Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is a testament to the spirit of the Native American tribe who were first dwellers on this land. The Southwestern architecture and Native American influences mixed with modern urban designs give you an interesting city full of diversity. If you visit, make sure to get a taste of history in the various museums.  There are history museums, science museums, art museums, and much more.

Every little boys love fire trucks at one time or another and the Hall of Flame Fire Museum is the perfect place to spend a few hours. This museum is pretty cool with a large display of antique fire trucks and even horse drawn fire carriages. There is a nice kids’ area for play, and a pole to slide down. This museum is decent size and is only $6 admission.

Hall of Flame Fire Museum

The Pioneer Living History Museum is really cool for a slice of historical education and fun. It’s an exact replica of an old 1800’s western town. The buildings are very authentic looking and there is a lot to keep you entertained as well. The smaller kids will enjoy panning for gold and watching the blacksmith work, there is also a good chance you will see a gun fight in the street! There are some mixed reviews online about this attraction, so you may want to read up on some other experiences before visiting.

Normally when you hear “botanical garden” you think of green grasses and colorful flowers. Well not in Arizona. In Arizona you get the Desert Botanical Garden, which is very different and really cool. They often have special exhibits like the Chuhuly Exhibit. In the summer it’s so hot during the day that they offer night flashlight tours. The whole place is awesome, the facilities are clean and there are a lot of cacti. Beautiful place, check it out.

Pioneer Living History Museum

For some breath-taking scenery you might want to pack up the car and head to the Tonto National Forest (tip buy your car pass before you go). As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most visited. It’s absolutely stunning and full of different sceneries. If you have time, check out the drive to Roosevelt Dam, it is a bumpy and rough ride but worth it the trip. On the way stop off at the superstition museum, goldfield mining town and lost Dutchman state park. Pack plenty of snacks, a lunch and bottled water!

For some of the best BBQ you’ll ever have you might want to pop into Little Miss BBQ. It’s beyond finger licking good. The only downside is that if your kids are picky eaters there is no mac-n-cheese. They could use a few kid friendly sides in my opinion, but as long as they’ll eat the meat, you should be fine. Delicious!

Tonto National Forest

We also recommend you check out The Welcome Diner!  This place looks like a hole in the wall . . . . it is anything but.  It’s amazing!!!  Just a warning though, it’s crowded from open to close.  You can find items such as grilled fish, fried chicken, lots of biscuts, burgers, gourmet grilled cheese and more.  It’s all made fresh and the service is phenomenal.  The place is busy and the indoor seating is limited so be prepared to eat outside.  Get ready to check yourself in on facebook because you will want to boast to your friends about this place!

Been to Phoenix?  Tell us about your favorite place to visit!