Things To Do In Tempe Arizona With Kids
Vegan Family
We live in the Phoenix area.
Tempe has a special place in our hearts.
We actually had our baby in Tempe, so every time we drive into town it feels a little bit like coming home.
If you are looking for things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids and you do not want to be overwhelmed, this post is for you.
We are a vegan family with three little ones, and we are very much in the “fun and simple” season of life.
We love trips that feel easy.
We love free parks, short indoor outings, good naps, and food we can actually eat as vegans.
This guide is our real-life vegan family guide to Tempe.
These are places we actually go with a 1, 3 and 5 y/o.
My hope is that you walk away with a few solid ideas, not a mile-long to-do list.
Why Our Vegan Family Loves Tempe With Kids
Tempe is technically its own little city in the Phoenix metro, but it has a very cozy, college-town feel.
There is always something happening, but it does not feel as overwhelming as a huge downtown.
We love that Tempe has lots of parks, a sweet little downtown with a lake, kid-friendly indoor options, and more and more vegan and vegan-friendly spots popping up.
It is close enough for us to do a day trip or a quick staycation, and because we had a baby here, it will always feel special to us.
Getting To Tempe Arizona With Kids
Flights, Rental Cars, And Getting Around
If you are flying in, you will most likely arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor or Phoenix–Mesa Gateway.
From either airport, Tempe is an easy drive with kids and luggage.
Because we live in the Phoenix area, we usually just drive in from home.
We load up snacks, water, and the kids’ favorite toys, and we are there before anyone has time to ask “Are we there yet” too many times.
If you are flying from out of state, you will probably grab your rental car at the airport and then head straight into Tempe or to your hotel.
With car seats, strollers, and snacks, we do recommend renting a car.
It makes it much easier to bounce between your hotel, Arizona Mills, Kiwanis Park, downtown Tempe, the library, and your favorite vegan restaurants.
Once you are in Tempe, you can absolutely mix in the light rail, Tempe Streetcar, or buses if that sounds fun.
But everything in this guide is written assuming you have a rental car and want short, simple drives.
Tempe makes a great base if you are looking for things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids that are all within a quick drive and not an all-day road trip.
Free Things To Do In Tempe With Kids
By A Local Vegan Family
We are big fans of starting with all the free and low-cost options.
It takes the pressure off and lets the kids just enjoy being kids.
Kiwanis Park
One Of The Best Free Things To Do In Tempe AZ With Kids
Kiwanis Park is one of our go-to spots.
It is a large community park in South
Tempe with a lake, open space, and multiple playgrounds.
There is a big playground area our kids love.
You will find tall slides, climbing structures, and lots of places for them to explore.
There is also a much smaller playground area that feels more like a baby and tiny toddler zone.
If your older kids are bored, you probably landed at that one first.
The big playground is a sand park, so there will be sand in their shoes, socks, hair, and probably diapers if you have littles.
We almost always bring closed-toe shoes, wipes, and a change of clothes.
Parking at Kiwanis Park is free, but right near the main playground it can feel tight because it is such a popular park.
There are ramadas and some shade structures, but not a ton of seating right on top of the playground.
We like to bring a blanket and make a little picnic base on the grass.
Kiwanis also has a lake, walking and biking paths, an indoor recreation center with a wave pool and water features, and a big seasonal splash pad called The Cloud.
If you only have time for one free park, Kiwanis is easily one of the top things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids in fall, winter, and spring.
Tip: Check the City of Tempe website for Kiwanis Park and the Kiwanis Recreation Center for up-to-date info on splash pad hours, pool schedules, and any special family events.
Tempe Public Library And Tempe History Museum With Kids Free And Easy
When we need a slower day, we head to the Tempe Public Library area.
The children’s section at Tempe Public Library has lots of books, cozy spots to sit, and regular kids’ programs and storytimes.
They run things like baby and toddler storytimes, preschool storytime with books, songs, and fingerplays, and STEM or maker-style programs for bigger kids at different times of the week.
Tip: The library is open on weekends too, which is perfect if you are traveling over a Saturday or Sunday.
Weekend hours can be a little different, so check the library website before you go so you do not show up right at closing.
You can browse the Youth and Teens page and the events calendar to see what is happening while you are in town.
Right next door is Tempe History Museum.
It is free and has exhibits plus a kid-friendly area where little ones can touch, play, and learn about Tempe’s story.
Parking is free in the shared lot.
We love this combo because it feels like a “big day” to kids and a “low-energy” day to parents.
Our usual flow looks like this.
Library first.
Museum second.
Snack in the car.
Hotel naps afterward.
Tempe Town Lake And Tempe Beach Park With Kids
If you want a simple walk with pretty views, head to Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park.
There are stroller-friendly paths, green space to run, and lots to look at.
