Category: Phoenix

Let’s be honest—Phoenix summers are no joke. The moment you step outside, you can practically feel the heat giving you a big ol’ hug (except it’s more like a sweaty, uncomfortable one). So, what’s a mom to do with three kids who are always bouncing off the walls and complaining about being bored? Simple. Find the best pools in town and turn that heat into a full-on pool party!

First up, we’ve got the JW Marriott Desert Ridge. Now, I know what you’re thinking—“A fancy hotel? Are you sure?” But trust me, this place is a total lifesaver. Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly absolutely love it. There’s this amazing lazy river that the kids will happily float down for hours. And don’t even get me started on the splash pad—Molly practically lives there when we go. The whole family can enjoy the poolside bar while the kiddos splash around. It’s like a vacation without leaving the city, and, let’s be real, we all need a little escape now and then. Plus, the staff is super chill about the kids having fun. No judgment here, just fun in the sun.

But if you’re looking for something a little different, the Arizona Grand Resort has one of the best water parks in the area. I’m talking waterslides, wave pools, and more pool chairs than you can count (hello, space to lounge while the kids go wild). This place is perfect for an all-day adventure, so pack the sunscreen and a couple of snacks, and let them tire themselves out while you finally get a moment of peace… maybe.

And if you’re wanting to escape the crowds (let’s face it, that’s a dream in Phoenix), The Phoenician has this beautiful, more tranquil pool area that’s perfect for when you need a break from the craziness. It’s still kid-friendly, but it’s not as busy as some of the other resort pools. I love that we can let the kids have fun while still soaking in a little bit of relaxation.

So, whether you want to splash around with the little ones or kick back while they’re busy zooming down slides, Phoenix has some awesome pools to cool off in this summer. Trust me, a little water, a little sun, and a lot of fun will make the hottest days a whole lot more bearable!

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Let’s face it—being a mom in Phoenix means finding ways to entertain the kiddos without blowing the budget. Because seriously, who has the energy (or the cash) to keep up with the never-ending “I’m bored!” that comes from the backseat? Lucky for us, Phoenix has tons of free activities that are just as fun as any overpriced amusement park. So, put down your wallet and pick up your sunscreen, because here are some of the best ways to entertain your little ones without spending a dime!

First up, Papago Park. If you haven’t been, what are you waiting for? This park is basically Phoenix’s secret hideaway. I mean, sure, it’s popular, but the space is so big that you can find a quiet spot even on a busy Saturday. My kids love running around, climbing on the rocks, and pretending they’re on an adventure. Bonus: If you’re lucky, the kids will tire themselves out (yes, that does happen) before you do.

Then there’s Encanto Park, which is kind of like the magical unicorn of free fun. It has everything—picnic areas, a lake, a big playground, and room to just let the kids run wild. Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly will tell you they love this park because of all the open space. It’s perfect for a family picnic or just letting the kids burn off some energy.

Another hidden gem is The Heard Museum’s Outdoor Plaza. Now, I’m all about finding cultural activities that won’t cost a cent, and this one fits the bill. You can stroll around, check out the outdoor exhibits, and sometimes even catch a free performance or event. It’s one of those spots where you can feel like you’re doing something educational and fun without the stress of needing a second mortgage.

If you’re up for something a little different, head to South Mountain. There are plenty of trails to explore that are perfect for a casual hike (no need to be a mountain-climber, promise). We’ve spent hours out there just enjoying nature, and I love that it’s not crowded like some of the other spots around town. Plus, you might just see some cool wildlife, which is always a hit with my crew.

Let’s not forget about local splash pads—we’ve spent more time at those than I can count. There are a ton of them scattered around Phoenix, and it’s the ultimate free way to keep the kids cool in the summer. The best part? You don’t have to pack a ton of stuff, just bring the kids and let them go wild.

Phoenix is a goldmine for free things to do, you just have to know where to look. Whether you’re getting the kids out for a run or hoping to sneak in a little peace and quiet (good luck, right?), there’s no shortage of places to explore without spending a penny. And that’s a mom win right there!

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Living in Phoenix, you get used to endless sun and dry weather. But then, out of nowhere, the desert gets moody, and suddenly you’re stuck with a rainy day. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of throwing in a surprise party, but without the cake. As a mom, those rainy days can feel like an unexpected challenge—especially when you’re trying to keep your kids entertained. So, here are some go-to rainy day activities to survive Phoenix’s occasional fits of bad weather.

First off, let me just say that when the rain hits, it’s like every kid in the house suddenly remembers they have an endless supply of energy. I mean, Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly act like they’re all cooped up for days, even if it’s only been a few hours. The first few minutes of rain are kind of fun—everyone’s fascinated by the puddles, the thunder, the smell of wet pavement. But then? Chaos. So, let’s talk about how I try to keep things from totally spiraling.

