Arizona, known as the Grand Canyon State, is a dream destination for families seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. From the world-famous Grand Canyon to vibrant cities like Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona offers a mix of outdoor exploration, educational attractions, and family-friendly entertainment. This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling through Arizona with children, from transportation options to top attractions.
Getting Around: Transportation in Arizona
Arizona is a vast state, and transportation plays a key role in making your family trip smooth and enjoyable. Depending on your travel style, budget, and itinerary, several options are available for getting around.
Flying into Arizona
Arizona’s two largest airports, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Tucson International Airport (TUS), are the main entry points for travelers. Phoenix is the better option for those planning to visit the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona, while Tucson serves as a great gateway to Southern Arizona.
Car Rentals and Road Trips
Renting a car is the best way to explore Arizona with kids, as many attractions are spread across the state. SUVs or minivans are ideal for family trips, offering enough space for luggage and gear. Major rental companies operate at both Phoenix and Tucson airports, with one-way rentals available if your trip covers multiple destinations.
Luxury and Executive Transportation
For families looking for a stress-free travel experience, chauffeured executive car services provide a comfortable and efficient way to get around. Many transport companies like Diamond Transportation offer luxury sedans, SUVs, sprinters, and charter buses for larger families, making it easy to explore without the hassle of driving. These services are perfect for airport transfers, day trips to the Grand Canyon, or visiting multiple attractions in one day while relaxing in comfort.
Public Transportation and Shuttles
Public transportation is limited outside of urban areas, but shuttle services operate between major cities and attractions. Arizona Shuttle offers routes between Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff, while the Grand Canyon Railway provides a fun and historic train ride from Williams to the Grand Canyon. In Tucson and Phoenix, local bus and light rail services are available but may not be ideal for tourists covering multiple destinations.
Phoenix with Kids
Phoenix, the state’s capital, is a great starting point for family-friendly adventures. With warm weather and plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, kids of all ages will find something exciting to do.
- Desert Botanical Garden – A perfect introduction to Arizona’s unique desert ecosystem, this garden features easy trails, interactive exhibits, and a butterfly pavilion.
- Phoenix Zoo – One of the country’s top zoos, featuring over 3,000 animals, a splash pad for kids, and an interactive petting zoo.
- Children’s Museum of Phoenix – Hands-on exhibits, a three-story climbing structure, and plenty of space for little ones to explore and learn.
- Musical Instrument Museum – A fascinating collection of instruments from around the world with a kids’ section where they can try playing different instruments.
- Papago Park – Home to hiking trails like Hole-in-the-Rock, a family-friendly climb with stunning views of the city.
Tucson with Kids
Tucson, known for its rich history and natural beauty, is a fantastic destination for families looking to mix adventure with cultural experiences.
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum – A mix of a zoo, botanical garden, and museum showcasing the wildlife and plants of the Sonoran Desert. Kids will love the live animal presentations and aquarium.
- Reid Park Zoo – A smaller, more intimate zoo with engaging animal encounters and an excellent playground.
- Pima Air & Space Museum – One of the largest air and space museums in the country, featuring hundreds of historic aircraft and interactive exhibits.
- Colossal Cave Mountain Park – A unique adventure with guided cave tours, scenic hiking trails, and a cowboy-style playground for kids.
- Old Tucson – A recreated Wild West town offering stunt shows, rides, and historical reenactments.
The Grand Canyon with Kids
No family trip to Arizona is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re hiking, taking in the views, or riding the Grand Canyon Railway, the experience is unforgettable.
- South Rim – The most popular and accessible section of the Grand Canyon. Families can walk along the Rim Trail, visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, and take part in ranger-led programs.
- Grand Canyon Railway – A fun way to reach the canyon from Williams, featuring costumed performers, cowboy music, and a classic train ride.
- Mather Point – One of the best and easiest viewpoints for families, located near the visitor center.
- Desert View Watchtower – A historic tower offering panoramic views and a chance to learn about Native American history.
Other Must-See Family Attractions in Arizona
- Sedona – Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a great stop for hiking, Jeep tours, and exploring kid-friendly vortex sites. The Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village has unique shops and interactive activities for children.
- Bearizona – Located in Williams, this drive-through wildlife park lets kids see bears, wolves, and other animals up close from the comfort of the car.
- Montezuma Castle National Monument – A fascinating, well-preserved cliff dwelling that offers a glimpse into ancient Native American life.
- Kartchner Caverns – A guided cave experience in Southern Arizona showcasing incredible rock formations, stalactites, and underground wonders.
Tips for Traveling in Arizona with Kids
- Stay Hydrated – Arizona’s dry heat can be intense, so carry plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking or visiting outdoor attractions.
- Plan for the Heat – If traveling in summer, visit outdoor attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
- Use Sun Protection – Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must, even in cooler months.
- Book in Advance – Many popular attractions, especially Grand Canyon lodging and train rides, sell out quickly. Booking ahead ensures you get the best spots.
- Pack Layers – While Arizona is known for its heat, desert temperatures drop significantly at night. A light jacket is recommended for early mornings and evenings.
Arizona is one of the best family travel destinations in the U.S., offering a mix of adventure, history, and educational experiences. Whether you start your journey in Phoenix or Tucson, every corner of the state has something unique to offer. With proper planning, a trip to the Grand Canyon State will be an unforgettable experience for you and your children.
