The summer season in Arizona brings forth a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, presenting families with a plethora of incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures. While the sun may shine brightly, fear not, as the Grand Canyon State offers numerous family-friendly activities that allow you and your kids to beat the heat while creating lifelong memories. From breathtaking natural wonders to educational and thrilling experiences, Arizona has it all. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best things to do with kids in Arizona during the summer months.
- Discover the Marvels of the Grand Canyon: No trip to Arizona is complete without a visit to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Treat your children to the breathtaking vistas of this natural wonder, and explore its vastness through hiking trails or a guided tour. The South Rim offers numerous kid-friendly trails, such as the Bright Angel Trail or the Rim Trail, which provide spectacular views and a chance to immerse yourself in the canyon’s geological marvels.
- Splash and Play at Water Parks: Arizona boasts an array of water parks that promise hours of fun and relief from the summer heat. Take your kids to Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix or Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe, where they can enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play areas. These parks offer a perfect combination of excitement and cooling aquatic adventures for the whole family.
- Get Up Close with Desert Wildlife: Visit the Phoenix Zoo, one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, where your little ones can observe and learn about a diverse range of animals. Explore habitats like the African Savanna or the Tropics Trail, participate in interactive exhibits, and catch exciting animal presentations. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson is another must-visit destination, offering a unique opportunity to encounter desert-dwelling animals and explore botanical gardens in a stunning setting.
- Explore the Beauty of Sedona: Sedona, renowned for its stunning red rock formations, offers a captivating backdrop for family adventures. Embark on kid-friendly hiking trails such as Bell Rock Pathway or the Airport Mesa Loop, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing views and connect with nature. You can also take a jeep tour to explore the rugged terrains or visit Slide Rock State Park, known for its natural waterslides carved into the red rocks.
- Dive into History and Culture: Engage your children in the rich history and culture of Arizona by visiting places like the Heard Museum in Phoenix or the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa. These museums offer interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational displays that bring Arizona’s past to life. Immerse yourselves in Native American art, archaeological discoveries, and dinosaur fossils while expanding your knowledge of the state’s heritage.
- Cool Off in Northern Arizona’s Lakes: Escape the desert heat by heading to the northern part of the state, where you’ll find several picturesque lakes. Lake Powell, nestled within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities against a backdrop of stunning rock formations. Meanwhile, the cool waters of Watson Lake near Prescott provide a serene atmosphere for picnicking, kayaking, and nature exploration.
- Experience Old West Fun in Tombstone: Take a step back in time and experience the spirit of the Old West in Tombstone, famously known for the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Witness live reenactments of famous gunfights, explore historical sites, and visit museums that showcase the town’s rich cowboy history. Don’t forget to visit the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, where your kids can learn about the Arizona Territory’s early days.