If you’re like me and your kids are constantly on the go, it can be tough to keep everyone happy when you can’t go outside. But lucky for us, Phoenix is full of places that are perfect for rainy days. Here are a few of my favorites.

The first one on my list? Children’s Museum of Phoenix. I swear, this place is like a kid magnet. It’s indoors, it’s huge, and it’s packed with all sorts of activities that will tire them out—bonus points if you’re looking for somewhere to sit and sip on your coffee while they go wild. Lincoln loves the building area, where he can create everything from houses to castles, and Molly’s all about the art stations. They’ve got everything to keep them busy for hours. Plus, I get to feel like a semi-responsible parent while they burn off all that energy.

Now, if you’re in the mood to stay a little closer to home (because, you know, it’s that rainy), I have a trick up my sleeve. How about a DIY movie marathon? All it takes is a cozy blanket fort, a stash of popcorn, and letting the kids pick a movie or two (or ten). Jenny’s into those Marvel movies (don’t even get me started on how many times she’s watched Spider-Man), while Lincoln and Molly are more into animated adventures. It’s a no-fail recipe for an afternoon of chill, and the best part? It buys me a few moments of peace.

But sometimes, all that screen time isn’t the answer. If you’re looking for a bit of education wrapped in fun, I love visiting The Arizona Science Center. Yes, it’s hands-on, and yes, the kids are all over the place in there, but it’s a great way to let them explore and learn while still keeping them inside. They’ve got everything from space exhibits to robotics, and I’ve caught myself (on more than one occasion) getting lost in the exhibits alongside my kids. That’s the beauty of these places—they’re not just for them, but for us moms, too.

And then there’s the classic, indoor bowling. Look, you don’t need a whole lot of fancy plans for this one. Just grab your shoes, roll a few balls down the lane (and by that, I mean pray the ball doesn’t veer off course), and let the kids have some fun. Even if you’re not a bowling champion, it’s one of those low-key activities that gets the kids moving and laughing. Jenny usually has her competitive side on display, Lincoln’s just trying to avoid rolling the ball into the gutter, and Molly’s all about cheering them on like she’s their personal hype woman.

At the end of the day, rainy days in Phoenix might seem like a wild ride (especially when your kids think it’s Christmas because of the weather), but they don’t have to be a nightmare. With a little creativity, some indoor adventures, and the occasional cozy time on the couch, you’ll find that a rainy day is just another opportunity to make some fun memories with your kids—without having to fight the sun for space.

So, the next time the desert decides to show a little moodiness, just remember that a little rain doesn’t mean you’re stuck at home, twiddling your thumbs. It means it’s time to get creative, let your kids burn off that endless energy, and, who knows, maybe even enjoy a little downtime for yourself while you’re at it.

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Ah, Christmas in Phoenix—where the weather’s warm, but the holiday spirit is on fire (okay, not literally, thank goodness). If you’re anything like me, you want to soak up all the Christmas magic without freezing your butt off. We’re lucky here in Phoenix because, even though we don’t get snow (I know, gasp), we have tons of places that really get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking to do a little shopping, see some lights, or just enjoy a cozy holiday moment with the kids, I’ve got the best spots for you to check out in this sunny desert city.

First up, let’s talk about ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo. My kids—Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly—have been begging to go ever since the lights first went up. I get it! Who wouldn’t want to stroll through a zoo lit up with millions of twinkling lights while sipping hot chocolate? It’s like Christmas and a safari rolled into one magical evening. The animals might be napping, but the lights more than make up for it. Plus, there’s something so festive about walking through the zoo with Christmas music in the air. Definitely a must-do!

Then, there’s Glendale Glitters. It’s like walking through a Christmas card, with more than a million lights lining the historic streets of downtown Glendale. It’s a tradition for us, and every year, the kids beg to go see the lights (and let’s be real—they might also ask for ice cream afterward). We take a little stroll, maybe pop into a shop or two, and just enjoy the glittery goodness. And the best part? It’s free! (You know how much we love free things, right?)

If you’re into lights, I also recommend Christmas at the Biltmore. The Arizona Biltmore is already stunning on a regular day, but at Christmastime, it transforms into something out of a holiday movie. There’s a huge gingerbread display, twinkling lights, and even a chance to sip on some holiday cocktails. It’s perfect for date night—especially if you want to pretend like you have your life together (no judgment if you don’t, I don’t either).

