The American Southwest is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and endless adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore grand landscapes, enjoy family-friendly activities, or dive into the history of the area, this guide offers something for every family planning a visit. Here are our top recommendations for destinations that cater to children, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a mix of fun and education.
Children’s Highlights
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson, Arizona, is a unique destination that combines elements of a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, and natural history museum, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience for kids. Begin your visit at the Desert Loop Trail, where children can explore the natural habitat of the Sonoran Desert and encounter native wildlife, such as javelinas, coyotes, and lizards. The trail provides an immersive educational experience, with informational signs and docents available to share fascinating facts about the desert ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Next, head to the Earth Sciences Center and the Cave Experience. This interactive exhibit allows kids to learn about the geology of the region, complete with a replica limestone cave they can explore. The exhibit features displays of local minerals and gemstones, and kids can crawl through narrow passages, simulating the experience of spelunking. The museum also offers live animal presentations, where children can meet and learn about desert animals like snakes, tarantulas, and birds of prey. These activities ensure a fun and educational visit, helping kids understand and appreciate the unique biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert.
Museum of Natural History & Science, Albuquerque, NM
The Museum of Natural History & Science in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offers a range of activities that will captivate and educate children. Start your visit with the Dinosaur Hall, where kids can marvel at the life-sized dinosaur skeletons and fossils. The exhibit features impressive displays of prehistoric creatures, including a T. rex and a Seismosaurus, providing an exciting glimpse into the age of dinosaurs. Interactive displays and educational panels help kids learn about the different species and the science behind paleontology, making it both fun and informative.
Next, explore the Timetracks: A Walk Through Time exhibit, which takes visitors on a journey through the history of the Earth, from the formation of the planet to the present day. This exhibit includes interactive elements such as touchscreens and hands-on activities that explain geological processes and the evolution of life. Don’t miss the Planetarium, where children can enjoy immersive shows about the night sky, space exploration, and astronomy. These shows are designed to engage young minds and inspire curiosity about the universe. With its blend of fascinating exhibits and interactive learning opportunities, the Museum of Natural History & Science offers a memorable and enriching experience for kids.
Santa Fe Children’s Museum, NM
The Santa Fe Children’s Museum in New Mexico is a vibrant and interactive space designed to ignite creativity and curiosity in children. Start your visit with the Outdoor Learning Garden, where kids can explore nature through hands-on activities. The garden features a variety of interactive elements, including a mud pie kitchen, a greenhouse, and areas for digging and planting. Children can learn about gardening, composting, and the importance of sustainable practices while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. The garden also includes spaces for imaginative play, such as a wooden fort and climbing structures.
Inside the museum, the Building Big Exhibit offers a chance for kids to engage with engineering and construction concepts. This area is filled with oversized blocks, connectors, and various building materials that allow children to create their own structures and inventions. The exhibit encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity as kids experiment with different designs and constructions. Additionally, the museum frequently hosts arts and crafts workshops, where children can express their artistic side through painting, drawing, and crafting projects. These workshops provide an excellent opportunity for kids to develop their fine motor skills and unleash their creativity in a fun and supportive environment.
Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse, Mesa, AZ
Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse in Mesa, Arizona, offers an immersive Old West experience that is perfect for families with kids. Begin your visit by exploring the authentic Western town, complete with historic-style buildings, wooden sidewalks, and costumed characters. Kids will enjoy the live action stunt shows and gunfight reenactments, which bring the Wild West to life with thrilling performances. The town also features a variety of fun activities, such as panning for gold, mechanical bull riding, and a petting zoo where children can interact with friendly farm animals.
After exploring the town, take a ride on the Rawhide Express Train or hop on a classic stagecoach for a tour around the property. These rides provide a fun way to see more of the town while experiencing transportation from a bygone era. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Shooting Gallery and the Climbing Wall, where kids can test their aim and agility. To round out the day, enjoy a meal at the Rawhide Steakhouse, which offers a kid-friendly menu alongside hearty Western fare, ensuring a delicious end to your Western adventure. With its blend of entertainment, hands-on activities, and historical charm, Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse provides a memorable and engaging experience for children.
Outdoor Adventures
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a must-visit destination for families exploring the Southwest, offering a mix of breathtaking scenery and engaging activities that kids will love. Start your visit at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim, where interactive exhibits and educational displays provide an excellent introduction to the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. The nearby Mather Point offers one of the most iconic and accessible views of the canyon, perfect for family photos and awe-inspiring panoramas. The visitor center also provides information on ranger-led programs, which can include guided walks, talks, and junior ranger activities specifically designed for children.
Next, embark on a family-friendly hike along the Rim Trail, a mostly paved path that offers stunning views of the canyon with minimal elevation change, making it suitable for all ages. Sections like the stretch between Mather Point and Yavapai Geology Museum are particularly popular, with plenty of interpretive signs that educate visitors about the canyon’s formation and features. For a more adventurous experience, consider a short trek on the Bright Angel Trail, which offers switchbacks and closer views into the canyon. Be sure to adjust the hike length based on your family’s stamina and ensure you have plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. A visit to the Yavapai Geology Museum along the Rim Trail can also enrich the experience, offering interactive exhibits about the canyon’s geology and impressive viewing windows.
