1. Fiesta Bowl Play – Mega Playground at Margaret T. Hance Park
One of Downtown Phoenix’s newest family-friendly additions is Fiesta Bowl Play, a 20,000 square-foot playground at Margaret T. Hance Park. Fiesta Bowl Play features animal-themed play structures, a climbing wall, a splash pad and slides; all of which are sure to keep the kiddos busy for hours.
2. Burton Barr Central Library
The Burton Barr Library is a sight to behold. Don’t just take our word for it—the Phoenix Public Library’s flagship recently received the 2021 Twenty-Five Year Award from the American Institute of Architects. Aside from its good looks, the Burton Barr Library has amazing resources for both children and teenagers. The Children’s Place on the first floor is a 14,000-square-foot storytime space stocked with children’s books and interactive games for parents and kids to enjoy together. Likewise, Teen Central is a community space for young adults 12–18 years old, complete with a hands-on music room, computers with high-speed internet, study areas, an art gallery and plenty of YA books. The best news is the library is open again; just be sure to make a reservation before your visit.
3. Self-guided Art Walk
It doesn’t take long to notice that Downtown Phoenix is a canvas for hundreds of local artists. Why not make a game out of finding some of their work? Take a stroll down Roosevelt Row and you will see a plethora of beautiful murals. And be sure to visit the friendly robot on the corner of First Avenue and Monroe Street or the giant brass panda sculpture at Hance Park.
4. Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market
Many Phoenician families have made it a Saturday morning tradition to visit the Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market—and for good reason. There is an exciting sense of community as you peruse the local business stands surrounded by Phoenix skyscrapers. Grab an iced coffee for you and an Italian soda for the kids at Pour Jo’s truck, snag a couple of sourdough croissants before they’re gone from Proof Bakery, and then browse your neighbors’ handmade goods. Soon enough, the market will be your Saturday morning tradition, too!
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