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Christmas is Phoenix

We are visiting my MIL for Christmas. She lives in Peoria. We will be there December 25-30. Looking for fun Christmas related things to do as well as day trips. We have been many times at different times of year and have done GC and Sedona . I have 13 and 11 year old boys. Looking to explore more south of Phoenix, place to rent Side by sides? Should we cross border to Mexico? Other interesting places/activities?

Visiting Phoenix and the surrounding areas during Christmas with kids offers a mix of festive activities and outdoor adventures. Since you’ve already done the Grand Canyon and Sedona, you can focus on experiences south of Phoenix and holiday-themed events.

For Christmas-related activities in Phoenix and Peoria:

  • Check out local holiday light displays. Some popular ones include the Phoenix ZooLights, Desert Botanical Garden’s Las Noches de las Luminarias, and neighborhood displays in Peoria and nearby suburbs.
  • Look for holiday performances or seasonal shows at venues such as the Herberger Theater Center or Arizona Broadway Theatre.
  • Participate in festive local markets or Christmas events, which may include crafts, treats, and interactive experiences for kids.

For day trips and outdoor adventures south of Phoenix:

  • Explore Tucson, about a 2-hour drive. Highlights include Saguaro National Park (East and West), Sabino Canyon for tram rides or easy hikes, and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
  • Rent side-by-sides or ATVs in the desert near Tucson or in the Superstition Mountains. Many outfitters offer guided tours suitable for families, including those with kids around 11–13.
  • Consider visiting Tombstone or Bisbee for historic Western town experiences, quirky shops, and scenic small-town charm.
  • For a scenic desert drive, explore the Apache Trail and stop at Roosevelt Lake or Canyon Lake.

Regarding crossing into Mexico:

  • Crossing into Sonora is possible but involves border formalities, passports, and awareness of local travel advisories. For a short family trip, it might be less practical unless you are experienced travelers.
  • If you choose to go, Hermosillo or Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) are options, but they require a longer drive and careful planning.

Other interesting activities and tips:

  • Hot air balloon rides in Phoenix or nearby areas are popular for families and offer unique views of the desert.
  • Desert hiking or easy mountain trails, such as in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or South Mountain Park, are kid-friendly and scenic.
  • For adrenaline-packed fun, consider indoor trampoline parks, escape rooms, or karting in Phoenix or Scottsdale.

Overall, focus on festive events locally for Christmas Day, then plan one or two day trips south or east of Phoenix for desert exploration, side-by-side tours, or small-town adventures. Given your kids’ ages, outdoor and interactive activities will likely be the most memorable while keeping logistics manageable during the holiday period.

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