Arizona weather is a reliable forecast of sun, sun, and sun (minus those few weeks of monsoon season), but don't be scared to visit during the summer—though the temperatures are scorching, everywhere you go will have air conditioning and misters (and hopefully splash pads and pools). Plus, prices are substantially cheaper than in the busier winter months. Note: Carry water with you wherever you go, no matter the season!

Join a workshop or drop in for free time at the Arizona Science Center's CREATE maker space. Photo courtesy of the museum

Indoor Things To Do in Phoenix with Kids

1. Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center, located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, has many permanent, hands-on exhibits that entertain children of all ages. Be sure to explore the CREATE maker space and Forces of Nature. The center features a planetarium and is always adding interesting new exhibits.

2. Phoenix Art Museum

Open the creative minds of your children by taking a trip to the Phoenix Art Museum in downtown Phoenix. This gorgeous attraction features art from around the world and amazing events throughout the year, making it one of top things to do in Phoenix.

3. Children’s Museum of Phoenix

This children's museum offers so much to do in an innovative way. There's an art studio, block building, a pretend grocery store, a fort-building section, Noodle Forest, an indoor climbing center, and more. Families with multiple-age kids will appreciate the dedicated baby zones in each of the exhibits, as well as the toddler-size furniture and bathroom fixtures.

4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona — Tempe

Located at the Arizona Mills Mall, LEGOLAND Discovery Center welcomes builders of all shapes and sizes. Ride Kingdom Quest and Merlin's Apprentice, catch a show at Lego 4D Cinema, explore the miniature replica of Phoenix made entirely of LEGO bricks, climb the huge jungle gym, and lose yourselves in a ton of LEGO bricks. Tickets often sell out, so it's best to buy them ahead of time online.

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Arizona's only 360-degree ocean tunnel is at the SEA LIFE Aquarium. Photo courtesy of the aquarium

5. SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium — Tempe

Next door to LEGOLAND is the SEA LIFE Aquarium. Home to more than 250 species of marine animals in 10 themed zones, this hands-on aquarium has 30 exhibits including interactive Touch Tidepools, seven species of shark (warm up that song!), and Arizona's only 360-degree ocean tunnel. Try to catch a critter feeding or an educational talk, and see how many LEGO models you can spot in the tanks! Combination tickets are available to both attractions.

6. Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs — Scottsdale

Become a paleontologist at this interactive dinosaur attraction, housed at the OdySea Complex. Meet more than 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and check out 10 interactive stations, including a fossil dig, an excavation, and a Dino-Kart ride. It's a must-stop for any adventure-seeking, dinosaur-obsessed kid. Ages 2 and under are free. While you're there, plan a stop at the OdySea 2 million-gallon aquarium to visit the sharks and otters.

7. Butterfly Wonderland — Scottsdale

Next door to Pangaea and OdySea, Butterfly Wonderland is the largest indoor rainforest conservatory in the US—right here in the desert. Kids will be amazed to meet more than 3,000 butterflies from around the world, as well as other bugs and reptiles. With a little patience and a lot of perseverance, they might even be able to convince one of the winged creatures to land on them.

8. Castles N Coasters

Little adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers will love Castles N Coasters, which offers an upside-down roller coaster, a multi-sensory interactive attraction, a massive arcade, a log ride, bumper boats, miniature golf, and a ton more. Food is available for purchase.

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See more instruments than you can imagine at the Musical Instrument Museum. Photo courtesy of the museum

9. Musical Instrument MuseuM (MIM) — Scottsdale

My kids LOVE the MIM!! The Musical Instrument Museum provides a one-of-a-kind experience with instrument displays, concerts, and drop-in kids' classes. Geographic Galleries focus on musical instruments from around the world, while the Artist Gallery introduces kids to the greatest musicians. The Experience and Encore Galleries host hands-on interactive music experiences.

10. Hall of Flame Fire Museum

This museum houses a massive collection dedicated to all things firefighting. Bring your aspiring firefighters to the fantastic children’s room with its fire pole and a child-sized fire engine, complete with uniforms and other protective gear. All ages will enjoy checking out the many retro fire trucks the museum houses, too.