Boats on the water.
Birds and ducks.
Bridges, light rail, and the Tempe Streetcar rolling by.
We like this best in late afternoon or early evening, especially in fall and winter when the weather is cooler.
It is an easy way to stretch everyone’s legs without a complicated plan.
Tip: Check the Tempe tourism site for any special events at Tempe Town Lake or Tempe Beach Park while you are visiting, like festivals, fun runs, or family-friendly concerts.
Petersen Park
Farm-Themed Play For Younger Kids
Petersen Park is a smaller, very kid-focused park with a cute farm theme.
It was remodeled recently, and it feels fresh and modern, and is designed mostly for kids 10 and under.
The ground is more of a rubber surface instead of sand, which is a nice change if you are not in the mood to shake out shoes again.
We like Petersen when we want something more contained and simple think quick park stop, not an all-day hangout.
Tip: Check the park details on the City of Tempe site so you can see photos, amenities, and any notes about restrooms or shade before you go.
Esquer Park And Estrada Park
Splash And Play
If your kids love water play, Esquer Park and Estrada Park are worth adding to your list.
Esquer Park has a splash pad in warmer months, a playground, courts and game tables, and lots of grass for running.
Estrada Park has a newer playground, fitness-style features, and green space and picnic areas.
They are great options if you are visiting in late spring, summer, or early fall and need a free way to cool off that is not a full water park.
Tip: Look up Esquer Park and Estrada Park on the Tempe Parks page to double-check splash pad season dates and any maintenance closures.
Easy Desert Trails Near Tempe With Kids
If you or your older kids want a tiny taste of the desert, there are a few short, family-friendly trails near Tempe.
We keep these for cooler parts of the day and pair them with lots of water and snacks.
Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
Hole-in-the-Rock is a short, easy little trail in Papago Park.
The hike is very short but takes you up to a natural rock “window” with a fun view of the city and desert.
Kids usually think the rock formation is pretty cool.
We like doing this early in the morning or right before sunset.
You will be done quickly, even with little legs.
“A” Mountain / Hayden Butte
“A” Mountain sits right by downtown Tempe and the big “A” you can see from the freeway.
The trail is short but steeper than Hole-in-the-Rock, and you get city and lake views from the top.
It is a nice option if your kids are a little older or used to walking and you want a quick workout with a payoff.
Double Butte Loop
If you want a little more distance but still something very manageable, Double Butte Loop at Papago Park is a good option.
It is a loop trail that circles the buttes, and the elevation gain is gentle.
This can work well if you have kids who are getting more into hiking or you want a slightly longer walk while still staying close to Tempe.
Legoland Discovery Center Arizona
Indoor Things To Do In Tempe Arizona With Kids
Once you have had your fill of parks and library days, Legoland Discovery Center Arizona at Arizona Mills is a great little indoor activity.
We go here pretty often as members because our kids are Lego-obsessed.
It is not a huge place, but you can absolutely make a fun half-day out of it.
Legoland Discovery Center is inside Arizona Mills Mall, and parking is free, which is always nice with kids.
Our favorite parent tip is to look for the Legoland signs outside the mall and try to park on that side.
It makes life so much easier when you are unloading toddlers, a diaper bag, and maybe a stroller.
Inside you will find one small ride, a little dance floor area, an indoor play and climbing area for younger kids, multiple build-and-play zones, and a 4D movie theater that shows short Lego films.
Our kids could build all day.
The ride can feel a little intense for some littles.
Some of the movies can feel a tiny bit spooky, so we usually sit near the back for an easy exit if anyone gets nervous.
There is a small café inside with kid-friendly food and drinks.
Outside food and drinks are not officially allowed, except for babies and kids with allergies, which is very helpful if you need special snacks.
In terms of size, think compact and kid-dense, not massive theme park.
Most families can ride, play in the build areas, enjoy the indoor play zone, watch one movie, and grab a snack all within about two to three hours.
It is one of our favorite indoor things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids, especially when it is hot or when we want a weather-proof activity.
Tip: Always check the Legoland Discovery Center Arizona site for current hours.
They usually open late morning and close late afternoon or early evening, and there is a last-entry time in the mid-afternoon.
If you arrive too close to closing, they may not let you in, even if it is not technically closing time.
Average Cost
Prices change with promos, but in general online advance tickets are a bit cheaper than walk-up tickets.
Children under age one are typically free with a paying adult.
If you live nearby or plan to visit more than once, annual memberships or combo tickets can be worth it.
We are members, and for us it has definitely paid off over multiple visits.
Where To Stay In Tempe With Kids
Budget-Friendly And Suite Hotels
We like to keep hotel choices simple.
Enough space, reasonable price, and easy access to our main activities.
Some of these are places we have stayed ourselves.
