For kids across the country, summer is prime time for outdoor play. From bike rides to pool parties, ball games to playgrounds, summer means fun in the sun. But in Arizona, triple-digit temperatures and scalding sunlight mean time spent outside can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. So what’s a parent to do when that dreaded phrase—“I’m bored!”—echoes throughout the house?
Luckily, when the mercury rises to an intolerable level, Scottsdale offers plenty of indoor attractions and activities for kids of all ages. Here are some of our favorites.
Arizona Boardwalk
Boys and girls of all age levels, abilities, and interests will find something to do at this one-stop entertainment destination that features nine kid-friendly attractions—OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, Museum of Illusions, Cluville, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Laser + Mirror Maze, UFO Experience, Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs, and Cyber Quest—as well as restaurants and shopping, including a paint-your-own pottery studio. With so much variety, families can spend a couple hours or an entire day with no sunscreen necessary. AZBoardwalk.com
Activate
Arizona’s newest indoor entertainment destination is an immersive gaming experience where puzzle-solving and physical activity collide. The center’s 12 game rooms offer challenges that require players to run, jump, and dance to complete a goal, with each activity emphasizing teamwork and communication. Photos and videos are encouraged—in fact, the touch-activated illuminated floor in the flagship Mega Grid room is already a social media sensation. Activate welcomes children as young as 6, although most games are designed for older teens and adults and may be challenging for children younger than 10. PlayActivate.com/scottsdale-paradise-valley
Ninja Nation Scottsdale
On the popular TV show American Ninja Warrior, contestants tackle some of the most challenging obstacle courses imaginable. At Ninja Nation, kids can play and train like the pros. Led by coaches, they’ll climb walls and ropes, swing from monkey bars and rings, and sprint across floating steps, all while gaining strength and building confidence. Scottsdale.NinjaNation.com
Rachel’s Young at Art Studio
As a child, Rachel Ober loved art classes, and as a preschool teacher, she saw just how powerful a role art can play in the development of young kids. That’s why she opened her own studio where children can express themselves through art. Kids as young as 18 months can discover painting, clay, multimedia, construction-based activities, and more during classes, parties, and day camp. Drop in for a single class or sign up for multiple sessions. RachelsYoungAtArt.com
Pinnacle Dance North
Dancing has been shown to help kids develop poise, strength, flexibility, and confidence. That’s why this youth dance studio offers a range of instruction, from beginning to competition-level classes, for children as young as 3 years old. Private and group instruction is available in ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and tumbling. Mommy and Me classes also are available. PinnacleDanceNorth.com
Slick City Scottsdale
With four centers in Arizona, including its newest location in Scottsdale, Slick City Action Park offers unforgettable action fun for all ages. This indoor dry slide park features 13 dry slides for adrenaline-fueled drops, spirals, and airborne adventures. If that’s not enough, there are three courts for basketball and dodgeball, a swing, a trapeze, and a zipline. There’s even a junior jungle and web crawler play area for kids ages 5 and younger. And sensory hours are available for children with noise and crowd sensitivities. Try a 90-minute play session or purchase a special Summer Access Pass for summer fun through Aug. 15. SlickCity.com
Camp JoJo
JoJo’s ShakeBAR may be known for its innovative eats and creative cocktails, but this summer, diners can enjoy more than unforgettable flavors. Launched in May, Camp JoJo combines good food with fun activities. Every Sunday through Thursday in August, guests can build and paint birdhouses. And in true summer camp style, the restaurant offers a tableside s’mores experience where diners can roast their own marshmallows and create their own sweet treats. JoJosShakeBAR.com
Puttshack
Mini golf gets a high-tech upgrade at this two-story entertainment center. Four 9-hole courses designed for players ages 7 and older offer neon lights, challenging shots, and an upbeat environment. There are no windmills or cartoon characters here. Instead, players can aim for cups or sink a supertube for extra points. And best of all, no pencils or paper are needed. Puttshack’s Trackaball technology automatically keeps score, so the only thing you have to concentrate on is having fun. After 8 p.m., the venue is open to ages 21+ only. Puttshack.com
Medieval Times Scottsdale
This family favorite transports guests back to the 11th century for two hours of medieval-style competition that combines a four-course feast with a live jousting tournament. Guests are encouraged to eat with their hands—what kid doesn’t love that?—while cheering for their chosen knight. Horses, falcons, and a pre-show knighting ceremony are part of the show. Discount tickets are available for children ages 10 and younger. MedievalTimes.com
Arizona’s newest indoor entertainment destination is an immersive gaming experience where puzzle-solving and physical activity collide.
In true summer camp style, the restaurant offers a tableside s’mores experience where diners can roast their own marshmallows and create their own sweet treats.