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Phoenix, AZ · Guide

Things to do with kids in Phoenix

Phoenix offers a unique mix of high-desert exploration and polished cultural stops, making it a reliable destination for families who enjoy both the outdoors and climate-controlled education. From the red rock vistas of Papago Park to the interactive exhibits centered in downtown Phoenix, the city provides a range of activities that manage to balance the rugged natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert with the infrastructure needed for a smooth family trip.

This guide skews toward preschoolers and school-age children, focusing on accessible trails and museums designed for high-energy explorers. Whether you are navigating the winding paved paths of the Desert Botanical Garden or utilizing the midtown amenities of Steele Indian School Park, you will find Phoenix a hospitable environment for young kids who want to roam.

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  1. 01

    Desert Botanical Garden

    4.8 (23,048)1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
    LivelyBest for school-age

    This garden features well-maintained walking paths showcasing native desert flora like cacti and wildflowers. Visitors often spot local wildlife including bunnies and roadrunners among the cactus collections and art exhibits.

    When to go: no wait weekdays

    Parent tip · Stay until dark to see the plants and art installations lit up at night.
  2. 02

    South Mountain Park and Preserve

    4.8 (10,105)10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    A massive municipal park offering rugged trails and scenic mountain drives. It provides a natural desert experience within city limits, featuring a renovated visitor center and numerous picnic spots.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Start at the visitor center to see recent renovations before heading to the trails.
  3. 03

    Echo Canyon Trailhead

    4.9 (2,827)E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
    LivelyBest for school-age

    A demanding hiking area known for steep inclines and significant rock scrambling. While it offers stunning city views, the terrain is challenging and requires careful footing and proper hydration.

    When to go: arrive before 6

    Parent tip · Expect some rock scrambling that requires careful footing and good shoes.
  4. 04

    Papago Park

    4.7 (12,934)625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    This park features iconic red rock formations with a short, easy hike suitable for families. The paths are well-traveled and provide quick access to scenic viewpoints overlooking the city.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · The visit can be done in about 20 minutes if you are just looking for a quick photo stop.
  5. 05

    Dobbins Lookout

    4.8 (5,661)10919 South Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85042, USA
    CalmAll ages

    A high-altitude viewpoint providing panoramic vistas of the entire Phoenix valley. The site is accessible via a winding mountain drive and serves as a trailhead for several outdoor paths.

    When to go: arrive well before sunset

    Parent tip · Arrive early as the gates may close if the parking lot becomes too crowded.
  6. 06

    Hole in the Rock

    4.7 (7,267)625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    This specific hiking spot within Papago Park offers an easy 0.3-mile trail leading to a unique rock opening. The path is accessible and includes views of a nearby fishing lake and the city skyline.

    When to go: arrive early for sunrise

    Parent tip · Be patient when trying to take photos, as the rock hole is a very popular and crowded spot.
  7. 07

    Heard Museum

    4.7 (5,640)2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
    Kids' menu likelyCalmAll ages

    A modern museum dedicated to Native American art and culture featuring galleries of pottery, jewelry, and paintings. The space includes an outdoor courtyard and an on-site cafe serving traditional-inspired fare.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Try the prickly pear lemonade at the museum cafe.
  8. 08

    Phoenix Zoo

    4.5 (24,183)455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
    Kids' menuLivelyAll ages

    A large zoo with a wide variety of animals, including rhinos, lions, and alligators. The grounds are expansive with plenty of room to walk and dedicated areas with fans and misters to help manage the heat.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Pack your own drinks and snacks to help save on costs inside the park.
  9. 09

    Tempe Beach Park

    4.6 (10,435)80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    A lakeside park with paved sidewalk trails suitable for scooters and bikes. The area features green space, views of the Tempe skyline, and access to boat rentals on the lake.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Parking is often free on weekends, despite the presence of meters.
  10. 10

    Pima Canyon Trailhead

    4.8 (2,033)4500 E Pima Canyon Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA
    CalmAll ages

    This trailhead offers easy, gradual elevation changes across diverse paths. It is a popular spot for both walking and biking, featuring pioneer ruins to explore along the route.

    When to go: arrive an hour before sunset

    Parent tip · Wear hiking shoes even on easy trails as parts of the path are uneven.
  11. 11

    Encanto Park

    4.6 (7,002)2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, USA
    LivelyBest for toddlers

    A spacious city park featuring scenic waterways with ducks and geese, multiple playgrounds, and a small amusement park for young children. Recent restorations have improved the walkways and train ride.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · The train ride has covers and a cooling moat effect, making it a good choice for warmer days.
  12. 12

    Children’s Museum of Phoenix

    4.6 (5,914)215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA
    LivelyBest for preschool

    A three-story interactive museum designed for exploration through hands-on play. Specific zones cater to different developmental stages, ranging from soft crawling areas to an art studio and a car wash play zone.

    When to go: arrive at 9am opening

    Parent tip · Sign up for their email list in advance to access potential admission discounts.
  13. 13

    Steele Indian School Park

    4.6 (4,254)300 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
    LivelyBest for toddlers

    A sprawling urban park with a lake for fishing, separate dog parks, and a playground. It is known for its wide open grassy areas that are ideal for active toddlers to run around.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Don't wear nice shoes as the park can be quite dusty depending on the season.
  14. 14

    Cholla Trailhead Camelback Mountain

    4.7 (1,516)5150 N Invergordon Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, USA
    LivelyBest for school-age

    A scenic trail on Camelback Mountain featuring a mix of elevation and bouldering sections. It offers expansive views of the surrounding desert and residential architecture tucked into the hillside.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · While the first part is moderate, the final section to the summit is a very difficult vertical climb.
  15. 15

    SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium

    4.5 (3,740)5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Ste 145, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
    LivelyBest for toddlers

    A compact aquarium featuring floor-to-level tanks that allow young children easy visibility of marine life. The facility includes an indoor playground and exhibits designed for shorter attention spans.

    When to go: null

    Parent tip · Bundle your ticket with the nearby Legoland Discovery Center to save on both attractions.

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