Traveling for the past 4 years has given us many amazing experiences and has brought us so close as a family. When visiting new places, trying out new activities is something that we all enjoy together.
The bond created through shared experiences is truly special. Engaging in activities that cater to all ages is a fantastic approach to ensure everyone in the family has a great time.
Bowling, skating, and going to the movies are classic choices that never seem to lose their charm. These activities offer a perfect blend of entertainment and inclusivity.
There are many great theatres to visit in Tempe. AMC, as briefly mentioned below, is conveniently located in the Tempe Mills Mall.
Pollack movie theatre is an awesome place that offers discounted tickets for movies that are a bit older.
If it’s a competition you seek, challenge each other to a game or two of bowling at AMF Tempe Village Lanes. There you will also find an arcade, billiards, and a big menu filled with tasty food.
It’s fantastic that you’re exploring the vibrant entertainment options in Tempe, Arizona. Here are 10 more fun things to do with your family in Tempe:
Electric Scooters Downtown
This was easily a top pick for something fun to do in Tempe AZ. This was a huge hit with not only the kids but me and my husband as well. If you’re visiting Tempe, you’ll soon realize that there are a ton of electric scooters sitting just waiting to be rented for the day.
Convenient Transportation: Electric scooters provide a convenient and fun mode of transportation, especially in a bustling downtown area. It’s a great way to cover more ground and explore various parts of the city.
Family Fun: The fact that both kids and adults enjoyed the scooters indicates that it’s a family-friendly activity. It adds an element of excitement to the day, making it more than just a means of getting around.
Store-to-Store Exploration: Using scooters to go from store to store is a brilliant idea. It not only adds an element of adventure but also makes the shopping experience more enjoyable and efficient.
Culinary Delights: Exploring the culinary scene in Tempe on scooters sounds like a delicious endeavor. Trying out different restaurants and enjoying a variety of cuisines adds a culinary adventure to your day.
Scenic Riverside Ride: Scooting down by the river adds a scenic and refreshing element to your adventure. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while having a blast on the scooters.
Dessert Stops: Ending the day with dessert from places like Slickables or the Candy Addict candy store is a sweet way to wrap up your exploration. It adds a touch of indulgence to the overall experience.
Sea Life Aquarium
Located in the Mills Mall, the Sea Life Aquarium is a great way for kids to have fun while learning all about sea life. With 50 aquariums, 2 sanctuaries, and over 180,000 creatures, this aquarium is sure to bring some fun to little ones and adults too!
SEA LIFE Aquarium also offers special events, such as animal encounters and mermaid viewing.
Educational Fun: With 50 aquariums, 2 sanctuaries, and over 180,000 creatures, the Sea Life Aquarium provides a rich and educational experience. It’s an excellent way for kids to have fun while learning about the fascinating world of sea life.
Interactive Displays: Look out for interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. These can include touch tanks, feeding sessions, and educational presentations that make the learning experience more immersive.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The family-friendly atmosphere of the aquarium ensures that both little ones and adults can enjoy the visit. It’s a great opportunity for families to bond over shared discoveries.
Special Events: Take advantage of special events offered by the SEA LIFE Aquarium, such as animal encounters and mermaid viewing. These events add an extra layer of excitement to your visit and may offer unique opportunities for interaction.
Enjoy your time at the Sea Life Aquarium, immersing yourselves in the wonders of the ocean and creating lasting memories!
Legoland Discovery Center
LEGOLAND Discovery Center is the ultimate indoor LEGO playground with 2 rides, 10 LEGO build & play zones, a 4D cinema & much more!
Interactive LEGO Play Zones: Explore the 10 LEGO build and play zones where creativity knows no bounds. These zones often feature a variety of LEGO bricks and elements, allowing visitors to unleash their imagination and build to their heart’s content.
Rides for Added Fun: Enjoy the excitement of the 2 rides available at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure or a more relaxed experience, the rides are designed to add an extra layer of fun to your visit.
4D Cinema Experience: Immerse yourself in the world of LEGO with the 4D cinema. This multi-sensory experience combines 3D visuals with special effects like wind, rain, and more, creating an engaging and entertaining movie-watching experience.
LEGO Merchandise: Explore the LEGO shop for a wide range of LEGO sets, merchandise, and exclusive items. It’s an excellent opportunity to find unique LEGO-themed souvenirs or gifts for LEGO enthusiasts back home.
