Peoria, Arizona is located just outside of Phoenix and offers many family-friendly activities for people of all ages to enjoy. With its warm climate, scenic landscapes, and wide variety of attractions and events, Peoria makes for a great family destination any time of year. Whether you want to spend the day exploring outdoor parks, checking out local museums, or catching a baseball game, there is something for everyone in Peoria.
As one of the fastest growing communities in Arizona, Peoria has invested heavily in building an array of parks, trails, recreational facilities and cultural attractions to serve residents and visitors alike. With dozens of parks dotted throughout the city limits, there is always a shady oasis to escape the summer heat. Meanwhile, attractions like the Peoria Sports Complex and Riverview Park offer world-class amenities for sports, concerts and other events. No matter your interests or budget, a family trip to Peoria is bound to have something exciting to see and do.
In this guide, we’ll cover 10 of the top things to do with family in Peoria. From interactive museums and unique venues to stunning outdoor spaces perfect for picnics, there is a wide variety of activities that will keep everyone entertained. Read on for our top recommendations and start planning your next Peoria family getaway!
1. Visit the Peoria Sports Complex
As one of the premier sports complexes in the Phoenix area, the Peoria Sports Complex is a must for sports fans and families. Home to the Peoria Javelinas baseball team, the complex features the Javelinas Stadium along with six other multipurpose fields. You can catch a minor league baseball game or watch youth tournaments throughout the year. Outside of game days, the complex is open for other activities like hiking trails, playgrounds and picnic areas.
Be sure to check out the Peoria Sports Academy too for a range of sports programs and classes. Families can participate in soccer, lacrosse, softball, basketball and more. With its central location just off the Loop 101, the Peoria Sports Complex is easily accessible and guaranteed to provide hours of outdoor fun for all ages.
2. Explore the Peoria aquatics centers
For cooling off and water activities galore, Peoria’s two main aquatics centers are crowd pleasers. The Sundance Wading Pool Park features water slides, spray features and a zero-depth entry pool perfect for little ones. Further north, the Peoria Aquatic Facility boasts two large swimming pools, a water slide, lazy river and kids water play area. Certified programs are offered for all skill levels from beginners to advanced swimmers.
Besides recreational swimming, both centers host swim lessons, water aerobics classes and special events throughout the summer months. At the Peoria Aquatic Facility, you’ll also find a full-service cafe, locker rooms and shaded picnic areas. On hot Arizona days, spending the afternoon at one of these aquatics centers makes for quality family fun without breaking the bank.
3. Enjoy the river at Riverview Park
Located along the scenic Agua Fria River, Riverview Park is one of Peoria’s prized outdoor destinations. Stretching over 350 acres, the park features six miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, biking or horseback riding. You’ll find vast open lawns, shade trees and native vegetation lining the riverbanks. Kids especially love the playground areas andsplash pad with water features.
In addition to recreational paths and amenities, Riverview Park is also a popular spot for outdoor concerts, movies and special community events throughout the year. Be sure to pack a picnic and spend an afternoon soaking in the natural scenery along the river. It’s the perfect way for families to enjoy the beautiful Arizona landscape and fresh air in Peoria.
4. Check out the Peoria Museum
Learn the rich history of Peoria and the Valley of the Sun at the Peoria Historical Society Museum. Located downtown in a historic adobe home, the museum houses exhibits on pioneer life, agriculture, transportation and more. Multimedia displays bring the region’s past to life. A recreated blacksmith shop provides hands-on demonstrations too.
Temporary exhibits rotate frequently showcasing different aspects of Peoria’s cultural heritage. The museum also hosts special events like Living History days where costumed docents portray figures from the late 1800s. Admission is free though donations are encouraged. It’s a fascinating way for families to spend an afternoon delving into the area’s roots.
5. Explore the Sonoran Desert at Desert Breeze Park
At over 900 acres, Desert Breeze Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Arizona. Located near Lake Pleasant Parkway, the park offers exceptional access to natural Sonoran Desert landscapes and ecosystems. Hike over 12 miles of multi-use trails weaving through saguaro cacti, mesquite trees and native vegetation.
Besides exploring on foot, guided programs are available to teach families about desert plants and wildlife. Be on the lookout for roadrunners, coyotes and other creatures that call this habitat home. Other amenities in the park include equestrian areas, picnic facilities, restrooms and ramada for group use. Desert Breeze is a prime spot for exercise, educational outings and taking in the raw beauty of the low-desert environment.
6. Catch a show at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts
For a cultural experience, check out a show at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts. Located on Civic Center Plaza, the state-of-the-art venue hosts concerts, theatrical performances, film screenings and more. A diverse lineup brings everything from Broadway touring shows to indie bands to the Valley.
Comfortable seating, contemporary amenities and full-service concessions make for an enjoyable night out. Many family-friendly performances are scheduled throughout the year. It’s a memorable way to introduce kids to live productions while spending quality time together. Stop by to see what’s on during your visit to Peoria.
7. Shop and dine at New River
Situated right along the Agua Fria River, New River is one of Peoria’s most vibrant mixed-use developments. Browse unique boutiques for gifts, clothing, home décor and more. Afterwards, fuel up at one of the upscale restaurants serving everything from pizza and pasta to steaks and seafood.
Families will also appreciate shops like Barnes & Noble, Yard House and digital playground Dave & Buster’s. On warm evenings, catch live music during Streetmosphere events where sidewalks close and vendors set up. New River is a one-stop destination for shopping, dining and fun in a charming outdoor setting.
8. Visit the Peoria Art Museum
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Peoria Art Museum located downtown. The light-filled galleries feature rotating exhibits showcasing established and emerging local, national and international artists. Mediums include paintings, sculptures, prints, photography and more. Interactive programs are available for kids too.
The museum also hosts special events throughout the year from live art demonstrations to workshops. It’s a welcoming facility embracing all visitors with free admission. Drop by to gain a new cultural perspective and perhaps uncover a new favorite artist during your family trip to Peoria.
9. Cheer on the Growlers
Root for the hometown team at a game of the Peoria Javelinas, a minor league affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Catch the action and energy of America’s favorite pastime at the Javelinas Stadium. Season runs from April through August with firework shows following select Friday night contests.
Enjoy classic ballpark eats while taking in the game from chairback seats. It’s a fun summer tradition that won’t cost a fortune. Be sure to arrive early and check out the family-friendly activities and bounce houses in the outfield Kids Zone too. Gather the crew for an exciting night at the ballpark!
10. Explore North Mountain
Located about 10 miles north of downtown Peoria, North Mountain Park and Preserve offers expansive natural scenery and recreation for families. Hike or mountain bike along over 30 miles of multi-use trails winding through saguaro forests and grasslands at the base of North Mountain. Keep an eye out for wildlife like coyotes, hawks and Gambel’s quail.
Other attractions within the park include playgrounds, picnic areas, an off-leash dog park and equestrian staging area. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the entire Valley from the mountain peaks. North Mountain makes for a rewarding outdoor excursion just a short drive away in beautiful Peoria.
Conclusion
With its expansive parks, accessible attractions, range of dining/shopping and proximity to Phoenix, Peoria is a fantastic destination for families seeking fun and relaxation. From interactive museums and unique venues to sprawling natural areas like Riverview Park and North Mountain, there is truly something exciting for every interest. We hope this guide has provided you with plenty of top things to pack into your next Peoria family getaway!