Hike Red Rocks & Explore Botanical Gardens in Phoenix
Tips on renting in Phoenix
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Phoenix, Arizona, a vibrant city where your family’s next great adventure begins. The Phoenix Zoo, home to over 1,400 animals, offers unforgettable wildlife encounters along the Arizona Trail and Africa Trail. Young explorers will love the Children’s Trail, complete with a petting zoo and hands-on exhibits. When it’s time to cool off, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix invites families to splash together on thrilling water slides and drift along the lazy river.
Enjoy a moment of tranquility at the Japanese Friendship Garden, a 3.5-acre haven featuring koi ponds and authentic tea houses, perfect for a peaceful family stroll. Dive into the region’s rich heritage at the Heard Museum, where Native American art and history come to life. The Desert Botanical Garden offers a striking setting for discovery, with vibrant desert plants that delight visitors of all ages.
For a day of classic family fun, visit Enchanted Island Amusement Park nestled within the lush, 222-acre Encanto Park. Here, you’ll find picnic spots, a scenic lagoon, and a charming amusement park with rides for everyone. Cap off your day at the Scottsdale Quarter Splash Pad, where little ones can play among gentle fountains and water jets, creating joyful memories under the Arizona sun.
Nearby cities
Mesa
Explore Mesa, where you can kayak the stunning Salt River and spot wild horses in their natural habitat.
Chandler
Explore Chandler and experience the vibrant Ostrich Festival, a unique celebration of local culture and family fun.
San Tan Valley
Explore San Tan Valley and hike the scenic San Tan Mountain Regional Park trails for breathtaking desert views.
Arizona City
Make Arizona City your next lakefront escape with scenic views at Paradise Lake and peaceful desert surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Phoenix has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Papago Park stands as a top attraction in Phoenix due to its diverse array of outdoor and cultural experiences. The park is home to the world-class Phoenix Zoo and the stunning Desert Botanical Garden, as well as the popular Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, a 0.2-mile hike offering breathtaking views and a unique rock formation. With over 1,500 acres of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and amenities like the Papago Ponds fishing lagoon and the Papago Golf Course, Papago Park is an urban oasis that caters to a wide range of interests and activities, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.
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For a seamless boating experience on Theodore Roosevelt Lake, head to the Schoolhouse Point boat ramp, located at the east end of the lake near where the Salt River enters. This ramp is long and wide, making it the easiest and most convenient launch point. From Phoenix, it’s about a 2-hour drive, and the ramp is particularly ideal for those looking to avoid crowded areas and enjoy the lake’s serene beauty.
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For a quintessential tubing experience near Phoenix, the Salt River in Tonto National Forest is unparalleled. This gentle, meandering waterway offers a refreshing float through scenic landscapes, including towering saguaro cacti and lush greenery, with occasional glimpses of wild horses. Tube rentals, which include shuttle service, are available for $28, making it an accessible and enjoyable outing for families and groups, best enjoyed during the warm summer months.
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To witness the breathtaking sunsets in Phoenix, head to South Mountain, where the Dobbins Lookout offers stunning views just a half hour outside the city. Papago Park is another must-visit, with its iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation providing panoramic views of downtown Phoenix and the surrounding desert. For a more adventurous experience, hike the Camelback Mountains, a moderately complex route with panoramic views of Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, or visit Lost Dutchman State Park near the Superstition Mountains for a serene sunset experience amidst the Sonoran Desert.
