After living in Arizona for the past 18 years, we have put together an extensive list of the best things to do in Phoenix with kids. This includes the best parks, restaurants, museums, and more!
*Updated January 2023
*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase or book a reservation through the provided link then we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We really appreciate your support!
101 Things to do in Phoenix with Kids
Table of Contents
- Best Hikes in Phoenix for kids
- Best Water Activities in Phoenix
- 7. Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center
- 8. Founder’s Park Splash Pad
- 9. Water Tower Plaza
- 10. The Cloud at Kiwanis Park
- 11. Mesa River View Splash Pad
- 12. Espee Park Splash Pad
- 13. Kiwanis Park Wave Pool
- 14. Golfland Sunsplash
- 15. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
- 16. Float the Salt River
- 17. Saguaro Lake
- 18. Rhodes Aquatic Center
- Best Bike Paths and Skate Parks in Phoenix
- Best Museums in Phoenix
- Best Parks and Playgrounds in Phoenix
- Best Nature and Animal Encounters in Phoenix
- Best Indoor Entertainment for Kids in Phoenix
- Best Agricultural Experiences for Kids in the Phoenix East Valley
- Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in the Phoenix East Valley
- Best Family-Friendly Live Entertainment in Phoenix and the East Valley
- Best Fine Arts Experiences for Kids
- Other Recommended Family-Friendly Activities in the Phoenix East Valley
- 84. Bass Pro Shop
- 85. West Wind Drive-in Theater
- 86. Desert Botanical Gardens
- 87. Pangea
- 88. Tempe Town Lake
- 89. Goldfield Ghost Town
- 90. Harkins Theaters
- 91. Ikea
- 92. Superstition Springs Kid’s Club
- 93. Heritage Square
- 94. Home Depot Kids Workshops
- 95. Feed My Starving Children
- 96. Mesa Gateway Airport
- 97. Water and Ice Store
- 98. Joe’s Italian Ice
- 99. Book a Staycation
- 100. Festivals
- 101. Tour a Castle
Best Hikes in Phoenix for kids
1. Hieroglyphic Trail
The 2.8-mile round-trip Hieroglyphic Trail is located in Gold Canyon. The trail leads to a gentle waterfall with a pool to splash in, along with a small cave and petroglyphs.
2. Lost Dutchman State Park Treasure Loop
This easy 2.3-mile round trip loop trail offers stunning desert scenery with the rugged beauty of the Superstition Mountains and majestic saguaro cactus.
3. The Wave Cave
This 3-mile round trip trail in Gold Canyon traverses through some incredible desert scenery.
Towards the end, it gets pretty steep and challenging, but the cave at the top was totally worth it!
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shade of the cave, then play with the silhouette of the wave formation.
4. San Tan Mountain Goldmine and Dynamite Trail
San Tan Mountain Regional Park has two great trails.
The Goldmine Trail is 2 miles out and back. It starts out easy but gets steep at the end as you reach the summit.
The Dynamite Trail is a 4.7-mile loop trail with a gradual incline, but you can turn around at any point if you don’t want to complete the full loop.
I would also recommend checking out their visitor center and the many different events they offer each month.
Events include a nighttime scorpion trail walk, beginner skill level mountain bike ride, sunset photography walk, early morning summer solstice hike and many more.
Click the link to see the calendar of events led by a ranger.
5. Hole in the Rock
This is the perfect hike for young kids. The short 0.3-mile round trip trail leads to a cool hole in the rock with views over the palm tree lined lake at Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Phoenix skyline.
There is also a cavern to explore and rocks to climb, as well as other hiking trails within Papago Park. It is a great easy urban hike perfect for the whole family!
When you’re done, head over to the pond to feed the ducks. Or do this as a morning hike and then spend the day at the Phoenix Zoo located within Papago Park as well.
6. Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail
The 3.4-mile Hidden Valley Trail features towering saguaros, views of the city, a variety of wildlife, Fat Man’s Pass, Hidden Tunnel, a natural rock slide, and plenty of cracks and crevices to explore and rocks to climb!
For more hikes, check out our guide 7 Awesome Hikes in Phoenix!
Best Water Activities in Phoenix
7. Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center
The Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center is a lifesaver on a hot summer day. Kids are only $1 and adults $2.25 so it doesn’t break the bank to spend a day at the pool with the family!
There is a water playground, slide, splash pad, whirlpool, lazy river, diving pool, and lap pool.
Other Aquatic Centers in the area include Desert Oasis (Dobson/Alma School), Hamilton (Arizona Ave/Ocotillo), and Nozomi (Kyrene/Loop 202).
8. Founder’s Park Splash Pad
Founders Park is located in Queen Creek and is one of the biggest splash pads in the valley. The splash pad is over 4,000 square feet and has a variety of water features and play equipment.
