Beyond the red rocks and desert sunsets, Arizona is bursting with fun for kids who love to explore, imagine, and roam wild. I love how this state blends nature, science, and stories—making every outing feel like a hands-on discovery mission for the whole family.
To me, Arizona means riding a mining train at Goldfield Ghost Town, staring up at stars through telescopes at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, and hiking into painted canyons in Red Rock State Park. We dig for fossils at the Arizona Museum of Natural History, float through lazy rivers at Great Wolf Lodge, and marvel at ancient dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. In Phoenix, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Arizona Science Center bring creativity to life, while Bearizona in Williams turns a drive-through zoo into a safari full of bears, bison, and bobcats. Spring and fall are perfect for outdoor exploring, and even summer has its high-elevation getaways.
Picture this: The kids are whispering inside cliff dwellings, giggling in a bubble room, and spotting elk from the car window—all in one epic Arizona day.
Best Things to Do in Arizona with Kids
Kitt Peak Observatory - Look at distant galaxies and explore the stars on an exciting desert trip.
Superstition Mountain Museum - Lost Dutchman Museum - Discover Wild West legends and explore unusual artifacts near scenic mountain sights.
Hot Air Expeditions, Phoenix - Soar above the desert and savor stunning sunrise views on a romantic flight.
Apache Trail Tours - Ride rugged trails and see historic landmarks on an exciting weekend adventure.
Arizona Museum of Natural History - Visit ancient fossils and explore dinosaur exhibits on a fun family day.
Arizona Railway Museum - Walk through vintage train cars and discover railway history on an affordable outing.
Arizona Zipline Adventures - Zip over canyons and enjoy thrilling views on a cheap, exciting desert trip.
Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center - Admire native birds and walk along scenic wetlands on an easy nature escape.
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge - Go birdwatching and explore wide-open landscapes on a peaceful retirement getaway.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Kitt Peak Observatory
- • Superstition Mountain Museum - Lost Dutchman Museum
- • Hot Air Expeditions, Phoenix
- • Apache Trail Tours
- • Arizona Museum of Natural History
- • Arizona Railway Museum
- • Arizona Zipline Adventures
- • Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center
- • Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge