The 37 Essential Things to Do in Phoenix (By a Local)

a city filled with lots of tall buildings

👉 Jump to: Things To Participate In | Locations & Noteworthy Places | Museums & Heritage | Free Opportunities | Activities To Do With Children

As a Phoenix local, I’m here to ensure you don’t miss out on what Phoenix has to offer.

From floating down a river exploring the past of the Wild West ghost towns to some of the best museums in the Southwest USA, there’s something on this list for every kind of traveler. We’ll cover all the popular spots & attractions plus a few hidden local treasures of the capital city!

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37 Best Things to Do in Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden

Explore one hundred and forty acres of natural Arizona scenery.

a row of trees lined up on the side of a road

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 941-1225 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: $24.95 – $29.95 adults, $14.95 – $16.95 youths 3-17

Located less than 10 minutes from the airport, you’ll easily be able to include this must-see spot in your itinerary. At the Desert Botanical Garden, you can learn about the unique plant life that thrive in the Sonoran Desert region.

See hundreds of beautifully landscaped scenes full of gorgeous cacti, flowers, trees, and more. This is the perfect place to spend the day with family and friends among the desert plants, or even take that special someone on a romantic date. 🥰

👉 Pro Tip: Visit during the spring season to see the vibrant desert in full bloom.

Phoenix Art Museum

Appreciate an immense assortment of esteemed works of art.

a man sitting on a chair in front of a painting

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 257-1880 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm Wednesday, 10 am – 5 pm Thursday-Sunday, Closed Mondays & Tuesdays | Entrance: $28 adults, $18 youths 3-17, $25 seniors

Art enthusiasts, history buffs, and aesthetics admirers will find the Phoenix Art Museum a worthwhile attraction. As the largest art museum in the Southwest, its collection encompasses over 20,000 works from internationally renowned and local creators.

But you won’t just be perusing framed works on the walls. The Phoenix Art Museum features interactive art that you can literally step into, such as the infinity mirror room. You can spend days in this museum and never get weary!

👉 Exploring Temporary Exhibits? Be sure to check the Phoenix Art Museum website prior to your visit to see which traveling exhibits will be on display during your time there.

Wildlife World Zoo

Feed giraffes and see exotic animals.

a building with a surfboard on top of it

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (623) 935-9453 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: $48 adults, $27 youths 3-12

Those seeking fun for all ages should visit the Wildlife World Zoo, home to Arizona`s most expansive collection of exotic creatures. Visitors will be amazed by the sheer scale of the menagerie showcased at this popular attraction.

Just west of the Phoenix metro area lays a wildlife sanctuary spread across 215 acres. The nursery caring for baby animals is sure to pull at heartstrings, while watching giraffes be hand-fed provides young ones a thrill. From unusual sea life to scaled reptiles to massive mammals, a trip to this open-air conservation center makes for a highly enjoyable family outing.

Phoenix Zoo

Explore displays that highlight wildlife from different regions around the globe.

a large elephant standing on top of a dirt ground

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 286-3800 | Website | Hours: Vary by season, see website | Entrance: $37.95 adults, $27.95 youths 3-13 when purchased online

As the largest privately owned zoo in the United States, the Phoenix Zoo speaks for itself! This 125-acre property houses everything from playful sea creatures to majestic cats to massive beasts.

Whether you’re taking the young ones out or simply enjoying a tranquil afternoon, the Phoenix Zoo is a wonderful place to spend a day in Phoenix. Be sure to check out the tropical bird aviary and the petting zoo for hands-on fun!

📚 Related Reading: Explore the Phoenix Zoo blog for a closer view of how the animals reside.

Heard Museum

Browse the nation’s greatest collection of Native American artworks.

a large building with a clock on the front of it

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 252-8840 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: $22.50 adults, $9 youths 6-17

Calling all history and art aficionados! The Heard Museum stands as a testament to the importance of Native American history in Arizona. The museum showcases rare American Indian art collections through stunning displays and presentations. If you appreciate culture, history, and art, you can’t skip the Heard Museum.

Chase Field

Take me out to the ballgame.

a crowd of people watching a baseball game

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 514-8400 | Website

If you enjoy baseball like myself, you don’t want to miss seeing a Diamondbacks game at Chase Field. This facility is beautiful, and since it’s air-conditioned (a big plus in the summertime), you can see a game no matter the weather.

Tickets are usually very affordable, so you can take your whole family or a group of friends for an exciting day cheaply. Enjoy a truly unique MLB experience!

