Things to do with kids in Phoenix

As parents, we all have our unique superpowers. And I admit, playing with my kids is not mine. However, I love taking my kids out into the world and exploring. There is so much to see and do with kids in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona depending upon what they’re into. Often we have to take the season into account here in the Southwest, so here’s a diverse array of options both indoors and outdoors for you to choose from!

Legoland Discovery Center- located in the Arizona Mills Mall. My kids have spent countless hours building, creating, watching the 4D movies, riding the dragon ride, and playing in the jungle gym.

Crayola experience- located in the Chandler Mall. My daughter loves art and this is one of her favorite places. Design your own crayon wrappers, melt crayons to create your own spin art, paint pictures, create clay sculptures, color pictures, etc.

Children’s museum- we have spent hours upon hours at the Children’s Museum going back to when my kids were one year old to now (ages 8 & 10). The maker zone is one of their favorite areas. We loved spending time in the under 4 section when they were really little. They still spend hours playing with in the grocery store. You can run through Noodles, read books, ride tricycles, and always a favorite- wander through the climber. I admit, I’m grateful that they’re now older and can do this one without me.

Odysea aquarium- We had a membership to the aquarium for a number of years. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon. One trick of the trade- get there when they open and go through the back way (there’s a door in the wall to the left before you go through the entrance). You can go straight to the rotating ride and walk through at your own pace. The ride doesn’t start until 10am. My kids have loved interacting with the seals up close.

Phoenix Zoo- There are tons of animals to see, giraffes to feed, play structures to explore, and in the summer- a splash pad to cool off in. Best tip for taking kids out is to get them each Camelbaks so they can carry their own water and snacks!

Desert Botanical Gardens- The gardens can definitely seem more like an adult activity, but my kids have enjoyed their time there too. We enjoy going to their Flashlight Nights in the summer and visiting the butterflies in the spring. The gardens also host a number of cool events through the year.

Butterfly Wonderland- I finally brought my daughter here in early 2024 and holy moly, she loved it. Admittedly, I also did! I was amazed at watching these exquisite creates come out of their cocoons and then entering the butterfly space and having them land on me.

Wildlife World Zoo- this is a zoo best taken on in the cooler temps. It is HUGE and has so many amazing animals. There is a super cool sea lion show and the aquarium is fantastic there as well.

Bad Art Night- Science Center- I cannot get enough of how cool this event is. The Maker Lab at the Science Center hosts this event quarterly. They set up tables and give you canvases to paint. You can paint whatever you want and add all sorts of materials to your creation.

Science Center- From learning how the body works, laying on a board of nails, playing with giant bubbles, and watching the stars in the planetarium, there’s a ton to do here.

Glow Putt- My husband and I love us some putt-putt. I’m really bad at it, but it doesn’t matter as long as we’re all having fun. In the summer, step inside and play glow in the dark putt-putt. You can also check out PuttShack at the Scottsdale Quarter.

PopStroke- In both Scottsdale and Glendale, these courses are more along the lines of a regular golf course (and less putting obstacle course). We enjoy grabbing a bite to eat and drink, and playing some ping-pong in between courses. They will also bring food and drinks out to you as well.

Museum of Illusions- located in Scottsdale at the Arizona Boardwalk, this is a great way to stretch your mind and have some fun.

Spin Art Nation- We are itching to try this place out- paint flying everywhere? Sounds like a blast!

KTR- my kids love jumping around trampolines, playing dodgeball, balancing on the beam, and getting all their energy out. If your kid enjoys doing tricks on his/her/their scooter, bring it and their helmet for them to use in their skate park area. There is also a toddler jump zone area.

Jump/Trampoline Places- let’s be real- there are a ton of options out there- here are a few options we’ve tried out: Skyzone- More trampolines to jump on! Sunday is glow day- so make sure your kid wears neon and if you have a kid under age 6, there are toddler times you can jump before the big kids show up. Altitude- located in Arcadia & Gilbert; Elevate- located in Goodyear; Stratosphere- in Peoria

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park- play on the playgrounds, ride the train and Merry-Go-Round, grab a scoop of ice cream, and then take a look at the incredible model trains set up.

As you Wish- I will admit that we have far too many ceramic pieces in our house that the children have painted, but they love it so much, that we just keep going. Each location hosts specialty nights and they have great kid-oriented summer painting classes.

The i.d.e.a. Museum- located in downtown Mesa, this is a smaller version of the Children’s Museum.

Natural History Museum, Phoenix- located in downtown Mesa. We have not been, but it looks like it could be a great time.

Papago Park- the greater Phoenix area is well known for it’s hiking paths. A lot of kids aren’t up for the intense climbs or distances of these hikes. If you’re looking for something easy and fun, wander around Hole in the Rock at Papago Park.

Summer Focused:

Summer Movie Series- Harkins theaters host a summer movie series. There are 8 movies shown- each a previously released kids movie and shows start at 9:45am. Tickets are cheap and it’s always worth the fun.

Kids Bowl for Free- At Let it Roll Bowl, kids bowl for free- two games each day.

Resort Pass- there are multiple hotels in the valley that have great pools focused on kids- JW Marriott; Arizona Grand; Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak. Grab a resort day pass and enjoy the cool water when it’s hot out!

Toddler Focused:

Splash pads- if you don’t want to jump in the pool or you child can’t swim yet, splash pads at local shopping centers and parks are the way to go. HERE’s a list of the best local ones.

Shiloh Community Church- In North Phoenix, this church hosts Tot Town every other week. They open up their gymnasium and fill it with activities for children 5 and under. It’s a great way for kids to play, explore, and parents to connect and relax.

Uptown Jungle- not ready for the large trampoline parks, but want your kid to be able to run around and play safely? This is the best route for you.

Luv 2 Play- we have not been personally, but it looks so cute. It has 3 levels of indoor playground, a toddler specific area, a relaxing area for adults/nursing moms, and a cafe.

Leo & Luca- located near 16th St & Bethany Home- this place is absolutely adorable and has wonderful toys to stimulate imagination and development. Also- they have snacks and coffee for purchase- can you ask for anything more?!

This list just scratches the surface of things to do in the valley.

What should I add??

Shoot me an email and let me know!