Best of 18 Things to do with kids in Phoenix
"Discover a world of fun and learning with Things to do with kids in Phoenix! The city offers numerous family-friendly activities, from exploring exotic wildlife at Phoenix Zoo to enjoying the great outdoors at Papago Park. Other must-visit locations include Encanto Park, Castles N' Coasters, and Desert Botanical Garden, each offering unique and exciting experiences for kids."
- 1. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
- 2. Enchanted Island Amusement Park
- 3. Desert Botanical Garden
- 4. Phoenix Zoo
- 5. Arizona Science Center
- 6. Castles N' Coasters
- 7. The Rush Fun Park
- 8. Encanto Park
- 9. Party Jungle
- 10. Kids Empire
- 11. Papago Park
- 12. Heard Museum
- 13. Civic Space Park
- 14. Luv 2 Play Phoenix
- 15. Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
- 16. Puzzle Effect Escape Rooms - Phoenix
- 17. Uptown Jungle | N. Phoenix
- 18. Altitude Trampoline Park Phoenix
1. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Inclusivity and accessibility for all children

The Children's Museum of Phoenix is a wonderful destination for families looking to encourage their children's creativity and learning. It is widely recognized as one of the top three children's museums in the country, featuring a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities that are both fun and educational.
At the Children's Museum of Phoenix, children can engage in a wide range of interactive exhibits that encourage them to explore and learn. From building and creating to pretending and playing, the museum offers a variety of ways for children to express their creativity and develop new skills. With a focus on learning through play, the museum is a great place for kids to have fun while also expanding their horizons.
2. Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Family-owned and operated for over 60 years

Enchanted Island is an ideal destination for families with young children. The park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for keeping kids entertained. Two of the most popular attractions are the carousel and the train ride, which were enjoyed by the children. A day at Enchanted Island provides a great opportunity for families to spend quality time together and create memorable experiences.
The weather was pleasant, and the park was not too crowded, making it an ideal environment for families with young children. The 4-year-old daughter had a fantastic time, and there were numerous fun activities to choose from, ensuring that she remained engaged and entertained throughout the day. Overall, Enchanted Island is a great place for a family day out with young children.
3. Desert Botanical Garden
Home to over 50,000 plant species, many of which are unique to the desert

During the summer season, I had the opportunity to visit the Desert Discovery Camps with my kids. The camps were well-organized and offered a wide range of educational activities that kept my children engaged and entertained.
One of the highlights of our visit was the Cactus Clubhouse, an amazing play area for kids. My children were particularly fond of the hands-on activities and exploring the nature trails. I highly recommend this as a great family day out.
4. Phoenix Zoo
Home to over 3,000 animals and hosts various events

The Phoenix Zoo offers a wide range of activities for children beyond just viewing the animals. One can enjoy camel rides, feeding stingrays, petting and brushing goats, a giraffe encounter, walking through a monkey exhibit, a 4-D theater, safari cruiser, carousel, and pedal boats. Additionally, there are two splash pads, a playground treehouse by the stream, a newly updated cafe, and a children's farm with its own play area.
Children can embark on a safari to see lions, giraffes, and elephants, or explore interactive exhibits such as the Children's Trail. When the afternoon sun gets too hot, they can cool off in the splash pads. Families can bring a cooler for a picnic lunch or purchase snacks from the numerous concession stands throughout the zoo.
5. Arizona Science Center
Over 350 hands-on exhibits across various science fields

The Arizona Science Center provided a fun-filled experience for our family. Our children were captivated by the wide range of activities available, keeping them engaged for several hours. The staff members were approachable and ready to assist us, making our visit enjoyable. This center is an ideal destination for a family day out.
The little ones were particularly fascinated by the live demonstrations and various science exhibits. They got the opportunity to learn while having fun, which is always a plus. For young children, this science center is highly recommended. Its engaging and interactive displays make learning about science an exciting adventure.
6. Castles N' Coasters
Arizona's premier entertainment destination with attractions for all ages