Imagine 3D Mini-Golf

Take mini golf to the next level under the black lights of these 3D neon courses.

a woman is performing a trick on a skateboard

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 291-7906 | Website | Hours: 2 pm – 9 pm Sunday to Thursday, 2 pm – 10 pm Fridays, 12 pm – 10 pm Saturdays | Entrance: $12.95 for adults, $9.95 for seniors/police/military

Enter the fantastical world of glow-in-the-dark 3D mini golf at this awesome local spot. Hand-painted art pops from floor to ceiling under the black-lighted courses. Venture across new dimensions as you putt your way through 18 challenging holes.

This family-operated business is one of the most unique in the Scottsdale and Gilbert areas. You and your best friends will have a blast in this nostalgic setting. I truly felt like a kid again when I visited this July. Indoor miniature golf is a great choice during the sweltering summer when outdoor activities are impossible.

👉 Pro Tip: Thursday evening is BOGO, so you can appreciate an low-cost Phoenix date night with your significant other!

Salt River Tubing

Float lazily down the natural waterway of Phoenix.

a person riding a paddle board on top of a river

Coronado is the following beach in San Diego if you adore extended stretches of sandy beach where you can set up camp and play games. If you would prefer to appreciate a more rugged cliffy beach you should explore Windansea Beach in La Jolla.

This is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable activities on this list. Tubing is a must-do if you’re visiting during the summertime. When the desert sun reaches its peak temperatures, locals and visitors alike flock to the riverbanks.

Here, you can relax with a cooling float down the pleasant waters. Just be sure to wear ample sunscreen to avoid getting overheated along the way! Learn more about tube rentals in my day trips from Phoenix article!

🚗 How to Get There: Park in the free lot at the bottom of the river if you plan to hire the tube via the rental agency.

Old Town Scottsdale

Shop the grand streets of one of the premier luxury areas in the nation.

a crowd of people standing around a table with drinks

🍴 Consult Next: Best Places to Eat in New Orleans

Similar to Downtown Phoenix, Old Town Scottsdale as a whole serves as an excellent starting point if you want to visit many attractions in a single day. This area is well known for its luxury resorts, so if this is your choice for where to stay in Phoenix, you should take advantage of a pool day!

When venturing out around town, check out Scottsdale’s exquisite bars and restaurants. You can also go to Whiskey Row, a section of Old Town Scottsdale where you can club hop until the late hours of the night. This is an adult atmosphere, so leave the kids at home when you visit here!

📚 Related Topic: Check out my favorite recommendations in Scottsdale in my article about places to reside in Phoenix.

Phoenix Sites & Attractions

👉 Jump to: Things To Participate In | Locations & Noteworthy Places | Museums & Heritage | Free Opportunities | Activities To Do With Children

Arizona Science Center

Learn about the planet Earth, outer space, and everything in between.

a large building with a large clock on it

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 716-2000 | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: $29.95 adults, $19.95 youths 3-17

The Arizona Science Center, situated in the greater Phoenix area, is amongst the most visited museums. With its abundance of exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, and fascinating attractions, one could spend weeks exploring yet barely scratch the surface of what it offers.

This location in Phoenix is highly recommended to include on one`s list of things to do as it offers entertainment for all family members. Whether one has a strong interest in science or has never explored a scientific book, something engaging can be found at the Arizona Science Center. Be sure to check out the Dorrance Planetarium for an experience beyond this world!

Footprint Center

Watch top basketball players in Arizona.

a large crowd of people watching a baseball game

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 379-2000 | Website

For those keeping up with the NBA over recent years, you know the Phoenix Suns have established themselves as a serious contender. Led by Devin Booker and Chris Paul through multiple incredible seasons, it’s no wonder the Footprint Center fills to capacity for every game.

Fear not – those booking tickets in advance usually can find reasonably priced seats. And isn’t seeing one of basketball’s best teams priceless?

Tempe Town Lake

Paddle around or kayak all day in the heart of Greater Phoenix.

boats are docked at a dock near the water

📍 Google Maps

Who doesn`t enjoy a day on the lake? If you enjoy boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, rowing, and other relaxing water sports, Tempe Town Lake calls your name.

Located less than 10 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, Tempe Town Lake is easily accessible from anywhere in the Central Phoenix area. Instead of driving an hour outside of town to Canyon Lake or Lake Pleasant, this nearby attraction offers a city beach setting.

