Need some sunshine? Phoenix is a fun place to find it year-round.
Phoenix is among the Top 10 largest cities in the U.S., so it is loaded with activities and amenities. It is a sprawling oasis in the desert. Temperatures are sunny and mild in the winter and incredibly HOT in the summer. When you want warm weather in the winter or screaming off-season deals in the summer, Phoenix is a great destination for families.
My family visited Phoenix for Spring Break twice, and that’s pretty much the perfect time to go. Here are the favorite activities we’ve done, plus a few popular attractions that are at the top of my list for our next visit.
Pool time
Year-round sunshine and warm temperatures mean that Phoenix has more than its share of great resorts and swimming pools. We’re talking water slides, splash pads, pool parties, and other fun features. Be sure to build plenty of pool play and relaxation into your vacation itinerary.
We have stayed at The Wigwam and the Arizona Grand resorts. They are both fantastic, with onsite golf, spas, and other luxury amenities. Head to The Wigwam for historic character and family-friendly sophistication. The all-suite Arizona Grand has a private water park and a convenient central location.
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Cactus League
Every spring, Major League Baseball teams from across the U.S. head to Phoenix for Spring Training. So do their fans. Games are held every day from late February through early April throughout the Phoenix area.
Website: www.cactusleague.com
Arizona Science Center
The weather was exceptionally warm during our late March trip, and the Arizona Science Center was the perfect air conditioned escape. We laid on a bed of nails, crawled through the digestive system and raced each other in wheelchairs.
Website: www.azscience.org
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a slam dunk for families with young children. It’s a favorite attraction for both locals and visitors. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is located in downtown Phoenix, across the street from the Arizona Science Center. Get a full review of the Children’s Museum of Phoenix from my friend Colleen at TravelMamas.com.
Website: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
Phoenix Zoo
My son is an animal lover, so we visit the zoo nearly everywhere we travel. The Phoenix Zoo did not disappoint. I loved the Arizona Trail, which featured the native plants and animals of Arizona. My kids loved riding a camel!
Website: www.phoenixzoo.org
Desert Botanical Center
The acclaimed Desert Botanical Center is uniquely Phoenix. It’s a garden featuring the beautiful desert plants of Arizona. It’s an outdoor space where kids can be kids, but it’s grown up enough for discerning adults.
Website: www.dbg.org
Papago Park
Save at least one full day for Papago Park. It’s home to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Center. You can also hike to Hole in the Rock, picnic, golf, fish, or visit the Hall of Flame firefighting museum.
Website: www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park
Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park
This private zoo has a lot going on. The Wildlife World Zoo has the largest collection of exotic animals in Arizona. It also has a safari tram, sea lion show and lots of rides that kids will love.
Website: www.wildlifeworld.com
Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum is the #1 Phoenix attraction on TripAdvisor. With a collection of 10,000 musical instruments from around the world, it’s a delight for anyone who loves music. The hands-on section is especially fun for families!
Website: www.mim.org
Rustler’s Rooste
It isn’t always fun to dine out with kids, but Rustler’s Rooste is the exception. We took a slide to our table and were visited by a magician and balloon artist during our meal. Our steaks were great, as was our view of the city. Try the rattlesnake appetizer, if you dare! Read my full review of Rustler’s Roote HERE.
Website: www.rustlersrooste.com