Things to do in Phoenix with kids can feel like a survival challenge when the mercury hits 110 degrees, but as an ordinary parent who has survived many desert summers, I promise it’s possible! We’ve spent countless hours scouting the Valley of the Sun to find spots that aren’t just “okay,” but actually fun for both the tiny humans and the exhausted adults. From air-conditioned havens to early-morning desert trails, here is our tried-and-tested guide to keeping everyone happy in the Arizona heat.
Things to do with kids Phoenix: Indoor Escapes
When the sun is relentless, your first instinct will be to hide, and honestly, staying sane in that heat requires some serious planning. We’ve learned the hard way that a successful day out starts with a solid routine at home; if you’re struggling to keep the chaos under control before you even leave the driveway, you might want to check out our tips on how to stay organized as a busy parent. Once you’ve mastered the morning hustle, these world-class indoor spots in Phoenix are the perfect, air-conditioned reward for your well-organized crew.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
This is hands-down our favorite. Unlike other museums where you’re constantly saying “don’t touch,” this place is a sensory explosion. Our kids could spend an entire day in the Schuff-Perlow Paper Forest.
Pro Tip:
Buy tickets online at the official Children’s Museum site to skip the morning rush.
Arizona Science Center
Located right in the heart of Heritage Square, this is a must. The “Forces of Nature” exhibit is incredible—where else can your kids stand in a simulated desert flash flood without getting their shoes wet?
Things to do in Phoenix with Kids: Outdoor Adventures
If you can wake the crew up early enough (we’re talking 7:00 AM), the desert is actually beautiful. Here are the top things to do with kids in phoenix before the heat becomes a “stay inside” warning.
Hole-in-the-Rock at Papago Park
This is the ultimate “low effort, high reward” hike. It’s a very short walk that even a three-year-old can handle. The view of the city through the natural rock opening is the perfect backdrop for those family photos you’ll actually want to frame.
Desert Botanical Garden
It might sound boring for kids, but their “Cactus Clubhouse” is a fantastic nature play area. We also recommend visiting during the Electric Desert light shows if you happen to be there during the right season.
Strategic Survival Tips for the Valley
Finding things to do in Phoenix with kids is only half the battle; the other half is logistics.
Hydration is King: We always carry insulated water bottles.
The Splash Pad Secret: Many malls like Desert Ridge Marketplace have free splash pads. It’s a great way to let them burn energy while you grab a much-needed iced latte.