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3 December 2021
Summer in Arizona can be scorching hot, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all season long. The Grand Canyon State offers a variety of family-friendly activities that make for memorable adventures, even when the temperatures climb. From outdoor explorations to water fun and cool indoor attractions, here are some of the best places to bring your kids when it’s summer in Arizona.
Location: 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ
Best For: Water Fun & Thrills
When the heat is unbearable, nothing beats a day at Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix. This massive water park features thrilling rides, wave pools, and kid-friendly splash areas, making it the perfect place to cool off. Whether your kids want to race down water slides or relax in the lazy river, Wet ‘n’ Wild offers hours of fun for all ages. For families with young children, the Tropical River and Splash Island are excellent choices for a more relaxed day.
Insider Tip: Beat the crowds by arriving early to enjoy the rides before the sun gets too hot.
Location: Grand Canyon, AZ
Best For: Nature Lovers & Hikes
While summer temperatures can soar in Arizona, the Grand Canyon remains a cool retreat, especially if you head to the rim. Summer is an excellent time to take a family trip to the Grand Canyon, where your kids can marvel at the breathtaking views, hike the easier trails, and learn about the park’s history. The South Rim is the most accessible and offers educational programs for kids at the Yavapai Geology Museum and Grand Canyon Railway.
Insider Tip: For a cooler experience, head to the North Rim, which is at a higher elevation and offers less crowded trails.
Location: 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ
Best For: Interactive Learning
If you want your kids to have fun and learn something new, the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix is the place to go. This hands-on museum features exhibits on space, biology, engineering, and more, designed to engage children of all ages. With over 350 interactive exhibits, kids can experiment with science, explore their creativity, and even watch educational IMAX movies.
Insider Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for live science demonstrations and activities that are great for curious kids.
Location: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ
Best For: Nature Walks & Educational Experiences
Explore the beauty of Arizona’s desert at the Desert Botanical Garden, located in Phoenix. The garden is home to a variety of desert plants, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers. During the summer, the garden offers fun family programs, like nature walks and hands-on educational activities. Kids can learn about desert wildlife, how plants survive in the harsh desert environment, and the importance of conservation.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat, and don’t forget to check out the Butterfly Pavilion in the summer months!
Location: 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ
Best For: Marine Life Exploration
Take your family on an underwater adventure at OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale, one of the largest aquariums in the Southwest. This interactive attraction features more than 30,000 animals and offers exhibits like the Shark Exhibit and the Sea Turtle Rescue Center. There’s also a 4D theater, where kids can experience nature in an immersive way, making it a great place to escape the Arizona heat.
Insider Tip: Plan to visit the aquarium’s Penguin Point for an up-close experience with adorable penguins!
Location: 1500 E Route 66, Williams, AZ
Best For: Wildlife & Nature Enthusiasts
Take a break from the summer heat and visit Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams, located near the Grand Canyon. This drive-through wildlife park allows families to see animals like bison, black bears, wolves, and wild turkeys in their natural habitats. It’s an educational experience for kids who love animals, and they can even see smaller animals like otters and bobcats up close in the park’s walk-through area.
Insider Tip: The cooler mountain temperatures in Williams make it a great summer destination.
Location: Supai, AZ
Best For: Outdoor Adventurers
For adventurous families looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Havasu Falls in the Havasupai Indian Reservation is a must-see. Although it’s a challenging hike, the reward is well worth it: gorgeous turquoise water cascading down waterfalls into crystal-clear pools. Families with older kids can take a multi-day hike into the falls, and while the trek may be tough, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Insider Tip: Remember to secure permits well in advance, as access to the falls is limited and highly sought after.
Location: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ
Best For: Cultural and Art Exploration
Immerse your family in the rich culture of Arizona’s Native American tribes at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. The museum showcases an extensive collection of Native American art, jewelry, and historical artifacts. Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and special programs that teach about the history and traditions of Arizona’s indigenous peoples.
Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the Arizona Indians exhibit, which is especially kid-friendly with its engaging displays and hands-on activities.
Location: 6871 N Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ
Best For: Water Fun in the Red Rocks
Escape the heat and enjoy a natural water park at Slide Rock State Park in Sedona. This park, located in the heart of the Red Rocks, features a natural water slide that kids can slide down into crystal-clear waters. It’s a great way to cool off while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Sedona landscape.
Insider Tip: Get there early to grab a good spot by the water, as it can get crowded during the summer months.
Location: 26802 N 102nd Way, Scottsdale, AZ
Best For: Scenic Hikes with the Family
For families who enjoy hiking and stunning desert views, Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale offers an easy-to-moderate hike that provides breathtaking views of the valley and desert landscape. The 1.75-mile Pinnacle Peak Trail is perfect for families with kids, as it’s not too difficult but offers incredible sights along the way. Along the trail, families can spot desert wildlife, like cactus wrens, jackrabbits, and lizards.
Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as temperatures can rise quickly in the desert.
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Thinking about exploring Arizona caves? You’re in luck if you’re a spelunker! Several cave systems in Arizona are well-known and accessible to the public, offering a mix of guided tours and self-exploration: Kartchner Caverns – Famous for its preserved formations and extensive guided tours, Kartchner is a must-see for any visitor. Learn More » Peppersauce Cave – A favorite for more adventurous explorers, Peppersauce allows visitors to experience a raw and natural cave environment. Learn More » Colossal Cave – Located near Tucson, this cave provides both standard and advanced tours for those seeking a challenge. Learn More » Grand
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