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Family time is important, and many people tend to make it an even bigger deal during the holiday season. With that in mind, we thought we might show you some of the better places and ways to spend your time with family, especially those of you with kids. If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Phoenix, check out the list below for some local fun of various kinds. And if you’re traveling to Tucson and need some kid-friendly restaurants, check out our list here!
Phoenix Zoo (and ZooLights!)
455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Animal life is an amazing thing to be a part of, and it’s important that we teach our kids about the creatures that share our world. That’s why the Phoenix Zoo is such a great place to be: it has the draw of real animals to see, and it’s also a place where kids can learn the important facts about these animals. And, during the winter, the Zoo also does their annual ZooLights circuit, so bring your kids at night to enjoy the brightly lit displays!
Castles N’ Coasters
9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051
The original type of destination for family fun is a theme park, and here in Phoenix, Castles N’ Coasters fills that role quite nicely. Whether it’s thrill rides, arcade games, miniature golf, or bumper cars, there’s a little something different for every type of fun-lover.
Arizona Science Center
600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Nurture that sense of curiosity in your kid. Bring them to the Arizona Science Center to explore a planetarium, understand the human body, or even get immersive with their knowledge of flight technology. This place is a paradise for every kid that asks the question, “Why?”
Crayola Experience Chandler
3111 W Chandler Blvd Suite 2154, Chandler, AZ 85226
Looking to unleash your kid’s creative side? Have them hang out at the Crayola experience to participate in over 15 different hands-on activities or watch the Chaos and Creativity animated show. Whatever they choose to do here, you’ll keep them captivated, that’s for sure!
World of Illumination
2200 W Alameda Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282
This year’s theme at Diablo Stadium is Reindeer Road, so you and your family can hop in the car and drive through lit displays of mountains, snow, and more on your way to the North Pole. World of Illumination features a radio-based display, so with every song that plays, the lights will play along with it. If you’re looking for a safe way to enjoy the holidays amidst the new surges, this is the perfect way to do that!
SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium
5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Ste 145, Tempe, AZ 85282
You wouldn’t think a mall would have an immersive aquarium experience. But at Arizona Mills, they do! SEA LIFE is a perfect place for your kiddos to come in contact with sea life of all kinds with family-friendly exhibits that far exceed what’s expected of a mall-based encounter.
Butterfly Wonderland
9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
If you’re looking to experience the magic of nature, there’s no place like the Butterfly Wonderland to feel that magic. Home to the largest butterfly conservatory in the country, Butterfly Wonderland is a rainforest enclosure right here in Arizona where up to 70 of the friendliest butterfly species in the world are hatched and nurtured.
Phoenix Art Museum
1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Everyone wants their kids to grow up cultured. That’s why Phoenix Art Museum is happy to offer Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesdays, where anyone can come and enjoy the amazing art exhibits that call this museum home! Show them natural art, modern art, historical artifacts and more in this open-to-everyone experience!
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona
5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Ste 135, Tempe, AZ 85282
A Lego factory tour is just the tip of the iceberg at this attraction. Yet another kid-centric experience at the Arizona Mills mall, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a perfect place for exhibits, playtime, and even 4D movies!
Grand Canyon Train (and the Polar Express!)
235 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046
It may not be in Phoenix per se, but the Grand Canyon Train is an experience that every Arizona family should consider. During this time of the year, they also have a “Polar Express” experience to celebrate the upcoming holiday. If you’re looking to have a fun adventure with your kids, this train is a perfect place to do that, whether it’s winter or any time of the year!
Featured Image Credit: SEA LIFE Aquarium
