The entire family will love these attractions in Arizona, all of which are perfect for groups looking to spend time quality time together
Arizona remains a hot spot for those seeking to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature. From stunning canyons to unique cultural experiences, Arizona is a prime destination for a family getaway. The state offers photo-worthy views and interactive attractions that children, and adults, will love. Consider these family-friendly attractions in Arizona when planning your next getaway.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Can’t decide if you’re in the mood to visit a zoo, museum or a garden? The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum offers you all in one. This Tucson staple includes a zoo, aquarium, natural history museum and a botanical garden. Animal lovers can pet stingrays at the Stingray Touch, explore biodiversity at the Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall or observe a variety of wild mammals in their natural habitats. Those craving something more scenic can enjoy an up-close look at the unique plant life of the Sonoran Desert at the Botanical Garden.
Lowell Observatory
Prepare to take a journey through the cosmos as this intergalactic spot. Located in Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory is perfect for astronomy lovers of all ages. In addition to several unique daytime tours, the observatory’s nighttime tours give visitors the chance to use telescopes to view planets, stars and other cosmic wonders like they’ve never seen them before.
Phoenix Zoo
More than just a zoo, this Phoenix landmark offers a slew of interactive activities daily. Visitors can enjoy a variety of animal encounters, whether it is animal presentations, feeling stingrays at Stingray Bay or riding a camel at the zoo’s most popular attraction. Guests can also climb aboard the endangered species carousel, ride the safari cruiser or see what it takes to be a farmer at Harmony Farm and Red Barn.
Grand Canyon
A trip to Arizona is not complete without a visit to the state’s most famous tourist destination, the Grand Canyon. With various ways to tour the canyon, from bike tours to shuttle tours to walking hikes, there is something that will appeal to everyone. Whether you opt to visit the North Rim or South Rim, the canyon’s incredible red rocks and breathtaking views are guaranteed to leave the whole family speechless.
Arizona Snowbowl
Though it may be typically thought of as a winter spot, Arizona Snowbowl offers exciting outdoor adventures year-round. The scenic gondola ride will show visitors Arizona from a new perspective, all from an 11,500-foot elevation. The summer scenic mountain adventure includes a variety of outdoor activities, including summer tubing, bungee trampolining, treasure panning and barrel rolling. Travelers can reminisce on their daily adventures at Basecamp, the cozy lodging option.
Lake Havasu
Known as “Arizona’s Playground,” Lake Havasu is the perfect place for any outdoor recreational activity. In addition to housing beautiful beaches, the lake is a great place to get active. From paddlesports to scuba diving to wakeboarding and wakesurfing, this spot is a premier destination for any thrill seeker. The area also offers on-land adventures, including biking, off-roading and cycling. Be sure to either boat under or walk across the city’s claim to fame, The London Bridge, a detailed reconstruction of the 1831 fabled bridge that spanned the River Thames.
Arizona Mills
Shopaholics can enjoy Arizona’s largest indoor, climate-controlled outlet, value and entertainment spot. The outlet features more than 185 retail stores that hit all the stops from fashion to jewelry to shoes. Along with affordable retail opportunities, Arizona Mills also features several other exciting entertainment attractions, including LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the largest IMAX in the state, in addition to praised restaurants. The center is located just 10 minutes south of Sky Harbor Airport and 10 minutes southwest from the Arizona State University campus, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
Arizona Boardwalk
Scottsdale’s Arizona Boardwalk is home to some of the coolest tourist dining establishments, gift shops and attractions in Arizona. The complex includes OdySea Aquarium, the biggest aquarium in the Southwest U.S.; Butterfly Wonderland, the country’s largest conservatory of its kind with more than 3,000 butterflies to observe; and Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs, a collection of more than 80 ancient dinosaurs. Guests can unwind with bumper boats, and stop at the gift shop for some souvenirs to remember their visit.
TopGolf
TopGolf’s high-tech driving ranges are ideal for golfers of any experience level to brush up on their skills. Each location, Gilbert, Glendale, Marana and Scottsdale, offers dozens of climate-controlled bays to hit microchipped golf balls at targets on the field. In addition to being a hub for golfers, TopGolf’s restaurant, several sports bars, musical entertainment and rooftop bar give guests a more social experience.
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