Peoria Things to Do

It's nice to hike around the desert and enjoy the stark yet beautiful scenery, but beware of the evil cacti. We were readily forewarned about certain species of cacti that like to cling onto human flesh, but we didn't anticipate it happening to us. Cholla (Teddy Bear) cacti are easily detached by wind or movement, and as they are easily attracted by moisture (aka your supple skin), they'll seemingly jump right at you.

Cover up and wear long layers even though you'll be sweating in the heat.

One of the newer parks in Peoria is also one of the nicest around. There is a beautiful pond that runs on the west side of the park and it is part of the urban fishing program in the city. The Rec center is located near the pond and is equipped with rock climbing walls and a fitness center for a reasonable cost. The park has everything: sand volleyball court, a very crowded skate court, several baseball/ softball fields, several Ramadas for picnics, batting cages, tot lot, splash pad play area in summer, playground,

If this wasn't enough, there is a Starbucks as well as a restaurant within the park.

A fun place to spend some time with the kids.

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Located next to the High School this is a great stop,especially for those who love space exploration. You can tour the center yourself, but I would recommend taking the tour you will learn more and it is the only way to see the Earth Space Transport Module.
The Space Center has tours every hour starting at 10:00

There is a 1/18th scale Space shuttle inside. The Cargo Bay (shown in second photo) can hold a school bus, this is how large it is in reality. The mural was incredible inside. Our kids enjoyed learning about space and it was a great diversion on a hot summer day.

The Space Center also offers simulated experiences that last 2-3 hours for kids 3rd grade and above. You have to have reservations for this.

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Lake Pleasant is a short drive from NorthWest Peoria. One of the most visited lakes in Phoenix it was created by the Waddell Dam. Because of the close proximity to the city is a very popular destination for water sports, sailing and boating. There are plenty of spots to camp, fish, swim and hike as well.

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If you happen to be in Peoria around 4th of July this is a great spot for the family. The city sets up numerous rides and games for the kids. They have a water zone and a Kids zone, as well as two bands playing. Fireworks are choreographed to music.

Inside Peoria's Rio Vista Park Rec center they have a large rock wall for kids to climb. There are four different areas of the rock to climb. The easiest one is the farthest on your right, towards the back door
Fun indoor activity on a hot summer day. Kids have to be at least 5 years old and you must sign a waiver to climb.

Watch the turtles mate. Seriously. I would presume that is what they were doing unless they just like wildly "dancing" around each other.

We all have to have our fun somehow.