If you’re searching for the best things to do with kids in Phoenix, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a longtime Valley resident or visiting on vacation, Phoenix is packed with exciting attractions that keep kids entertained and parents smiling.
From interactive museums and up-close animal encounters to scenic hikes and water parks, there are endless family activities in Phoenix for every age and interest. Here are five of the top Phoenix attractions for kids that belong on every family’s bucket list.
- Let Their Imagination Run Wild at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Forget everything you think you know about museums. At the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, the rule is simple: touch everything!
Kids can climb, crawl, build, paint, and create their way through three floors of interactive exhibits. The biggest attraction is the Schuff-Perini Climber, a three-story maze built from colorful recycled materials where children can explore tunnels, rockets, fish, and hidden passageways.
You’ll also find:
- A pretend grocery store
- An art studio where creativity takes center stage
- Giant foam blocks for building forts and castles
- Dedicated play areas for toddlers
It’s the perfect place to burn off energy while encouraging imagination and hands-on learning.
- Feed Giraffes and Cool Off at the Phoenix Zoo
A trip to the Phoenix Zoo is always a hit.
Located in beautiful Papago Park, it’s one of the largest nonprofit zoos in the country and home to hundreds of incredible animals from around the world.
Family favorites include:
- Hand-feeding the giraffes
- Walking alongside kangaroos in the Australian exhibit
- Visiting elephants, monkeys, big cats, and more
When the Arizona sun starts heating up, the zoo has you covered with two splash pad areas where kids can cool off while parents relax nearby in the shade.
It’s an easy way to spend an entire day without hearing, “I’m bored.”
- Make Some Music at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
Don’t let the word museum fool you—this place is surprisingly fun for kids.
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in North Phoenix showcases instruments from nearly every country in the world, but the real magic happens inside the Experience Gallery.
Here, children are encouraged to:
- Play drums from around the world
- Strike giant gongs
- Try guitars and keyboards
- Experiment with harps and other unique instruments
It’s loud, interactive, educational, and unforgettable—a rare combination that both kids and adults genuinely enjoy.
- Hike to Hole-in-the-Rock for Amazing Desert Views
Need a quick outdoor adventure?
Head over to Papago Park and take the short hike to Hole-in-the-Rock, one of Phoenix’s most recognizable natural landmarks.
The trail is short, easy, and family-friendly, making it perfect for younger children. Once you reach the giant sandstone opening, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the desert, nearby lagoons, and the Phoenix skyline.
Bring your camera—it’s one of the Valley’s best spots for family photos.
- Splash the Day Away at Golfland Sunsplash
When temperatures climb into triple digits, nothing beats a day in the water.
Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa has something for everyone, including:
- Giant water slides
- A wave pool
- A lazy river
- Toddler splash areas
- Family-friendly attractions
After drying off, the fun continues with miniature golf, bumper boats, and a huge indoor arcade.
It’s an all-day destination that’s especially popular during Arizona’s long summer season.
Final Thoughts
One of the best things about living in—or visiting—the Phoenix area is that family fun comes in every form. Whether your kids love animals, science, music, climbing, hiking, or simply making a splash, there’s an adventure waiting just around the corner.
So grab the sunscreen, pack plenty of water, and get ready to make some unforgettable family memories in the Valley of the Sun!
No matter what season you’re planning for, mixing up indoor air-conditioned hotspots with early-morning outdoor outings keeps everyone smiling and worn out by bedtime!
MEHRAN PARSAI Associate Broker | Compass Helping buyers, sellers, and investors throughout Scottsdale and the Greater Phoenix area since 1995. Schedule a Consultation (480) 980-2244 [email protected] Parsai.com