Online Ticket Purchase: Consider purchasing tickets online to save time and potentially benefit from any online exclusive deals or discounts. This can also help you avoid long lines at the entrance.
Age-Appropriate Zones: If you’re visiting with children of different ages, check if the play zones are age-appropriate. Some areas might be specially designed for younger or older kids, ensuring everyone has a great time.
Birthday Celebrations: If you’re celebrating a birthday, inquire about any special packages or activities available for birthday parties at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. It could be a memorable way to mark the occasion.
Enjoy your time at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where the world of LEGO comes to life in an indoor playground filled with endless possibilities and creative fun!
Pedal Boats
Rent a pedal boat for a couple of hours of fun right on the water at Tempe Town Lake. You can rent a Kayak, pedal boat, pontoon, and even a donut boat that holds up to 10 people!
If floating on water isn’t your idea of a good time, they also have bike rentals that can hold up to 8 people. Perfect for a family looking for some fun along Tempe Town Lake.
Safety First: Before setting out on the water, make sure everyone on the pedal boat is wearing a life jacket. Safety should always be a priority, especially if you’re not experienced with boating.
Boat Options: Explore the different types of boats available for rent, such as pedal boats, kayaks, pontoons, and even donut boats. Choose the one that best suits your group size and preferences. A pedal boat can be a great option for a small group or a couple looking for a leisurely ride.
Sun Protection: If you plan to be out on the water for an extended period, bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. The reflection of the water can intensify the sun’s effects.
Explore the Lake: Take advantage of the opportunity to explore Tempe Town Lake from a unique perspective. Paddle around and enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and the overall tranquility of the lake.
Snacks and Refreshments: Pack some light snacks and refreshing drinks to keep everyone energized during the boating adventure. Just be mindful of any rules or guidelines regarding food and beverages on the boats.
Enjoy Water Activities: If pedal boating isn’t your only interest, take advantage of the variety of water activities available, such as kayaking or renting a pontoon for a different boating experience.
Pedal boating on Tempe Town Lake offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, creating lasting memories for you and your family. Have a wonderful time on the water!
Pheonix Zoo
If you’re looking for a place to make some great memories with your kiddos, head on over to the Phoenix Zoo. Giraffes, tortoises, monkeys, snakes, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, wolves, and a petting zoo.
Food Options: Explore the tasty food options available at the zoo. It’s always a good idea to plan a picnic or try some of the local treats to make the visit even more enjoyable.
Gift Shop: Don’t forget to check out the gift shop. It’s a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs and mementos to remember the day. Kids often love choosing something special to take home.
Animal Encounters: Enjoy the diverse range of animals at the Phoenix Zoo, from the majestic giraffes to the fascinating reptiles and the playful monkeys. The variety ensures an exciting and educational experience for kids.
Depending on the time of year, Phoenix can get quite warm. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on spending a good amount of time exploring the zoo.
The fact that kids aged 3 and under get free admission is a wonderful perk. It encourages families with young children to make the most of this family-friendly attraction.
Desert Botanical Gardens
The Desert Botanical Gardens is a beautiful destination in Tempe. We chose to visit the gardens at night and so happy we did! The light shows are breathtaking and is something we will all remember.
Check the Event Schedule: If you enjoyed the light shows, keep an eye on the event schedule for any special nighttime events or exhibits. Gardens often host unique activities, concerts, or themed nights that can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.
Visiting the Desert Botanical Gardens at night adds a unique and mesmerizing dimension to the natural beauty of the desert landscape.
A must-visit!
Arizona Mills Mall
Arizona Mills Mall is not only home to a variety of retail shops, but it also has a movie theatre, arcade, food court, and even a carousel that was a big hit with my 7- and 8-year-old. Located in the mall is also a spot that has bouncy houses which only cost $10 per kid for an hour of play.
In addition to AMC, there are numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions, including SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Store Diversity: Arizona Mills Mall offers a wide range of stores, including outlet shops, retail stores, and specialty stores. Whether you’re looking for fashion, electronics, home goods, or sporting equipment, you’re likely to find it here.
Dining Choices: Fuel your shopping spree with a variety of dining options available at the mall. From quick bites to sit-down restaurants, there’s likely something to satisfy your cravings.
Rainforest Cafe is inside the Mills Mall as well. Such a fun place to stop in and eat while watching the rainforest come to life around you. If you happen to be a huge boba fan like me, my husband, and our teenage son, Bubble Bee is a must-try!