11. Jake's Unlimited — Mesa

Amusement rides, laser tag, bowling, and an arcade all under one roof make Jake's Unlimited a kids' paradise. Add in the "endless eats" (all-day unlimited food and drinks) with every admission, and you've got the makings of one amazing day.

12. i.d.e.a. Museum — Mesa

You may have heard of that other acronym, STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), but this museum puts the i.d.e.a (imagination, design, experience, art) into motion. Located in Mesa, it focuses on design thinking, project-based learning, and a whole lot of fun. This is a wonderful place to explore creativity.

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American Indian art, jewelry, and culture star at Phoenix's Heard Museum. Photo courtesy of the museum

13. Heard Museum

The Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix is dedicated to American Indian art. I loved visiting this museum on field trips as a child and grinding corn in the atrium. The Heard's amazing collection of art celebrates the beauty and achievements of various American Indian tribal cultures across the region.

14. Childsplay — Tempe

This theater for families has been around since I was a kid and it's still a great source of entertainment for children. Many performances come with a backstage-tour option if you reserve in advance.

15. As You Wish Pottery Painting — Multiple Locations

When air conditioning is a must and the creative juices are flowing, take the kids to paint pottery. With eight Valley locations, As You Wish covers the entire metro region with fully stocked studios and ready-to-go creations. Check the online calendar for special events and classes just for kids.

16. iFly — Scottsdale

Have you wanted to go skydiving, but were afraid you’d never make it out of the plane? Visit Scottsdale to capture the feeling of flight at iFly. The national chain lets visitors experience the feeling of flying within a controlled indoor environment using a wind tunnel of sorts. Children as young as 3 are allowed to try it.

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Have a colorful time at the Crayola Experience!

17. Crayola Experience — Chandler

Add a little color to your world by visiting the Crayola Experience in Chandler. This vibrant attraction offers fun activities like naming and printing your own crayon wrapper, melting and molding crayons, creating spin art, transforming 2D drawings into animated scenes, and much more.

18. Great Arizona Puppet Theater

Enjoy a puppet show at this downtown Phoenix landmark. Great Arizona Puppet Theater is open year-round and is a great place to cool off in the summer months. Recent shows include The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Monkey and the Pirate.

19. Mirror Maze — Scottsdale

The rainforest-themed Mirror Maze is a unique twist on the escape-room craze. Explore the jungle, Mayan ruins, and more as jungle creatures make noise all around you. The lights and mirrors are sure to confuse your family as you try to puzzle your way out. It's an excellent way to beat the heat on a hot day.

20. Slick City Action Park — Chandler, Peoria, Queen Creek, Scottsdale

Get ready for fun at this indoor slide and air court park! Elaborate slides include Hyperloop, Tailspin, Zig Zag, Dragon, Avalanche, and much more.

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Get ready for some nighttime science at Desert Botanical Garden. Photo courtesy of the garden

Outdoor Things To Do in Phoenix with Kids

21. Desert Botanical Garden

This cacti-filled botanical garden is simply stunning—and massive. Tall, short, and flowering desert plants, including wildflowers, are thoughtfully spread across five trails. It's home to more than 50,000 plants! Choose a trail depending on the abilities of your group, how long you'd like to stay, or what you'd like to see. Examples of native peoples' housing dots some of the trails. Kids can duck into these shelters for a break or just to explore. Remember to pack water, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Many trails are stroller-friendly.

22. Phoenix Zoo

Lions, tigers, bears, and more will entertain your family for a day at the zoo. If you visit in the warmer months pack bathing suits for the kids, so they can enjoy the splash pads that are open from March through October. Tip: Make a reservation and bring a little cash so you can purchase lettuce at giraffe-feeding times.

23. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park — Scottsdale

This is a must-visit for kids of all ages! Head to Scottsdale and ride on a vintage train and a classic carousel at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Kids can also explore the train museum and use the circuits to run the miniature train set (replicating the city of Phoenix ) or play on the playgrounds. It's also a great spot to host a birthday party.​

24. Se'dav Va'aki Museum

Previously known as the Pueblo Grande Museum, this museum is situated outdoors on a 1,500-year-old archeological site left by the Hohokam. The museum itself is not huge, making it manageable for all levels of walkers. Explore replicated dwellings and the history and culture of the Hohokam people. If you are heading here during the summer months, bring an umbrella for some shade. Children under 6 are free.