The park also has shaded picnic tables and a nearby playground and skate park.
9. Water Tower Plaza
Water Tower Plaza is located in the charming and historic downtown Gilbert. You’ll find a small splash pad under the water tower.
While you’re there, visit the nearby Gilbert Historical Museum then grab lunch at Joe’s BBQ or Liberty Market.
See our guide The Best Things to Do in Gilbert for more recommendations.
10. The Cloud at Kiwanis Park
The Cloud at Kiwanis Park is Tempe’s largest splash pad. The splash pad is located at the Kiwanis Park entrance off Baseline Road.
11. Mesa River View Splash Pad
This newly constructed park has a large splash pad with a variety of water features.
12. Espee Park Splash Pad
The Espee Park splash pad in Chandler features a water tower, various showers, and spray rings. Chuparosa is another splash pad located in Chandler.
13. Kiwanis Park Wave Pool
This indoor heated wave pool and water slide is located in the Kiwanis Park Rec Center.
Admission is $5 for kids 2-12 years old and $7 for 13+ years old. Tube rentals are an additional $5 for a single and $8 for a double. The waves run for 15 minutes every 12 minutes.
14. Golfland Sunsplash
Golfland Sunsplash features over 30 rides and attractions, including waterslides, mini-golf, laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, a wave pool, a lazy river, arcade games, and a Family Fun Center.
The best value is if you purchase a Pogo Pass where you can get admission to Golfland as well as several other attractions around the valley. It pays for itself after just one trip to Golfland!
15. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is the newest and largest waterpark in Phoenix!
You’ll find thrilling state-of-the-art water slides, a relaxing lazy river, a wave pool, and family-friendly play areas. Be sure to check out the new Paradise Island!
For the best value, purchase a season pass that includes admission to Six Flags Magic Mountain in California.
16. Float the Salt River
Floating the Salt River is one of the best ways to cool off in the summer.
You can either book a float trip that includes the tube rental and shuttle bus, or bring your own tubes and transportation
There are also guided kayak tours or paddleboard tours that launch at Saguaro Lake Ranch.
Weekends and holidays get busy and often bring a rowdy crowd so for families I would suggest going during the week.
Be sure to check out our First Time Guide to Salt River Tubing for all the details.
17. Saguaro Lake
Saguaro Lake is located in the Tonto National Forest and is a great day trip to escape the heat.
Rent a boat or kayak, go cliff jumping, hang out at the Butcher Jones Recreation Area, or take a scenic cruise aboard The Desert Belle.
Check out our Saguaro Lake Guide for all the details!
18. Rhodes Aquatic Center
The Rhodes Aquatic Center has a Flow Rider wave machine where your kids can either surf or boogie board.
The cost is only $6 per hour for kids and $12 per hour for adults!
Best Bike Paths and Skate Parks in Phoenix
19. Desert Trails Bike Park
This fun bike park is located in Mesa and offers a variety of options for different skill levels.
The park features a 3/4 mile perimeter track, various downhill tracks, a skills course, and a pump track with a variety of ramps and features.
For more things to do in Mesa, check out our guide 15 Fun Things to Do in Mesa Arizona with Kids!
20. Queen Creek Wash Trail
This trail is almost 5 miles long and has built-in underpasses so that you do not need to cross any streets.
There is parking at Desert Mountain Park, or the beginning of the trail is behind the Safeway on Queen Creek and Power. Just park behind the store and cross through the wash.
Stop at the neighborhood parks along the way and take a detour to the Queen Creek Marketplace for a treat!
21. Chandler BMX Race Park
We first learned about this park when my son attended a birthday party here, and it was the best birthday party he has ever been to!
You must have a BMX membership to ride, unless you are a guest at a party.
You can try a temporary membership for $30 for 30 days, or purchase an annual membership for $60.
They have races you can participate in (which require an additional entrance fee) or open practice times.
This is a cool place for your kids to learn a new skill and get exercise at the same time.
Espee Bike Park is also the Valley’s first bike-only park.
22. Freestone Skate Park
This massive 22,000-square-foot skate park never feels crowded.
It caters to all ages and skill levels and allows for skateboards, scooters, and in-line skates.
Best Museums in Phoenix
*Insider tip: pick up a Culture Pass from participating libraries to receive 2 free passes to participating museums and cultural centers. Groupon also regularly offers discount tickets.
23. Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is located in downtown Phoenix. With plenty of hands-on exhibits and a planetarium, you can easily spend an entire day here!
24. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Let your kids get lost in their imagination at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
Whether it’s creating robots out of recycled products, being a cashier at the grocery store, or making sandcastles at the outdoor “beach”.
They’ll also love exploring the tunnels in the large play structure, or playing hide and seek in the noodle forest.
This fun and educational museum is located in the beautiful historic Monroe school building in downtown Phoenix.