Rentals are obtainable through Northshore Water Rentals for those without their own gear. You can also take a stroll, bike, or rollerblade along the water’s edge. Be sure to stay for sunset to witness the brilliant Arizona hues reflect on the lake.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Wander through these serene gardens to escape urban chaos.

a crowd of people standing around a tent

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 274-8700 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays | Entrance: $12 adults, $9 youths 7-17 (Online price)

Those seeking relaxation can find repose at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix, where one can unwind surrounded by tranquil scenery. Situated downtown, its 3.5 acres showcase gently flowing waters, cascading waterfalls and trees crafted into living artwork, providing a soothing atmosphere.

A tea house is also on-site, so visitors can grab a freshly brewed beverage before strolling the gardens. I am a big admirer of the Japanese Friendship Garden and would recommend experiencing it to both locals and tourists. There is a very welcoming and relaxing atmosphere about this place, providing a nice counterbalance to an energetic Phoenix itinerary.

  • Last Chance Pizza – Grab a slice from this Keystone pizzeria, then curl up in Cove & Craft next door, which provides a great selection of local beers.

Taliesin West

Experience authentic desert construction.

a large stone building with a pool in front of it

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 860-2700 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $49 adults, $24 youths 6-12

If you don’t know who Frank Lloyd Wright is, you haven’t seen true Arizona history! He designed over 1,000 structures, incorporating Mother Nature into the very foundations of his designs. Taliesin West is one of his most beloved and popular works in the Greater Phoenix area.

An visionary architect until his death in 1959, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation keeps this master’s influence alive in Arizona. Art and architecture students find his work hugely inspirational. You just cannot miss his stunning creations!

👉 Pro Tip: Visit during the summer months for less expensive ticket costs!

Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall

Explore the vast collections available at Arizona`s largest shopping complex.

a large building with a lot of windows

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 941-2140 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm daily

If exploring various fashion brands and major retail stores appeals to you, Fashion Square Mall would satisfy. Browse over 2 million square feet of luxury and well-known storefronts. Shopping here can fill an entire hot summer day spent indoors. Nearby Old Town Scottsdale also merits exploration once retail therapy has run its course.

Goldfield Ghost Town

Go back in time to the Wild West days.

an elephant standing on top of a dirt road

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 983-0333 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily

If you’ve ever watched the movie Tombstone, you’re sure to enjoy Goldfield Ghost Town. This recreated mining community from 1890 will make you feel as though you`ve stepped into a time machine back to the Wild West era.

Unusual shops, historic buildings, a restored train, and a history museum line Main Street. This is where spectators will see a mock gun battle acted out by the famous Goldfield Gunfighters! The whole family will get a kick out of spending the day immersed in Wild West history.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Embark on a train excursion aboard a restored steam locomotive.

a train that is on a train track

📍 Map link | Phone: (480) 312-2312 | Site | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily (Check Website) | Entrance: $12 all-day wristbands

Are you passionate about trains? Even if trains are not your interest, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a fascinating attraction in Phoenix. With 30 acres of locomotives from various eras to explore, this train park will excite anyone. You can even take a ride on a restored train around the park!

  • Rose Street Bed & Breakfast – Though 20 miles from A-Basin (roughly a 30-minute drive), this inviting Georgetown B&B is ideal for those seeking a tranquil location.

🎄 Holiday Tip: Visit at night during December and January for a magical view of the park decorated in festive lights and decorations. The children will love it!

Hit the Casino

Keep your eyes on the prize at some of the largest casinos near Phoenix.

three people posing for a picture on a beach

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 850-7777 | Website | Hours: available round-the-clock daily

Feeling fortunate? If your idea of a great time is an engaging game of blackjack or the pleasing pull of a slot machine, Phoenix has a few stellar casinos for you to explore. Release energy with a poker game at Vee Quiva. Or see a show before testing your luck at craps at Talking Stick Resort and Casino in Scottsdale. No risk, no reward, right?

Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Explore the intriguing Mesa Hohokam archaeological ruins.

a rock wall in the middle of a desert

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 644-3075 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Saturdays, 12 pm – 4 pm Sundays | Entrance: $5 adults, $2 youths 3-12

History enthusiasts will also want to see Mesa Grande Cultural Park, a fascinating location where visitors can discover how native people lived long ago in Phoenix.

Hundreds of years ago during the Classical Period, the Hohokam civilization thrived in this region. Even nowadays, their preserved structures remain in fantastic condition. You could spend hours envisioning a way of life so unlike today at this interesting park.

