8 Top Spring Activities for Kids in Tempe, Arizona

Discover engaging springtime activities for families in Tempe, Arizona. From vibrant gardens and zoos to interactive aquariums and outdoor festivals, these family-friendly options offer fun for all ages. Here's a curated list of top attractions for an unforgettable day out.

1) Desert Botanical Garden: Spring transforms the desert into a colorful wonderland with blooming cacti and wildflowers. Ideal temperatures make it perfect for hiking and strolling through the Desert Botanical Garden. Don't miss the Butterfly Pavilion, featuring seasonal spring exhibits (March through May, included with admission). Families can interact with butterflies while learning about their life cycles and conservation.

2) Arizona Mills: Spend a full day at this premier shopping and entertainment hub. With over 100 brand-name outlets, plus family attractions:

Explore SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, home to 5,000+ sea creatures. Kids enjoy hands-on fun like touching starfish, scavenger hunts, and the 360-degree ocean tunnel—spot sea turtles and stingrays from above.

Adjacent LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers rides, LEGO play zones, and Miniland with Arizona landmarks (best for ages 3-10).

Tip: Save with combo tickets for SEA LIFE and LEGOLAND.

Also visit Tilt Studio for arcade classics, pinball, VR adventures, and dining at BYO Craft Kitchen & Bar or Taproom at Tilt Studio.

3) Singh Meadows: At 1490 E. Weber Dr., this 72-acre organic haven opens Fridays-Sundays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy pastries, local coffee, picnics on lush lawns, and outdoor games on the former golf course.

4) Childsplay: Enjoy professional theater for young audiences at Herberger Theater in downtown Phoenix (weekend afternoons). Productions captivate kids and adults alike. Visit childsplayaz.org for current shows and schedules.

5) Phoenix Zoo: Voted among the top U.S. zoos for kids, featuring interactive spots like Monkey Village, Stingray Bay, and Harmony Farm. Daily highlights include Giraffe Encounters, camel rides, and 4-D Theater shows. Open daily; seasonal hours: Jan 14-May 31 & Sep 1-Oct 31: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Jun 1-Aug 31: 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Nov 1-Jan 13: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

6) Boat Rides on the Water: Paddle Tempe Town Lake (Tempe Boat Rentals: electric boats, kayaks, pedal boats, SUPs) or Kiwanis Lake (Boat Rentals of America: kayaks, pedal boats, Surrey bikes for 3-8 people).

7) Spring Events & Festivals: Arizona's spring buzzes with family festivals. Check tempeaz.com/events for the latest in Tempe and Phoenix.

8) Cactus League Spring Training: Annually February-March, Tempe hosts the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Catch games against Cactus League rivals. Free parking and trolley from Tempe Marketplace to Sloan Park (Chicago Cubs).