What to Do with Kids in Phoenix

Fun Things to Do with Kids in Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, is a city bursting with fun and exciting activities for families. Whether you live in the area or are planning a visit, you’ll find plenty of things to keep the kids entertained. From interactive museums and thrilling outdoor adventures to unique attractions and hands-on learning experiences, Phoenix offers a variety of activities that are sure to delight children of all ages. Let’s explore some of the top-rated fun places and things to do with kids in Phoenix, Arizona.

Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a must-visit for families with kids. Spanning over 125 acres, this world-class zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, including many endangered species. The zoo is divided into several themed areas, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives of different animals.

Why Kids Love It:

• Monkey Village: One of the most popular exhibits is Monkey Village, where kids can walk through an enclosure filled with playful squirrel monkeys. The interactive nature of this exhibit makes it a hit with young visitors.
• Safari Cruiser: The Safari Cruiser is a fun way to explore the zoo’s vast grounds. This narrated tram ride provides interesting facts about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
• Children’s Trail: Designed specifically for young visitors, the Children’s Trail features a petting zoo, farm animals, and interactive play areas.
• Splash Pads: During the warmer months, kids can cool off in the zoo’s splash pads, making it a perfect destination for hot summer days.

Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center, located in downtown Phoenix, is a fantastic destination for curious minds. This hands-on science museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning fun for kids of all ages.

Why Kids Love It:

• Planetarium: The Dorrance Planetarium offers stunning shows about space and the stars, transporting kids to the far reaches of the universe.
• Forces of Nature: This exhibit lets kids experience the power of natural forces like earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic eruptions in a safe and educational environment.
• All About Me: Focused on the human body, this exhibit allows kids to learn about how their bodies work through interactive displays and activities.
• CREATE Makerspace: For older kids, the CREATE Makerspace offers a place to explore their creativity through hands-on projects in areas like robotics, 3D printing, and electronics.

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to introduce kids to the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert. Spread over 140 acres, the garden features thousands of desert plants and stunning landscape displays.

Why Kids Love It:

• Butterfly Pavilion: The seasonal Butterfly Pavilion is a magical experience where kids can walk among hundreds of fluttering butterflies. It’s an educational and enchanting experience that’s sure to captivate young minds.
• Family Nature Walks: The garden offers guided family nature walks that are perfect for learning about desert plants and wildlife. These walks are designed to be engaging and informative for kids.
• Cacti and Succulent Galleries: The variety of cacti and succulents on display is fascinating for kids, especially when they learn about the adaptations that help these plants survive in the harsh desert environment.
• Wild Rising by Cracking Art: This art installation features colorful, larger-than-life animal sculptures made from recyclable plastic. Kids love exploring the garden while discovering these whimsical creations.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona

Located in the Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, just a short drive from Phoenix, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a paradise for LEGO enthusiasts. This indoor attraction offers a variety of LEGO-themed activities and exhibits that are perfect for a day of family fun.

Why Kids Love It:

• Miniland: Miniland is a miniature version of Arizona landmarks built entirely out of LEGO bricks. Kids will be amazed by the detailed replicas of places like the Grand Canyon and downtown Phoenix.
• 4D Cinema: The 4D cinema shows LEGO-themed movies with special effects like wind, rain, and snow, providing an immersive experience that kids will love.
• LEGO Rides: The center features two interactive rides, Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, where kids can join the adventure and help save the day.
• Creative Workshops: In the Creative Workshops, kids can learn building tips and tricks from Master Model Builders and create their own LEGO masterpieces.

Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland, located in Scottsdale, is one of the largest butterfly conservatories in the United States. This indoor rainforest habitat is home to thousands of butterflies from around the world, offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Why Kids Love It:

• Butterfly Emergence Gallery: Kids can watch as butterflies emerge from their chrysalises and take their first flight. It’s a fascinating process that sparks curiosity and wonder.
• Interactive Exhibits: The exhibits at Butterfly Wonderland are designed to be engaging and educational, with opportunities to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and their role in the ecosystem.
• Rainforest Experience: The lush rainforest environment, complete with waterfalls and exotic plants, provides a sensory-rich experience that kids find enchanting.
• Aquarium and Insect Exhibits: In addition to butterflies, the facility also features exhibits with other insects, reptiles, and aquatic life, offering a well-rounded exploration of the natural world.