25. Enchanted Island Amusement Park

Spend an entire day at Enchanted Island at Encanto Park, full of rides and attractions for all ages. Younger kids will enjoy bumper boats, a carousel, train rides, and more, while older kids can experience a thrilling spin ride and parachute tower. Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent.

26. Hurricane Harbor Phoenix — Glendale

Cool off with a day at Arizona’s largest water park. Expect the usual high-speed water slides that thrill-seekers love, but also plenty of low-key fun for families. The park has a large wave pool, a lazy river, and a splash area designated for little kids with pint-sized versions of some of the park’s thrill rides. Hurricane Harbor's season opens in April.

27. Pioneer Living History Museum

This open-air living history museum in north Phoenix features 90 acres of an old 1800s town, giving visitors a flavor of the Wild West. Costumed interpreters bring a jail, a blacksmith shop, a complete ranch complex, and the pioneer lifestyle to life.

28. Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve — Deer Valley

Go back in time and view one of the largest collections of prehistoric petroglyphs in the Valley of the Sun. An easy walk leads down a path to view the clearly marked petroglyphs (rock art). Enjoy the free audio tour along the trail to get better context about the preserve.

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Swimming is one of the best things to do in Phoenix in the summer. Photo courtesy of the city

29. Public Swimming Pools

Swimming in Phoenix isn't just a luxury, it's a necessity. The summer's brutal heat is the main driving force to let the kiddos go wild in the pool. Phoenix has tons of public pools to splash around in for free during the summer months.

30. Splash Pads

Splash pads are perfect for the spring and summer—a miraculous reprieve from the sweltering heat. These free water playgrounds and fancier paid splash pads are great spots to pass the time and cool off; in fact, it's so hot that your kids will probably dry off by the time they get to the car. Don't miss the splash pad at CityScape or the pop-jet fountain at Scottsdale Quarter.

31. Camelback Mountain

Arizona's mountainous terrain makes it the ideal spot to hike and explore the outdoors. There is great hiking throughout the city, but Camelback Mountain is famous for its great views. The two trails are somewhat intense, so only older children and experienced climbers should head up the mountain. Bring water and sunscreen and look out for wildlife along the way, especially rattlesnakes.

32. Cactus League Baseball — Multiple Locations

Catch a baseball game (or two) if you happen to be visiting during MLB's annual spring training. There are 10 stadiums where many MLB teams practice leading up to opening day. These stadiums are smaller versions of their in-season major-league counterparts, making for a more manageable day out at the ballgame for families with young kids. Check out the special children's areas at some of the stadiums.

33. More Sports

Whether your children love baseball, basketball, football, golf, tennis, or something else, Phoenix is a sports-lovers paradise. Depending on when you're in town, catch a Diamondbacks, Cardinals, or Suns game. Phoenix is known for its superb golf courses and tennis courts, so rent some play time and don't forget the equipment.

34. Golfland Sunsplash — Mesa

Whenever it's hot outside—which is often in Arizona—jumping into the pool just feels right. But who said jumping is the only way to enter the water? Golfland Sunsplash features more than 30 rides and attractions, many of which include thrilling water slides. And the mini golf can't be beat!

See exotic and endangered animals at Wildlife World Zoo.

35. Wildlife World Zoo — Litchfield Park

This zoo is a walk on the wild side! Located right off Loop 303 near Goodyear, the animal park holds a huge collection of exotic and endangered animals, including reptiles like saltwater crocodiles and a white alligator, marine animals and fish, and other amazing species.

36. Sunrise Apache Alpine Coaster — Greer

Speed down northern Arizona's hills aboard this awesome mountain coaster, one of the most thrilling things to do in Phoenix. Riders get 3,000 feet of track and breathtaking views during summer or winter.

37. Goldfield Ghost Town — Apache Junction

Relive the Old West at Goldfield Ghost Town. Attractions include gold panning, horseback riding, touring mines, train riding, and much more. Hungry, thirsty cowboys and cowgirls can visit the Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon for tasty fixins'.

