
6 Best Family Things to Do in Phoenix
Cool Phoenix Attractions for Kids
Phoenix is a popular destination for families, with a wide choice of attractions geared towards younger visitors, including a museum specifically tailored to younger minds. Not far from the centre of the city you'll find endless nature trails, deserts tracks, and mountain landscapes which are ideal for family hikes. And then there’s this theme park to give everyone a serious adrenaline boost.
The desert is full of exotic creatures, and you'll find many attractions themed around critters of all sizes. From spotting bobcats and elks on your nature walks, to the popular Phoenix Zoo, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural world. As for food, although known for its spicy southwestern cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants in Phoenix serving up foods for less advanced taste buds, so the whole family can feast happy. Follow us through a selection of Phoenix’ great attractions for kids.
Castles N' Coasters amusement park

- Families
This 10-acre park is full of attractions for thrill seekers, but if you feel like you need to recover after surging along the twisting roller coasters, you can have a more relaxed time on the mini golf courses. There are also wet rides to cool you down on the hottest days, or you can enjoy the busy arcade full of retro games and pinball machines.
Location: 9445 North Metro Parkway East, Phoenix AZ 85051, USA
Open: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 602-997-7575
photo by Martin Lewison (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Children’s Museum of Phoenix

- Families
Aimed at kids up to the age of 10, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a colorful wonderland full of bright and noisy exhibits and experiences where younger ones can play and learn. From places to play pretend, to little cars shaped like pencils and pickles, as well as a messy art studio where kids can create as much chaos as they like, the whole place is a paradise for children.
Location: 215 North 7th Street, Phoenix AZ 85034, USA
Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm, closed on Mondays
Phone: +1 602-253-0501
photo by Visitor7 (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Phoenix Zoo

- Families
- Photo
- Couples
Phoenix Zoo has wild species from around the world, with plenty of opportunities to get up close to your favorite animals. Monkey Village will have kids and grown-ups all giggling and gawping at the playful residents, while the Red Barn is full of friendly farm animals – your family can even help out by brushing the goats. There's a big focus on conservation too, with comfortable habitats for the rare wild species that live at the zoo.
Location: 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix AZ 85008, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 602-286-3800
Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles

Hearty, Southern soul food is on the menu at Lo Lo's Chicken & Waffles, and this small local chain is famous for its delicious meals and warm welcome. And let’s face it, what kid could resist waffles covered in caramel, or fried chicken and home fries?
Location: 1220 South Central Avenue, Phoenix AZ 85004, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 9 am to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 11 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 6 pm
Phone: +1 602-340-1304
photo by Shelby L. Bell (CC BY 2.0) modified
Musical Instrument Museum

This unique museum features over 15,000 instruments, set in interactive displays where you can listen to music from around the world. You'll see instruments that are hundreds of years old and can marvel at the intricate player pianos and music boxes that play themselves. Parents will love seeing guitars and pianos played by musical legends such as Elvis and Johnny Cash, while children will enjoy the experience gallery where they can touch instruments from different cultures.
Location: 4725 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix AZ 85050, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 480-478-6000
photo by PamMcP (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Bobby-Q

There's nothing quite like barbeque for a family meal, and Bobby-Q serves pit-cooked meats made in a classic, Southern style. Adults will enjoy steak, shrimp, ribs, and other favorites, while kids have their own menu including burgers, barbeque sandwiches, and non-barbeque options for fussier eaters.
Location: 8501 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix AZ 85051, USA
Open: Monday from 11 am to 9 pm, Tuesday–Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 602-995-5982
photo by Lauren Topor (CC BY 2.0) modified
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