OdySea Aquarium

Also located in Scottsdale, OdySea Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Southwest and offers an incredible underwater adventure for families. With more than 65 exhibits and 2 million gallons of water, there’s plenty to see and do.

Why Kids Love It:

• Penguin Point: Kids can get up close with playful penguins and learn about their habits and habitats. The interactive viewing areas make it easy to observe these charming creatures.
• SeaTrek Helmet Diving: For an unforgettable experience, older kids and adults can try the SeaTrek Helmet Diving adventure, walking along the bottom of a massive aquarium tank surrounded by marine life.
• Touch Pools: The touch pools allow kids to interact with starfish, stingrays, and other marine creatures, providing a hands-on learning experience.
• Deep Ocean Theater: The Deep Ocean Theater offers stunning views of sea creatures, with educational presentations that are both entertaining and informative.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a fantastic place for kids to explore, play, and learn. Located in downtown Phoenix, this museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage young minds.

Why Kids Love It:

• The Noodle Forest: The Noodle Forest is a whimsical area filled with hundreds of pool noodles hanging from the ceiling. Kids love running through and playing in this colorful, tactile environment.
• Art Studio: The Art Studio encourages creativity with a variety of art supplies and projects. Kids can paint, draw, and create to their heart’s content.
• Market Place: In the Market Place, kids can role-play as shoppers or store clerks, learning about commerce and practicing social skills in a fun and engaging way.
• Climber: The Climber is a multi-story climbing structure that offers a safe and exciting way for kids to burn off energy. It’s a favorite spot for active play and exploration.

Castles N’ Coasters

For a day of thrilling rides and amusement, head to Castles N’ Coasters. This amusement park, located in Phoenix, offers a variety of attractions that are sure to excite kids and adults alike.

Why Kids Love It:

• Roller Coasters: The park features several roller coasters, including the Desert Storm, which offers high-speed twists and turns that are sure to thrill older kids and teens.
• Mini Golf: Castles N’ Coasters offers four 18-hole mini golf courses, each with its own unique theme and challenging obstacles. It’s a fun activity for the whole family.
• Arcade: The park’s arcade is filled with classic and modern games, providing hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.
• Bumper Boats and Bumper Cars: Kids can splash around in the bumper boats or enjoy the classic fun of bumper cars, both offering interactive and engaging experiences.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale is a unique attraction that combines history, play, and learning. This park is perfect for kids who love trains and outdoor activities.

Why Kids Love It:

• Miniature Train Rides: The park’s miniature train rides are a highlight, taking visitors on a scenic journey around the park. It’s a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
• Carousel: The antique carousel is a charming attraction that delights kids with its whimsical design and playful ride.
• Railroad Exhibits: The park features several historic railroad cars and a model railroad exhibit, providing educational insights into the history of rail travel.
• Playground: The expansive playground offers plenty of space for kids to run, climb, and explore, making it a great spot for active play.

Wrapping Up Your Family Adventure in Phoenix

Phoenix is a treasure trove of fun and exciting activities for families with kids. From the interactive exhibits at the Arizona Science Center and the awe-inspiring wonders of the Phoenix Zoo to the creative play spaces at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the thrilling rides at Castles N’ Coasters, there’s no shortage of things to do. Each of these top-rated attractions offers unique experiences that are sure to create lasting memories for your family.

Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor exploring Phoenix for the first time, these kid-friendly spots are sure to provide endless fun and learning opportunities. So pack your bags, gather the kids, and get ready to discover all the amazing things Phoenix has to offer. Your next family adventure awaits!

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