By combining educational stops at visitor centers and museums with scenic walks and ranger programs, families can enjoy a well-rounded and memorable visit to Grand Canyon National Park, appreciating both its natural beauty and rich educational opportunities.
Oak Creek Canyon, AZ
Oak Creek Canyon in Arizona is a picturesque destination offering a variety of activities that are perfect for families with kids. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Slide Rock State Park, a natural waterpark nestled in the heart of the canyon. Here, kids can slide down the smooth red rocks into cool, refreshing pools of water. The park’s natural rock slides and shallow swimming areas provide endless fun and a safe environment for children to play and explore. There are also picnic areas and shaded spots along the creek, making it a great place for a family picnic amidst stunning scenery.
For a more educational experience, take a hike along the West Fork Trail, one of the most popular trails in the canyon. This relatively easy, shaded trail follows Oak Creek and crosses it multiple times via stepping stones and log bridges, adding an element of adventure for kids. The trail meanders through a lush forested area with towering canyon walls, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the local flora and fauna. Along the way, you can take breaks to enjoy the creek, have a snack, or simply take in the breathtaking surroundings. This hike is suitable for all ages and provides a perfect balance of exercise, nature exploration, and family bonding.
Ghost Ranch, NM
Ghost Ranch in New Mexico is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and educational opportunities for families with kids. Start your visit with a hike on the Chimney Rock Trail, a moderate 3-mile round trip that leads to a stunning overlook with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations and the iconic Chimney Rock. The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of gentle inclines and flat sections, making it suitable for children who enjoy hiking. Along the way, you can take breaks to admire the scenery, spot wildlife, and learn about the area’s geology and history.
For a more hands-on experience, visit the Paleontology Museum at Ghost Ranch, where kids can see real dinosaur fossils that were discovered on-site. The museum offers interactive exhibits and educational displays that highlight the prehistoric life of the region. Children can participate in fossil hunts or sign up for a family-friendly paleontology tour, where they can learn about the process of fossil excavation and even try their hand at uncovering ancient remains. Additionally, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Home and Studio Tour provides insight into the life and work of the famous artist, with kid-friendly explanations and activities that encourage creativity and an appreciation for art. These activities ensure a fun, enriching, and memorable visit to Ghost Ranch for the whole family.
Wacky Attractions
Oatman, AZ
Visiting Oatman, Arizona, with kids offers a fun and unique glimpse into the Old West. Begin your adventure by exploring the historic Oatman Ghost Town, where kids will be delighted by the friendly wild burros that roam the streets freely. These burros are descendants of the pack animals used by miners and are a charming and interactive part of the town’s heritage. Next, watch a live Wild West shootout reenactment, which takes place daily on Main Street and provides an exciting, family-friendly show filled with cowboy action and humor. Don’t miss a visit to the Oatman Hotel, where you can see the room where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymooned and enjoy a bite to eat in the rustic restaurant. Finally, explore the local shops for unique souvenirs and take a scenic drive along the historic Route 66, which offers beautiful desert landscapes and a sense of nostalgia for America’s most famous highway.
Grand Canyon Caverns, AZ
Visiting Grand Canyon Caverns in Arizona with kids is an exciting adventure that combines natural wonders and unique experiences. Start with a guided tour of the caverns, where kids can marvel at the vast underground chambers and learn about the fascinating geology and history of the caverns, including how they were formed millions of years ago. The tour includes interesting stories about the caverns’ discovery and the ancient fossils found within. After the tour, kids will love exploring the outdoor Dinosaur Park, which features life-sized dinosaur statues that make for great photo opportunities and imaginative play. Additionally, take a ride on the caverns’ historic Route 66 zipline for an adrenaline-pumping view of the surrounding desert landscape. Finally, wrap up your visit with a meal at the Caverns Grotto, a unique dining experience located 200 feet underground, offering a memorable and immersive way to conclude your adventure.
Rattlesnake Museum, Albuquerque, NM
For those with a fascination for the scaly and slithering, the Rattlesnake Museum houses an impressive collection sure to intrigue. Begin your visit by exploring the extensive collection of live rattlesnakes, where children can safely observe various species from around the world in well-designed enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. The museum also features exhibits on other reptiles, including lizards, turtles, and amphibians, along with informative displays about their behavior, ecology, and importance in the ecosystem. Kids will enjoy the interactive elements, such as quizzes and videos, that make learning about these intriguing creatures fun and engaging. Additionally, the museum’s gift shop offers unique snake-themed souvenirs and educational materials, allowing kids to take a piece of their adventure home.
International UFO Museum & Research Center, Roswell, NM
Dive into the mysteries of UFOs with exhibits that will spark the imagination of conspiracy theorists and young explorers alike. Start by exploring the museum’s exhibits, which feature detailed displays and artifacts related to the famous 1947 Roswell Incident, including photographs, newspaper clippings, and witness testimonies. Kids will be captivated by the life-sized dioramas and models of UFOs and aliens, sparking their imaginations and curiosity. Interactive exhibits and educational videos provide engaging explanations about the possibilities of extraterrestrial life and the science behind UFO sightings. After exploring the exhibits, stop by the museum’s gift shop to find fun and unique souvenirs such as alien-themed toys, books, and apparel. The museum offers a blend of history, mystery, and science, making it an exciting and educational destination for kids.
