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22 Fun Things to Do With Your Kids at Night in Phoenix
- Hike with your kids at Papago Park.
- Unwind with your kids at The Duce.
- Enjoy a show at the Arizona Financial Theatre.
- Study the night sky at the Gilbert Riparian Observatory.
- Watch baseball games at Chase Field.
- Watch a basketball game at the Footprint Center.
- Listen to live music at the Van Buren.
- Watch ice hockey at the Desert Diamond Arena.
- Catch the Arizona Cardinals in action at the State Farm Stadium.
- Have fun at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
- Let loose at the Castles N’ Coasters Amusement Park.
- Be one with nature at the Desert Botanical Garden.
- Enrich your kids’ creative minds at Roosevelt Row.
- Visit the Phoenix Zoo.
- Play Glow Putt Mini Golf with your kids.
- Watch a show at Davis Circus of Illusion.
- Enjoy a family game night at Bam Kazam.
- Marvel at the Phoenix Zoolights attraction.
- Get your kids bouncing at the Stratosphere Adventure Park.
- Watch a movie with your kids at the West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In.
- Play with your kids at the Imagine 3D Mini Golf.
- Watch a play with your family at the ASU Gammage Auditorium.
Phoenix comes alive after dark, and you can enjoy nights in this city even more with your kids and family. It offers adventures to spark every kid’s imagination, from stargazing to rollercoasters and theaters.
If you’re looking for ways to make memories with your kids past 6 PM, keep reading, as we’ll show you the 22 coolest things to do with your kids in Phoenix after dark.
1. Hike with your kids at Papago Park.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park
Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 602-495-5458
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Papago Park is a 1,500-acre park where you’ll find the famed “Hole In The Rock” formation that perfectly frames the city. So, if you hike this park with your kids at night, it’s a perfect photo opportunity with panoramic views of the city lights.
There’s also a lighted 18-hole golf course and trails that are lit until 11 pm. One must-see attraction is the iconic “Hunt’s Tomb” pyramid, illuminated after dark at Papago Park.
| Pro tip: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a delicious meal under the stars with your kids. You can spread a blanket near one of the lagoons or find a picnic table near the trails. |
2. Unwind with your kids at The Duce.
Website: https://www.theducephx.com/
Address: 525 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-866-3823
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Friday – 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Duce is a retro-chic warehouse with an art deco bar and a vibrant restaurant serving a range of American favorites and comfort foods. It’s a 16,000-square-foot venue with patios and event spaces to entertain kids all night.
The Duce hosts family-friendly events like movie nights, game nights, and live music performances by kid-friendly artists. There’s also a large patio with plenty of space for kids to run around and burn off energy and a boxing ring for games or photo ops.
| Pro tip: Check the event calendar and see if family-friendly events happen during your visit. You can also pack some games or coloring books to keep your kids entertained. |
3. Enjoy a show at the Arizona Financial Theatre.
Website: https://premium.livenation.com/venue/arizona-financial-theatre
Address: 400 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602-379-2857
Operating hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
The Arizona Financial Theatre is a 5,000-seater performance venue that hosts Broadway spectacles, family-friendly shows, musicals, comedies, and children’s theater. It’s a great bonding experience, as kids will enjoy seeing stories come to life on stage.
It’s also an excellent way for your kids to learn about different cultures, historical periods, or social issues in live performances. A trip to the theater offers a welcome escape from TVs and tablets, allowing kids to engage with a story more effectively.
| Pro tip: The Arizona Financial Theatre has limited parking, so consider using public transportation or a rideshare service. You can also talk to your kids about theater etiquette beforehand to show respect to the performers and audience members. |
4. Study the night sky at the Gilbert Riparian Observatory.
Website: http://www.grcoonline.org/
Address: 2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Friday to Saturday – 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
The Gilbert Riparian Observatory is on a hill in the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. Here, you and your kids can enjoy viewings of the moon, comets, meteors, planets, and stars and make the most of the beautifully clear Arizona sky.
This observatory boasts top-notch telescopes and volunteers who can guide you through the constellations and planets. They also host astronomy-themed events and talks, allowing your kids to ask questions and listen to discussions.
| Pro tip: Plan your visit around a new moon phase because this minimizes light pollution and allows you to see the stars and planets. Make sure to dress warmly in layers, as desert nights can get chilly, and bring insect repellent. |
5. Watch baseball games at Chase Field.
Website: https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark
Address: 01 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-462-4600
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Chase Field is a 48,500-seater outdoor stadium with a retractable roof and is the home stadium of Major League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks. You can watch one of their baseball games at Chase Field with your kids for a sports-themed night.
