Phoenix, Arizona, is a fantastic destination for families with kids. The city has a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions that can keep children entertained and engaged for days. Whether your kids are interested in science, animals, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Phoenix. Mesa, Arizona, is a direct flight from most major cities in Canada, making it a hotspot for Canadians to visit during the winter months. Here are some of the best things to do with kids in Phoenix, especially in the fall, winter, and spring.

Visit the Phoenix Zoo: The Phoenix Zoo is a must-visit destination for families with kids. The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals and has several interactive exhibits that allow kids to get up close and personal with the animals. Some popular exhibits include the African Savanna, where kids can see lions, giraffes, and zebras, and the Monkey Village, where kids can interact with squirrel monkeys.

Get creative at LEGOLAND: Every kid will love spending an afternoon at LEGOLAND. At LEGOLAND, visitors can enjoy a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and 4D cinema experiences. One of the most popular attractions is Miniland, which features detailed LEGO recreations of famous landmarks and cities worldwide, and in this case, Arizona. Children can also enjoy building their own LEGO creations at the Build & Test area or play at the LEGO DUPLO Tot Spot.

SEA LIFE is an aquarium that allows visitors to explore the wonders of the ocean. The aquarium has several exhibits, including the Ocean Tunnel, where visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel and see sharks and other marine life swimming overhead. Other exhibits include the Stingray Bay and the interactive rock pool, where visitors can touch starfish and other sea creatures. Combining a visit to LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE is a great way to spend a day in Arizona. The two attractions are located in the same complex and offer a combination ticket that allows visitors to save money on admission. Families with children will enjoy the various activities and experiences at LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE.

Explore the Arizona Science Center: The Arizona Science Center is another popular destination for families with kids. The center has over 300 interactive exhibits designed to teach kids about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Some popular exhibits include the Dorrance Planetarium, the Forces of Nature exhibit, and the My Digital World exhibit.

Play at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix: The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a hands-on, interactive museum perfect for kids. The museum has several play areas and exhibits encouraging kids to explore and learn. Some popular exhibits include the Art Studio, the Climber, and the Noodle Forest.

Have fun at Castles N’ Coasters: Castles N’ Coasters is an amusement park perfect for kids of all ages. The park has several thrill rides, including roller coasters, drop towers, and family-friendly rides like bumper cars and a Ferris wheel. The park also has an arcade and miniature golf course.

Visit the Desert Botanical Garden: The Desert Botanical Garden is a unique destination that allows kids to explore the beauty of the desert. The garden has several trails that wind through the desert landscape, showcasing the plants and animals that call the desert home. The garden also has several interactive exhibits, including butterfly and hummingbird gardens.

Splash around at Big Surf Waterpark: Big Surf Waterpark is a water park perfect for families with kids. The park has several water slides and attractions, including a wave pool and a lazy river. The park has several areas for younger children, including a kiddie pool and water play areas.

See a Baseball Game: Phoenix is home to several baseball teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks and several teams participating in the Cactus League during spring training. Taking your kids to a baseball game is a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon in Phoenix.

Take a hike: Arizona is known for its fantastic hiking trails and desert terrain. There are family-friendly hikes and more advanced ones. In December 2023, my son and I completed a two-hour moderate hike in Sedona, and let me tell you, the views were amazing.

Get outside: Arizona has a variety of great parks and recreation areas to visit year-round.

Phoenix is a fantastic destination for families with kids. The city has a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions that can keep kids entertained and engaged. What are your favourite family activities to do in Arizona?