This Underrated Amusement Park In Arizona Is Any Child's Dream Come True

Phoenix is the perfect U.S. destination if you're looking for stunning scenic views and thrilling hikes too dangerous for amateurs. Thankfully, the southwestern city also offers attractions that appeal to children, including the severely underrated Enchanted Island amusement park.

Enchanted Island might not be nationally recognized the way larger theme parks are, but it's worth a visit if you're traveling with little ones between the ages of one and 10 years old. Enchanted Island is packed with kid-friendly rides and games, and few attractions are off-limits to small children. Kids can soar through the sky on the Red Baron's plane-style ride, float above the park on the Parachute Tower, and catch some speed on the Dragon Wagon roller coaster. There's also a train ride that offers a tour of Enchanted Island, bumper boats, a climbing wall, and other exciting attractions.

Between April and October, visitors can also cool down at Splash Zone, a water park designed for small children. Splash Zone doesn't have the scary water slides or wave pools found in traditional water parks. Instead, it's a safe haven for kiddos just looking to splash around and get drenched under the fountains.

Enchanted Island caters primarily to children too small to enjoy regular amusement parks. However, that doesn't mean bigger kids and parents can't let loose at the Phoenix park. Visitors who are over 54 inches tall can still participate in seven of Enchanted Island's attractions. For instance, the C.P. Huntington Train is suitable for both children and adults and can be a great way to rest with your little ones between rides on the coasters. The Encanto Carousel is another attraction that fits guests of all shapes and sizes.

Older kids may especially be drawn to Castle Clash, a fierce water gun competition, and the Giant Climbing Wall, which is only open to those who weigh at least 50 pounds (and up to 250 pounds).

You'll also find pedal boats at Enchanted Island, which can be an ideal way for families to relax together. Visitors can pedal around the park, spotting the nautical wildlife along the way. Note that pedal boats are only available to rent on the weekends, and children under two years old aren't allowed in the boats.

Enchanted Island is located in Encanto Park, considered one of the best urban parks in America. You can reach the amusement park from downtown Phoenix within minutes, making it an easy break between other sightseeing activities around the city. Just be sure to time your visit carefully: Enchanted Island is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and offers limited hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays (from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.).

Admission is technically free for all guests, though activities within the park cost a fee. You can choose between paying for individual attraction tickets, purchasing a bundle of discounted attraction tickets, or buying an all-day park pass that grants unlimited rides on the attractions for the entire day. Some attractions require adults to pay, too, even if they're accompanying a smaller child that can't ride alone. With this in mind, it's a good idea to grab a few tickets for adults just in case.

During your visit, you won't be able to bring any outside food or drinks into the park. However, Enchanted Island is equipped with a snack bar to hold you over. Here, you can munch on hot dogs, chicken strips, quesadillas, popcorn, ice cream, and other light meals.