Planning a family weekend in the Valley of the Sun can feel overwhelming. With dozens of attractions, from world-class zoos to indoor adventure parks, the costs can add up quickly, and the logistics can be a headache. But what if you could build an unforgettable two-day itinerary that covers the very best of Phoenix, is packed with kid-approved fun, and saves you a significant amount of money?
That's exactly what we've created for you.
This guide leverages the incredible value of GetOut, the ultimate Arizona attraction pass. With the Grand Opening sale happening now, there's never been a better time to explore. You can use code GRANDOPENING at checkout to get $10 off your membership and unlock a year of adventures.
Get ready for a weekend of animal encounters, creative play, high-energy fun, and aquatic wonders—all planned out and designed to keep smiles on every face.
Planning Your GetOut Adventure
Before we dive into the fun, let's talk about the magic behind the itinerary: GetOut. Think of it as your family's golden ticket to Arizona. For one low annual price, you get free admission to over 59 exciting venues across the state, including every single one mentioned in this guide.
How It Works: After you purchase your pass, you'll download the GetOut app. When you're ready for an adventure, simply browse the app, choose the attraction you want to visit, and show the offer at the front desk. That's it—instant entry and instant fun. The pass includes various visit frequencies (like "1x Yearly" or "1x Daily"), allowing you to tailor your experiences.
For this weekend, we're also highlighting a fantastic Add-On option. By adding it to your cart, you can receive admission to both LEGOLAND Discovery Center and SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, doubling the indoor fun at Arizona Mills Mall.
Day 1: Animal Encounters and Indoor Play
Morning (9:00 AM): Wild Beginnings at the Phoenix Zoo
Start your weekend with a roar at the Phoenix Zoo. As one of the largest non-profit zoos in the country, it's a stunning, desert-set oasis that's home to over 3,000 animals. Arriving right at opening is a pro-tip—it allows you to experience the zoo during its most peaceful hours and catch the animals when they're most active.
Don't miss the Arizona Trail, a fantastic area for quiet views of native wildlife like javelina, bobcats, and the majestic desert tortoise. For hands-on fun, make a beeline for Stingray Bay, where kids can gently touch and feed the friendly rays. If the walk-through is open, Monkey Village offers an unforgettable, immersive experience. When little legs start to tire, consider the narrated safari cruiser tour for a relaxing ride around the grounds.
GetOut Tip: This venue is included as "1x Yearly" on your pass.
Lunch (12:30 PM): Refueling
After a morning of exploration, you'll all have worked up an appetite. You can enjoy a picnic at one of the zoo's many shaded areas or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): Creative Play and Shopping (Add-On Option)
Beat the afternoon heat with a trip to Arizona Mills Mall for a double dose of indoor fun. First up is the LEGOLAND Discovery Center - Arizona. This indoor Lego playground is a dream come true for builders of all ages. You'll find a 4D Cinema, a DUPLO Village for the littlest ones, and master classes where kids can learn building tips from expert instructors. The highlight for many is MINILAND, a miniature Phoenix built entirely out of Lego bricks. Remember, adults must be accompanied by a child to enter.
Evening (5:30 PM): Family Fun and Games
Cap off your first day with dinner and entertainment at Fat Cats, with convenient locations in both Gilbert and Mesa. This family entertainment center has it all. Challenge each other to a round of glow-in-the-dark mini golf, lace up some bowling shoes for a few frames, or hit the arcade, which boasts over 50 games. With a movie theater on-site featuring reclining seats, you could even make it a dinner-and-a-movie night. It's the perfect place to relax, have fun, and let the kids burn off any remaining energy.
Day 2: Active Play and Aquatic Wonders
Morning (10:00 AM): Jump into Action
Day two is all action. Choose your family's adventure based on your energy levels. For trampolines, ninja warrior courses, and climbing walls, head to The Rush Fun Park. This safe, clean environment features 17-foot rock-climbing walls, a multi-level indoor playground with slides, and a dedicated "Lil' Kidz Zone" for children under six. Reviewers rave about the friendly staff and reasonable snack bar prices.
Alternatively, if you have aspiring gymnasts, skateboarders, or parkour enthusiasts, KTR - Indoor Action Sports Playground in Chandler or Scottsdale is a world-class facility. This 40,000-square-foot center has a legendary history in competitive sports and provides an incredible space for kids to flip, jump, and rip in a progressive training environment.
Lunch (12:30 PM): Mall Dining
For a quick and easy lunch, head back to the Arizona Mills Mall food court, which has options for every palate.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): Underwater Exploration (Add-On Option)
Just across the hall from LEGOLAND, dive into an underwater world at the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium. While it may be smaller than some oceanariums, it's perfectly sized for young children and packed with wonders. The experience is highlighted by a stunning 360-degree ocean tunnel where you'll be surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and schools of shimmering fish. Kids will love the interactive touch pool, where they can gently feel a sea star. Be sure to grab a scavenger hunt sheet at the entrance to make the visit even more engaging for the little ones. It's a beautiful, educational, and wallet-friendly adventure, perfect for escaping the heat.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Sweet Treats and a Grand Finale
Before you head home, make one last magical stop at Scheels in Chandler. This isn't your average sporting goods store; it's a destination. The moment you walk in, you're greeted by a massive arching fish tank that captivates kids of all ages. For just $1, you can ride the giant Ferris wheel right in the middle of the store for a bird's-eye view. There's also a fun "bowling alley" with ski-ball-style balls, an arcade, and a free kids' play area. Top it all off with a visit to the candy shop for some retro treats to enjoy on the drive home—a perfect, sweet ending to a perfect weekend.
How to Make the Most of Your GetOut Pass
- Use the App: The GetOut app is your command center. Browse nearby attractions, see your pass benefits, and present the offer at the venue counter for instant entry.
- Understand the Limits: Pay attention to the visit frequency (e.g., "1x Yearly," "1x Daily") so you know how often you can enjoy each venue.
- Peace of Mind: If you're unsure, remember that GetOut offers a full refund for unused passes up to 60 days from the purchase date. This takes the risk out of trying something new.
Conclusion
A family weekend in Phoenix doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With this itinerary and the power of GetOut, you can pack two days with unforgettable experiences—from the wilds of the Phoenix Zoo to the creative universe of LEGO and the depths of the sea.
Join the thousands of happy members who've discovered a year full of fun and savings. With a 4.6 rating and over 1,200 reviews, families just like yours are exploring Arizona like never before.
Don't wait! The Grand Opening sale won't last forever. Use code GRANDOPENING at checkout to get $10 off your membership and start planning your family's next great adventure today.