Here are the top family-friendly attractions in Phoenix and neighboring Scottsdale, with a short description and quick planning tips for each.

Phoenix

• Phoenix Zoo — Large, family-focused zoo in Papago Park with themed trails, a children’s trail/petting area and splash zones. Great for ages 2–12. Buy tickets online (timed entry/seasonal hours vary). (phoenixzoo.org)

• Children’s Museum of Phoenix — Hands-on, multi-level museum built for toddlers through elementary-age kids; rotating exhibits, maker/play spaces and scheduled programs. Check the museum calendar for special events and buy timed-entry tickets. (childrensmuseumofphoenix.org)

• Desert Botanical Garden — Interactive desert gardens with family programs (Cactus Clubhouse, storytime), trails and kid-friendly exhibits about Sonoran Desert plants and wildlife; evening events and seasonal exhibits are common. Good for nature-curious kids and families who enjoy outdoor learning. Bring sun protection and water. (dbg.org)

• Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) — Worldwide musical instruments with interactive exhibits and family audio guides; kids enjoy hands-on galleries and demos. Open daily; family/child ticket pricing available. (mim.org)

• Castles N’ Coasters — Small amusement park with family rides, miniature golf, arcade and a few roller coasters; good as a lower-cost thrill-and-fun option for school-age kids and teens. Check ride-height rules and seasonal hours. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Encanto Park / Enchanted Island Amusement Park — Large city park with lagoon (boating), playgrounds and a miniature amusement area (Enchanted Island) with a small train and rides — perfect for younger kids and picnic outings. (en.wikipedia.org)

Scottsdale (just east of Phoenix)

• McCormick‑Stillman Railroad Park — Free admission park with train & carousel rides (small fee), model railroad building, splash pad and large play structures (including newly added indoor play space and splash facilities). Ideal for kids who love trains and outdoor play; many amenities and seasonal events. (therailroadpark.com)

• OdySea Aquarium (and nearby Butterfly Wonderland) — Arizona’s largest aquarium (Scottsdale) with shark exhibits, penguins, touch experiences and timed-entry tickets; Butterfly Wonderland is adjacent and features an indoor tropical butterfly atrium — both are strong choices for younger kids and rainy/very hot days. Buy timed tickets in advance for busy periods. (odyseaaquarium.com)

• Old Town Scottsdale — Walkable area with family-friendly attractions (art galleries with kid programs, kid-accessible museums, seasonal events), western-themed storefronts and easy dining options — good for an afternoon stroll with kids. (Local event calendars list regular family events.) (visitarizona.com)

Extras / seasonal ideas

• Splash pads & water play — Many city parks and places like Phoenix Zoo and McCormick‑Stillman now offer splash pads or seasonal water features — great for hot months; check local park pages for open/closed status. (axios.com)

• Evening / special events — Botanical gardens, museums and zoos often run family-friendly evening programs (Flashlight Nights, outdoor exhibits, holiday events). Check each attraction’s events calendar before you go. (axios.com)

Quick planning tips

• Buy timed-entry tickets online for busy attractions (Phoenix Zoo, OdySea Aquarium, MIM, Children’s Museum) to avoid lines. (phoenixzoo.org)
• Bring sun protection, water and light snacks — Phoenix/Scottsdale weather is hot much of the year. Many sites have shaded areas and indoor exhibits but plan for heat. (dbg.org)
• For toddlers/young kids: look for splash pads, train/carousel rides (McCormick‑Stillman), Enchanted Island and the Children’s Museum. (therailroadpark.com)
• Check hours & closures: Museums and parks can change seasonal hours, special-event closures and holiday schedules — verify on the attraction’s official site before visiting. (mim.org)

If you’d like, I can:

• Build a half‑day or full‑day family itinerary (specify Phoenix or Scottsdale and ages of kids), or
• Check current hours/pricing for any one or two attractions for the exact date you plan to visit.