Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Phoenix
Arizona Travel Guide lists ten fun family things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale, ranging from museums and zoos to amusement parks and aquariums.
1. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits for kids, including a climbing structure, art studio, and pretend play areas. Perfect for children under 10, it encourages creativity and learning through play.
📞 (602) 253-0501
📍 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
🌐 childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
2. Phoenix Zoo
One of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., the Phoenix Zoo features over 3,000 animals, a splash pad, and a safari train. Don’t miss the giraffe encounter and the Harmony Farm petting zoo!
📞 (602) 286-3800
📍 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
🌐 phoenixzoo.org
3. Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Located in Encanto Park, this charming amusement park offers kid-friendly rides, paddle boats, and a splash pad. Great for younger children, with attractions like a carousel and mini Ferris wheel.
📞 (602) 254-1200
📍 1202 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85007
🌐 enchantedisland.com
4. Arizona Science Center
With over 350 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, this center makes science fun for all ages. Kids can experiment with physics, space, and technology in engaging displays.
📞 (602) 716-2000
📍 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
🌐 azscience.org
5. Castles N’ Coasters
This family-friendly amusement park features mini-golf, go-karts, roller coasters, and an arcade. A great spot for thrill-seeking kids and parents who enjoy classic amusement park fun.
📞 (602) 997-7575
📍 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051
🌐 castlesncoasters.com
6. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Train lovers will adore this park, featuring a historic railroad exhibit, miniature train rides, a carousel, and playgrounds. A perfect spot for a picnic and family fun.
📞 (480) 312-2312
📍 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
🌐 therailroadpark.com
7. OdySea Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the Southwest, OdySea offers interactive exhibits, a shark walk, and penguin encounters. Kids can even touch stingrays in the touch pools!
📞 (480) 291-8000
📍 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
🌐 odyseaaquarium.com
8. Butterfly Wonderland
Walk through the largest butterfly conservatory in America, where thousands of butterflies flutter around you. The attraction also features a rainforest reptile exhibit and a 3D theater.
📞 (480) 800-3000
📍 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
🌐 butterflywonderland.com
9. Desert Botanical Garden
Explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with family-friendly trails, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events like Las Noches de las Luminarias. Great for nature-loving families.
📞 (480) 941-1225
📍 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
🌐 dbg.org
10. Splash Pads & City Parks (e.g., Cesar Chavez Park)
Phoenix has many free splash pads perfect for cooling off in the heat. Cesar Chavez Park features a large splash pad, playground, and picnic areas.
📞 (602) 262-6862
📍 7858 S 35th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85041
🌐 phoenix.gov/parks
OUR PICK OF THE GUIDES
From that blues bar you haven’t visited yet to the desert hike you keep meaning to plan, experience something new right here at home with Moon 52 Things to Do in Phoenix & Tucson.