Entertainment Options: In addition to shopping, the mall provides various entertainment options. This includes a movie theater, arcades, and other recreational activities. Check the mall’s website or directory for specific offerings.
Remember to enjoy your time at Arizona Mills Mall, and happy shopping!
Riverview Park
Situated just minutes away from the bustling Tempe Marketplace, Riverview Park offers a serene escape for families seeking both relaxation and recreation.
Splash Pad Extravaganza: Beat the Arizona heat by indulging in the refreshing delights of the park’s expansive splash pad. Perfect for kids and parents alike, this water wonderland provides a fun and cool respite during the warmer months.
Climbing Adventures: Riverview Park boasts a 50-foot-tall climbing tower, beckoning adventure seekers to ascend to new heights. Additionally, a 60-foot-long caterpillar mesh rope climbing structure adds an exciting element of challenge for little climbers.
Shaded Picnic Bliss: Embrace the charm of outdoor dining with numerous shaded picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Whether you’re planning a family picnic or simply seeking a quiet spot to unwind, these tables offer the perfect setting.
Proximity to Tempe Marketplace: Take advantage of Riverview Park’s proximity to Tempe Marketplace, a vibrant hub featuring a myriad of restaurants. After a day of play, treat your taste buds to a diverse range of culinary delights.
Hydration Essentials: Arizona’s heat can be intense, so be sure to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Picnic Preparations: Consider bringing along a picnic basket filled with your family’s favorite treats. The shaded picnic tables offer an idyllic setting for a delightful outdoor meal.
Riverview Park stands as a testament to the perfect blend of leisure and excitement, making it an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories in the heart of Tempe. Enjoy your time at this family-friendly oasis!
Hall Of Flame Fire Museum
The Hall of Flame Museum is a museum dedicated to the historical preservation of firefighting equipment used throughout the years around the world.
Kids can dress up like firefighters and sit in a real firetruck!
Historical Preservation: The Hall of Flame Museum is dedicated to preserving the rich history of firefighting equipment. It showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, gear, and vehicles used by firefighters globally.
Interactive Experience: One of the highlights for kids is the opportunity to dress up like firefighters. This hands-on experience allows them to get a feel for the gear and uniforms worn by real firefighters. Additionally, sitting in a real firetruck adds an exciting and interactive element to the visit.
Educational Exhibits: The museum likely features educational exhibits that detail the evolution of firefighting technology and techniques. This can be both informative and engaging for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy your visit to the Hall of Flame Fire Museum, and have a fantastic time exploring the world of firefighting history!
Main Event
The Main Event, where the possibilities for fun are as boundless as your imagination. This entertainment haven is designed to cater to everyone in the family, offering a diverse range of activities that guarantee a memorable experience.
Bowling Bonanza: Immerse yourself in the thrill of striking down pins in the state-of-the-art bowling alley. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a first-timer, the lanes at Main Event promise hours of enjoyment.
Laser Tag Adventure: Embark on a laser tag journey that combines strategy and excitement. Navigate through a futuristic battleground, tag opponents, and emerge victorious in this adrenaline-pumping experience.
Gravity-Defying Ropes Course: Elevate your adventure with the gravity-high ropes course. Challenge yourself as you navigate through suspended obstacles, providing a test of balance and courage high above the ground.
Billiards and Shuffleboard Extravaganza: Unleash your competitive spirit with a game of billiards or shuffleboard. These classic games provide a perfect setting for friendly competition and camaraderie.
Interactive Gaming Galore: Dive into a world of over 125 interactive games, ranging from classic favorites to cutting-edge challenges. Main Event ensures there’s something for every gamer, regardless of age.
Culinary Delights: Refuel and recharge at Main Event’s diverse food and beverage options. From savory bites to sweet treats, there’s a menu to satisfy every palate.
Explore Package Deals: Explore package deals that combine multiple activities for a comprehensive Main Event experience. This can often provide cost savings compared to individual bookings.
Special Events and Promotions: Keep an eye out for special events and promotions. Main Event frequently hosts themed nights, discounts, and unique experiences that add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
Main Event is more than an entertainment center; it’s a hub of joy, laughter, and shared experiences. Dive into the myriad of attractions and create lasting memories with family and friends at Main Event!
Tempe offers a diverse range of attractions, ensuring there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
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