Top Indoor Family Fun Spots near Phoenix for Kids During Hot Summer Days

Phoenix summers are known for soaring temperatures that make outdoor activities uncomfortable or even unsafe for little ones. Luckily, the Valley of the Sun offers several indoor venues perfect for family outings during spring and summer breaks. These spots combine entertainment, education, and plenty of space for kids to explore without worrying about the heat.

Here’s a guide to some of the best indoor family fun places near Phoenix that promise memorable experiences for kids and parents alike.

OdySea Aquarium at the Arizona Boardwalk in Scottsdale

OdySea Aquarium stands out as one of the largest and most engaging aquariums in the Southwest. Located within the Arizona Boardwalk in Scottsdale, it offers a cool retreat filled with fascinating marine life.

The aquarium features several interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning. For example, the touch pools let children feel starfish and sea urchins, making the visit both fun and educational.

This is the only rotating aquarium in the world AND it was voted America's best bathroom so make sure your first stop is the bathroom in the lobby. Halfway through there is a Starbuck's with seating and a play area for toddlers. You can grab a snack and coffee and hang out for a bit. Just past the Starbuck's is a water table for the kids to play in. At the end you will walk through a cute gift shop to exit.

Tips for visiting:

• Check the schedule for feeding times and special presentations.

• Consider purchasing tickets online in advance for faster entry.

• Look into the Arizona Boardwalk website to get a discount on visiting multiple venues.

• The entire place is stroller friendly, except going into the rotating aquarium you will park your stroller and carry the little ones . You'll sit in theater-like seats and go around and then will exit through the same door to get your stroller.

  
  

Slick City

There are multiple Slick Cities around the Phoenix area. We've personally been to the Scottsdale and the Goodyear locations. My kids love them. There are multiple huge slides.

Parents can sit on seats and work or chill while kids run. Or if you're like me you can grab a mat and fly down the slides with the kids!

If you have really little ones they do have a 5 and under area that's really great. They have arcade games and also offer food and drinks for purchase.

What to know before you go:

• Bring or buy no slip socks.

  
  

Snakes and Lattes in Tempe

If your family enjoys games and a cozy atmosphere, Snakes and Lattes in Tempe offers a unique indoor experience. They have over 1,000 games to choose from classics to modern, our family sat in here for a few years.

The café serves delicious food and drinks. They also have coffees and a full bar. Staff members are knowledgeable and can recommend games based on the ages and interests of your children.

Snakes and Lattes is a great option for families looking to escape the heat while enjoying interactive, screen-free entertainment. It encourages creativity, strategy, and social interaction in a comfortable setting.

Helpful hints:

• Arrive early or reserve a table on busy days.

• Ask staff for game recommendations suitable for younger kids. I wouldn't recommend for children 5 and under, unless they're in a car seat and you and your partner want to grab lunch and play a board game. It's just not the ideal spot for toddlers who need action and space to run.

• Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.

  
  

Arizona Sea Life Aquarium

Another excellent indoor destination is the Arizona Sea Life Aquarium, located in the Arizona Mills Mall near Tempe. This aquarium offers a variety of exhibits showcasing marine creatures from around the world. Kids can walk through underwater tunnels and see sharks and rays swimming overhead, creating an exciting and immersive experience.

The aquarium also features interactive touch pools and educational talks that engage children in learning about ocean conservation and animal behavior. The air-conditioned environment makes it a perfect escape from the summer heat.

Families appreciate the convenient location inside a mall, which allows for easy access to food courts and shopping after the visit.

Visitor advice:

• It's right across from Legoland, so you can visit both in one day!

• Sea Life and Legoland are both on the Community Perks Pass, along with some other really great venues around Phoenix. Even if you only went to two of the places you'd still save money with this pass! Use our code for $16 off: azfamilyguide

Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center, located in Phoenix, is dedicated to inspiring and engaging visitors of all ages through interactive science exhibits and programs. With over 350 hands-on exhibits, the center offers a diverse range of experiences that cover various scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, and astronomy. The Arizona Science Center is available on the Phoenix Pogo Pass. Another fun pass you buy once and it's good for an entire year with free entry into some of the best venues around Phoenix. You can use our code for 50% off: azfamilyguide

Key Features

• Interactive Exhibits: Engage with science through hands-on activities that make learning fun and accessible.

• IMAX Theater: Experience immersive films that transport you to different worlds and explore scientific concepts in depth.

• Live Demonstrations: Attend live science demonstrations that showcase exciting experiments and discoveries.

• Workshops and Camps: Participate in educational workshops and summer camps designed for children and families.

Making the Most of Indoor Family Fun in Phoenix

Choosing indoor activities during the hot months helps protect kids from heat exhaustion and sunburn while still offering exciting experiences. These venues provide a mix of education, physical activity, and relaxation, catering to different interests and age groups.

When planning your visit:

• Check each location’s hours on the website, as things can quickly change.

• Bring water bottles and comfortable clothing.

• Consider combining visits with nearby dining or shopping options for a full day out.

  
  

Phoenix’s indoor family fun spots make summer breaks enjoyable and stress-free. Whether your kids love animals, or games, these places offer safe, cool environments where memories are made.