Chase Field also offers family-friendly amenities like play areas, kid-sized concession stands, and family restrooms. They also have a diverse selection of food vendors, from local favorites to international cuisine, where kids can enjoy a food trip.
| Pro tip: Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially if you’re bringing a large group or want to sit in a specific section. Baseball games can be long, especially for kids, so plan bathroom breaks, concession runs, and walks around the Chase Field. |
6. Watch a basketball game at the Footprint Center.
Website: https://www.footprintcenter.com/
Address: 201 E. Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-379-2000
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Footprint Center (footprint center) is a 17,000-seat arena and the National Basketball Association’s Phoenix Suns headquarters. Families must try watching a basketball game here, as kids will love the cheering crowds, loud music, and fast-paced action on the court.
The Footprint Center also offers pre-game and in-game activities for kids, like face painting, basketball clinics, mascot appearances, and interactive games on the jumbotron. These activities help keep kids engaged and excited before the game.
| Pro tip: Watch out for Footprint Center’s family-friendly events like pre-game story times and themed nights. You can bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones for kids, snacks, and drinks to tide them over between breaks. |
7. Listen to live music at the Van Buren.
Website: http://www.thevanburenphx.com/
Address: 401 W Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Operating hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
The Van Buren is a live music venue that regularly hosts concerts and other musical performances. They offer early shows or specific family nights with age-appropriate music and activities.
Introducing kids to live music’s joy can enrich and create lasting memories. They also have kid-friendly food options and non-alcoholic beverages to complete your family night out.
| Pro tip: Check the show schedule and artist information to ensure the music is appropriate for kids. Talk to your kids beforehand about what to expect at a live music venue and explain proper etiquette, like not running around or shouting during the performance. |
8. Watch ice hockey at the Desert Diamond Arena.
Website: https://www.desertdiamondarena.com/
Address: 9400 W Maryland Ave, Glendale, AZ 85305
The Desert Diamond Arena is the home to the Arizona Coyotes of the National Hockey League. It’s a 19,000-seater indoor arena that allows you and your kids to enjoy an ice hockey match in the middle of the Arizona desert.
It’s a modern arena with comfortable seating and good sightlines. It’s a great way to get kids active and engaged since they will be standing up and cheering, and they may even want to try playing hockey themselves after they see the game.
| Pro tip: Dress warmly because it can get cold in the arena. Bring snacks and drinks, as food can be expensive at the stadium. |
9. Catch the Arizona Cardinals in action at the State Farm Stadium.
Website: https://www.statefarmstadium.com/
Address: 1 Cardinals Dr, Glendale, AZ 85305
Contact details: 602-379-0102
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The State Farm Stadium is an outdoor stadium that seats over 72,000 people and is home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals. Apart from watching a football game, you and your family can arrive early and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the tailgating scene.
You can let the kids play catch, frisbee, or cornhole while you savor some delicious grilled food and soak up the pre-game buzz. You can also explore the Cardinals team shop, visit the Cardinals Nest interactive exhibit, or stroll around the Great Lawn.
| Pro tip: Visit the Cardinals Kids Club Zone, which offers interactive games, inflatables, and face-painting activities. You can also consider requesting a “lap pass” for your kids, which allows children under 24 months to sit on your lap for free. |
10. Have fun at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
Website: https://azstatefair.com/
Address: 1826 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Contact details: 602-252-6771
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
The Arizona State Fairgrounds has become a Phoenix institution that hosts festivals, concerts, and other family-friendly events that offer exciting activities and entertainment under the stars.
Their playground even features a shaded playground with climbing structures, swings, and slides, perfect for a kids’ night out. You can also pack a picnic basket, enjoy a family dinner under the twinkling city lights, and gaze at the stars.
| Pro tip: If no specific events are happening, plan some activities to keep the kids entertained, like frisbees, balls, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, or even a portable movie projector for an outdoor movie night. |
11. Let loose at the Castles N’ Coasters Amusement Park.
Website: https://www.castlesncoasters.com/
Address: 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85021
Contact details: 602-944-4444
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Castles N’ Coasters is an amusement park with Wild West and ancient Middle Eastern themes. It covers 10 acres of attractions, including two rollercoasters, bumper boats, go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade for a fun night with the whole family.