A family day out at this location provides a variety of enjoyable activities for children of all ages. The bumper boats are a particular favorite among kids, and the arcade games keep them entertained for hours. In addition, there are numerous rides that cater to all age groups, ensuring that everyone in the family has a great time.
This destination is not only fun for kids but also for teens and adults. The mini golf and go-karts were a hit with families, providing a fun and competitive experience for all ages. This place is a great option for families looking for a place where everyone can have a good time and create lasting memories.
7. The Rush Fun Park
Includes a trampoline park, arcade, and laser tag arena

The Rush Fun Park in Phoenix provides a fun-filled indoor play experience for kids of all ages. The park, which opened in mid-June 2020, features a wide range of activities including a three-story play area, trampolines, climbing walls, and more. Younger children, including our eight and five-year-old, particularly enjoyed the facility.
The Rush Fun Park offers a variety of attractions to keep kids engaged and active. Among these are a climbing area, soft play structure, super racing slides, a toddler's corner, trampolines, flying hoops, a dodgeball zone, an arcade, an obstacle course, and a snack shack. Both toddlers and older children can find age-appropriate activities to enjoy at the park.
8. Encanto Park
Rich history and beautiful landscaping

A delightful park, appealing to people of all ages, offers a variety of activities. Besides a golf course, the park features walking trails, a small amusement park, and scenic views. Spanning over 200 acres, the park boasts a sizable lagoon with ducks, paddle boats, and fishing spots. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy facilities for basketball, volleyball, tennis, racquetball, and baseball or softball.
The park also contains a pool, an affordable golf course, and a mini amusement park for young children. Visitors can take advantage of picnic areas dispersed throughout the park. The scenic vistas and the lagoon, home to diverse waterfowl, provide an ideal setting for leisurely activities and relaxation. The park's sports facilities cater to various interests, making it a well-rounded destination for both active and laid-back recreation.
9. Party Jungle
An all-in-one entertainment destination with fun activities for all ages

Party Jungle is an indoor amusement park in Phoenix that offers a clean, safe, and fun environment for children. The park provides a comfortable climate-controlled setting where kids can play all day for an affordable price of $8.95 per child. The admission fee includes access to five carnival rides, mini golf, laser tag, and a jungle gym.
Children are enthusiastic about Party Jungle, with one 6-year-old describing it as an "indoor carnival" where they can ride everything as many times as they want. The park's attractions provide endless entertainment for kids, making it an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and engaging activity.
10. Kids Empire
Indoor playground and party place designed specifically for kids

The author and their group had a great experience at a location that is cost-effective for families with children. The age of the children in the group was 1.5 and 4 years old, and they all enjoyed themselves. The location had many activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained. Additionally, there was a seating area where visitors could bring their own snacks, as well as a snack bar on-site.
The author's group had a fun-filled experience and there was no shortage of activities to enjoy. The location catered well to children, but adults were also able to participate in the activities. The seating area and snack bar provided convenience and additional options for meals or snacks. Overall, the author highly recommends this location for a family-friendly outing that is easy on the budget.
11. Papago Park
Home to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden

Papago Park, located in Phoenix and Tempe, is a wonderful destination for a hike, catering to both easy-going and strenuous hikers. The park is divided into two main areas: one near the Phoenix zoo and the other featuring an amphitheater. A complete walk around the park would take approximately 45 minutes, and with several inclines, it's a great way to raise your heart rate.
Perfect for families, Papago Park offers numerous activities and points of interest for children to enjoy. The park's distinctive red rock buttes create an exciting landscape to explore, and visitors can enjoy ponds, nature areas, and a playground. The park's popularity makes it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, looking for a fun and engaging outdoor experience.
12. Heard Museum
Home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Native American art