Others are on our list to try next, and we will update this guide as we check them out.
Budget-Friendly Family Hotels In Tempe
Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Tempe is one we have stayed at and really enjoyed as a family.
You get a separate bedroom, a living area, and space to spread out all the kid stuff.
At the time of our weekday stay, they offered cooked-to-order breakfast in the morning and an evening reception with snacks and drinks.
Parking was complimentary during our stay, which helped our budget.
Embassy Suites is close to Arizona Mills and Legoland, Kiwanis Park, and still just a short drive into downtown Tempe.
For us, it is a very easy “home base” for everything in this post.
Tip: Check the hotel site for current parking policies and whether breakfast is still included, since those details can change.
In the same general price range, we also like to search for family-friendly chains near Arizona Mills that offer free breakfast, free parking, and a simple pool area for late-day swims.
Suite-Style Hotels Near Arizona Mills And Kiwanis Park
If you can, suite-style hotels are amazing with kids.
Look for Sonesta-style suites or extended-stay brands with kitchenettes.
We love having a fridge and microwave, a little table for simple meals, and a separate sleep space when possible.
Staying near Arizona Mills makes your Legoland day extremely easy, and you will still be close to Kiwanis Park and South Tempe parks.
More Central Or Downtown Tempe Hotels With Kids
If you want to walk more and drive less, you can look at hotels near Tempe Town Lake, Mill Avenue, or the Tempe Streetcar line.
These put you closer to Tempe Beach Park, “A” Mountain, and downtown shops and coffee spots.
You will have a slightly longer drive to Arizona Mills and Kiwanis, but still a very manageable distance.
Downtown hotels often charge for parking and may have resort-style fees, so we always double-check nightly parking cost, whether breakfast is included, and the total price after all fees.
Parking Notes
Downtown Tempe uses a mix of metered street parking and paid garages, and some places validate for a couple of hours.
Parks like Kiwanis, Tempe Beach Park, Petersen Park, and Esquer or Estrada typically have free lots or neighborhood parking nearby.
Arizona Mills has large, free parking lots around the mall.
Hotels vary a lot.
Some include parking, some charge per night, so it is always something we check before we book.
Vegan Family Guide To Tempe
Kid-Friendly Restaurants And Raw-Leaning Options
As a vegan family, food is always part of the planning for us.
Green New American Vegetarian is a fully vegan comfort food spot.
Think burgers, fries, wings, bowls, and familiar “fast-food” style meals made plant-based.
It is a great spot if you want kid-pleasing, treat-style vegan food after a long park or Legoland day.
Loving Hut (Tempe – Southern) is a vegan restaurant with lots of Asian-inspired dishes.
You will find noodles, rice bowls, and plates that work well for sharing with kids.
Flower Child – Tempe is not fully vegan, but very vegan-friendly.
You can build your own bowls and salads and adjust ingredients to match your preferences, and the bright, casual vibe works well with kids.
There are also spots in the area that focus more on raw vegan and whole-food dishes.
We love seeing these options grow because it makes it easier to stick to how we like to eat while still enjoying all the things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids.
Menus and hours do change, so we always check online before we go.
If you want to zoom out beyond Tempe and see more of the Phoenix food scene, we also have a separate vegan guide to Phoenix by a local on VeganYum23, which you can link to from this post.
Tiny Museum Moment At Phoenix Sky Harbor
Free And Surprisingly Fun
If you are flying through Phoenix Sky Harbor, there is a fun bonus that a lot of people miss.
The airport has a small but mighty art and history program with displays and mini-exhibits throughout the terminals as part of the Phoenix Airport Museum.
If you get there early or have a little time before boarding, you can walk through a section of your terminal, point out art, sculpture, or historical displays to your kids, and let them pick a favorite piece.
It turns “killing time at the airport” into a free mini museum visit.
What To Pack For Tempe Arizona With Kids
By A Vegan Mom Of Three
The Arizona sun is beautiful in every season, but it is still the desert.
Here is a simple packing list we would start with for Tempe.
For All Seasons
Sunscreen.
Hats with brims for everyone.
Sunglasses for adults and any kids who will keep them on.
Reusable water bottles.
A small backpack or crossbody bag for snacks, wipes, and extra clothes.
For Babies And Toddlers
A lightweight stroller you can fold quickly.
A baby carrier if your child likes to be worn.
Travel changing pad.
Extra wipes and a couple of plastic bags for messy clothes.
Fall And Winter
Light jackets or hoodies.
Long-sleeve layers for mornings and evenings.
Closed-toe shoes for parks and short hikes.
Slightly warmer pajamas, because the temperature can drop at night.
Spring
Layers you can add or remove.
Short sleeves for midday.
Something light for early morning and after dark.