Kids will love the classic carousel, bumper boats, Flying Bugs, the Desert Storm roller coaster, or the Free Fall. There’s also an arcade with traditional games and a miniature golf course for friendly family competition.
| Pro tip: If you plan on riding multiple rides, a wristband can be a cost-effective option compared to buying individual tickets. Take advantage of the shows and entertainment, from live music to character meet-and-greets. |
12. Be one with nature at the Desert Botanical Garden.
Website: https://dbg.org/
Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 480-941-1225
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The Desert Botanical Garden houses an incredible collection of over 50,000 plants, including over 4,000 species. It offers tours, lectures, and workshops that give you and your kids a first-hand view of the plant life in this climate.
Visiting the garden at night will give you a different perspective on the desert landscape as the glowing lights illuminate cacti and sculptures. At the same time, some plants even release their fragrant scents at night, adding to the sensory experience.
| Pro tip: While some areas might be illuminated, having your flashlight allows kids to explore hidden corners and discover nocturnal creatures. Dress comfortably and choose comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the desert climate, even in the evenings. |
13. Enrich your kids’ creative minds at Roosevelt Row.
Website: https://rooseveltrow.org/
Address: 7th Street and 8th Street between McDowell Road and Osborn Road, Downtown Phoenix
Contact details: 602-829-5659
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Roosevelt Row is an arts district known for its vibrant collection of street art and independent studios and galleries. The large monthly art walk in the country called “First Fridays” is held here every first Friday.
Family-friendly activities: Some galleries and studios host special events or workshops for children, like art workshops or storytime sessions. Immersing kids in the artistic energy of Roosevelt Row can spark their imagination and appreciation for art.
| Pro tip: Check calendars for events for families or kids, like art workshops or children’s theater performances, to plan your trip according to their interests. You can also talk to your kids beforehand about what to expect, including the loud crowds. |
14. Visit the Phoenix Zoo.
Website: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 602-286-3833
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
As the sun sets, the Phoenix Zoo transforms into a magical world illuminated by soft lighting and the sounds of nocturnal creatures. Visiting the zoo at night will allow one to witness rare animal behaviors not typically observed during the day.
A must-visit part of the zoo is the Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs, where animatronic dinosaurs come alive after dark with glowing prehistoric creatures, interactive exhibits, and a light show. There’s also a game complex for bowling and laser tag for kids.
| Pro tip: Dining options inside the zoo stay open until 4:30 PM, so eat dinner before attending night events. Remember to dress for the Phoenix weather and wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. |
15. Play Glow Putt Mini Golf with your kids.
Website: https://glowputtaz.com/
Address: 9160 E Shea Blvd #110, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Contact details: 480-451-4569
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Glow Putt Mini Golf is an indoor 18-hole course, glow-in-the-dark jungle paradise for kids. They’ll enjoy vibrant murals, waterfalls, and mysterious caves illuminated by black lights here.
Each hole is unique, with obstacles, ramps, and interactive elements as if they’re playing a real-life video game. The golf course also offers a family-friendly atmosphere with upbeat music, friendly staff, and comfortable seating.
| Pro tip: Wear light-colored clothing to reflect the black lights and add to the glowing ambiance. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes to enjoy all the activities inside the golf course. |
16. Watch a show at Davis Circus of Illusion.
Website: www.davismagic.com
Address: Cattle Track Arts Compound, 6150 E. Indian School Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact details: 480-945-7112
Operating hours: 7:30 onwards
Shows at Davis Circus of Illusion offer acrobatics, dance, and comedy, creating a visually stunning and entertaining spectacle for all ages. Kids will be amazed by the disappearing acts, levitations, and mind-boggling tricks.
It’s an interactive show that usually invites volunteers on stage to participate in illusions that add excitement and keep the kids engaged. The venue is also intimate and cozy for families, with concession stands with snacks and drinks.
| Pro tip: Arrive early because there’s often a pre-show meet-and-greet with the performers. The theater is air-conditioned, but it can get warm during the show, so dress your kids in something comfortable and breathable. |
17. Enjoy a family game night at Bam Kazam.
Website: https://bamkazam.com/
Address: 8999 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Contact details: 480-378-3640
Operating hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Bam Kazam is an awesome place to hang out with kids at night because it’s an immersive entertainment venue that blends physical challenges, mental puzzles, and escape room elements into an interactive adventure.
