Discover Phoenix’s Outdoor Wonders: A Guide to Family Adventures in the Valley of the Sun

By: Dr. Joseph Kashiwagi

Welcome to the Valley of the Sun, where adventure awaits at every turn! If you’re a parent looking to inject some outdoor excitement into your family’s life, Phoenix, Arizona, is the perfect destination. It might seem like a lame destination for teenagers but they will find that it is much more than a desert. With families flocking to Arizona, there is plenty of activities that are both entertaining and educational. This destination gives you a variety of things that can be done and endless opportunities for dining along with the adventure. With its sunny weather and diverse landscapes, Phoenix offers a plethora of outdoor activities for families to enjoy together. It is not so crowded like the beaches or busy cities but it gives a great in between vibe that makes you want to come back again and again. From hiking trails to wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant desert city. Take into consideration the likes and dislikes of your child while making plans to experience what there is. When planning with teenagers, less is always better because they usually want to do less things that you have planned. Obviously this depends on what type of a child you have and they might want to even consider some of our summer programs that we offer! See our website!

Splash into Adventure:

Escape the heat and make a splash at one of Phoenix’s many water parks and aquatic centers. Spend the day zooming down water slides, floating along lazy rivers, and cooling off in crystal-clear pools. Sunsplash offers thrills for all ages, with attractions like the Thunder Bay Wave Pool and the Dragon Tail Slides. For a more laid-back experience, head to the Kiwanis Recreation Center, where you can relax in the shade while the kids splash and play in the pool. Arizona has some of the best places for kids and teenagers looking to have fun together. Every hotel has a pool and many of amazing people to meet as well!

Wildlife Encounters:

Get up close and personal with Arizona’s native wildlife at the Phoenix Zoo and the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. At the Phoenix Zoo, you can explore themed habitats like the Africa Trail and the Tropics Trail, home to animals from all corners of the globe. I was amazed at all the different animals that could live in Arizona but there is a wide variety. I was surprised at how my teenagers even enjoyed going! At Wildlife World, you can embark on a safari adventure to see lions, giraffes, and rhinos up close, or dive into the depths of the aquarium to discover creatures of the sea. Both zoos offer educational programs and interactive exhibits that are sure to delight animal lovers of all ages. I would highly recommend stopping by for anyone visiting and loves animals!

Hiking Havens:

Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! Phoenix is home to some of the most spectacular hiking spots in the country. Head to Camelback Mountain for a challenging climb and breathtaking views of the city below. It can be challenging at times but that’s what makes it fun for the family! If you’re looking for something more family-friendly, check out Papago Park, where easy trails wind through red rock formations and past scenic ponds. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen – the desert sun can be intense! Part of coming to Arizona is the unique landscape compared to most of the country. It has a hidden beauty that can be exemplified in nature!

Pedal Power:

Take to the streets on two wheels and explore Phoenix’s bike-friendly trails and pathways. Rent bikes for the whole family and set off on a scenic ride along the Arizona Canal Trail, which winds through parks, neighborhoods, and urban landscapes. The time exercising and relaxing can be therapeutic for the entire family. It can bring people together while fostering great habits and it doesn’t have to be dangerous. For a more adventurous outing, head to South Mountain Park, where miles of mountain biking trails offer challenges for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re cruising along city streets or tackling rugged terrain, biking is a fun and eco-friendly way to experience the beauty of Phoenix. It can be one of the perfect destinations for high adventure biking.

Stargazing Spectacular:

When the sun goes down, the adventure doesn’t have to end. Escape the city lights and head out into the desert for a night of stargazing under the vast Arizona sky. Pack a blanket and some snacks, and find a quiet spot away from the glow of the city. Not too far away is an observatory and other museums that would be interesting to all ages. With its clear air and low light pollution, Phoenix offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country. Keep your eyes peeled for shooting stars, constellations, and maybe even a glimpse of the Milky Way!

Phoenix is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for adventure around every corner. It is a vastly different trip that going to a city to go shopping, eating, and site seeing! It is for those families and parents who need to get out and be one with nature! Whether you’re hiking through rugged desert terrain, cooling off at a water park, or exploring the wonders of the natural world, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found in the Valley of the Sun. It is important to think about your entire family and what would be best for them while making summer plans. There needs to be some aspect of improvement, fun, and socialization that can help them to have the best experience possible. You might even want to consider having your kids bring friends that can enhance the experience. So grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!

The Best Summer Activity In Arizona

3 Days | $600 | Ages 13+