Summer
Extra sunscreen and after-sun lotion.
Light, breathable clothing.
Rash guards or sun shirts for splash pads and pools.
Electrolyte packets or salty snacks for older kids.
Park And Legoland Days
Change of clothes for each kid.
Hand wipes and hand sanitizer.
A bag for sandy or wet clothes.
Simple snacks that do not melt too quickly.
This list will carry you through most things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids, across all four seasons.
Simple Tempe Itineraries With Kids
Short Day And Full Day
If you are like us, you probably do not want a hyper-scheduled itinerary.
You just want a rough plan so you are not Googling “things to do in Tempe AZ with kids” in the car while somebody is crying.
Here are two simple, copy-and-paste itineraries you can mix and match depending on where you stay and how much energy your kids have.
Short And Sweet Day In Tempe With Kids
8:00–9:00 a.m.
Breakfast at your hotel.
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and a change of clothes.
9:30–11:30 a.m. — Kiwanis Park
Head to Kiwanis Park and aim for the big main playground.
Let the kids climb, slide, dig in the sand, and run.
11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Picnic Or Quick Lunch
Lay out a blanket at the park and do a simple picnic, or drive back toward your hotel and grab a quick lunch.
1:00–3:00 p.m. — Library And Museum
Drive to Tempe Public Library.
Let the kids explore the children’s area.
Pop into Tempe History Museum next door for a short, free visit.
3:30 p.m. And On — Rest And Dinner
Head back to your hotel for naps, pool time, or quiet play.
Grab an early dinner at a vegan-friendly spot and call it a day.
This gives you one big free park block plus calm indoor time, without feeling like too much.
Fuller Day In Tempe With Kids
Still Not Overwhelming
8:00–9:00 a.m.
Breakfast at your hotel.
Confirm your Legoland time slot if you booked ahead.
9:30–12:00 — Legoland Discovery Center At Arizona Mills
Drive to Arizona Mills and park near the Legoland entrance.
Check in, ride if your kids want to, play at the build stations, explore the indoor play area, and catch one 4D movie.
12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch
Eat at the small café or grab food in the mall.
1:00–3:00 p.m. — Hotel Downtime
Drive back to your hotel.
Naps, quiet play, or a little pool time if everyone still has energy.
3:30–5:00 p.m. — Park Or Lake Walk
If you are staying closer to South Tempe, head to Petersen Park or back to Kiwanis for more playground time.
If you are closer to downtown, do a short walk at Tempe Beach Park and Tempe Town Lake and watch the water and bridges.
5:30–7:00 p.m. — Dinner And Wind-Down
Have dinner at Green, Loving Hut, Flower Child, or another vegan-friendly restaurant.
Go back to the hotel for baths, stories, and bedtime.
On paper it looks full, but everything is close together and broken up with rest time and hotel breaks.
Simple Tempe With Kids Map
How To Embed A Handy Google Map For Your Trip
If you are a visual person (like we are), having all your favorite spots on one map can make planning so much easier.
We like to keep everything for Tempe on one Google map, so we can see what is close together and not zig-zag around town with tired kids.
Little Extra Tip
Check Parks And Rec While You Are Here
On top of everything listed above, Tempe’s Parks and Recreation department runs lots of seasonal programs, youth sports, and family events.
Think things like family movie nights at the park, Kids Swim Free programs at the Kiwanis wave pool, and one-day festivals or PlayDay-style events.
If you are already at a park or planning a visit, it is worth taking a quick peek at the Tempe Parks and Recreation and Tempe Family Fun pages to see if anything special is happening while you are in town.
Final Thoughts
From One Local Vegan Family To Yours
Tempe is one of those places that grows on you the more you visit.
For us, it is where we had our baby, where we go for quick staycations, and where we send friends who ask for easy things to do in Tempe Arizona with kids.
You do not need to do everything.
Pick one or two things per day.
Leave room for naps, snacks, and slow moments.
We will keep adding to this guide as we try new parks, new restaurants, and new indoor spots in Tempe.
So if you come back later and see more ideas, just know we are out here exploring right along with you.
If you use this guide on your trip, I would honestly love to hear what your kids loved most.
Did Kiwanis Park wear them out?
Did they fall in love with Legos?
Did you find a new vegan or raw-leaning spot we should add next time?
Much love and many blessings from our little Phoenix-area crew to yours.
Related Posts You May Also Enjoy
If you enjoyed this Tempe family guide and want more ideas for exploring Arizona with kids or if you’re looking for vegan food spots nearby here are a few posts you may also like.
The Vegan Phoenix Ultimate Guide
Earth Plant Based Cuisine Review
The Nile Café Review (Mesa)
Vegan & Vine Restaurant Review (Scottsdale)
16 Best Vegan Restaurants in Phoenix
