5 Spring Break family attractions in Phoenix

Spring Break is a welcome respite for parents and children. The stress and burnout experienced by families during the pandemic have made breaks especially appreciated. Whether you haven’t made Spring Break plans or your plans were canceled due to surging COVID-19 cases, there is plenty of fun right here in the Valley!

Here are some of our favorite family-friendly attractions for the upcoming Spring break.

Phoenix Zoo

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Phoenix Zoo! The zoo is one of the top attractions for kids of all ages, as they can see and learn about monkeys, jaguars, fish, lizards, lions, giraffes and more. The Phoenix Zoo has play areas made just for children, including the Enchanted Forest, Discovery Farm and Leapin’ Lagoon. There are also daily activities and experiences, including animal presentations, petting zoos, camel rides and more!

Plan your family’s trip at phoenixzoo.org.

Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is home to 18,000 pieces of all different styles from all over the world. The museum is a place of meaningful moments and connection for all ages, with activities that will inspire kids’ passion for the arts like Storytime in the Garden, a Scavenger Hunt (pick up the guide at the check-in desk) and a kids activity guide for a more interactive learning experience. Don’t forget to check out family favorite exhibits, like the Thorne Miniature Collection and the popular Yayoi Kusama fireflies exhibit!

The Phoenix Art Museum offers a number of voluntary-donation times when the Museum is open free to everyone, and even offers $5 field trips for guests younger than 18. And as always, children ages 5 and under get in for free every day the museum is open.

Plan your family’s trip at phxart.org.

Musical Instrument Museum

A world of music awaits you and your family at the Musical Instrument Museum! The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) celebrates music, diversity and history through immersive exhibits of musical instruments from around the world. You can learn about and listen to over 4,300 instruments on display in the Museum’s Geographic Galleries. The Artist Gallery features instruments played by music icons, like Elvis Presley, John Denver Taylor Swift. Don’t forget to stop by the Experience Gallery, where you and your children can try your hand at a variety of instruments, including drums, guitars and more.

The MIM also offers the MIMkids Programs, where kids can learn more about music through guided activities. Children ages 0-5 can take part in Mini Music Makers, an early childhood music and movement course that includes singing, dancing and playing instruments to develop motor, language and musical skills!

Plan your Trip to the MIM at mim.org.

Phoenix Children’s Museum

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix, designed for children ages birth to 10, offers a variety of experiences that inspire creativity and imagination. The museum also offers exhibits and programs that focus on early childhood development and school-readiness. There is also the Place for Threes & Younger, where young children can socialize and play with others their age. Throughout the Museum are Baby Zones, where the youngest visitors can enjoy safe, playful learning environments.

Plan your trip at childrensmuseumofphoenix.org.

Desert Botanical Garden

Get some fresh air and connect your child with Arizona’s desert landscape at the Desert Botanical Garden. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. The Desert Botanical Garden offers hand-on activities, nature-based walks, and other experiences for families and children in a fun and safe environment.

Plan your trip to the Garden at dbg.org.