38. Papago Park 

This gorgeous sandstone park, known for its massive buttes and great hiking trails, is one of the best outdoor things to do in Phoenix. Papago houses the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.

39. Playgrounds

Stick with the splash pads and spraygrounds during the brutal summer months, but Phoenix, AZ has perfect playgrounds for the cooler months. Many of these playgrounds include shaded structures, which cool off equipment and kiddos.

Rustler's Rooste is a fun, Western venue with plenty of kid-friendly food. Photo courtesy of the venue

Phoenix Restaurants Kids Love

40. Rustler’s Rooste

Does it get much more “Arizona” than eating steak surrounded by whiskey barrels and wagon wheels? But, wait—there is also an indoor slide, nightly live music, and tasty food that the Lil' Wranglers will love. Rustler's Rooste is a fun, Western venue to host private events and parties.

41. Peter Piper Pizza — Multiple Locations

Any kid growing up in Phoenix during the '80s could recite Peter Piper Pizza's catchy jingle and "come on over" tagline. It was, and still is, the place to host a birthday party or to visit after school. That's because besides great pizza, Arizona-based Peter Piper offers arcade games, indoor playgrounds, carousels, and more (each location is different).

42. Organ Stop Pizza — Mesa

Who doesn't love dinner and a show, especially if it involves delicious pizza and a gigantic pipe organ? Organ Stop Pizza (OSP) employs talented musicians to play The Mighty Wurlitzer (the O part of OSP) and entertain the crowd.

43. Sugar Bowl — Scottsdale

I have been visiting this bright-pink ice cream parlor since I was a child, and today's Phoenix kids continue to cool off with Sugar Bowl's sweet treats. Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Sugar Bowl opened in 1958 and has remained a state landmark, known for delicious ice cream served in dainty glass dishes. Soups, sandwiches, and salads are also available.

44. The Yard — Glendale, Phoenix

The Yard Milkshake Bar is a must-visit to survive Arizona's sweltering heat. Besides delish ice cream, The Yard is the mad scientist of milkshake creations with elaborate tasty treats like cake, donuts, and more.

45. Birdcall — Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale

Kids love this quick and easy eatery that features delicious chicken sandwiches and plates, as well as tater tots (including the loaded tots), hand-spun milkshakes, and house-made sauces.

Lounge poolside by day and dine beneath the desert stars by night at The Wigwam. Photo courtesy of the hotel

Family-Friendly Hotels in Phoenix and Surrounding Areas

46. The Wigwam — Litchfield Park

Visit the West Valley to stay at this kid-friendly hotel. Wigwam guests enjoy three outdoor pools, water slides, lawn games, and live music, all wrapped in a classic Southwestern motif. Depending on when you visit, there are lots of events for kids, like character breakfasts, live animal presentations, and more.

47. Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort — Scottsdale

The luxurious Grand Hyatt Scottsdale (known as the Gainey Ranch for longtime residents) has everything for every age—a state-of-the-art spa and swim-up bar for adults, a rock-climbing wall and massive water playground for youngsters, and more. There are more than 10 pools, including a sand beach, a 30-foot-tall water slide, countless water spouts and fountains, and four plunge pools.

48. Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak

When visiting Phoenix, cooling off is a must in the summer and just plain fun in the winter! Take a dive in style at this resort formerly known as Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort. The all-suite hotel features River Ranch, a four-acre water park with water slides, a lazy river, water features, and more.

49. Great Wolf Lodge Arizona — Scottsdale

Great Wolf Lodge is a resort created just for kids. In fact, with so many kid-friendly amenities, you may never want to leave the premises. Features include the signature indoor water playground, a ropes course, an interactive MagiQuest scavenger hunt, mini golf, dance parties, and much more. During the winter months, the Lodge offers Snowland, which is full of winter-themed activities.

50. Arizona Grand Resort & Spa

Arizona Grand is a lovely, all-suite hotel that will impress children with Oasis, the seven-acre, on-premises water park that includes eight-story water slides, a wave pool, a side-by-side lazy river, a massive hot tub, and Wild Cat Springs, a tamer area perfect for younger kids. Rustler's Rooste (a restaurant mentioned above) is located here.

Photos courtesy of the author unless otherwise noted. Additional reporting by Ally Noel

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