Experience AZ magazine is Arizona’s go-to travel and adventure guide, showcasing the best places to eat, stay, shop, explore and experience across the state. Here are five family fun hotspots, as featured in the latest issue of Experience AZ.
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Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Housed in a historic downtown school building, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix offers three floors of hands-on, interactive fun for kids. With a noodle forest, mini market, climbing structures and an art studio, it’s designed for imagination and exploration. Open daily and affordably priced, it’s a screen-free favorite families return to again and again.
Information: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
Desert Botanical Garden
Nestled in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden surprises many with its family-friendly offerings. Stroller-accessible trails, seasonal butterfly exhibits and scavenger hunts make desert discovery fun for all ages, especially in cooler months. Don’t miss the Cactus Clubhouse.
Information: dbg.org
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
This 30-acre gem in Scottsdale features a rideable miniature train, carousel, shaded playgrounds and a model railroad museum. Entry is free, and ride tickets are low-cost, making it a hit with train-loving kids and budget-savvy parents.
Information: therailroadpark.com
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
Phoenix’s MIM invites kids to explore global music through interactive exhibits, headset-guided galleries and a hands-on Experience Room just for them. Educational, fun and one-of-a-kind.
Information: mim.org
Hassayampa River Preserve
Just outside Wickenburg, this nature preserve offers easy trails, birdwatching and family-friendly guided walks. It’s a peaceful, educational day trip and a great way to introduce kids to Arizona’s wildlife.
Information: nature.org/hassayampa-river-preserve