25. Arizona Museum of Natural History
Digging for dinosaur bones and panning for gold are just a few of the things your kids will love doing at this museum in Mesa!
26. I.D.E.A. Museum:
Creativity is at the heart of this museum, with hands-on activities focused on art, science, and imagination.
27. Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum is rated as one of the top 20 museums in the United States and features almost 7,000 instruments from around the world.
Take a self-guided audio tour around the museum to learn the sounds and history of each instrument.
Your kids will especially love the hands-on room where you can experiment with different instruments.
28. Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum
Take a guided tour of this museum where you’ll see a large collection of former Air Force planes and memorabilia.
You can even climb aboard several of the planes.
The volunteer guides are usually veterans who will not only share the interesting history of the planes, but also personal stories and insights as well.
29. Arizona Railway Museum
If you have a little one who loves trains, then this is definitely a place you won’t want to miss!
Wander around the train yard on a self-guided tour exploring historical train cars, railway equipment, and artifacts.
The open-air museum is only open Saturdays and Sundays from September through May.
Best Parks and Playgrounds in Phoenix
30. Freestone Park
The main highlight of Freestone park is the train ride and small amusement park rides.
There are also 3 different playgrounds, a skate park, batting cages, sports fields and courts, and a large lake. The recreation center also offers rock climbing for $3 and the use of indoor sports courts.
31. Desert Breeze Park
Desert Breeze Park in Chandler also features a train ride, along with a spray pad with animal sculptures, a large playground, a fishing lake, and a paved walking and biking trail.
32. Tumbleweed Park
This amazing Chandler park features “Playtopia”, a 2.5-acre playground and picnic area.
It is divided into imaginative areas such as Farm Land, City Land, and Critter Land.
Bring your bikes or scooters to ride around City Land. Be sure to pack a picnic because your kids will want to want to stay all day!
33. Riparian Preserve
The Riparian Preserve is located next to the Southeast Regional Library.
Be sure to go inside the library and check out the intricate dollhouse while you’re there!
There is plenty to do at the reserve. You can walk or bike the different paths, go fishing or spot turtles in the lake, dig for dinosaur bones in the sandpit, and play on the unique concrete structures.
Another fun option is visiting the observatory at night for some stargazing. The cost is $5 and my little guy loved doing this with his dad for a boys night out, followed by ice cream of course.
34. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
This beautiful and unique park is a Scottsdale treasure!
Your kids will love taking a ride aboard the Paradise Pacific Railroad and checking out the model train displays in the museum.
They can also ride the carousel and play on the railroad-themed playground. The playground is even completely shaded with a misting feature.
35. Kiwanis Park
There is so much to do at this Tempe Park!
Rent a kayak to take out on the lake, or cool off in the wave pool at the rec center.
Ride bikes along the paths and stop at one of the many playgrounds.
You can also hit some rounds at the batting cages or play a game of basketball at one of the courts.
During the month of May, the park also hosts outdoor movies in the park.
36. Mesa Riverview Park
After undergoing major renovations, this Mesa park is one of the best in the Valley!
It features a splash pad with several water features, a fishing lake, large climbing structures, and shaded playgrounds.
It is also home to Sloan Park, the Chicago Cubs spring training facility.
This is also the beginning of the 19-mile-long paved Rio Salado Pathway.
The pathway follows the Salt River Bank and connects Riverview Park and Mesa’s Riverview shopping center to Tempe Town Lake.
37. Papago Park
Papago Park is home to the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Gardens, Hall of Flame Museum, and the popular Hole in the Rock hike.
This is not your typical park. Instead of grassy fields, this park is made up mostly of large sandstone buttes that are fun to explore.
It offers great hiking trails and stocked fishing lagoons where you can feed the ducks.
38. Mansel Carter Oasis Park
This huge park offers innovative playground equipment, a pirate-themed splash pad, a fishing pond, sports fields, and a skate park.
Be sure to check out our guide 11 Fun Things to Do in Queen Creek with Kids for more information!
39. Gilbert Regional Park
Gilbert Regional Park is a fantastic newly constructed city park.
It features a state-of-the-art playground, pickleball courts, and other sports courts. There is also a large fishing lake and an amphitheater for outdoor performances.
40. Desert Sky Park
This Mesa park has all of the equipment to help your kids prepare to be the next American Ninja Warrior!
With a parkour course and a variety of challenges, it is great for all ages!
Best Nature and Animal Encounters in Phoenix
41. Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the nation’s largest non-profit zoos.
It features habitats for animals around the globe, as well as a great kid’s discovery farm, petting zoo, playgrounds, and splash pads.
They offer a variety of animal encounters (for an extra fee) such as feeding a giraffe, petting a stingray, riding a camel, or taking a backstage tour.
42. Odysea Aquarium
Experience the beautiful and unique underwater world through many different aquariums and exhibits.
