Arizona is a beautiful state, no doubt, but this is another one of those attractions that you can stop at one spot along the route and see it all. Much like the Grand Canyon. Once you've seen it, no reason to go back. Beautiful place, very different from the Eastern U.S., but a boring place to visit. I can't imagine children enjoying visiting this place at all. Entrance fee was $10 for two people in a car which is a great price considering it costs a lot of money to maintain a national park.
Take drinks and snacks because it's a long slow drive from one end to the other and nothing in between.

Most folks drive right past the Petrified Forrest National Park/Painted Desert on their way to the Grand Canyon without so much as turning their heads. This is a huge mistake. Arizona is blessed with two of the most awesome National Parks in America so close together. The Painted Desert is outstanding. The color palate is breathtaking, and some of the formations look like a mini-Grand Canyon. You have just got to see this place to believe it and understand what I'm talking about. It is a shame for anyone visiting the Grand Canyon to not drive a few extra miles and visit the Painted Desert. Please take the time to visit this national treasure. It is unique and unlike anything you will ever see.

The petrified forest is simply very unique. you drive through and just see wood everywhere, sorta like a pumpkin patch. However, you keep driving, you stop take pictures, and look at the incredible colors of the minerals on the wood. There are a lot of other things besides the petrified forest itself, other natural creations that are so pretty. There are a lot of different wildlife, I saw some weird, harmless bug that was white and fuzzy, and lizards. We took a hike at the painted desert, and it was really pretty. Especially around sunset, the time we went, and you just see the colors of the rocks, in different shades. It is not too expensive, and is very different, but if you like parks and seeing unique things and natural attractions this a place you must go to. It is really nice and calm. They also got their gift shops, so you may buy some petrified rock, or other cool things.