Oh, and if you’re craving some holiday shopping with a twist, Scottsdale’s Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Nights at the Scottsdale Waterfront is perfect. Picture this: A giant Christmas tree, ice skating (yes, in Arizona!), and a ton of festive activities. It’s one of those places where the kids can run around while you browse and sip on something warm. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Now, you can’t talk about Christmas in Phoenix without mentioning Downtown Tempe’s Fantasy of Lights Parade. It’s a family favorite of ours. The parade rolls through downtown, with glittering floats, marching bands, and—of course—Santa. There’s a little something for everyone, whether you’re there to see the big guy in red or just want to enjoy the colorful display. Afterward, we usually grab some dinner and call it a night.

So there you have it, mamas! These are my go-to spots for getting into the Christmas spirit here in Phoenix. Whether you want to see dazzling lights, take in some local traditions, or sip cocoa while the kids burn off some energy, Phoenix has it all. Sure, it’s not a snowy winter wonderland, but we’ve got our own kind of Christmas magic, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. And hey, no snow means no shoveling. I’ll take that any day!

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If you’re anything like me, the thought of taking the kids on a hike can send shivers down your spine. I mean, trying to get them excited about something that doesn’t involve a screen, snacks, or a comfy seat can be a challenge. But, believe it or not, there are hikes in Phoenix that won’t make you want to collapse into the nearest cactus out of exhaustion. Here’s a list of family-friendly trails that won’t leave you begging for mercy (or a cold drink in the shade).

Let’s start with Papago Park, because it’s basically the gateway to the perfect family hike. The loop trail here is short, sweet, and offers some of the most beautiful desert views, making it an easy win for anyone with little legs that tire out quickly (looking at you, Molly). The hike is just the right level of “easy enough” but still fun. Plus, it’s close to the zoo and other attractions, so you can bribe your kids with the promise of ice cream afterward. Trust me, you’ll need that bribe.

Next, we have the Desert Classic Trail. Jenny wasn’t all that impressed when I first suggested it, but once we hit the trail and she saw all the cool rocks and desert creatures (the lizards had a starring role), she was hooked. The trail is short (only about a mile) and has the perfect amount of shade to keep the kids from melting into puddles of sweat. And Lincoln? He turned into an “explorer” the moment we hit the first little hill, making the whole family feel like we were on some wild adventure.

And if you need something a little more challenging, the South Mountain Trail is a solid pick. It’s a bit longer but totally doable with some water and snacks. Plus, the views from the top are so worth it. I mean, how many times can you convince your kids to look at a view from a mountain top without them rolling their eyes?

The best part about these hikes? They don’t end with you wishing you’d packed your emergency kit or needing to nap for two days straight. You actually get to enjoy the desert landscape and feel like you did something productive, all while keeping the kids entertained. Win-win.

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If you’re like me, the idea of getting the kids to do something educational while also keeping them entertained sounds like a far-off fantasy. But I found a little slice of magic in Phoenix that ticks both boxes — the Desert Botanical Garden. Now, before you picture a quiet, peaceful place where you have to shush your kids every five seconds (I’m looking at you, Jenny), let me tell you that this spot has way more to offer than just pretty cacti.

We decided to take a little trip to the garden one Saturday morning. Lincoln was way too excited about the desert animals and how many different types of prickly plants there are (I swear, I had to pull him away from the cacti displays about ten times). Molly? Well, she was obsessed with the butterflies. The garden has this amazing butterfly pavilion, and she could’ve stayed there for hours just watching them flutter around. I got a few minutes of peace while she was totally mesmerized.

Jenny? She was grumpy at first, rolling her eyes at the thought of walking around in the sun. But then we stumbled upon this cool little section where they had interactive exhibits about desert ecosystems and how plants adapt to the heat. By the end of it, she was asking me to snap photos of her “posing” with all the desert plants. Typical teenager stuff — pretending to hate something but secretly loving it.

The garden has so many trails, and it’s huge! Molly enjoyed hopping from one flower to another (yes, I did remind her not to touch anything too much) and Lincoln was our little “desert explorer,” making up stories about ancient desert civilizations. If you’re a mom trying to balance quiet moments and chasing after your kids, this is a win.

And the best part? The Desert Botanical Garden has a cafe with a lovely outdoor seating area, so after all the exploring, we grabbed a snack and watched the little ones burn off more energy by running around the garden’s water features. Jenny finally pulled out her phone to text her friends about how “fun” the place was, and I silently high-fived myself for making this day work.

So if you’re in Phoenix and need a day that’s fun, educational, and doesn’t involve any tech distractions (besides the occasional photo op), the Desert Botanical Garden is the place to be. You might just find yourself saying, “Hey, this wasn’t as bad as I thought!” — and I’ll take that as a mom win.