Step aboard the Odysea Voyager, a rotating theater and the world’s only moving aquarium exhibit.
Get up close with stingrays and sea stars in the touch pool. Spend time in the kid’s cove as they unleash their creativity with hands-on projects and an interactive water table.
Enjoy a 3-D movie at the aquarium theater and many more exhibits and activities!
*Sea Life is also a smaller aquarium that is located in Mesa at the Arizona Mills Mall.
43. Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland features the largest butterfly conservatory in the world.
Step inside the rainforest and experience the magic of walking among 3,000 butterflies!
Witness butterflies emerging from a chrysalis, see honey bees in action, get up close with reptiles of the rainforest, and meet some of the world’s largest anthropods!
It is Educational and intriguing, and a visit that your kids will not soon forget!
44. Wildlife World
Located in Litchfield Park, this zoo, aquarium, and safari park provide a one-of-a-kind experience as you get to meet the largest collection of exotic animals in Arizona.
Take a tram ride through the 15-acre Safari Park and you’ll feel like you’re on the African Savannah! Check Groupon for discount tickets.
45. Superstition Farm
This has been a family favorite of ours for years! We love the personal connection between the staff of this family-owned dairy farm.
It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn about life on a farm.
The tour includes a petting zoo where they can feed the animals and a hayride out to visit the cows. The baby calves in the springtime are always a favorite.
After the tour, guests can enjoy a refreshing flavored milk of your choice.
46. MacDonald’s Ranch
Get a taste of the Wild West at this Scottsdale horse ranch!
Take a guided horseback ride, stagecoach ride, hayride, or pony ride. There is also a petting zoo for kids. You can also book a trail ride with an authentic Cowboy Cookout!
Or for a unique and unforgettable experience, consider booking a stay at an authentic Dude Ranch in Tucson!
Best Indoor Entertainment for Kids in Phoenix
47. KTR
With two locations in Chandler and Mesa, this center offers a variety of indoor activities.
You’ll find trampolines, a skate and scooter park, large springboard floors, and plenty of other equipment and activities to keep your kids entertained for hours!
Watch for family discount passes during school holidays.
48. Makutu’s Island
If your kids love the McDonald’s playland structures, they’ll be in heaven at Makutu’s Island!
This tropical-themed indoor play place is one of the largest in the United States and features a huge man-made tree with tunnels, slides, caves, climbing structures, bridges and more!
FYI: don’t forget to bring socks!
49. Fat Cats
Fat Cats is located in Gilbert and Queen Creek.
This facility offers bowling, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, arcades, and a movie theater with reclining seats.
Every Tuesday is $5 movies. Every Monday is family fun bowling with 90 minutes of bowling, 2 pizzas, and unlimited drinks for up to 6 people for $45.
Main Event is another indoor entertainment center that offers similar activities.
50. Jakes Unlimited
Come enjoy the all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and Sweet Shope gourmet shakes while the kids burn off energy!
They’ll love playing laser tag, bowling, playing arcade and midway games, riding bumper cars, and enjoying other attractions.
51. Gravity Extreme Zone
Gravity Extreme Zone is an indoor trampoline center that features trampolines, foam pits, a climbing wall, a drop slide, a skywalk, and more!
You can often find deals on Groupon.
Urban Air is another fun trampoline park that is located in Queen Creek.
52. Uptown Jungle
This city-themed indoor playground features a variety of activities like trampolines, a rock wall, play structure, slides, an obstacle course, a mini zip-line, and a ball blaster arena.
Parents will especially love the parent’s lounge with an oversized leather sectional, tv, magazines and massage recliners.
The best value pricing is $12 for 2 hours. Grip socks are required, you can either bring your own or purchase theirs for $2.50.
Check Groupon for regular discounts.
53. Big Air Trampoline Park
Big Air in Chandler is our favorite indoor trampoline park. It offers the widest variety of activities, including a mechanical bull and an interactive video game!
54. Top Golf
Put your golf skills to the test, or just have fun spending quality time with the family. The facility features 100 climate-controlled hitting bays.
Pricing is per bay not per person, so it is easy to split the cost if you are going with a group.
Sign up for the Kidzone email list to find out about cool upcoming events just for kids. It also includes a free kid’s meal on your child’s birthday.
A family fun pass is also a great option. For $199 you can enjoy unlimited golf for the whole family all summer long from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
55. Bounce U
Make a reservation during open bounce sessions. During each session, guests will rotate to a few different rooms with a variety of blow-up bounce equipment.
56. USA Fitness
You don’t need to be a member to take advantage of their open gym sessions. Check the calendar for dates and times.
Each session is 1 1/2 hours and the cost is $7/members and $10/non-members.
The session starts with a quick group stretch led by a coach then the kids are free to play.
