10 Places Lower School and Middle School Students Can Improve Their STEM Skills Around the Phoenix Valley

In today’s rapidly advancing world, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is crucial for developing the problem-solving skills and creativity that our children need for the future. For lower school and middle school students in the Phoenix Valley, there are numerous exciting opportunities to explore STEM outside of the classroom. From hands-on experiments to interactive exhibits, here are 10 fantastic places (in no particular order) where young learners can enhance their STEM skills in the Phoenix area.

1. Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center is a must-visit destination for kids interested in science and technology. Located in downtown Phoenix, it offers a variety of interactive exhibits covering topics like physics, biology, and robotics. For lower school children, the “Little Kids Space” provides hands-on learning experiences that are perfect for developing early STEM skills. The center also hosts educational workshops, making it an ideal place for students to dive deeper into scientific concepts.

Why it’s great for STEM: Engaging, hands-on exhibits and live science demonstrations help students develop a love for science and discovery. There is something for every student attending a K-8 school.

2. Children’s Museum of Phoenix

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a vibrant space where creativity and STEM learning come together. Through a variety of exhibits like “Construction Zone” and “Imaginarium,” children can explore engineering principles, physics, and problem-solving in a fun and accessible way. The museum also offers specialized programs where kids can engage with STEM topics through play, making learning feel like an adventure.

Why it’s great for STEM: The museum allows kids to explore STEM concepts in a playful environment, fostering curiosity and hands-on learning. It is ideal for those at the lower school level, kindergarten through fourth grade, and a great place for an educational birthday party.

3. Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a wonderful place for students to learn about biology, ecology, and environmental science. The garden offers educational programs for children of all ages, including lessons on desert ecosystems, plant biology, and conservation efforts. Students can learn about the adaptations of desert plants and animals, which provides a great way to explore scientific concepts in nature.

Why it’s great for STEM: Students can observe real-world examples of biology and environmental science while exploring the desert’s unique ecosystem. While the garden can still be enjoyed by younger students, it is more ideal for students taking middle school science classes.

4. The Heard Museum

The Heard Museum, famous for its Native American art collections, also offers educational programs that incorporate STEM topics such as cultural engineering and architecture. Students can participate in workshops that introduce them to indigenous technologies, like the construction of traditional dwellings and tools. It’s a fantastic way to explore both history and science through hands-on activities.

Why it’s great for STEM: Students can learn about the engineering and technological advancements of the local indigenous population while connecting with the rich history and culture established in Native American communities. The Heard Museum is geared more toward a middle school and older audience.

5. Arizona Museum of Natural History

Located in Mesa, the Arizona Museum of Natural History is the perfect spot for young learners who are fascinated by paleontology, archaeology, and geology. The museum features exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and natural wonders of the world. The “Dinosaur Hall” is a particular favorite, where students can see life-size dinosaur skeletons and learn about the science behind fossil discoveries.

Why it’s great for STEM: Kids can explore the natural world, from the age of the dinosaurs to the geology of Arizona, sparking an interest in earth sciences and paleontology. The Museum of Natural History provides an incredible experience for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

6. Planetarium at Mesa Community College

The Planetarium at Mesa Community College offers an immersive experience for children to explore space, astronomy, and the sciences of the universe. With regular shows and interactive exhibits, students can learn about stars, planets, and space exploration. The planetarium’s hands-on activities also allow kids to engage in STEM topics related to the cosmos, making it an inspiring destination for young scientists.

Why it’s great for STEM: The planetarium provides a fascinating, interactive way to introduce students to astronomy and space science. It’s never too early to begin learning about the cosmos, making the planetarium enjoyable for lower school and middle school students.

7. OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale

OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale offers a fascinating experience for students to explore marine biology and environmental science. With over 30,000 animals representing more than 500 species, children can observe diverse marine life, including sharks, stingrays, penguins, and sea turtles. The aquarium features interactive exhibits on marine ecosystems, water filtration, and the effects of climate change on ocean species. Special programs like “Shark Feedings” and “Penguin Encounters” provide kids with the chance to engage in animal care and conservation efforts firsthand.

Why it’s great for STEM: OdySea Aquarium combines marine biology with interactive learning, sparking curiosity and teaching students about ocean conservation and marine ecosystems. Students as young as kindergarten will benefit from a visit to the OdySea Aquarium.

8. Challenger Space Center

Located in Peoria, the Challenger Space Center is a space-themed educational center that provides an engaging, hands-on learning experience about space exploration, astronomy, and technology. The center offers simulation experiences where students can take on roles such as mission control operators and astronauts. It’s a fun and immersive way for students to apply STEM skills in an interactive setting.

Why it’s great for STEM: Students can participate in mission simulations that teach them about space science, teamwork, and problem-solving. The Space Center is geared more toward the middle school-aged student, however, older lower school students will certainly gain a few take-aways. 

9. idea Museum

The idea Museum in Mesa focuses on creativity and innovation, offering exhibits that blend art with STEM learning. With hands-on displays and activities, children can explore engineering, robotics, and the connections between art and technology. The museum also hosts STEM-related workshops that allow kids to dive deeper into creative problem-solving.

Why it’s great for STEM: By combining art and science, the museum encourages creative thinking and introduces children to the innovative aspects of STEM fields. This museum tailored to the kindergarten through fourth grade audience, and another great place to have an educational birthday party for your child. 

10. Taliesin West in Scottsdale

Taliesin West in Scottsdale, the former winter home and studio of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, offers a unique opportunity for students to explore architecture, design, and engineering. Located in Scottsdale, this National Historic Landmark showcases Wright’s innovative use of materials and sustainable design principles. Through interactive tours and hands-on workshops, students learn about organic architecture, which integrates buildings with their natural surroundings, and explore the role of geometry, physics, and engineering in creating functional, aesthetic structures.

Why it’s great for STEM: Taliesin West provides students with a firsthand look at how creativity and STEM come together in architecture, inspiring a deeper understanding of how design, engineering, and nature intersect. Much of what is covered on a tour will most likely be lost on a lower school student, however, middle school students will find Taliesin surprisingly interesting.

Exploring STEM outside of the classroom can help lower school students in the Phoenix Valley develop a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering, and math. Whether it’s through hands-on exhibits, nature explorations, or interactive workshops, these local destinations provide the perfect opportunities to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning. By visiting these 10 places, children can not only improve their STEM skills but also gain a greater appreciation for the world around them.