The Heard Museum is an excellent place to take children, offering a special area for them to engage in art and storytelling activities. The exhibits are fascinating and interactive, providing a fun and educational experience for kids. The museum's Family Activity Room and Art Cart are particularly popular with children, offering hands-on activities that allow them to explore their creativity while learning about art and culture.
At the Heard Museum, children have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that are both interactive and educational. The Family Activity Room and Art Cart are designed to provide creative and engaging experiences, allowing kids to explore their interests while learning about art and culture. The exhibits at the museum are captivating and offer interactive elements that kept my kids engaged and entertained. Overall, the Heard Museum is a great place for families with children to spend the day.
13. Civic Space Park
Home to the famous Arizonan artist Janet Echelman's sculpture 'Her Secret is Patience'

We used the GPS on our iPhones to find the location of the park. Upon arrival, I had difficulty keeping track of my children as we searched for the park, which was surprisingly dark during what should have been prime time on a Friday evening. It was around 7pm in February, and the park was not illuminated, nor were there any nearby shops selling treats like ice cream, coffee, or cake. The only indication of what could have been was the wire frame of a light structure, which would have been an interesting sight had it been lit.
It turned out that the art piece does not illuminate every night, and there is no way to predict when it will be lit. I felt let down after making the journey from Chandler, only to find nothing. I would like to appeal to whoever is responsible for controlling the lighting of this artwork to create a schedule for the illumination.
14. Luv 2 Play Phoenix
Perfect destination for birthday parties and group events

Luv 2 Play features an impressive three-story climbing structure that is a major highlight of the venue. This massive structure is similar to those found at Uptown Jungle or Rush Fun Park and is packed with surprises. Children can enjoy various activities such as sliding, tunneling, and navigating obstacle courses. The climbing structure also includes a ball pit, a small zipline, and a ball popper with shooters, providing endless fun and excitement for kids.
The children were thrilled with the climbing structure and its many features. They spent hours climbing, sliding, and exploring the different areas. The ball pit and zipline were particular favorites, and they also enjoyed the challenge of navigating the obstacle courses. Overall, the climbing structure was a major highlight of the Luv 2 Play experience, providing endless entertainment for children of all ages. Its similarity to the climbing structures at other popular venues like Uptown Jungle and Rush Fun Park enhances its appeal and reputation as a must-visit destination for families.
15. Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
Over 30 water slides and attractions for all ages
Hurricane Harbor was previously avoided by us, as we didn't think it had much to offer young children. However, we were pleasantly surprised during our visit, which was initiated as a media invitation to explore the newly opened Paradise Island area. Our kids did not want to leave the attraction.
Paradise Island, a new addition to the water park, features a multi-level area designed for children with dumping buckets, slides suitable for kids, and interactive water cannons. The area was a hit with our children, providing endless entertainment.
16. Puzzle Effect Escape Rooms - Phoenix
Immersive and theatrical experience

Arizona is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities and scenic beauty to suit all ages and interests. The state is home to the breathtaking red rocks of Sedona, which provide a picturesque backdrop for family photos and offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and hiking.
In the capital city of Phoenix, families can enjoy a variety of indoor activities that are both fun and educational. The SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium is a popular destination for families, featuring a range of marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The Arizona Broadway Theatre is another great option for families, offering a variety of live performances that are sure to delight kids and adults alike.
17. Uptown Jungle | N. Phoenix
Emphasis on physical activity and skill-building

Uptown Jungle Fun Park in Phoenix, Arizona, which opened in June 2021, has quickly become a popular destination for children's and parents' parties and events. The amusement park offers a wide range of activities, including indoor birthday parties, fundraising events, and team parties. In addition to trampolines, there are also climbing and jumping activities available for children to enjoy.
18. Altitude Trampoline Park Phoenix
Indoor trampoline park with various attractions

Altitude Trampoline Park is a popular destination for families, groups, and individuals seeking an active and fun-filled experience. The park offers a variety of activities and programs that keep things exciting and fresh every week. From trampoline dodgeball and basketball to foam pits and fitness classes, there's something for everyone at Altitude.
Esther Moses has given a positive recommendation for Altitude Trampoline Park in Phoenix, located at 3921 East Indian School Road. With its wide range of offerings and fun-filled atmosphere, it's no surprise that Altitude has become a go-to destination for those looking to get active and have a great time.