The following attractions offer activities and services to please the entire household. Here are the best spots for family and kids in the Valley.
Best Kid's Entertainment Outdoors
Wildlife World Zoo
As if native and exotic animals weren’t enough, the Wildlife World Zoo offers wildlife encounters, Australian boat rides and even an African Safari Train as part of its adventure line-up for kiddies. 623.935.9453, www.wildlifeworld.com.
Best Kid’s Entertainment Indoors
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
When kids hear the word museum, they are usually less than thrilled unless it is The Children’s Museum of Phoenix you are talking about. The museum, located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, is a world away from the typical stroll-and-stare museum experience through a collection of engaging, educational and interactive exhibits. 602.253.0501, www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org.
Best Kid-Friendly Hotel
Arizona Grand Resort
Arizona Grand Resort spells out f-u-n with kids’ favorite resort perk, the p-o-o-l. Located within the resort, the Oasis Water Park enthralls by way of an eight-story tower equipped with three slides. A wave pool and lazy river also help kids make a splash. 602.438.9000, www.arizonagrandresort.com.
Best Kid's Restaurant
Joe’s Farm Grill
Joe’s Farm Grill serves up unfussy fare with an emphasis on farm-fresh ingredients to please adult and kid palates alike. After a Fontina Burger and a milkshake, kids can run free under the property’s mesmerizing oak trees. 480.563.4745, www.joesfarmgrill.com.
Best Kid’s Clothing
Little Artika
Located in CityCenter of CityNorth, Little Artika offers furniture, transportation and clothing that’ll make your tot the envy of the sandbox. 480.563.9333, www.littleartika.com.
Best Private School
Notre Dame Preparatory
In addition to a vigorous curriculum and a growing presence in state sports, the Northeast Valley’s Notre Dame Preparatory offers advanced placement, college preparatory and honors programs. 480.634.8200, www.notredamepreparatory.org.