Gym equipment includes trampolines, a climbing rope, a foam pit, balance beams, rings, and other equipment. It’s a great way for kids to get their energy out, especially in the summer months!
57. AZ Ice
When the temperature reaches 100 degrees, the best way to cool off is on the ice!
Check the schedule for open public ice skating times.
58. Skateland USA
Re-live your glory middle school days at the rink (or was that just me?)!
Bring your whole family for a Family Skate Session ($5.50 admission, $3.50 skate rental or bring your own).
Skate mate rolling walkers are available for beginner skaters.
59. iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Kids as young as 3 years old can experience the thrill of floating on air!
I have to admit that I was a little nervous to try this, but it wasn’t scary at all.
There is no free-falling, just floating with the assistance of their trained staff. Definitely a fun and unique experience!
60. Starfighter Arcade
Come enjoy vintage arcade games and pinball machines!
Open Friday and Saturday from 7 pm-11 pm. Admission is $10 for unlimited arcade gameplay.
61. Pure Esports
Located in Gilbert, and featuring 50+ gaming stations.
Admission is $7/1 hour $15/3 hour sessions. Check Groupon for discounted tickets.
*Related post: Check out these 10 Secret Spots and Hidden Gems in Phoenix!
Best Agricultural Experiences for Kids in the Phoenix East Valley
62. Schnepf Farms
With events scheduled throughout the year, there is always something to do at the farm!
Enjoy their Fall Pumpkin and Chili party with amusement park rides, hayrides, and a corn maze.
At Christmas, the farm is transformed into a holiday wonderland where you can even take a hayride out to feed the reindeer.
See our guide 18 Magical Places to Experience Christmas in Arizona for more details and recommendations.
They have events for almost every occasion! Be sure to also check out their U-Pick organic gardens and peach orchard.
63. Vertuccio Farms
Fall is when this place really comes alive with its affordable family fun!
Their fall festival includes train rides, a corn maze, a huge bounce pillow, slides, games, pedal bikes, a petting zoo, and plenty more.
See our guide 12 Places to Experience Fall in Arizona for more information and recommendations.
They also have other events scheduled throughout the year, such as an Easter Egg hunt, farm camp, and peach picking.
Check their Facebook page for event updates. Even when there aren’t events going on, be sure to stop by their farmer’s market for some fresh seasonal produce.
64. Gilbert Farmer’s Market
Located in historic downtown Gilbert, the farmer’s market is open year-round every Saturday from 7-11 am.
With around 100 vendors you’ll find a wide variety of locally grown produce, along with food trucks, games, and entertainment for the whole family!
65. The Farm at South Mountain
Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table experience at this working Pecan farm.
The menu offers fresh seasonal dishes with many of the ingredients grown right at the farm.
Enjoy your meal on the outdoor tables, or bring a blanket for a picnic under the pecan trees. They also have lawn games available to check out from the Farm Kitchen pick-up window.
66. The Farm at Agritopia
Come visit a working agricultural farm with both commercial and community gardens.
Stroll the pathways and see the variety of produce and flowers, especially in the community garden where each plot is leased out by individuals in the community.
Visit the Farm Store (open daily 7 am-7 pm on the west side of the Barnone building) where you can purchase fresh produce and products from local vendors.
Check out the Wednesday evening farmer’s market inside the Barnone building each Wednesday from 5-8 pm.
67. Queen Creek Olive Mill
This family-owned farm is Arizona’s only producer of 100% extra virgin olive oil.
The Olive Mill provides a farm-to-table experience as they serve up delicious fresh pasta, sandwiches, salads, and pizza.
The food is served out of the old farm shed that has since been transformed into a beautiful and eclectic restaurant.
Eat outdoors on a shaded picnic table, then visit their farm store to take home some fresh-pressed olive oil.
Be sure to take a tour to learn more about how their farm works ($7 for adults, kids 12 and under free).
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in the Phoenix East Valley
When it comes to kids, you can’t go wrong with Peter Piper’s Pizza and Chuck E Cheese, but for a more unique, delicious, and memorable experience for the whole family, be sure to check out these spots!
68. Organ Stop Pizza
Organ Stop Pizza is home of the Wurlitzer Organ. This pipe organ was built in 1927 for the Denver Theater where it was used until talking pictures were invented.
Today, patrons can enjoy the sounds of pop music, Hollywood theme songs, and classic oldies while enjoying their pizza.
Guests can even put in song requests, and it is so impressive just how many songs the organist can play!
69. Snakes and Lattes
Snakes & Latte’s is located on Mill Avenue in Tempe.
They have really good food and an extensive collection of board games that you can play while you eat. There is a $6 game fee per person, but you can play as many games as you would like.
70. Rustler’s Rooste
This Western-style restaurant serves up a memorable experience along with great food.
