If you’re looking for fun activities in Phoenix, you’re in the right place. There are plenty of things to do in Phoenix with kids… and they’re pretty fun for adults too! Phoenix’s beautiful fall and winter weather allow for plenty of amazing outdoor activities and attractions, but even in the hot summer months there are a bunch of options to keep kids from getting bored.
Keep reading for all of Phoenix’s best activities, fun attractions, and delicious restaurants for the whole family!
Fun activities in Phoenix to do with the kids
AZ Science Center
The AZ Science Center in downtown Phoenix is one of the city’s most-visited attractions, and it’s a wonderland place for kids. With constantly changing exhibits and events, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and plenty of hands-on activities, it’s sure to be a favorite.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
If you’re in the East Valley, The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a great option for kids of all ages. This highly-interactive museum offers fun and innovative activities that entertain, engage, and educate. With different offerings for each age group at each exhibit, it’s perfect for entertaining both your toddler and your older kids.
The Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo should also be at the top of your list of things to do in Phoenix with kids. As one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., it’s home to nearly 400 species, including many endangered animals. They offer fun interactive exhibits, games, and rides that will keep the kiddos entertained and excited. A personal favorite? The stingray experience! My kids love getting up close and personal with these aquatic friends.
Odysea Aquarium
Speaking of aquatic experiences – check out the Odysea Aquarium in Scottsdale. It’s a special treat in our landlocked desert state! With over 65 exhibits, it’s easy for kids to spend hours exploring and learning about sharks, otters, penguins, and more.
While you’re there, you can visit their neighboring attractions – the Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs interactive exhibit for dino-obsessed kids, or Butterfly Wonderland for a beautiful walk-in exhibit to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most beautiful butterflies.
Desert Botanical Garden
In the Spring, make sure to take the kids to the Desert Botanical Garden to experience their stunning butterfly exhibit as well, and enjoy the beautiful scenery while your little ones engage in their various kid-oriented events and activities.
Hurricane Harbor
For fun outdoor options even in the heat of summer, visit Hurricane Harbor. It’s Arizona’s largest waterpark, with plenty of thrilling slides for older kids, and relaxed options like a wave pool, lazy river, and pint-sized rides for little ones.
Shopping & Splash Pads
For something more low-key but equally refreshing, take the kids for a playdate at a splash pad. Kids can tire themselves out after moms do some shopping and grab lunch at Scottsdale Quarter, Desert Ridge, or Cityscape.
Other fun things to do in Phoenix this weekend
- McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
- Octane Raceway
- Enchanted Island Amusement Park
- Japanese Friendship Garden
- Hole in the Rock hike
- Hall of Flame Fire Musuem
- Great Arizona Puppet Theater
Where to eat in Phoenix with kids
Picky eaters or fussy little ones? No worries! Phoenix offers plenty of kid-friendly restaurants that offer delicious kid-friendly fare and entertainment to keep them happy and preoccupied while you enjoy your meal!
Rustler’s Rooste
A historic Phoenix restaurant that still manages to fly under the radar. Breathtaking mountain views in south Phoenix, live music, and delicious steakhouse fare makes it a favorite for adults, while the kids love it for its indoor slide, live longhorn at the restaurant entrance, and roaming magician who will make balloon animals table-side. It’s virtually a Western-themed playground!
Luci’s at the Orchard
Shaded by trees makes Luci’s at the Orchard a paradise in the spring and summer. Your littles can enjoy playing in the cool grass and mini splash pad after enjoying a healthy treat from the kids menu.
O.H.S.O. Brewery
Kid-friendly and dog friendly? Sign me up! OHSO is as laid-back a restaurant atmosphere as you could hope for. They actively encourage diners to bring their dogs, and offer plenty of outdoor space for kids to burn off steam and play patio games like cornhole and table tennis.
The Teapot
This charming coffee spot in downtown Phoenix is currently only available for private events, but will hopefully be opening the cafe back up to the public soon! In the meantime, it’s the perfect venue for birthday parties – with its large and adorable outdoor space designed exclusively for kids to play and parents to socialize.
Other kid-friendly Phoenix restaurants
- Doughbird
- Eat Up
- LGO
- The Parlor
- Pita Jungle
- Oregano’s
- Chestnut Fine Food and Provisions
- Joe’s Real BBQ
Hopefully, this guide of things to do in Phoenix with kids will be helpful for planning your next weekend outing or playdate! For more fun things to do in Phoenix – with or without the kiddos – check out my Local Guide to Food & Fun in The Valley.
