Plan Your Family Staycation in Tempe

Many families are opting for a "staycation" this year, with rising fuel costs and inflation affecting travel budgets. If that's you, you will love our ideas for planning a fun family staycation in Tempe this summer. We have put together a list of some of our favorite things to do with kids in Tempe, because there is no better way to fall in love with your hometown than to enjoy it like a tourist.

1. Rent a boat at Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake is a great place to rent a boat and get out on the water this summer. The kids will love taking a swan, duck, or dragon paddle boat out on the lake for the afternoon. There are also kayaks, donut boats that hold up to 10 people, and stand-up paddle boards to try out. You can even rent them at a discount on summer weekdays, perfect for your staycation plans.

2. Visit The Lunar Exploration Museum

The Lunar Exploration Museum at the University of Arizona Tempe campus is inspiring, educational, and fun for the whole family. A guided tour can be booked in advance, or you can simply stop by for a self-guided exploration of the exhibits.

3. Explore Butterfly Wonderland

Just 15 minutes away in Scottsdale is Butterfly Wonderland, a one of a kind experience the whole family will love. Explore in a rainforest habitat surrounded by thousands of butterfly species from around the world. Watch a captivating 3D movie, observe a live chrysalis as a butterfly emerges, and stroll through the conservatory to immerse yourself in the experience. Guests even have the opportunity to taste edible insects and get up close and personal with unique rainforest reptiles.

4. Get brunch at Daily Jam

Looking for a fun place to eat out with the kids? Going out for brunch is perfect, since it does not require anyone to get out of the house early or be out during nap time or bed time. Brunch at Daily Jam is one of the best in Tempe, with a menu offering something for everyone. The kids will love French Toast or a Mickey Pancake, while Mom and Dad enjoy chilaquiles, croque madame, or a red velvet waffle with a housemade spin on a Bloody Mary.

5. See a play at Childsplay Theater

Visit the award winning Childsplay Theater, where performances based on favorite childhood stories or brand new original plays will entertain the whole family. The theater has been winning hearts in Arizona for over 40 years, with entertainment that suits every interest and sense of humor; this is the perfect introduction into performing arts for young children, with age appropriate performances and showtimes that are perfect for kids.

6. Engage in some friendly competition at Doge Haus

Doge Haus is an indoor Nerf arena that is perfect for some friendly competition. With over 4,000 square feet of free play space and unlimited ammo with every general admission ticket, you can play here for hours. No reservations are required, and you can bring your own Nerf blaster if you prefer! For an extra memorable day at Doge Haus, splurge on a new Nerf blaster for everyone in the family to keep at the end of the day.

7. Cool off at Kiwanis Recreation Center

It's no secret that Tempe is a city of sunshine and high temps. When you are ready to beat the heat, head over to Kiwanis Recreation Center, where guest enjoy the Valley's only indoor wave pool, a batting range, gymnasium, and tennis and fitness centers. You just might discover that the rec center becomes a favorite place to play all year round while exploring Tempe on your staycation.

To learn more about living your best life in Tempe, contact us any time.