Situated on top of a butte in the foothills of South Mountain, legend has it that this location was a hideout for cattle rustlers.
Kids will be fascinated as you enter part of an old mine shaft, walk past an indoor waterfall then take a ride down a tin slide to the dining room!
With a live country-western band and a wandering magician, it’s more than just a restaurant, it’s an experience!
71. Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse
Talk about dinner and entertainment…you can come here for some delicious cowboy grub AND live bull riding!
This Cave Creek establishment has come a long way since its humble roots as a feed and bait shop back in 1951.
Bull riding sessions are every Wednesday at 7:30 & 9:00 pm, and Friday at 8:00, 9:30 & 10:45 pm.
They also have live music every Tuesday-Friday at 8:00, Saturday at 9:00, and Sunday at 8:00 pm.
Or come on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday at 7:00 pm for free dance lessons! Bring the family for a memorable night of delicious food and great entertainment!
72. San Tan Flats
Enjoy a delicious plate of BBQ ribs, then bring your own s’mores to roast around the fire pits while listening to the live band.
Roasting sticks are available for anyone to use. They also have s’mores kits available for purchase. Come early to save a table, this family favorite spot fills up fast!
73. ComicX
Come dine with your favorite superhero at this comic book-themed restaurant!
ComicX is located at Desert Ridge Marketplace. Every square inch of the two-story restaurant is covered with superhero memorabilia. You can even purchase the life-sized figurines!
They even have free gaming consoles for the kids to play while waiting for their food.
74. Hangar Cafe
The Hangar Cafe is located right next to the runway at the Chandler Municipal Airport.
Be sure to ask for a patio seat and you’ll get a front-row seat to watch the planes taking off and landing while you eat.
The food is traditional diner food and they are known for their hearty breakfast plates.
For more of the best places to eat in the valley, see our guides:
- 16 Best Restaurants in Gilbert and the East Valley
- 11 of the Best Places to Eat in Phoenix
- A Foodies Guide to the Best Places to Eat in Scottsdale!
Best Family-Friendly Live Entertainment in Phoenix and the East Valley
75. Jesterz
Clean comedy shows are hard to come by. However, this improv comedy club takes pride in offering up not only the best comedy, but the best family-friendly comedy around!
We laugh so hard every single time we go, it’s always a memorable experience. It also makes for a great birthday party venue for tweens and teens!
76. Professional Sports Game
Phoenix is home to several professional sports teams, including the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals, and the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Baseball games are an American past-time. And it’s a right of passage for kids to experience eating a ballpark frank while watching the game at least once in their life!
And you’ll be glad to know that those ballpark franks won’t break the bank! The stadium offers $2 value items for hot dogs, corn dogs, popcorn, and sodas.
They also offer a $25 Value Pack which includes your game ticket, a hot dog OR Subway sandwich, and a regular Pepsi.
Or if you really have an appetite, purchase the All-You-Can-Eat-Seats with prices starting at $37. They include unlimited hot dogs, chips, popcorn, peanuts, and sodas up until the 7th inning.
Join the D-backs Kids Club for prizes and rewards each time you visit, including a free ticket for every Sunday home game.
Be sure to visit the Sandlot playground located in the upper concourse.
The Sandlot includes activities for kids of all ages including a toddler play area and a playground with slides (for kids 3+ years old and under 48″ tall). It also has a whiffle ball field and a batting cage.
77. Spring Training Games
Fans from all over gather to catch some of their favorite teams during the Spring Training season.
There are 10 fields across the valley and 15 different MLB teams that come to Arizona for spring training every season.
Click the link for a map of where each team is playing.
78. Live Events
Check Vivid Seats and StubHub for a list of family shows coming to Phoenix. Popular ones include Disney on Ice or the circus.
Check other listings on the site for concert tour dates such as Imagine Dragons, Justin Bieber, or Taylor Swift. These artists put on a great show for all ages!
79. Medieval Times Dinner Theater
Enjoy a hearty Renaissance-era meal while watching an entertaining live show with horses, knights, and jousting. Located in Scottsdale.
Bonus: Game Show Battle Rooms
Game Show Battle Rooms is such a fun experience for the whole family! You’ll have a chance to compete with family and friends in game shows similar to Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right, and Plinko!
Each session is 1 hour long and you can choose between the Classic Showdowns or Prime Time Showdowns. They both feature fun and competitive games, we went with the Classic Showdowns and it was a total blast! The hosts have such a fun energy and you’ll feel like you’re a real contestant on a game show.
Game Show Battle Rooms has two locations in Scottsdale and Chandler. It is perfect for birthday parties, family reunions, holiday parties, or just an excuse to get together with family and friends for a fun and unique experience!
Best Fine Arts Experiences for Kids
80. As You Wish Pottery
Perfect for your budding artist! Spend quality time painting your own pottery or canvas to take home as a keepsake.
