Theme parties for children can be a creative way to entertain guests and make memories that last a lifetime. With a little extra thought and planning, it’s easy to make your party more eco-friendly. Start by removing the throwaways and adding recycled art projects. Instead of goodie bags, give party guests one memorable item to take home. If hosting a house party is something you would rather avoid, try one of these venues and let the experts do the rest.
Butterfly Wonderland
9500 E. Via de Ventura, ScottsdaleÂ
A rainforest oasis houses lush tropical plants and thousands of butterflies. Packages include a tour, and private party space.
480-800-3000
butterflywonderland.com
Mother Nature’s Farm
1663 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert
For parties of ten or more, children can enjoy hayrides, the Alexander Adventure maze, animals and an air bounce.
480-892-5874
mothernaturesfarm.com
Arizona Museum of Natural History
53 N. Macdonald St., Mesa
Arizona Museum of Natural History has dinosaurs that roar and so much more! Birthday party memories last a lifetime. The museum has 65 million years to share. For more information on booking a birthday party, contact alison.stoltman@mesaaz.gov.
480-644-3553
azmnh.org
Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park
4050 East Chandler Heights Road, Chandler
The Chandler Environmental Education Center offers nature-themed parties for ages 3 to 13 with activities such as planting seeds and creating garden-themed souvenirs, fishing, hunting for bugs, camp-outs and even treasure hunts.
480-782-2890
chandleraz.gov
Tucson Village Farm
4210 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson
Along with camps and harvest festivals, Tucson Farm Village hosts green birthday parties, in which the farm itself is the decor, the party favors are edible, the cake is made from melon, and the money stays local.
520-626-5161
tucsonvillagefarm.org
Freestone Railroad
1021 E. Juniper Ave., Gilbert
Freestone Railroad has rides such as the Sante Fe Style Engine, carousel, mini Ferris wheel, and waterless wave ride for children ages 2-10. Customized packages available.
480-632-2702
freestonerr.com
Desert Breeze Railroad
660 N. Desert Breeze Blvd. E., Chandler
An outdoor party option for kids ages 2-10, the Desert Breeze Railroad features an antique carousel ride, a snack bar with treats, and a scenic three-quarter mile tour of the park on the 1880’s Replica Engine. Customized packages available.
480-893-6652
desertbreezerr.com
