This resource is for families moving to the Phoenix area from out-of-state, for Phoenix residents and for tourists looking to find exciting family-friendly things to do when they visit this great city. So whether you’ve recently purchased a new home, or are looking for family friendly activities in and around the Phoenix area, these popular family attractions won’t disappoint. Feel free to let us know about your favorite Phoenix attractions in the comments below.
With its scorching hot summers and desert landscapes, visitors who have yet to see Phoenix and all the city offers may believe it’s barren, with little to offer tourists or homebuyers moving to the city with their families.
For those who know, Phoenix and the Phoenix Metropolitan area are among the best for many things, including family attractions, big-city amenities, sporting events, and music and entertainment venues. The Phoenix Open, also known as The Greatest Show on Grass, attracts around 700,000 fans yearly and is the most visited golf-tournament in the world.
From museums and aquariums to wildlife safaris and amusement parks, Phoenix offers fun activities for people of all ages.
It is the 5th largest metropolitan area in the nation and consistently attracts big business and families from around the country. These 15 attractions are among the best family attractions in Phoenix. They will entertain tourists, long-time residents and families that just purchased a new house in the Phoenix area.
Be sure to contact or look up information about each venue before visiting them; many of these attractions have special events frequently. You may want to wait a day or two if it gives you an opportunity to see something special like ‘Drop-in Discovery with Arizona Bat Rescue’ on the second Saturday of every month at the S’edav Va’aki Museum.
Alright, let’s dive in and learn more about these popular Phoenix area attractions.
15 Family-Friendly Attractions in Phoenix
S’edav Va’aki Museum
The Gateway to Phoenix Heritage takes you back hundreds of years. The S’edav Va’aki Museum(formerly Peublo Grande Museum and Archaelogical Park) offers a close look at an advanced ancient civilization that settled the region. Aspects of the life and times of the 1500-year-old Hohokam Civilization are at the museum, which features a platform mound, ball court, replicated Hohokam homes, and remnants of a complex irrigation system that supported the largest population in the prehistoric Southwest.
In addition to these preserved and recreated artifacts, the jewelry, pottery, and tools of the Hohokam displayed in the museum provide insight into the art and technology used by this advanced ancient civilization. Formerly the Pueblo Grande Museum, the S’edav Va’aki Museum was officially renamed in March of 2023. The Museum has events throughout the year and is open Monday thru Saturday from 9 AM to 4:45 PM, on Sunday the Museum opens at 1 PM and closes at 4:45 PM. Learn more about the ‘gateway to the historical history of the Phoenix area’ by visiting them online or by visiting the museum at 4619 E. Washington St. Phoenix, Arizona 85034.
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix
Although nestled within the heart of Phoenix, the Japanese Friendship Garden offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The meticulously designed garden embodies the serenity of traditional Japanese landscapes and walks visitors through beautiful winding pathways lined with Japanese stone lanterns.
The garden features a neatly maintained bonsai collection, seasonal blooms, a teahouse with a once-in-a-month tea ceremony, and beautiful koi-filled ponds. While the garden’s tranquility may entice you to think that it is a place only for adults looking for an escape from the noise of their routine lives, kids have a great time feeding the fish in the koi pond.
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix is located at 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003.
Papago Park (Hole in the Rock; Desert Botanical Garden)
The Papago Park combines the Sonoran Desert landscape with educational and recreational opportunities for individuals and families alike. With its spectacular red sandstone buttes, including the famous Hole-in-the-Rock formation, the Papago Park offers an excellent backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Hikers can explore the scenic trails through desert vegetation and explore the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’ may tourists and visitors enjoy while visiting the park. At the same time, fishing enthusiasts can catch some fish at the 7 acre stocked fishing lagoons. The park is also home to the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo; families can enjoy an entire day of outdoor fun at the Park, just remember to bring lots of water! Papago Park is located at 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 (Near Mill Avenue and Galvin Pkwy) and is open 7-days a week from 5 AM to 11 PM.
Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Who says amusement parks are only for children? The delightful rides and attractions at the Enchanted Island Amusement Park captivate the fancy of both children and adults.
Younger children may want to ride the old-timey Encanto Carousel and tour the park on the C.P. Huntington Train. In contrast, older visitors may want to splash in the Bumper Boats and even maneuver their airplanes!
There is no end to things you can do at the Enchanted Island Amusement Park – from traditional amusement park rides to lively arcade games. The enchanted island allows families to create wonderful, playful memories. Enchanted Island Amusement Park is located in Phoenix at 1202 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85007. Learn more by visiting the Amusement Parks Google Business Profile .
Family Attractions Like – Out of Africa
Located just an hour and a half from Phoenix, the Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde is an attraction you must not miss when visiting Phoenix. This enthralling safari experience offers exciting interactions with wildlife, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. It’s a fantastic adventure sure to please the entire family.
The park provides plenty of space for the animals to move around, allowing visitors to view the wildlife in their natural habitat. Attractions such as the high-flying Predator zipline, offering a view of the animals from above, and the Tiger Splash, showing tigers playing with their caretakers in a large pool, make your visit all the more enriching and enjoyable. Visit online or in person at 3505 AZ-260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322.
Blazin M Ranch – What Family Wouldn’t Have Fun?
No description of Arizona is complete without a mention of its delightful Old West charm and cowboy culture. Although you’ll have to drive out to Cottonwood for the Blazin M Ranch, the visit will be well worth it for visitors wanting a taste of cowboy culture.
