If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, don’t miss Chandler — a lively city full of character, culture, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re in town for a few days or a longer stay, Chandler offers everything from outdoor adventure and hands-on creativity to unique museums and vibrant downtown scenes.
Here’s our carefully curated list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Chandler, with recommended age ranges so you can tailor the fun to your family.
1. Arizona Railway Museum 🚂
Recommended Ages: 2–12 (and rail-loving adults)
Step into the golden age of train travel at this open-air museum packed with vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses you can climb into and explore. It’s perfect for toddlers obsessed with “choo-choos” and older kids who love mechanical things and history. With lots of space to roam and hands-on access to the trains, this spot feels like part playground, part museum.
Pro tip: Bring water and sunscreen — much of it is outdoors!
2. Chandler Center for the Arts 🎭
Recommended Ages: 5+
The Chandler Center for the Arts hosts year-round performances including kid-friendly plays, music concerts, and dance productions. The adjacent Vision Gallery is free to visit and often features engaging, colorful artwork that captures kids’ imaginations. Older children may appreciate live performances more, while younger ones might enjoy shorter, seasonal shows.
Check the events calendar before you go — there’s something for every age throughout the year.
3. Veterans Oasis Park 🌵
Recommended Ages: All ages
This 113-acre park is a favorite among families for its peaceful walking trails, duck pond, and educational Chandler Nature Center. Kids can ride in a stroller or on a balance bike along stroller-friendly gravel paths while spotting rabbits, turtles, and birds. Older children will enjoy nature scavenger hunts, fishing, or the interactive displays inside the center.
It’s a great place to slow down and connect with the desert landscape.
4. Downtown Chandler 🛍️
Recommended Ages: All ages
Downtown Chandler is one of the city’s most walkable and vibrant districts. Families can enjoy murals, casual restaurants, coffee shops with play corners, open spaces to run, and frequent events like farmers’ markets and cultural festivals. There’s always something happening, from live music to food truck nights, making it a flexible stop for families.
Ideal for casual exploration with strollers or energetic walkers.
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5. Chandler Fashion Center 🛒
Recommended Ages: 1–10
It’s not just a mall — it’s a mini adventure for little ones. The Chandler Fashion Center has a large indoor play area, stroller-friendly walkways, and plenty of kid-friendly food options. It’s a great backup plan for rainy days or hot afternoons when you need indoor fun. And while the kids play, parents can sneak in some shopping or grab coffee.
There’s also a Harkins Theatres inside for family movie outings.
6. Crayola Experience 🎨
Recommended Ages: 2–12
Hands-on, colorful, and packed with activities, the Crayola Experience is a full day of creative play. Kids can name and wrap their own crayons, melt crayons into shapes, create digital art, and run through color-themed play zones. Toddlers will enjoy the light displays and open space to explore, while older kids can dive into interactive stations with minimal help.
Plan for at least 3–4 hours — there’s more to do than you think!
7. KOLI Equestrian Center 🐎
Recommended Ages: 6+ (riding) | All ages (visiting)
For something truly memorable, take a guided horseback ride through the Sonoran Desert with KOLI Equestrian Center. Riders need to be at least 6 years old, but even younger children can enjoy seeing the horses up close and walking the grounds. The desert views are stunning, and the rides are gentle, making this a good intro to horseback riding.
Reservations recommended — especially during peak seasons.
8. Tumbleweed Park 🎠
Recommended Ages: 1–10
This is the playground for kids in Chandler. “Playtopia!” at Tumbleweed Park features themed play areas (like a farm and a cityscape) with plenty of space for toddlers and older kids to climb, run, and slide. Parents will love the shaded picnic areas and nearby restrooms. It’s great for burning off energy in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Bonus: There’s a splash pad in warmer months!
9. SanTan Brewing Company 🍻
Recommended Ages: Adults (kid-friendly restaurant atmosphere)
This one’s for the parents — but yes, it’s family-friendly too. SanTan Brewing offers delicious food, house-made root beer, and a casual environment where kids are welcome. If you’re looking for a low-key dinner spot after a day of exploring, this place has you covered. There’s even outdoor seating where kids can stretch their legs while you enjoy a pint.
Try the Arizona gold pretzel bites — they’re a crowd favorite.
10. Huhugam Heritage Center 🏺
Recommended Ages: 5+
Explore the cultural heritage of the Akimel O’otham (Pima) and Pee Posh (Maricopa) peoples at this well-curated museum. The Huhugam Heritage Center features fascinating exhibits, storytelling, and traditional crafts that older children will appreciate. While it’s quiet and educational (and best for school-age kids), the storytelling events are especially engaging for younger visitors too.
A meaningful and respectful stop to learn local history.
Final Thoughts
Chandler is more than just a stopover — it’s a destination for families, packed with variety and charm. Whether you’re looking for high-energy adventure, cultural exploration, or a relaxing day in nature, Chandler has something to offer every family and every age.
Bonus Tip: Because Arizona can get hot (especially in summer), plan your outdoor activities in the early mornings or evenings and keep plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks on hand.
Ready to explore? Start building your Chandler itinerary today — and don’t be surprised if the kids beg to come back again next year!
🛒 Affiliate Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links, which means, I earn from qualifying purchases — at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products my family uses and loves. Thank you for supporting our travels and this blog!
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