toddlers and young children. A massive wave pool where visitors can enjoy simulated ocean waves and swim in a safe, controlled environment. A relaxing lazy river ride where guests can float along on tubes, soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenic views.
Website: www.sixflags.com | 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310 | (623) 201-2000
Desert Breeze Railroad
The Desert Breeze Railroad features a mini train that takes passengers on a delightful journey around Desert Breeze Park. The train is designed to resemble a classic locomotive and offers open-air coaches, allowing riders to enjoy the breeze and the picturesque views of the park. The train ride offers a unique perspective of Desert Breeze Park’s natural beauty. Passengers can enjoy views of grassy play areas, scenic landscaping, tranquil lakes, and more as they travel along the train’s route.
The train follows a scenic three-quarter mile loop that winds through the park’s well-maintained pathways. This loop takes passengers on a leisurely trip, allowing them to take in the sights and sounds of the park at a relaxed pace. The Desert Breeze Railroad is a popular attraction for families with young children. Kids often find the train ride to be an exciting adventure, making it a great activity for family outings, weekends, and special occasions.
Website: http://www.desertbreezerr.com/train | 660 N. Desert Breeze Blvd. East Chandler, AZ 85226 | 480-782-2752
Cockpit Close-Up!
Falcon Field Airport is a public airport located in Mesa, Arizona. It’s known for its aviation-related activities, including flight training, aircraft maintenance, and various events. “Cockpit Close Up” is an aviation event that takes place at Falcon Field Airport. It allows attendees to get up close to aircraft and their cockpits.
The “Cockpit Close Up” event at Falcon Field Airport is an aviation-themed event where attendees, especially aviation enthusiasts and families, have the opportunity to explore aircraft up close and even sit in the cockpit of various planes and helicopters. These events are organized to promote aviation education, showcase historic aircraft, and provide a unique hands-on experience for attendees.
We are an aviation family so events like these are great for our kids. Cockpit Close-Up events are often family-friendly, offering a unique and educational experience for children and adults alike. It’s a chance for kids to learn about aviation, explore aircraft, and interact with professionals in the field. The event might feature a variety of aircraft, ranging from small general aviation planes to vintage military aircraft and helicopters. These aircraft are typically parked on the tarmac for attendees to view.
Website: https://www.falconfieldairport.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/14144/2302 | 4800 E. Falcon Drive Mesa, Arizona 85215 | 480-644-2450
Are any of the things to do in Phoenix sensory-friendly?
You will notice on my list I have some items marked *CAC. This stands for Certified Autism Center. A certified autism center is an establishment that has undergone specialized training and certification to ensure that it is equipped to effectively serve individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their families. This certification is typically provided by an organization or entity that specializes in autism awareness, education, and advocacy. The goal of becoming a certified autism center is to create an inclusive and supportive environment. An environment that accommodates the unique needs and sensitivities of individuals with autism.
You can read more about what an Autism Certified City is HERE.
Is there anything fun to do in Phoenix?
Whether you’re exploring the desert’s natural beauty, immersing in science wonders, or enjoying thrilling adventures. Phoenix has an array of activities that promise endless family fun. With these exciting options at your fingertips, your kids are in for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Arizona’s vibrant city. Get ready to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime!
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