Phoenix Museums & Culture

👉 Jump to: Things To Participate In | Locations & Noteworthy Places | Museums & Heritage | Free Opportunities | Activities To Do With Children

Wonderspaces

A continuously evolving showcase featuring interactive art installations created by artists from different parts of the world.

a woman standing in front of a wall holding a skateboard

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 718-2156 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 10 pm Monday to Wednesday, 10 am – 10 pm Thursday to Saturday, 11 am – 8 pm Sundays | Entrance: $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 3-15, $20 for students/seniors/police/military/teachers

This immersive art exhibition is one of my favorite experiences in Phoenix. The 14 installations change regularly, meaning you`ll enjoy new art with each visit. Tickets must be purchased in advance, so make sure to buy them prior to arriving.

Wonderspaces provides a full bar at the entrance, so exhibits can be perused while enjoying a cocktail. This offers a great Phoenix date idea.

Conveniently located in the popular Fashion Square Mall, Wonderspaces allows packing a day of shopping, fine dining, and art into one trip. It truly provides a ton of fun!

Musical Instrument Museum

Listen to music and see thousands of instruments from around the world.

a wall with many different pictures of people on it

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 478-6000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $20 adults, $10 youths 4-12, $15 teens 13-19

Music lovers won`t want to miss the Musical Instrument Museum, the world`s largest of its type housing over 15,000 pieces. This tremendous collection expands musical knowledge tenfold. The museum also hosts concerts by talented performers from around the globe.

I haven’t been there yet, but this is one of the most recommended attractions I’ve been told to visit by friends and family in Phoenix. It’s at the top of my list, and it should be on yours, too!

👉 Pro Tip: Check out upcoming events before you visit here.

Pueblo Grande Museum

Travel back in time to ancient Sonoran Desert life.

a stone building with a stone wall and a fire hydrant

📍 Google Maps link | Phone: (602) 495-0901 | Website address | Hours: 9 am – 4:45 pm Monday-Saturday, 1 pm – 4:45 pm Sunday (October-April); 9 am – 4:45 pm Tuesday-Saturday, Closed Sundays & Mondays (May-September) | Entrance fee: $6 adults, $3 youths 6-17

The Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park was donated to the city nearly a century ago. It identifies as “the gateway to the cultural history of the Phoenix area.” On a walk less than a mile, you’ll learn about the fascinating remains of the Hohokam people. See recreated dwellings and agricultural settings to better comprehend what life was like living in the Sonoran Desert centuries ago.

As both indoor and outdoor exhibits, plan your visit during cooler months to fully explore this unique Phoenix cultural experience at your own pace.

Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Examine the notable shifts in firefighting methods through history.

a red and white horse drawn carriage in a building

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 275-3473 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily, Closed Sundays & Mondays | Entrance: $15.68 adults, $13.84 youths 6-17

This location is a haven for firefighters! See this unique collection of historical firefighting equipment gathered from all over the world. Though seemingly an obscure attraction in Phoenix, this museum is highly rated and reasonably priced. There is also an entertaining children`s section where the little ones can learn about and interact with firefighting equipment.

Phoenix Free Things

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South Mountain Park

Explore the desert setting within one of the largest municipal parks across a broad expanse of land.

a man sitting on a bench on top of a mountain

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +35 121-365-3157 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: €2

One of the largest urban parks in the world, South Mountain Park offers a great chance to spend a day in the desert without leaving the city. Take a hike to the top of Dobbins Lookout, a challenging trek to the highest summit in the park. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen and wear good hiking footwear!

South Mountain Park is a wonderful location to appreciate nature for a day. Consider it like the Central Park of Phoenix! With over 50 miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding, you`ll surely get your outdoor fixes here.

💭 Note Well: Be mindful of Silent Sundays, which you can review here.

Papago Park

Fill your day with a variety of outdoor activities in this beautiful park.

a man standing on top of a rock surrounded by rocks

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 495-5458 | Website | Hours: 5 am – 11 pm daily

Papago Park offers many of the top attractions in Phoenix all in one location. Looking to get active? Hike, bike, or stroll along the smooth trails dotted with desert flora found throughout the park. Getting into the swing of the weekend is simple at Papago Golf Course.

There are plenty of fun attractions nearby as well, such as the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and the AZ Heritage Center!

📚 Related Reading: Find more information in this helpful Phoenix Trail Guide.