The Blazin M Ranch replicates a Western Frontier town with saloons, wagon rides, shopping, and other Western activities. When planning your visit to the ranch, choose a show night to enjoy a satisfying chicken and BBQ rib dinner followed by a lively Western stage show featuring comedy, cowboy poetry, and live music.
For people wanting to experience Western culture firsthand, the ranch offers activities like a shooting gallery and roping lessons to make for an authentic experience. Visit the Blazin M Ranch website for more details or head on out to Cottonwood for the time of our life – 1875 Mabery Ranch Rd, Cottonwood, AZ 86326.
Butterfly Wonderland – The Largest Butterfly Attraction in the U.S.
With its lush green indoor rainforest habitat and vibrantly colored butterflies, the Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale is a sight for sore eyes. As the largest butterfly conservatory in the United States, Wonderland hosts educational programs. It features interactive exhibits and a 3D theater to help guests learn about the fascinating life cycle of butterflies.
In addition to its value as an educational resource and the largest conservatory of butterflies in the United States, the Butterfly Wonderland offers an enchanting experience surrounded by these delightful insects. Visit this wonderland 7-days a week between 9 AM and 5 PM or stop by 9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256.
Crayola Experience – A Favorite Phoenix Attraction
Step into the world of colors at Crayola Experience in Chandler, Arizona, where colors are not just an experience for the sight.
Children can melt their crayons to create new objects, create a swirly masterpiece with melted wax, stomp and kick on an interactive floor, and create their fashion designs, among other fun activities.
You can pick up some crayons or a souvenir plushie to take home from the Crayola store. The Crayloa Experience is located at the Chandler Fashion Square Mall and can be fun for individuals of any age. Visit them online to learn more or stop by the store 7-days a week from 10 AM – 6 PM – 3111 W Chandler Blvd Suite 2154, Chandler, AZ 85226.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Float serenely above the picturesque landscapes of Arizona against the soft orange of the rising sun or the stunning orange, pink, gold, and purple of the Arizona sunset in a memorable hot air balloon ride.
Multiple companies offer hot air balloon rides above Arizona, including Rainbow Ryders and Hot Air Expeditions. However, whichever company you choose, the view stays somewhat similar.
The hot air balloon ride offers a panoramic view of the beautiful Deer Valley and Sonoran Desert, creating an unforgettable experience for your family. It’s safe, extremely popular in Arizona and a great way to enjoy something exciting and new with a special someone or your entire family. Check out Rainbow Ryders and Hot Air Expeditions to learn more.
Arizona Science Center – Tourists and Locals Love it Here
Whether you love science or are just ‘meh’ about it, the absorbing exhibits and programs at Arizona Science Center are sure to intrigue you.
Step into the immersive Dorrance Planetarium to learn about the planets and the stars, or discuss your ideas with people of all ages at the CREATE maker space. Watch a remarkable documentary about wildlife, space, or oceans and discover how your body works.
No matter what scientific topic piques your interest, the Arizona Science Center most likely features an exhibit or activity for you.
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix
From navigating through the densely populated Noodle Forest to roleplay grocery shopping at The Market, your children will have a blast every minute of their time at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
Brimming with vibrant colors and textures, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix stimulates your child’s imagination. It may even bring your inner child to the fore. The museum will engage the entire family by offering 300 interactive play areas for kids under 10. Learn more about the Museum by reading any of their nearly 5,000 online Google reviews or by visiting them 7-days a week between 9 AM and 4 PM at 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Featuring a range of interactive exhibits and thrilling rides, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center provides a colorful and imaginative escape for families.
Build anything your heart desires in the Creative Workshop, from towering buildings to glamorous Lego landscapes. Step into a miniature replica of Phoenix’s iconic landmarks at the MINILAND.
The play zones, 4D cinema, and meetings with LEGO characters will fill your day at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center with fun and laughter.
Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is home to 20,000 objects from around the world. The museum features pieces from the Renaissance period to the modern day.
As the largest museum in the southwestern USA, the Phoenix Art Museum displays art from artists ranging from Mexico’s Frida Kahlo to Japan’s Yayoi Kusama and Arizona’s own Philip C. Curtis.
The museum gives you a comprehensive art tour of the world without leaving Phoenix. Open Wednesday thru Sunday from 10 AM – 9 PM, the Phoenix Art Museum has a lot to offer, including events throughout the year. Visit them at 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
Odysea Aquarium
Odysea Aquarium is a beautiful underwater adventure for your family – but don’t take our word for it! Check out the awards the aquarium has won, including the Best Family Entertainment and Best Indoor Kids Entertainment awards.
This underwater wonderland houses over 6000 animals, from sharks and sea turtles to penguins and stingrays. Watch otters play or say hello to the lovely penguin family at the aquarium!
In addition, the enchanting SeaTREK underwater ocean walking experience comprises an escalator that descends into the ocean to offer an underwater walking tour suitable for non-swimmers. You can also explore the aquarium’s rotating stadium-style seating in the OdySea Voyager with its 46ft tall windows.
Medieval Times – Experience Our Ancestor’s Lives at this Scottsdale Attraction
Watch a medieval battle unlike anything you’ve ever seen at Medieval Times in Scottsdale, Arizona. Only a short drive from Phoenix, Medieval Times takes you hundreds of years into the past, thousands of miles away from Medieval Spain.
Indulge in a four-course meal fit for royalty and enjoy the spectacle of jousting knights, majestic falcons, and purebred Andalusian horses.
Medieval Times promises an unforgettable journey back into time, with an evening of excitement and timeless entertainment. Who doesn’t want to experience some of the games our ancestors played hundreds of years ago? Don’t miss Medevial Times during our Phoenix visit, check them out in Scottsdale at 9051 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258.