Getting away on a sunny day is like nothing else. That’s possible in Arizona. Arizona’s main city is in southwestern Arizona, and it’s always warm there. Hence the thought that Phoenix has lots of enjoyable activities for kids. But it’s hard to find the best family-friendly sites in a big city like that. Personally, I agree, but I can assist you. I really love to travel and write reviews of the places I visit.
The places and sites I saw in Phoenix are impressive. So, to help you decide, I looked at and listed the best things to do there. Short talks I had with other parents also helped me with my reviews. I also ranked each spot based on how well it fit people of different ages, how much it taught them, how much fun it was, how easy it was to get to, and how much it cost. Read my full review below to plan your next family trip to Phoenix.
Things to Do in Phoenix That Are Fun for Kids
Phoenix has so many great things to do and see that you’ll never run out of great choices. You shouldn’t miss my quick reference guide and reviews below.
1. Dolly Steamboat
Dolly Steamboat is a great option for SEA LIFE Arizona and Phoenix Zoo because it has a great boat ride and lots of things to see and learn. Dolly Steamboat is the best place to see unique valleys if you have never been. It is an important Arizona attraction, according to the state’s tourist office. The boat can hold up to 140 people, and everyone will enjoy the beautiful view of Canyon Lake.
You can pick between a lovely dinner cruise or a daily walk of the sights. However you look at it, the many cliff walls will surely amaze you as you get closer. You may also see bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and other animals as you go around the lake. One of the most beautiful ways to enjoy and see Arizona’s unique beauty. Children of all ages can ride the Dolly Steamboat.
2. SEA LIFE Arizona
One of our favorite places to visit in the area with kids is SEA Life Arizona. This 26,000-square-foot interactive aquarium is home to thousands of fascinating sea creatures that will interest everyone, even kids. In the facility’s touch pools, you can get close to the friendly sea animals.
Over 5,000 marine animals, including seahorses, rays, sharks, and other tropical fish, can be seen all over the building. This is a very rare chance to see them. There is a 360-degree water tunnel that you can’t miss. Young people of all ages can enjoy the pool.
3. Phoenix Zoo
At Phoenix Zoo, bears, tigers, lions, and many other cute animals will keep you and your family busy all day. When you go to the zoo, try to go during the warmer months so you can use the splash pads.
Some of the zoo’s unique features are train rides, feedings of animals, a carousel for kids, and an area for tropical birds. The white tiger and huge tank will make your family’s trip even more fun and memorable. This wildlife preserve is one of the best things for kids of all kinds to do in Phoenix.
4. Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix
People have been making memories at this site and activity for 30 years. That’s why this is a must-do in Phoenix. A helicopter ride over beautiful scenery is like nothing else. When you ride in a hot air balloon, you can see the beautiful scenery below you from above.
Downtown Phoenix, Camelback Mountain, and the Sonoran Desert will all be on your list of places to see. As you fly through the air, you’ll also learn about the plants, animals, and birds that live in the area. For about an hour, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful, wide view while you float. Your champagne breakfast is waiting for you after your peaceful balloon ride. The hot air balloon can be flown by people of all ages.
5. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
Phoenix and the nearby places have a lot of great things for kids to do. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix is one of mine. It’s a great place to have water fun, with fast slides for thrill-seekers, a lazy river, and a splash zone for kids. There is a splash area with smaller versions of the big rides just for kids.
Parents can relax in the lazy river while their teens have fun on the fast slides. The water park at this resort really does have something for entire families. Looking for “fun things to do with kids near me” in Glendale? This is the right place for you. Please keep in mind that the yearly openings begin in March, so please make plans accordingly. This fun spot is great for people of all ages, but the splash area is especially made for kids ages 2 to 6.
6. Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
After checking out the kid-friendly things to do in Phoenix, why not visit the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve? The old rock art is in Glendale, and your kids will love it. One of the biggest collections of prehistoric petroglyphs in the area is available at the end of an easy path that comes with a free audio tour.
It’s like looking for wealth but with medieval art. Kids will have a great time looking for the petroglyphs and listening to the audio tour, which offers educational content. The quiet location and chance to learn about Arizona’s past will appeal to parents. Good for kids 5 years and up, this game is educational, and the petroglyphs are very interesting.
7. Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum
The Pioneer Living History Museum lets you go back in time. Phoenix has this hidden gem that you can find if you’re looking for fun things to do with kids. With costumed guides, this 90-acre outdoor museum in north Phoenix gives you a real taste of the Wild West.
Kids can explore a town from the 1800s that has a jail, a blacksmith shop, and a ranch. It’s funnier than a history class. Parents will like how educational it is and how many picture opportunities are good for Instagram. Seasonal hobbies and special events keep things interesting. Kids ages 6 and up can really enjoy this because they can understand the history and interact with the translators.
8. Hall of Flame Fire Museum
The Hall of Flame Fire Museum has a lot of information about the past of firefighting. These kinds of kid-friendly events are sure to be the best parts of your trip to Phoenix. It’s a hit with families because it has old fire trucks and a room just for kids with a fire pole and a small fire engine.
Have a child who wants to become a firefighter? It’s their dream come true. There are uniforms and other firefighting gear in the kids’ room so they can get some hands-on practice. The teaching part and the huge collection of old fire trucks will make parents love it. Last but not least, this museum is fun for everyone, but the interactive kids’ room is especially great for kids ages 4 to 12.
9. Great Arizona Puppet Theater
Phoenix, Arizona has lots of fun things for families to do inside if they are looking for things to do. One thing is that the Great Arizona Puppet Theater isn’t just a puppet show; it’s a whole story. It’s a cute place to get away from the heat and let kids’ ideas run wild, with shows like Cinderella and The Three Billy Goats Gruff.
The theater is a hit with kids because the shows are meant to keep their attention. In addition, the location has air conditioning, which is nice during the hot Arizona summers. It will bring back memories for you and give you a chance to teach your children about stories in a new way. You can also get food at the theater while you watch. This is a great project for kids ages 3 to 10. However, the shows are so well made that even parents and older kids will enjoy them.
10. i.d.e.a. Museum
I.d.e.a. is a one-of-a-kind museum that was made with kids and families in mind. With its art-related activities, this building helps your kids think critically and be creative. Aside from that, it has displays that teach kids about science, engineering, and design.
Take your kids to Artville and let them interact with an exhibit that pushes them to be creative, use their imagination, and discover new things. There are also daily activities and classes at the facility that are good for kids. It’s great for kids of all ages to go to I.D.E.A.
