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Kid-friendly interesting places in Tempe

You are looking for kid-friendly spots that offer something beyond the usual routine.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tempe History Museum image 1
Tempe History Museum image 2
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Local history museum

Small museum with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids, featuring a wide range of topics including local history, culture, and film. Atmosphere is family-friendly and educational, with well-curated displays of artifacts, photos, and historic items. Admission is free, encouraging easy access and casual visits.

Interactive exhibits and a children's play area with hands-on activities keep kids engaged. Arts and crafts, dancing, and a corner with a truck, books, and costumes offer varied ways for kids to explore and learn.

Small exhibits focus on Old West history and local past. Displays stay interesting and suit a multigenerational family.

People are saying

"It's interesting seeing displays of Tempe's Old West history and boomtown era."

"The galleries here always have interesting exhibits, like historic signs."

"It's really kid friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum features interactive exhibits suitable for kids of all ages.

3

The museum hosts special events like lunchtime talks and presentations.

02
Escapology Escape Rooms Tempe image 1

Escape rooms offer immersive themes with high-quality sets and props that create a captivating atmosphere. The environment feels like an adventure park for adults, combining challenging puzzles with engaging lighting and decor. Rooms attract a mix of ages, including options suitable for kids, and maintain a lively, fun energy throughout.

Escape rooms offer kids versions suited for ages 9-12 with puzzles balanced for both adults and children. Staff show kindness and accommodation to younger and older participants, making it a good spot for family bonding.

Escape rooms offer a fun and interesting challenge with the right level of difficulty to keep things engaging. The Mona Lisa puzzle adds a unique twist that makes the experience stand out.

People are saying

"The escape room was super fun and challenging."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

"I found the escape room fun and interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

The escape rooms are suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.

3

Expect to spend about an hour in each escape room experience.

03
Pollack Cinemas image 1
Movie theater

Movie theater with a retro vibe and wild memorabilia collection creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Comfortable, large reclining seats and an arcade add to the experience. Ticket prices remain notably affordable, enhancing accessibility.

Booster seats make it easy to bring kids along. The lobby features Michael Pollack's memorabilia that kids enjoy exploring. Birthday parties here are lively and fun for both parents and children.

Movies include a mix of old, new, and foreign films. The lobby shows interesting film memories and the atmosphere feels friendly and clean.

People are saying

"I thought the movie prices were fantastic and a great value."

"It's so affordable, I can take the whole family for under $10."

"It's an inexpensive theater showing excellent films."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $3.50 for a new movie on a Saturday night.

2

On Thursdays, movies cost $2.95.

3

Pollack Cinemas hosts special events like the ARC Film Festival each year.

04
JELATO 8โˆž image 1
Ice cream shop

Small gelato kiosk with unique handmade flavors and graffiti art on the walls creates a charming, cozy vibe. No indoor seating, but a couple of outdoor tables offer a place to enjoy fresh gelato while music plays softly. The spot feels intimate and vibrant, attracting those seeking something different in a casual setting.

Very kid friendly with staff showing great patience. Kids enjoy the vanilla flavor and often ask for more of the pandan ice cream.

Handmade ice cream features revolving interesting flavors that range from classic to floral options. The gelato stays super fresh with cool, unique tastes.

People are saying

"The gelato here is so creamy, light, and delicious."

"The gelato flavors here are so interesting, especially the floral ones."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, it's the best I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

Bring cash or use Zelle for payment; credit cards are not accepted.

2

There is no indoor seating; limited outdoor seating is available.

3

The owner changes flavors weekly, offering unique options each visit.

05
Climbmax Rock Climbing Gym image 1

Rock climbing gym offers spacious two-floor layout with unique wall shapes and a cave climbing area. Atmosphere feels down-to-earth and social, with relaxed rules and a strong community vibe. Climbers find a mix of top rope and bouldering options suited for all skill levels.

Staff teach kids and adults to climb safely. The gym offers a kid friendly environment with activities suited for young climbers including super climber 11 year olds and younger children.

Great route setting includes interesting features like a cave area and a tunnel. Climbing routes follow tape routes instead of monochrome holds, adding variety.

People are saying

"Climbing here is a ton of fun, with routes for all skill levels."

"It's a really supportive and family-oriented climbing space."

"The climbing routes and features here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Climbmax Rock Climbing Gym has affordable prices and options for all skill levels.

2

The gym hosts regular community nights for climbers to connect.

3

Membership prices are very affordable, making it accessible for many.

06
ASU Art Museum image 1
Art museum

Modern building with unique U-shaped architecture creates an easy flow through exhibits. Quiet and moody vibe invites relaxed exploration, often with interactive art spaces for kids. Free admission and cozy atmosphere make it accessible and welcoming.

A small kid's and art area sits behind the front desk. A maker space connects to exhibit concepts for hands-on learning. A fuzzy experience offers a unique sensory activity for children.

Cool, moody vibe sets the tone with interesting exhibits throughout. The unique building architecture adds to the experience alongside lots of contemporary works.

People are saying

"I was surprised the museum admission was free."

"I found the exhibits and the building architecture really interesting."

"It's a kid-friendly maker space connected to exhibit concepts."

Good to know

1

The ASU Art Museum offers free admission to all visitors.

2

Parking is available in a small, free lot next to the museum.

3

The museum does not validate parking, even if parked in the adjacent garage.

