Things to do in Phoenix

Question

We are staying in Phoenix with a very active 4 and 6 year old. I had been to AZ before but for some reason I had forgot how hot it gets and stupid of me to have reserved this trip for our family in mid June! Please help give me some ideas of what to do in these 4 days. We love hiking but I think none pf the trails around here are shaded, or are they?

Children museum and botanical garden is not gonna fill up 4 days. Open to day trips from Phoenix up to 2 hours too

Please help a mom. Thanks!

Answer

Visiting Phoenix in mid-June with young children can be challenging due to high temperatures often exceeding 100°F. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for outdoor activities, while mid-day should be reserved for indoor or water-based activities.

Outdoor activities with some shade or cooler options:

Desert Botanical Garden: Early morning visits are more comfortable, and there are shaded pathways. Kids can enjoy the butterfly exhibit if available.
South Mountain Park & Preserve: Offers some shaded picnic areas and short, easier trails. Avoid strenuous hikes during peak heat.
Japanese Friendship Garden: A small, shaded outdoor garden perfect for a short stroll.
Papago Park: Iconic sandstone formations, shaded areas, and a short hike to Hole-in-the-Rock with great views.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: Outdoor but with shaded areas; includes a train ride, carousel, and playground for younger kids.

Indoor or water activities:

Arizona Science Center: Hands-on exhibits perfect for children and educational fun indoors.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix: Interactive exhibits for ages 4–6, great for mid-day breaks from the heat.
Swimming and splash pads: Many hotels have pools, or visit local splash pads like Steele Indian School Park or the Phoenix Public Market area water features.
SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium: Located in Tempe, a cool indoor option with marine life exhibits.

Day trips within 2 hours of Phoenix:

Salt River Tubing or Kayaking: Early morning trips on the Salt River; refreshing water activity, though children must meet age/height requirements.
Payson or Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Slightly cooler elevations (~1.5–2 hour drive) and easy hiking in shaded forested areas.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park: Offers boating, swimming, and picnic areas, cooler near the water.
Apache Trail Scenic Drive: Early morning drive with stops at Canyon Lake Marina or Tortilla Flat; can combine short, shaded walks with scenic views.

Tips:

Start outdoor activities early (before 9 AM) and plan indoor activities for mid-day.
Always carry water, sun protection, and hats for the kids.
Break up activities and allow for rest in air-conditioned spaces.
Consider staying somewhere with a pool for downtime during the hottest parts of the day.

With careful planning, you can mix shaded outdoor exploration, interactive indoor activities, and nearby day trips to make the 4 days enjoyable for an active family even in June heat.

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