Photo: Edward Bass
Photo: Civano Nursery - Retail Location
Photo: Julie Schwartz
Civano Nursery - Retail Location
★4.4(311 reviews)$Farm
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Preschoolers enjoy exploring the sensory experience of different plants and textures, while elementary-aged kids can actively participate in the weekend gardening workshops and learn hands-on skills they can use at home.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Civano Nursery offers a unique blend of garden exploration and tasty treats that makes it a surprisingly delightful outing for families. Kids can wander through rows of colorful plants and learn about growing things, while the on-site bakery provides fresh pastries as a sweet reward for budding gardeners.
Highlights
- ✓On-site bakery with fresh pastries and treats
- ✓Weekend family gardening workshops with hands-on learning
- ✓Kid-friendly plant selection area with colorful, touchable varieties
- ✓Opportunity for children to pick their own plant to care for at home
- ✓Educational experience about where food and plants come from
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekend mornings to snag a spot in the popular family gardening workshops,they tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons
- 2.Let kids pick out their own small plant or seed packet to take home, giving them ownership over a gardening project and extending the learning experience
- 3.Start your visit at the bakery to grab treats first, then use them as motivation as you explore (or save them as a mid-visit snack break)
- 4.Bring a wagon or stroller for younger children as they may tire walking through the entire nursery
- 5.Ask staff about kid-friendly plant varieties that are hard to kill,succulents and herbs make great starter plants for little gardeners
Best Time to Visit
Weekend mornings between 9:00-11:00 AM are ideal when the bakery items are freshest and educational workshops are typically scheduled. Spring (March-May) offers the most comfortable weather and peak plant selection for Arizona gardening season.
What to Know
This is a working retail nursery, so supervision is important around plant displays and gardening tools. The bakery accepts cash and card, and there's ample parking on-site. Workshop costs vary, so call ahead to inquire about schedules and registration.
Seasonal Notes
Spring (March-May) is the prime visiting season with the best plant selection and most comfortable outdoor temperatures. Summer months (June-August) can be very hot in Arizona, so visit early in the day. Fall offers another great growing season with cooler weather and special workshops.
Nearby Eats
Viro's Real Italian Bakery is just a few miles away on Houghton Road for authentic pizza and Italian fare. For quick family meals, In-N-Out Burger is nearby on the corner of Houghton and Valencia.
More Activities Near Civano
Farm
Civano Growers - Wholesale Plant Nursery
★4.1Free❤️8
While Civano Growers operates primarily as a wholesale plant nursery during the week, it transforms into a delightful Sunday farmers market that's perfect for family outings. Kids can explore fresh produce stands, sample artisan treats, and enjoy live music in a relaxed community setting where they'll learn about where their food comes from while parents shop for farm-fresh goodies.
Restaurant
The Breakroom at Civano
$❤️7
The Breakroom at Civano is a welcoming neighborhood restaurant that makes dining out with kids stress-free and enjoyable. With its relaxed casual atmosphere, dedicated kids menu, and spacious patio seating, parents can actually relax while children enjoy their meals. The restaurant hosts regular community events that bring local families together, making it a true neighborhood gathering spot.
Playground
Civano Community School
Free
Civano Community School offers a welcoming neighborhood playground that's perfect for after-school and weekend play. With thoughtfully designed age-appropriate equipment, ample shade structures to beat the Arizona heat, and secure fencing for peace of mind, it's a reliable spot for local families seeking a safe, no-cost play option.
Adventure
Anza Trail School
Free
The Anza Trail system in Civano offers families a safe, accessible network of paved and natural paths perfect for introducing young children to outdoor adventures. With gentle terrain winding through desert landscapes, it's ideal for leisurely family bike rides, nature walks, and spotting local wildlife like rabbits, roadrunners, and various desert birds.