Kids are always looking for a way to channel their restless energy. Whether it means cruising down a slide, running in a field or hanging from monkey bars, parents and children are in luck—Phoenix is home to many fun outdoor spaces where playgrounds are nestled next to hiking trails, splash pads and more. Gather your kids and try to visit all of the best playgrounds in Phoenix and the Valley!
Aviano Community Park
Where: 3975 E Lockwood Dr, Phoenix, AZ
Looking for unique playground equipment? Aviano Park features a zip line, a chance to ride on life-size dinosaurs and a rocking boat. There’s plenty of space for young kids to play soccer or run around on several acres of grass. Bike riding is also an option on the circular path around the playground.
Insider tip: An unexpected (good) surprise here—clean bathrooms!
Buffalo Ridge Park
Where: 19250 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ
For kids and parents who want to take refuge from the sun, there’s a covered playground for children to enjoy, even in the heat. There is also a gazebo on the property for a fun lunch experience. Near the playground, watch the frisbee golf enthusiasts exercise their skills; children will definitely be entertained.
Insider tip: Hiking and mountain bike trails are readily available for the adventurous.
Cholla Cove Park
Where: 4121 E Lupine Ave, Phoenix, AZ
This small park offers amenities of a bigger space, but without the crowds and noise. Parents of younger kids can relax since the smaller playground equipment allows for ample exploration without sacrificing safety. Soccer, basketball and volleyball are encouraged for older kids!
Insider tip: Have your kids use the restroom before heading to the park. There are no public facilities available on the grounds.
Desert Horizon Park
Where: 16002 N 56th St, Phoenix, AZ
With several trees available to climb, there is chance for children to experience old-fashioned fun with nature. A tire swing is a part of the playground and adults might be tempted to relive their childhood, too. An added bonus—separate playground areas for older kids and younger children.
Insider tip: Adults and children can take advantage of the one-mile fitness trail with exercise equipment.
Kiwanis Park
Where: 6111 S. All-America Way, Tempe, AZ
In addition to playground equipment, kids will love to walk the paved paths, fish in the lake and try their hand at the batting cages. There is something for every personality at this park—outdoor games, tennis courts and soccer. In the summertime, the park shows free movies in the evening.
Insider tip: Rent a paddleboat and cruise on the lake for something different.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Where: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Not only is there an expansive playground, this park also offers a one-mile train ride around the grounds. If this isn’t enough to keep the attention of your children, hop on board the carousel; kids under three are free. An onsite train museum will captivate children who love everything related to railroads.
Insider tip: Hungry? Try the onsite concessions, including ice cream for the hottest days.
Where: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ
Spectacular views and nature trails accentuate the playground at this park. There is a fishing lake, as well as a chance to visit the nearby Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden. The Hole in the Rock climbing trail is best saved for older kids and more advanced hikers.
Insider tip: If you pay close attention, you will see turtles sunning on the rocks.
Where: 2100 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Mesa, AZ
Since this is a newer park, there are special features here that kids won’t find in a traditional playground setting. Try either the 50-foot-tall Genesis climbing tower or the 60-foot-long caterpillar mesh climbing structure. Cool off in the splash pad, open seven days a week, or just hit up one of the play structures built for two age groups: 2 to 5 and 6 to 12!
Insider tip: Don’t forget your bathing suits because kids won’t be able to resist the splash pad.
Roadrunner Park
Where: 3502 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ
Ample parking is major plus for this park. Once the kids hit the playground, they will love the colorful structures, climbing walls, and something you don’t see everyday at the playground—a duck pond! Bring your stale bread and let the kids try feeding them.
Insider tip: On Saturdays, cap off park time with a visit to the farmer’s market.
Sereno Park
Where: 5720 E Sweetwater Ave, Scottsdale, AZ
There is a great variety of playground equipment at Sereno Park, plus walking trails and an opportunity to enjoy lunch at a picnic table or in the green grass. Even in the summertime, there is a plenty of shade to help children stay cool.
Insider tip: There is a public and free corral to watch riders at work with their horses.
Where: 745 E Germann Rd, Chandler, AZ
This Chandler playground has a few different themed play areas, Farm Land, City Land and Critter Land, that allow kiddos to have hours of imaginative play. The Farm Land playscape is almost entirely under cover—so you can visit on even the sunniest days. You’ll find all your standard play equipment for sliding, climbing and swinging, plus a giant gila monster to climb on, “city” streets to bike down and dino bones to dig up.
Insider tip: Stick around for movies in the park in spring!
Where: 2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ
We’d be remiss to skip out on Encanto Park, which is consistently recognized as one of the best city parks in the nation. With 222 acres to explore, it’s an ideal escape from busy city (or just mom) life. The lagoon offers fishing, canoes and paddleboat rentals, plus there are plenty of spots for picnics and cookouts, sports facilities, a playground and a swimming pool.
Insider tip: Be prepared to shell out for a few rides at Enchanted Island—the on-site amusement park with a train, carousel and mini roller coaster.
