Best Zoo Alternative
Liberty Wildlife
Liberty cares for more than 10,000 animals annually, from reptiles and small mammals to endangered avian species like raptors and condors. Though primarily a wildlife rehabilitation center, Liberty opens its doors to the public three days a week (Wed., Sat., Sun., $10 admission) so visitors can experience up-close interactions with the creatures. 2600 E. Elwood St., Phoenix, 480-998-5550, libertywildlife.org
Best Driver Education
DrivingMBA
Is there anything more unnerving for parents of teens than letting them get behind the wheel for the first time? This driving school assuages anxiety for all involved with comprehensive curricula ranging from a permit prep course and basic car maintenance to a parent coaching course and driving simulators. There are offerings for seniors, first-time adult drivers and drivers with learning challenges as well. Two Valley locations, 480-568-4390, drivingmba.com
Best Energy-Suck for Spazzy 10-Year-Olds
Ninja Zone at Impact Gymnastics Academy
The way this North-Central athletics center decribes its daily parkour and fitness clinic is much nicer: “a program providing children with a unique channel to redirect their energy.” Primarily designed for boys 3-11, it lets them jump, throw, tumble and kick to their dopamine-addled little hearts’ content – minus the swords and throwing stars, of course. 7812 N. 12th St. Phoenix 602-870-7574, impactgymaz.com
Best Winter Wonderland
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Every year, the venerable Scottsdale resort transforms 65 acres of its property into the North Pole. “Christmas at the Princess” features the requisite giant illuminated tree, but also 7.5 million sparkling lights, 128 fire pits and igloos outfitted with s’mores kits, Santa meet-and-greets, an ice rink, holiday-themed shops scattered throughout the resort and a boozy ice lounge (different than an ice luge, though they have that, too). 7575 E. Princess Dr., Scottsdale, 480-585-4848, christmasattheprincess.com
