A family day out in Phoenix with kids

A good family day in the Phoenix area starts outdoors early while it is cool, moves indoors for the hottest part of the afternoon, and ends with an early dinner. The Valley has zoos, farms and museums made for kids, all listed below with phone numbers. Pick two or three stops and leave time to rest in between.

A simple plan for the day

Morning (as soon as places open). Do the outdoor stop first. The Phoenix Zoo in Papago Park is a good fit for this, and animals tend to be more active in the cooler hours. In the cooler months you can stay longer. In summer, aim to be done by late morning.

Midday. Head inside for lunch and a hands-on museum. Children's Museum of Phoenix is in the historic Monroe School in downtown Phoenix and has play zones for younger kids. Arizona Science Center, also downtown, lists interactive exhibits, a planetarium dome and a giant-screen film theater, which suits older kids.

Afternoon. Rest. A pool, a nap in the car or a quiet hour at home goes a long way with small children. If you have energy left, pick one more short stop.

Evening. Eat early, before the dinner rush, and head home. In the cooler months an outdoor festival or farm event can be a good way to end the day. Check each place's calendar.

Where can you take kids in Phoenix?

The directory lists many kid-friendly places, from museums to farms and a dance studio. Here are the places you can browse:

Each listing shows a phone number, so call to check hours and any tickets before you go.

Tips for the heat and the crowds

• Bring water and refill often. Kids get hot faster than adults, and the sun in the Valley is strong even in winter.
• Hats, sunscreen and shade breaks. Reapply sunscreen at least every couple of hours.
• Never leave a child or a pet in a parked car. Even a few minutes can be dangerous in Arizona.
• Check hours ahead. Hours change by season and day, and some places close on certain days.
• Go early on weekends and school holidays. Parking and lines are shorter in the morning.
• Bring a stroller or carrier for little ones. Zoos and farms have a lot of walking.

When is the best time of year for a family day out?

October through April is the easiest. From June through September, plan the outdoor part for early morning and put the rest of the day indoors. Monsoon storms usually build in the afternoon, so indoor plans are a safe bet then.

Questions people ask

What can kids do in Phoenix when it is too hot outside?

Go to an indoor museum. Children's Museum of Phoenix and Arizona Science Center are both downtown. Call ahead or check the listing for hours.

How many stops should I plan for a day with young kids?

Two or three is plenty. Pick one outdoor stop in the morning, one indoor stop at midday and leave the rest of the day open for rest and meals.

Are there free things to do with kids in the Valley?

Some parks and community events are free, but we do not list prices, so call a place before you go. For more ideas, use the family fun guide.

Plan your own route with the trip planner, or see the family fun guide and every kids activity in Phoenix.