Native American Sites
Bandelier National Monument, NM
Climb ladders to ancient ceremonial caves and learn about the native cultures of the Southwest in a truly hands-on manner. Begin your exploration with the Main Loop Trail, an easy 1.2-mile loop that takes you through the heart of the monument, passing ancient Pueblo dwellings carved into the cliffs. Kids will love climbing the ladders to explore the cliff dwellings and imagining what life was like for the Ancestral Pueblo people. Don’t miss the Alcove House, accessible via a series of ladders that lead up 140 feet to a large alcove with spectacular views and more ancient ruins. Along the trail, park rangers often provide informative talks and demonstrations about the history and culture of the area, making the visit both fun and educational. After hiking, stop by the Visitor Center to see the interactive exhibits and pick up a Junior Ranger activity booklet, which helps kids engage with the park through hands-on learning activities. With its combination of hiking, history, and interactive learning, Bandelier National Monument offers a memorable and enriching experience for families.
Taos Pueblo, NM
Explore this living history site, where multistory adobe buildings have stood since the 1400s, offering a glimpse into the life of the Taos Native American tribe. Start with a guided tour of the ancient adobe structures, where children can learn about the history and daily life of the Taos Pueblo people, who have lived in this area for over 1,000 years. The tour provides insights into the architecture, traditions, and customs of the community. Kids will be fascinated by the multi-storied buildings and the traditional ovens (hornos) used for baking bread. After the tour, explore the local artisan shops, where families can see traditional pottery, jewelry, and crafts being made and purchase unique handmade souvenirs. Engage with the artisans, who often share stories and techniques, offering a deeper understanding of their craft. Don’t miss the chance to attend a cultural event or dance, if available during your visit, to experience the vibrant traditions and music of the Taos Pueblo people.
Acoma Pueblo, NM
Known as “Sky City,” Acoma Pueblo offers stunning views and a chance to learn about its storied history from knowledgeable local guides. Start your trip with a guided tour of Sky City, the ancient village perched atop a mesa, where children can learn about the history and heritage of the Acoma people, who have inhabited the area for over 1,000 years. The tour includes a visit to the San Esteban del Rey Mission, a historic church built in the 1600s, and offers fascinating insights into the architecture and daily life of the pueblo. Kids will enjoy exploring the adobe buildings and hearing stories about the Acoma way of life.
After the tour, visit the Acoma Cultural Center and Museum, where interactive exhibits and artifacts provide a deeper understanding of Acoma traditions, art, and history. The museum offers hands-on activities and educational displays that engage children and enrich their learning experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch traditional pottery-making demonstrations and see the intricate designs that Acoma pottery is famous for. The gift shop at the cultural center also offers beautiful handmade crafts and pottery, allowing families to take home a piece of Acoma culture.
Mesa Verde National Park, CO
Climb into ancient cliff dwellings and experience firsthand how the Ancestral Puebloans lived, making history come alive for your family. Start your visit with a tour of the Cliff Palace, the largest and most famous cliff dwelling in the park. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who built and inhabited these structures over 700 years ago. Kids will be thrilled to climb ladders and explore the ancient rooms, imagining what life was like in this remarkable cliffside village.
Next, explore the Spruce Tree House, another well-preserved cliff dwelling that is easily accessible and offers a hands-on historical experience. The nearby Chaplin Mesa Archeological Museum features interactive exhibits and artifacts that help children understand the daily life, culture, and ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Afterward, take a family-friendly hike along the Petroglyph Point Trail, where you can see ancient rock carvings and enjoy breathtaking views of the park. Finally, participate in the Junior Ranger Program, where kids can complete activities and earn a badge, making their visit both fun and educational. With its combination of guided tours, interactive exhibits, and outdoor exploration, Mesa Verde National Park provides a memorable and enriching experience for families.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, AZ
Identify iconic buttes like the Mittens and Eagle Rock, and take guided tours to learn about Navajo traditions and stories. Start your visit with a guided Jeep tour led by Navajo guides who provide fascinating insights into the history, culture, and geology of the area. The tour includes stops at famous rock formations like the Mittens, Totem Pole, and John Ford’s Point, allowing kids to learn about the significance of these landmarks while enjoying the stunning scenery.
After the tour, explore the Visitor Center, which offers informative exhibits about Navajo culture, the geology of the valley, and the history of the region. The center also provides opportunities to purchase authentic Navajo crafts and souvenirs. For a hands-on cultural experience, participate in a Navajo rug weaving or jewelry-making demonstration, where kids can see traditional techniques and even try their hand at crafting.
Finally, take a short hike along one of the park’s scenic trails, such as the Wildcat Trail, which offers close-up views of the valley’s iconic formations and is suitable for families. The combination of guided tours, educational exhibits, and interactive cultural activities ensures a memorable and enriching experience for kids in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.