07
Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience - Tempe image 1

Immersive rooms combine vibrant colors, interactive bubbles, and infinite mirrors to create a magical, sensory-rich environment. Visitors experience a mix of peaceful and exhilarating atmospheres with unique activities like bubble pools and ball pits. Spaces feel compact but offer playful energy and memorable photo opportunities throughout.

Kids have a blast with active, hour-long activities that keep them engaged. The space offers an epic sensory experience that supports children with special needs, making it very kid friendly.

Lots of interesting activities for kids like bubbles, balloons, and infinity lights keep things fun and varied. The overall experience feels one of a kind and very cool.

People are saying

"It's a really fun place for kids and adults alike."

"It's a great place for kids and adults with sensory needs."

"I found the activities here really interesting and varied."

Good to know

1

Socks are required for entry, so bring your own.

2

Admission costs $63 for two tickets, which may feel overpriced.

3

There are no bathrooms available on-site, plan accordingly.

08
Changing Hands Bookstore image 1

Bright, cozy bookstore with well-organized shelves and many book nooks invites quiet browsing. Attached cafe adds a homey aroma and space to relax with a drink. Dedicated kids and teen areas create a welcoming environment for families.

A huge kids section offers plenty of toys and books sorted by age groups. A cozy spot lets children sit and read, surrounded by unique kid toys and natural body products.

Walk through aisles filled with interesting books and unique gift items. Staff offer genuine kindness and host engaging events that highlight lesser-known titles.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an excellent selection of books and gifts."

"I found so many unique gifts and cool trinkets here."

"I found interesting gifts and unique items here."

Good to know

1

The bookstore hosts author events regularly, featuring well-known authors.

2

Workshops for kids and adults are offered throughout the year.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during events, especially author signings.

09
Vintage Lasers and Holograms image 1

Museum combines vintage lasers and holography lab in a compact space filled with historical technology. Atmosphere feels like stepping into a sci-fi workshop, with intricate displays and active equipment. Visitors interested in science and engineering find a unique, well-curated collection spanning decades.

Displays of holograms and lasers engage kids with hands-on STEM learning. Exhibits include some extremely old technology that fascinates both children and adults.

Many unique items catch the eye, especially Vintage Lasers and Holograms. The experience feels magical and holds interest even for those outside the industry.

People are saying

"Bob's museum has an amazing collection of laser and holography history."

"Bob's collection of niche technology history is amazing and Kid Friendly."

"The owner's passion for the equipment made the visit really interesting."

Good to know

1

Call ahead before visiting to confirm hours and availability.

2

The museum features unique exhibits on laser and holographic technology.

3

Expect a small but packed experience with multiple rooms of displays.

10
Bouldering Project - Tempe image 1

Huge open space with well-designed bouldering walls offers a variety of climbing styles and challenges. Atmosphere feels welcoming and inclusive, supported by a close community and lively music. Amenities include extensive training areas, yoga studio, and family-friendly zones, making it more than just a climbing gym.

Late hours make it easy for parents with small kids to visit. Staff like Sophie and Megan are attentive and caring, helping toddlers and young children feel safe and included. Bouldering walls have sections for kids with shorter reach, and activities like painting keep kids engaged.

The arts program draws interesting artists regularly. Climbing routes offer diverse challenges with fun moves even on easier problems.

People are saying

"The rock climbing gym staff were awesome and helped the kids with everything."

"The climbing gym's late hours let me fit in climbs after 10 PM."

"It's so Kid Friendly; they assigned two staff members to help with everything!"

Good to know

1

The gym closes at 10pm on weekdays, one hour earlier than before.

2

Guest passes are available, but policies may change frequently.

3

Community events are regularly organized, supporting local businesses.

11
Voodoo Doughnut image 1

Bright pink and black decor fills the space with funky, playful charm and spinning doughnut displays. The atmosphere buzzes with high energy and a quirky, colorful vibe that stands out from typical bakeries. Outdoor seating and a mobile order counter add convenience to the lively setting.

Kids enjoy choosing from the big picture menu and love the donuts. Staff show patience answering their questions and even make custom cakes for donut fans.

A huge variety of interesting donuts stands out here. The maple long john with two balls and nuts all over it catches attention with its unique look and flavor.

People are saying

"These donuts are huge, gourmet, and have funny names."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my kids loved picking donuts from the big picture."

"I found the variety of interesting doughnut flavors really cool."

Good to know

1

Voodoo Doughnut offers a variety of vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for a box of donuts, which may not meet expectations.

3

There is no inside seating available; only a few outdoor tables are provided.

12
Tempe Eats Food Hall & Bar image 1

Food hall with a self-serve beer wall offering 40 taps including margaritas and espresso martinis creates a unique drinking experience. Atmosphere stays fun and relaxing with a mix of R&B, Latin music, and line dancing, suitable for groups or casual nights out. Layout features a full bar in the center and an unconventional design that stands out from typical spots.

Wide variety of food options creates an interesting concept. The beer wall adds a novel touch, and the Fishpop stall offers unique choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the fish and chips."

"The staff's kind and prompt service makes it feel really Kid Friendly."

"I found the concept of so many food options from different menus really interesting."

Good to know

1

Tempe Eats hosts various events like karaoke and salsa nights throughout the week.

2

DJ Corgi's Brunch happens every Sunday, featuring live music and a fun atmosphere.

3

The food hall is suitable for gatherings, accommodating groups of up to 35 people.

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Tempe, Arizona

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