Camelback Mountain

Hike your way to breathtaking views of Phoenix.

an aerial view of a city with mountains

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (612) 599-3616 | Website

Camelback Mountain stands as the most iconic natural landmark in Phoenix. Red rocky outcroppings form the unmistakable silhouette of a single-humped camel. Several hiking routes lead to scenic viewpoints such as Echo Canyon Trail. Difficulty levels vary greatly, so research trail profiles to pick the right one for your abilities beforehand.

👉 Pro Tip: Wear solid and sturdy trail walking shoes for hiking across this locale. The landscape here includes lots of rocks!

Canyon Lake

Appreciate a day at the shore in a lovely canyon setting.

a mountain range with a mountain range

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 610-3300 | Website

Situated less than an hour`s drive from Phoenix, Canyon Lake is one of the most scenic human-made bodies of water in Arizona. Tall canyon walls tower above the cool waters, and the desert heat is considerably cooler in this oasis. Consult my article about day excursions from Phoenix to learn more about the water-based activities and rentals available at the lake.

👉 Pro Tip: Generously apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water before heading to the beach!

Lake Pleasant

Spend a day on the water in a boat, on a pool toy, or on a lake cruise.

people on a raft in the water

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 506-2930 | Website

Additionally less than an hour from Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is the biggest of the artificially made Arizona lakes. This body of water is seriously huge, encircled by a lot of beaches accessible from different park entrances.

Rent a speedboat, jetski, or kayak, or take a scenic evening cruise when you visit the dock rental shop. There`s also an inflatable obstacle course at Scorpion Bay that provides hours of coastal delight!

👉 Pro Tip: If you plan on drinking at the beach, do not pilot any watercraft whatsoever. The lake police are extremely strict!

Apache Trail

Cruise a scenic road through superior mountain views.

a street sign on the side of a mountain

🥾 Fond of Hiking? View my guide to the top 15 hikes in Colorado!

Named after the indigenous people of North America who once traveled along the same route, the Apache Trail makes for a scenic drive. Pass by sparkling lakes and dense forests of cacti on this winding, largely unpaved road.

You`ll need a fairly rugged vehicle for this road getaway in case the path is damaged from inclement weather. If you have transportation, though, you should certainly explore this wonderfully scenic drive!

Downtown Phoenix

Spend a full day investigating this bustling area`s various attractions.

a cityscape of a city at night

📍 Google Maps | Website

Downtown Phoenix is one of the liveliest areas of Phoenix. If you don’t want to devote your day to one attraction, you can simply make your way to the center of downtown and go from there.

This square mile overflows with fun opportunities. Enjoy street art, shops, eateries, bars, museums, and entertainment. Get to understand Arizona in a condensed area and make the most of the Phoenix nightlife or enjoy some of the top locations to dine in Phoenix.

You may also capture a Suns basketball match or perhaps a Diamondbacks baseball recreation if you want to practical experience Arizona sports. The Footprint Center and Chase Field are magnificent amenities that any significant sports enthusiast will appreciate.

Paradise Valley

Spend the day playing sports in this golfer’s paradise.

an aerial view of a city with mountains

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Are you enthusiastic about golf? Paradise Valley, one of the best Phoenix neighborhoods, invites your interest. Play the greens at PV Country Club for a conventional 18-hole course. Or take on speedier greens at Camelback Golf Club just east of the former. There are several other public golf courses located here. However, these two attract golfers from around the country for their pristine fairways.

In addition to golfing, this is a wonderful region to shop, relax at luxurious resorts, or dine at upscale bars and restaurants. This area has a more residential quality than Scottsdale, which is just a brief drive south.

💡 Good Idea: Phoenix is home to over 200 golf courses, so if you end up outside of the Valley, there is likely a stellar course near you! Check them out on the city website.

Phoenix Things To Do With Kids

👉 Jump to: Things To Participate In | Locations & Noteworthy Places | Museums & Heritage | Free Opportunities | Activities To Do With Children

Enchanted Island Amusement Park

Ride thrilling amusement park attractions with the whole family.

a park filled with palm trees and palm trees

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 254-1200 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm Wednesday & Thursday, 10 am – 8 pm Fridays, 9 am – 8 pm Weekends, Closed Monday & Tuesday | Entrance: Pay per Ride

Enchanted Island Amusement Park is one of the most family-friendly attractions located in Phoenix. Noted as one of the top parks in America by Forbes magazine, visitors will not be dissatisfied by this wholesome amusement park.

This place features fun yet safe rides even for the smallest children and is located in the beautiful Encanto Park. This is a fantastic stop during your Phoenix trip if you are celebrating your child`s birthday.