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Let’s face it — sometimes you just need to escape the noise. Whether it’s the constant requests from the kids or just the general hum of life, finding a quiet moment is like discovering hidden treasure. I’ve got three kids — Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly — and while they’re all wonderful little humans, they definitely come with an energy that could power the whole neighborhood. So, I’ve started hunting for quiet spots around Phoenix where I can take a breath, sip my coffee, and just be… well, me, for a minute.

Here are five spots that have become my personal go-to escapes when I need a moment of peace (and maybe some time to think without hearing “Mom!” every five minutes):

1. Desert Botanical Garden – Sure, you’ll get the occasional group of tourists taking photos, but if you go early enough, it’s just you, the desert plants, and the sound of birds chirping. It’s like a mini vacation without leaving the city. I love just walking through the trails and breathing in the fresh air. Plus, if Molly comes with me, she’ll spend 20 minutes pretending to be a “desert explorer,” so I get some actual peace.
2. Arizona Canal Trail – This one’s a game-changer for me. It’s a long, peaceful path where I can either go for a walk or sit on one of the benches and just watch the world go by. It’s calming, and since it’s off the beaten path, you won’t find crowds of people. Perfect for when you just need some alone time — or, you know, a chance to scroll through Instagram without little hands trying to grab your phone.
3. The Japanese Friendship Garden – Tucked away in downtown Phoenix, this little garden feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The calming sounds of water trickling through the koi ponds and the beauty of the space make it a lovely retreat for some quiet time. The kids would never last more than five minutes here, but that’s exactly why I love it.
4. Piestewa Peak Park – Okay, this one’s for when you want to get your heart rate up a bit, but it’s a quiet spot with gorgeous views. I love coming here in the early morning before it gets crowded. The trails are peaceful, and the silence is just golden. Plus, the view from the top? Worth every step.
5. Kiwanis Park – While this one does have playgrounds and families, there’s a peaceful side to Kiwanis Park that most people miss. Head over to the lake area, and you’ll find plenty of space to sit by the water and soak in some peace while the kids do their thing.

There’s something about finding those spots where you can just hit pause, even if it’s for a short time. It’s like hitting the reset button, and trust me, every mom needs that!

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a mom, it’s that playgrounds are life. Seriously, if I could survive on a steady diet of swings and slides, I’d be doing great. But since I’m an adult and can’t actually play on the playground (though I’ve been tempted), I’ve made it my mission to find the best spots in Phoenix where my kids can burn off their endless energy — and I can just stand there pretending to be a chill mom.

Molly, who’s 8, will swing until she’s a blur, and Lincoln, at 11, is all about climbing and racing up walls like some sort of human spider monkey. Jenny? Well, she’s a teen now, so I’m lucky if she even gets out of the car, but she will join in when there’s a cool slide or a group of kids who need a leader.

Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Desert Ridge Community Center Park – This place is like the holy grail of Phoenix parks. There’s a huge play area, plus a splash pad (hello, summer!). Jenny may roll her eyes at the “kiddie” stuff, but she’s been known to dive into a game of tag with Molly when no one’s looking.
2. Papago Park – This park is a win for everyone. It’s got a great playground, plus trails to explore. Lincoln loves the desert hikes, and I get a little break while Molly races around the play area. Bonus points for the views and all the photo ops.
3. Kiwanis Park – A massive playground with tons of space for kids to run around without anyone getting trampled. Molly likes to pretend she’s on an obstacle course, and Lincoln is always pretending to be some kind of parkour expert.
4. Thunderbird Conservation Park – This one’s a little more low-key but perfect for a quieter afternoon. The play area is smaller, but the surrounding nature trails give you plenty of room to let them roam. Plus, there’s often a lot of birds, which is Molly’s version of heaven.
5. Encanto Park – If you’re looking for a place that feels like you’ve stepped into a magical forest, this is it. The playground is big, and there are lots of areas to picnic or take a breather. The paddle boats are an added bonus for when you need to trick the kids into getting off the swings.

So, if you’re in Phoenix and looking for somewhere to let your kids get their wiggles out, these parks should be on your list. They’re perfect for running wild, climbing, and just being kids — and, honestly, that’s what we all need, right? A little chaos and a lot of fun.

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I’m not saying I’m a genius, but I did find a Chuggington DVD at Best Buy for 99 cents — which basically makes me the Warren Buffett of bargain shopping.

Lincoln used to be obsessed with Chuggington when he was little. Molly doesn’t care about trains unless they’re pink and covered in glitter, but even Jenny cracked a smile when I told them about my epic find. Okay, maybe it was more of a smirk, but I’m taking the win.

Anyway, it’s probably scratched to death, but for 99 cents? That’s cheaper than a gas station candy bar — and way less sticky.

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