There is a studio fee of $7.50 per person plus the cost of whatever item you choose to paint.
81. Arizona Puppet Theater
Kids these days are exposed to so much electronic entertainment that it’s refreshing to expose them to other forms of entertainment, like a classic puppet show.
Enjoy an engaging performance for the whole family, tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for kids.
82. Hale Theater
Kids will be captivated as classic and modern stories come to life on stage!
83. Mesa Sculpture Tour
Mesa has a vibrant art scene. Your kids will enjoy this scavenger hunt of sorts as you take a free self-guided sculpture tour to spot the 36 different sculptures around downtown Mesa.
While you’re there, visit the Mesa Arts Center where you can expose your kids to the beauty of visual art as you visit the gallery, take a class, or attend a performance.
Other Recommended Family-Friendly Activities in the Phoenix East Valley
84. Bass Pro Shop
Bass Pro Shop has a surprising amount of things to do for kids.
They’ll love checking out the aquarium, trying their hand at the Daisy BB Gun Range, riding the carousel, and seeing all the taxidermy animals displayed throughout the store.
Their on-site restaurant also has great “Kids Bait” kids meal options.
They also offer a really cool FREE summer camp that includes crafts and hands-on activities.
85. West Wind Drive-in Theater
Drive-in movie theaters are almost a thing of the past. There aren’t many locations left so take advantage and head to Glendale to catch a double feature.
Bring along some folding chairs, a picnic dinner, popcorn, and treats to enjoy a memorable evening with family and friends!
86. Desert Botanical Gardens
This is one of the most popular tourist spots in Phoenix and definitely worth a visit.
Pick up 2 free culture passes at a participating library then come admire the Southwest’s largest botanical garden.
Admission is also free on the second Tuesday of every month.
They offer several different events and activities that are fun for the whole family, such as their Flash Light tours, or the light and sound display of the Electric Desert.
87. Pangea
If you have a little one that’s really into dinosaurs, then they’ll enjoy visiting Pangea. The Land of the Dinosaurs exhibit is filled with mechanical dinosaurs that move and make noises.
There are interactive screens where you can learn about the different dinosaurs. Daily activities and hands-on activities are also available.
After your visit, head upstairs to the Pangea Grill for lunch.
88. Tempe Town Lake
Get out on the water and rent a paddleboat, kayak, or paddleboard.
Or, bring dinner and cruise around on an 8-seater electric boat with a built-in table.
Bring your bikes (or rent one) and cruise along the waterfront bike path and grab some lunch at the nearby trendy Mill Avenue!
89. Goldfield Ghost Town
Experience the excitement of the legendary Wild West at this replica 1890s gold mining town!
Learn about the fascinating history of this old mining town and the legends told of the Superstition Mountains.
Some of the activities include a mine tour, train ride, and zipline. They even have a free gunfight show on the weekends.
For more information about Goldfield and other ghost towns in the area, see our guide 7 of the Coolest Ghost Towns in Arizona.
90. Harkins Theaters
Check out Harkins Theaters for the latest releases. Be sure to purchase a loyalty card and cup for free popcorn and $1.50 refills.
Escape the heat and enjoy cheap entertainment while watching old releases during their Summer Movie Fun program. Tickets are $7 for 10 movies, or you can purchase tickets for $2 at the door.
Enjoy Harkins Tuesday Night Classics. Every Tuesday classics are shown on the big screen, such as The Wizard of Oz, Goonies, Back to the Future, and holiday favorites. Movies are only $5.
Grab a group of friends and reserve the big screen to play Playstation or Xbox. Reservations are available for $100/hour Monday-Thursday and weekends before noon.
91. Ikea
Not only will your kids love playing at the Smaland Play Center, but they also get a free kid’s meal on Tuesdays!
And we’re not just talking questionable chicken nuggets and greasy fries.
Choose from options such as grilled chicken with strawberries, carrots, and string cheese.
Or organic pasta with tomato sauce, or even Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables-yum!
You will get two free meals for every paying adult.
92. Superstition Springs Kid’s Club
Every Thursday from 10-10:45 in the JCPenny court Dewper and Persephone put on an educational and entertaining show for kids!
While you’re at the mall be sure to ride the 2 story merry-go-round, play at the play area, and maybe even splurge on a train ride around the mall or a mechanical animal to ride around.
93. Heritage Square
Heritage Square is located in downtown Phoenix on Block 14 of the original townsite.
I fell in love with this historical square the first time I saw it! It is such a charming reminder of the city’s vibrant Victorian past that dates back to the late 1800s.
Take a tour of the restored Rosson House Museum, grab a bite to eat at one of the several old homesites that have since been turned into restaurants, or just walk around and admire the history.