👉 Pro Tip: Check out the park’s regular discounts and offers here.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Provide little ones with an exciting day of amusement.

a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (602) 253-0501 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily, closed Mondays | Entrance: $17

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is the perfect place to visit if you have little ones anywhere from newborns to 10 years old. There are over 300 exhibits to intrigue them, giving an educational experience while they play.

Spending the entire day filled with different activities at the parks and museums will ensure the children burn off all their energy, resulting in them quickly falling asleep as soon as they return home for the night!

Legoland Discovery Center

Experience the world of construction blocks in a novel way.

little kids playing with toys on a table

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 565-7072 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $21.99 – 25.99

This is a must for any little one who’s a fan of Legos. This timeless toy has been a part of American childhoods for decades. It’s truly interesting to wander through the intricately built Lego exhibits. There are plenty of interactive building areas for children, and there’s even a 4-D movie theater for the whole family to enjoy.

Legoland Discovery Center provides an exciting day of entertainment for family kids, and a blast of nostalgia for grown-ups. Be sure to check out the Lego factory tour!

Butterfly Wonderland

Immerse your whole family in a nature exhibit of butterflies flying freely.

a statue of a giraffe in front of a store

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 800-3000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $29.95 for adults

Butterfly Wonderland is a great activity for the whole family. This impressive facility contains the largest butterfly conservatory in the nation. When you enter, you’ll completely forget you’re in Arizona. The rainforest scenery is exceptionally stunning. You’ll be amazed by the 60-70 butterfly species fluttering throughout the exhibition.

While enjoying this tropical paradise, learn all about where the butterflies originated from and what makes them unique. There’s also an exhibit for reptiles and insects for those who like creepy crawlies. You’ll leave this place feeling butterflies in your stomach from the excitement of it all!

OdySea Aquarium

Encounter ocean creatures in the desert.

a bird standing on top of a body of water

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 291-8000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: $46.95 adults

Welcome to the largest aquarium in the Southwestern United States! This place is truly astounding. You’ll be able to spend hours exploring the different exhibits, including dolphins, a touch tank, and playful sea lions.

Though slightly pricier than other Phoenix attractions, this facility is totally worth seeing to delight the whole family. One will be amazed by this incredible place… even the restrooms are noteworthy (Hint: you`ll have an aquatic audience).

Arizona Boardwalk

Your youngsters will create core memories at these stimulating attractions, all situated in one convenient location.

two men standing next to each other on a street corner

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (480) 951-2100 | Website | Hours & Entrance Fees Vary by Excursion

Arizona Boardwalk features several popular Phoenix attractions, like OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland mentioned above. Additionally, there are six other unique and thrilling diversions, along with a wide variety of family-friendly eateries. From laser skirmishes to alien investigations to dinosaur excavations, there is something for all at AZ Boardwalk.

Access to most of these locations carries a higher price tag, but it merits the splurge to offer the youngsters an unforgettable encounter. Please note that you can purchase combination tickets to multiple destinations to maximize value. Raves are assured!

🏜️ For more destination recommendations, check out this article on top places to visit in Arizona

FAQs

What is the best month to visit Phoenix?

The optimal month to visit Phoenix is either November or March. These periods fall between the extreme heat and cold. If you want to fully enjoy holiday activities, November is the best month to visit. However, if you want pleasant spring weather, March provides gorgeous conditions to see Phoenix in bloom. Be aware of potential allergies though!

What is Phoenix best known for?

Phoenix is renowned for its lavish resorts and acclaimed golf courses that attract visitors globally. Individuals from around the world travel here to experience the magnificence of some of Arizona’s finest hotels and resorts. You can explore the top options in my article about accommodation in Phoenix. You can also hone your skills on the city’s beautifully landscaped golf courses.

How can I spend 3 days in Phoenix?

You can spend 3 days in Phoenix in various ways since there is plenty to do in Phoenix. I recommend taking one day to explore the local exhibits and attractions, one day to hike the surrounding desert mountains, and one day to take a day trip.

My preferred day excursion from Phoenix involves Sedona, the picturesque red rock escape situated only a 2-hour drive from the city. If personal transportation is unavailable, take an organized tour!

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With the wealth of engaging options in Phoenix, your vacation will fill up quickly with exciting activities. I hope this guide aids you in crafting the perfect itinerary for Phoenix, whether you live locally or are visiting from afar. You may also review all my travel guides on Arizona. Enjoy exploring!

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about me

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

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