There’s something for everyone in the family, from climbing walls and navigating laser mazes to solving puzzles and working together as a team. Bam Kazam also gets kids moving and their minds buzzing with mental puzzles or classic arcade games.
| Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, so you won’t want to wait in line with your kids. |
18. Marvel at the Phoenix Zoolights attraction.
Website: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights/
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 602-286-3800
Operating hours: 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Phoenix Zoolights offers dazzling displays like twinkling animal lanterns, illuminated trails, and vibrant light sculptures, transforming the zoo into a magical wonderland. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful creations and the festive atmosphere.
They feature interactive elements like light puzzles, musical playgrounds, or even animal encounters with a nocturnal twist. While enjoying the lights, children can learn fun facts about nocturnal animals and their adaptations.
| Pro tip: Pace yourselves, and don’t try to see everything in one go by planning for breaks, bathroom trips, and moments to sit and soak in the atmosphere simply. Bring comfy shoes and pack snacks and drinks to minimize meltdowns. |
19. Get your kids bouncing at the Stratosphere Adventure Park.
Website: https://www.stratosphereadventurepark.com/
Address: 5665 W Bell Rd, Glendale, AZ 85308
Contact details: 602-767-4737
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The Stratosphere Adventure Park transforms into a glowing wonderland at night with blacklight trampolines, neon lights, and glow-in-the-dark dodgeball. The park also has a ninja warrior course, a jousting arena, and launch slides for your kids to enjoy.
It’s best to go to the park at night as the twinkling lights and vibrant atmosphere create a unique and energetic vibe, adding to the excitement of the activities. After jumping and bouncing, families can refuel at the park’s on-site kitchen.
| Pro tip: Fuel up for fun and have a hearty meal beforehand, as the activities can be pretty energetic. You should also dress in comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes to enjoy all the park’s attractions. |
20. Watch a movie with your kids at the West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In.
Website: https://www.westwinddi.com/locations/glendale
Address: 5650 N 55th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Contact details: 623-939-9715
Operating hours: 5:30 PM to 12:00 AM
The West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In offers a unique and nostalgic experience where you and your family can enjoy a movie under the stars. It’s also an affordable family activity since tickets are priced per car, so you can bring the whole family for one price.
Before the movie starts, kids can run around the open space and tire them out before bedtime. Don’t forget to visit the concession stands with all the classic movie snacks, like popcorn, candy, and hot dogs, which are fun treats for kids.
| Pro tip: Arrive early to get a good spot in the front of the lot if you want a good screen view. You can also bring blankets or pillows for the kids so they don’t get cold while watching a movie. |
21. Play with your kids at the Imagine 3D Mini Golf.
Website: https://imagine3dminigolf.com/
Address: 8777 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Contact details: 480-945-4653
Operating hours:
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Monday to Thursday – 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday – 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Imagine 3D Mini Golf is an indoor and air-conditioned blacklight course. Here, you and your kids will have to wear 3D glasses, adding excitement and novelty that regular mini golf doesn’t have.
The 18-hole course at Imagine 3D Mini Golf is designed to be fun and challenging, with obstacles, ramps, and even water features to entertain everyone. It’s an excellent opportunity for family bonding as you compete for the highest score.
| Pro tip: Consider purchasing a combo package that includes mini golf, arcade games, and other activities. Remember to wear your 3D glasses for the entire gaming experience at Imagine 3D Mini Golf. |
22. Watch a play with your family at the ASU Gammage Auditorium.
Website: https://www.asugammage.com/
Address: 1200 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Contact details: 480-965-3434
Operating hours: Box Office – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The ASU Gammage Auditorium hosts family-friendly musicals, plays, concerts, and dance recitals. After dusk, the Gammage complex comes alive with twinkling fairy lights and illuminated pathways guiding you toward the auditorium.
There are interactive activities or booths outside the auditorium before the show, allowing kids to burn off some energy and make new friends. Many shows also offer post-performance discussions, sparking learning within children.
| Pro tip: If you’re bringing young children, be prepared to take breaks during the show. There’s a lovely outdoor plaza where you can walk or let the kids run around and make friends. |