This cute spot is nestled among the more modern buildings and is a neighbor to the Arizona Science Center and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
94. Home Depot Kids Workshops
Register for one of their free kid’s workshops where kids get to build something to bring home along with a kid-sized signature orange apron.
Spots fill up fast so be sure to register in advance.
95. Feed My Starving Children
This is a fabulous non-profit organization that utilizes volunteers to hand-pack food to send to other countries.
It is such a great experience for kids to have the opportunity to serve! Register online and bring other family and friends to join along!
96. Mesa Gateway Airport
There is a viewing area next to the runway at the Mesa Gateway Airport with grass and a covered picnic area.
You can bring a picnic and watch the planes land and take off, your kids will love it! It’s called Lynn Kusy Park and is located at 5803 South Sossaman Road.
Falcon Field Aiport also has two great viewing patios where you can watch the planes.
97. Water and Ice Store
There are several different independently owned Water and Ice stores and they serve up the best ice cream in the valley for the best price!
Each location has a different look, our favorite is the Queen Creek Winter Quarters Water and Ice with its western cowboy theme and target shooting range.
Pick from one of their many flavors of Thrifty ice cream. I prefer Black Cherry and my kids love Crazy Colors.
They also have other treats like shaved ice, and the best part is that it is very inexpensive.
98. Joe’s Italian Ice
Speaking of sweet treats, be sure to try the dreamy Italian ice at Joe’s. It’s so smooth and creamy, it will have you craving it for days!
There are so many flavors to choose from, my favorite is Strawberries and Cream. It is a little pricey, but you can taste the quality of the ingredients.
Even their soft-serve ice cream is noticeably richer and so delicious.
As a bonus, they have the cutest retro decorations. My kids loved the old-school arcade game.
Of course, we can’t forget to mention Bahama Bucks if you’re looking for a tasty treat to cool off from the desert heat!
We have been to Hawaii a few times and I’m still convinced that Bahama Buck’s shaved ice with cream is the best I’ve ever had!
See our guide 17 Best Desserts in Phoenix for more recommendations.
99. Book a Staycation
The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa has a fun waterpark with a lazy river, hot tubs, and a small water slide.
A Flow Rider wave machine is also on-site at an additional charge. There is also a kid’s area with ping pong tables, basketball hoops, lawn chess, and daily activities.
The Scott Resort is a Cuban-inspired resort that has a beach entry pool with real sand.
Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak has one of the best water parks. They have water slides, multiple pools, hot tubs, a lazy river, sports courts, and mini-golf.
The rooms are a little dated, but the water park keeps the kids entertained all day!
Another great hotel perfect for a staycation is the Arizona Biltmore. This hotel recently made Conde Nast Traveler’s elite Gold List. Conde Nast also revealed that Marilyn Monroe’s favorite pool is located here.
Kids will enjoy the 92-foot waterslide and cooling off in one of the 8 pools. There is live music every weekend, along with kids cooking classes and movies.
The Hyatt Regency at Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale has 10 swimming pools, 20 fountains, and 45 waterfalls, as well as a three-story waterslide. It even offers gondola boat rides on the water!
The Great Wolf Lodge also recently opened and is a dream escape for families. They offer the largest indoor waterparks in all of North America.
For more information and recommendations, check out our guide 13 Best Places to Stay in Phoenix!
100. Festivals
Step back in time and eat a turkey leg or watch jousting tournaments at the Renaissance Festival.
Or check out the activities at Gilbert Days, a fun annual event that includes a rodeo, parade, and fun run.
The Ostrich Festival is also a fun annual tradition that includes carnival rides and hands-on activities.
Watch the sky light up with hundreds of lanterns at the Lantern Festival (Schnepf Farms also holds a lantern festival usually in February, check their events calendar for dates).
And be sure to check out the Arizona State Fair!
101. Tour a Castle
Who knew there were castles in Arizona?! Eight of them to be exact!
They may not be on the same scale as the European castles you’re thinking of, but they are still pretty cool and interesting places to tour.
I would recommend the Tovrea, Mystery Castle, and Camelback Castle.
And while we’re discussing interesting works of architecture, be sure to check out Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West Home, a national landmark and the famous architect’s most personal creation.
I hope this list of fun things to do with kids in Phoenix and the East Valley will help keep your family entertained!
For more ideas of places to explore, be sure to check out all of our Arizona Guides!
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This blog post is AMAZING! Thank you for taking the time to do it.
Thank you so much, I really appreciate that! Hopefully you can find some new places to explore!
My family and I just moved to Phoenix from California and this post has kind of become our weekend bible. We are slowly ticking off every item on your list 1-by-1. This is a great resource, thank you for investing the time and effort in building it! We really appreciate it.
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment! I’m so glad you have found it helpful and hope that you are adjusting to the move and enjoying Arizona. Best of luck, and let me know if you have any questions I would love to help!
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