Phoenix Staycation Ideas For Families

Beth Wood said:  Enjoy a fun day at Encanto Park's Enchanted Island Amusement Park. Enjoy a seven-minute tour of the island on the C.P. Huntington Train, scale the Giant Climbing Wall, battle it out at the Castle Clash, get wet at the Splash Zone and more. Amusement rides geared toward children up to 10 years old include bumper boats, kiddie cars, mini-coaster, Red Baron planes, the historic Encanto carousel and more. An onsite Snack Bar offers concessions too.

Cost: FREE admission, Each attraction cost 3-5 tickets. Pricing $1.25 per ticket, $22.50 book 20 tickets, $20.25 all day pass, $46 annual pass

Katie G. said:  Enjoy the beauty of Arizona by horseback on a trail ride through South Mountain Park. Riders can enjoy the beauty and quietness of a scenic stroll on an actual working horse ranch. An experienced guide will lead the way pointing out interesting sights and talking about the history of the park. Choose the best ride that works for your family with rides ranging from one to eight hours. You can also enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on the trail or a sunset ride.

Ages: 2-5 (must ride with an adult), 6+ (ride on their own horse)

Cost: $40 - $150/person

Beth Wood said:  South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. With over 16,000 acres to explore, you can spend the day hiking or biking over 51 miles of trails from 9 different trailheads, climb to Dobbins Lookout where you'll see unbelievable views of the city, take a guided horseback tour, visit the South Mountain Environmental Education Center and much more at this magnificent park.

Cost: Free

Katie G. said:  Learn a little about the history of Arizona and what it was like to live in the Old Wild West during the 1800s at the Pioneer Living History Village & Museum. The 90-acre property consists of authentic and reconstructed buildings, including a blacksmith shop, mercantile, print shop, sheriff's office and more. Costumed characters walk around the village help to portray what it was like to live in the past. There is a snack bar and restrooms available. Be sure to check out the event calendar for special events offered throughout the year.

Cost: $8 - $10 (kids 5 and under are free)

Katie G. said:  Experience some water park fun with the family at Wet 'n' Wild Phoenix. Opened during the summer season, families can have fun sliding down thrilling water slides, relaxing in the lazy river or catching a wave in the wave pool. There are rides and slides for kids and adults of all ages. Grab a bite to eat at the Point Break Cafe and make the day of it.

Cost: $19.99 - $33.99 (season passes available)

Open seasonally May - Sept

Beth Wood said:  Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park houses Arizona's largest collection of endangered and exotic animals on its 15 acres. Over 600 separate species call Wildlife World home. You'll find a safari park, Dragon World, zoo with outdoor animal exhibits, Adventure Land and a four-building aquarium. Enjoy fun rides, a petting zoo, baby animal nursery, daily live shows, dining options, shopping and more at Wildlife World. Summer youth safari day camps are available for children ages 7-12 years old.

Cost: $19 Youth 3-12 years, $39 Adults, FREE 2 and under; Membership $60 Youth, $125 Adult