Downtown Phoenix is the Valley’s headquarters for family fun and this week is no exception. Our events calendar is loaded with urban adventures for all ages. Here are some highlights:
This week marks the return of  Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to Downtown and the Fully Charged Tour promises megawatt thrills, breathtaking dare-devilry, superhuman stunts and never-before-seen performances that will rock the entire family.
There’s Tabayara, an animal trainer who communicates with animals on a level even greater than Cesar Millan, allowing him to ride wild stallions, make four-ton Asian Elephants do the Waltz, and face a dozen ferocious tigers inside a cage without any fear of being devoured. You’ll also see Ukrainian strongman duo Dmitry Nadolinkskiy and Ruslan Gilmulin, The Fearless Fernandez Brothers, and Human Fuse, Brian Miser.
If you have an irrational fear of clowns be advised that there will be a lot of them running around as well. Small cars, large shoes, the whole bit.
Get Lost at Arizona Science Center
If you’re like many parents, you have no idea how to keep your kids busy during summer break. Thankfully Arizona Science Center has your bailout plan.
* Discovery and Invention Science Camp runs Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to ages 6-12.
* Mazes: You Won’t Believe  Your Eyes is an interactive lineup of mind-bending adventures including 20 mazes, 3D puzzles and full-body games. The exhibit runs through Sept. 6.
After 5 Mixer at Westin
Let the Greater Phoenix Chamber, Downtown Phoenix Partnership and the City of Phoenix Mayor’s office introduce you to the new Westin Phoenix Downtown during Wednesday’s After 5 Mixer. From 5-7 p.m. enjoy appetizers, a cash bar and great networking with fellow Chamber members and guests while getting an inside look at Downtown’s new hotel and its five-star restaurant, Province.
Taste of Barrio Cafe
Award-winning Central Phoenix restaurant Barrio Cafe is captained by chef Julio Mata, who is helping Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center host an evening of cooking and tasting at the gallery on Thursday. The event runs 6:30-8 p.m. and is open to the public.
Stand Up Live Presents: Bobby Lee
The “MAD TV” alum stops by Downtown’s red-hot comedy club for shows Thursday-Saturday. Before and after the show you can eat and drink at Stand Up Live’s sister club Copper Blues, which features live music, an Aaron May menu, over 60 (!) beers on tap and an expansive deck offering some truly awe-inspiring Downtown views.
Hard Rock Cafe 40th Anniversary Block Party
Help Hard Rock Cafe and 93.3 KDKB celebrate their 40th anniversaries by attending this FREE all-day block party, highlighted by the Hard Rock’s famous memorabilia exhibit and music from Chicks with Picks and Sludge’s Build-A-Band. This family friendly event will feature children’s activities and a beer garden for adults.

Want more? You can download our handy What’s Happening guide each and every Monday.