Traveling to Phoenix with kids? I’ve discovered that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a fantastic time here. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, I’ve found plenty of fun and affordable things to do that the whole family will enjoy. From hands-on museums to outdoor adventures in the sun, these are my go-to picks when I want to keep the kids happy without breaking the budget—and I think they’ll work great for you too.

Best Affordable Phoenix Activities with Kids:

Ignite Curiosity and Hands-On Learning at the Arizona Science Center

Arizona Science Center

Ignite Curiosity and Hands-On Learning at the Arizona Science Center -  

Spark Creativity and Play at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Spark Creativity and Play at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix -  

Let Young Imaginations Soar at the i.d.e.a. Museum

i.d.e.a. Museum

Let Young Imaginations Soar at the i.d.e.a. Museum -  

Step Back to Dinosaur Days at the Arizona Museum of Natural History

Arizona Museum of Natural History

Step Back to Dinosaur Days at the Arizona Museum of Natural History -  

If You Want to Explore Ancient Cultures, Then Visit the S'edav Va'aki Museum

S'edav Va'aki Museum

If You Want to Explore Ancient Cultures, Then Visit the S'edav Va'aki Museum -                                    

Experience the Magic of Live Performances at Valley Youth Theatre

hobaa/stock.adobe.com

Experience the Magic of Live Performances at Valley Youth Theatre -                                    

Immerse Yourself in World-Class Art at the Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Art Museum

Immerse Yourself in World-Class Art at the Phoenix Art Museum -  

Travel the Globe Through Music at the Musical Instrument Museum

Musical Instrument Museum

Travel the Globe Through Music at the Musical Instrument Museum -  

Wander Among Stunning Desert Plants at the Desert Botanical Garden

antonsov85/stock.adobe.com

Wander Among Stunning Desert Plants at the Desert Botanical Garden -  

Step Into a Tropical Paradise of Butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland

dhayes/stock.adobe.com

Step Into a Tropical Paradise of Butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland -  

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)