Planning a family trip to Phoenix and wondering how to keep the kids entertained? You’re in luck! Phoenix is a treasure trove of activities that promise fun and excitement for children of all ages. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of epic experiences waiting for you and your little ones.
Discover Fun And Educational Attractions
Family trips to Phoenix can be both enjoyable and educational. Phoenix offers unique venues where kids can learn while having fun.
Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center, located in downtown Phoenix, features interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a planetarium. Kids can explore hands-on activities, from building simple machines to understanding the human body. The center offers four floors of exhibits, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Children’s Museum Of Phoenix
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a treasure trove of interactive play areas tailored for young minds. With over 300 hands-on exhibits, kids can climb a three-story structure, create art, and role-play in a kid-sized market. Each exhibit is designed to spark creativity and imagination.
Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum showcases instruments from around the world. Kids can engage with the Experience Gallery, where they can play various instruments. The Geographic Galleries offer a journey through different cultures’ music traditions. Audio and video recordings enhance the immersive experience.
Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland, located in Scottsdale, is one of the largest butterfly conservatories in the U.S. Kids will marvel at thousands of butterflies flying freely in a tropical rainforest setting. Educational presentations about the life cycle of butterflies and interactive exhibits make this a worthwhile visit.
Great Arizona Puppet Theater
The Great Arizona Puppet Theater offers performances that captivate young audiences. The theater produces shows based on classic tales and original stories. Post-show puppet-making workshops let kids create their own puppets, adding an interactive element to the experience.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
Phoenix offers a wealth of outdoor adventures perfect for families. From exploring wildlife to hiking scenic trails, there’s something for everyone.
Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo houses over 3,000 animals, including lions, giraffes, and kangaroos. Kids can take a ride on the Safari Cruiser or the Endangered Species Carousel. The zoo also features an interactive area called Stingray Bay where children can touch and feed stingrays.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden spans 140 acres and showcases more than 50,000 plant displays. Families can follow trails like the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Loop Trail. Special seasonal events include the Electric Desert, a stunning light show.
Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Enchanted Island Amusement Park, located in Encanto Park, is perfect for younger children. The park features rides like the C.P. Huntington Train and the historic Encanto Carousel. Picnic areas offer opportunities for family lunches.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale offers train and carousel rides. Families can explore model railroads in the museum and enjoy the multiple playgrounds. Seasonal events include Holiday Lights, a festive light display.
Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain provides hiking trails with scenic views of Phoenix. The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails offer varying difficulty levels. Early morning hikes are ideal to beat the heat and enjoy the sunrise.
Families seeking outdoor activities in Phoenix find numerous engaging options. Each destination offers unique experiences catering to all age groups.
Thrilling and Unique Experiences
Phoenix has more to offer than just outdoor adventures and museums. The city provides thrilling and unique experiences that are perfect for kids who crave excitement.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona is a haven for LEGO enthusiasts. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, build their own creations, and enjoy exciting rides like the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride. Adults and children alike will be fascinated by the MINILAND, which features iconic Arizona landmarks made entirely of LEGO bricks. The center also offers themed workshops that help kids enhance their creativity.
SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium
At SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, families can dive into a magical underwater world. With over 30 displays, including touch tanks and a 360-degree ocean tunnel, kids will get up close with sea creatures like sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The interactive rockpool experience allows children to touch starfish and other marine animals. The educational talks and feeding demonstrations provide insightful information about marine life conservation.
Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs
Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs transports families back to the prehistoric era. Life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs provide a realistic and educational experience. Children can participate in fossil digs, enjoying the hands-on opportunity to uncover ancient relics. The interactive exhibits and guided tours offer educational fun focused on paleontology and the history of these magnificent creatures.
iFly Indoor Skydiving
iFly Indoor Skydiving offers a thrilling experience that simulates the sensation of a real skydive. Kids (and adults) can experience the adrenaline rush of freefall in a safe, controlled environment. Certified instructors provide necessary training and accompany participants during their flight. This activity is perfect for those ready to defy gravity without the need for an actual airplane jump.
Best Places to Eat with Kids in Phoenix
While exploring Phoenix, it’s essential to find places where kids can enjoy a meal just as much as the adults. Phoenix offers a variety of eateries that cater specifically to families, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience for everyone.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Several restaurants in Phoenix prioritize family-friendly environments:
- Oregano’s Pizza Bistro: Known for its enormous pizzas and welcoming atmosphere, Oregano’s offers a menu that caters to kids with items like the kid’s pasta bowl and dessert pizzas.
- Joe’s Farm Grill: Located in Agritopia, Joe’s Farm Grill serves fresh, locally-sourced food in a fun setting. Kids love their burgers, fries, and picnic-style seating.
- The Henry: This vibrant eatery offers a special kids’ menu and ample outdoor space, making it ideal for families. Favorites include the kids’ cheeseburger and macaroni & cheese.
- Revolu Modern Taqueria + Bar: Combining flavorful Mexican dishes with a laid-back vibe, this spot has a dedicated kids’ menu with tacos, quesadillas, and churros.
- The Oink Café: Known for its playful ambiance, The Oink Café serves delightful breakfast options like pancakes and omelets that kids enjoy.
Fun and Interactive Dining Experiences
Dining can be an adventure in Phoenix with places offering interactive experiences:
- Rainforest Cafe: Located at Arizona Mills, this eatery provides an immersive rainforest experience with animatronic animals and simulated thunderstorms, perfect for entertaining kids.
- Organ Stop Pizza: Featuring the world’s largest Wurlitzer organ, Organ Stop Pizza combines dining with a music show. Kids find the live music exciting while enjoying their favorite pizza.
- Dave & Buster’s: This popular chain offers a full menu along with an expansive arcade, perfect for family bonding. Kids can play games while waiting for their meals.
- Rustler’s Rooste: Offering a Wild West experience complete with live country music and a tin slide, Rustler’s Rooste entertains kids while serving hearty American cuisine.
- Cibo Urban Pizzeria: Housed in a restored bungalow, Cibo offers wood-fired pizzas in a charming atmosphere. The outdoor garden area is perfect for kids to play as they wait.
Exploring these dining options ensures that everyone in the family enjoys mealtime during your visit to Phoenix.
Conclusion
Phoenix truly stands out as a top-notch destination for family adventures. From interactive museums to engaging outdoor activities, there’s something for every child to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the Arizona Science Center or hiking the scenic trails of Camelback Mountain, each experience promises memorable moments.
Dining in Phoenix also caters to families, offering a variety of kid-friendly restaurants that make mealtime enjoyable and fun. With so many epic things to do, planning a trip to Phoenix guarantees a fantastic time for the entire family. So pack your bags and get ready to create lasting memories in this vibrant city.