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Best Places to Cool Off in Arizona
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items Arizona summers are HOT—and we’re not just talking about the weather. 🌞🔥 But don’t let the triple digits kill your vibe! Whether you’re a local trying to escape the sun or a visitor ready to explore, there’s no shortage of cool (literally) ways to ...
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Indoor Art Experiences & Summer Hideouts
Must-Visit Water Parks & Splash Pads in Arizona
Family Day Out: Adventures Everyone Will Love
Indoor Art Experiences & Summer Hideouts
When Arizona’s relentless sun cranks up the heat, I always look for ways to stay cool without missing out on the fun. That’s why I created Best Places to Cool Off in Arizona—my go-to guide for finding the best spots to beat the blaze. From beautifull...
Looking to beat the Arizona heat? AZ Ice Peoria is your go-to destination for year-round ice skating fun. Whether you're planning a family outing, birthday party, date night, or looking to join a hockey league or skating class, this indoor ice rink o...
AZ Ice Arcadia | Premier Ice Skating Rink in Phoenix for Hockey, Lessons & Family Fun
This is one of my favorite places to cool down and recharge creatively during the summer. The exhibits here are always so thoughtfully curated—I've been moved by everything from contemporary installations to classic works. One of my favorite experien...
Phoenix Art Museum | Top Art Exhibits, Events & Cultural Experiences in Arizona
This is one of my go-to spots for a relaxed yet chic summer hangout. I love the mix of shopping, dining, and shaded splash pad areas that make it feel luxurious without being too stuffy. On especially hot days, I’ll pop into my favorite boutiques or ...
Scottsdale Fashion Square | Ultimate Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Destination
This place is such a fun and unexpected way to beat the Arizona heat—especially if you love interactive experiences. I went with friends and we all felt like kids again exploring the hands-on exhibits. From the giant planetarium to the physics experi...
Arizona Science Center | Interactive Exhibits, Family Fun & STEM Learning in Phoenix
This museum is such a magical space for kids—and honestly, it brings out the kid in adults too! I took my little cousins here and we ended up spending hours exploring the hands-on exhibits, climbing the giant play structure, and getting creative in t...
Children’s Museum | Interactive Play, Learning & Family Fun Activities
Great Skate is one of my favorite spots to cool off and have a blast all at once. The vibe is super fun and welcoming, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater. I’ve spent countless afternoons gliding around the rink here, and there’s nothing l...
Great Skate | Premier Roller Skating Rink for Family Fun & Events
As You Wish Pottery is such a creative oasis and a perfect way to unwind on a hot Arizona day. I love how inviting and relaxed the studio feels—you can really let your imagination run wild while painting your own pottery piece. One of my favorite mem...
As You Wish Pottery | Creative Pottery Studio & Paint-Your-Own Ceramics Experience
This place is such a treat in the summer—huge, air-conditioned, and packed with interactive exhibits. One of my favorite moments was watching the sea turtles glide through the water—it was mesmerizing. I recommend timing your visit to catch the rotat...
OdySea Aquarium | Arizona’s Premier Marine Life Experience & Family Attraction
Spin Art Studio is such a lively and colorful way to beat the summer heat while unleashing your creativity. I love the energy here—the spinning canvases, the splash of paint everywhere, and the pure joy of watching your artwork come to life with ever...
Spin Art Studio | Fun, Creative Art Experience for Kids & Families
The Musical Instrument Museum is such a fascinating and immersive experience—it’s like taking a world tour through sound! I was amazed by the incredible variety of instruments from every corner of the globe, and the interactive exhibits made it so mu...
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) | Explore Global Music & Interactive Exhibits in Phoenix
This spot is truly one of my happy places in Phoenix! I came here on a whim one afternoon and ended up staying way longer than planned—there’s just something so comforting about sipping a latte with a cuddly cat curled up next to you. The space feels...
PHX Cat Cafe | Cozy Spot for Cat Lovers, Coffee & Relaxation in Phoenix
Exploring the Desert Botanical Garden feels like stepping into a living desert dream. The vibrant cacti, blooming succulents, and unique desert flora are breathtaking—especially at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is magical. I’ve gone on both sol...
Desert Botanical Garden | Explore Stunning Desert Plants & Outdoor Exhibits in Phoenix
Must-Visit Water Parks & Splash Pads in Arizona
When the desert sun cranks up the heat, nothing beats jumping into some splash-tastic fun to cool off! I’ve spent countless summer days at Arizona’s water parks, and honestly, they’re pure joy—from thrilling water slides that get your adrenaline pump...
If you're looking for a staycation with major water park vibes, this is it! I went with friends for a weekend and we felt like kids again on the water slides. It’s indoors, so no sunburn worries, and the atmosphere is playful and fun. Great for famil...
Great Wolf Lodge Arizona | Family-Friendly Indoor Waterpark & Resort Getaway
Lake Pleasant has been one of my favorite escapes when I want to trade city buzz for wide-open nature and water fun. Whether I’m out on a boat watching the sun sparkle on the water or hiking one of the scenic trails that wind through the desert lands...
Lake Pleasant Arizona | Outdoor Recreation & Water Activities Near Phoenix
Slide Rock State Park is hands down one of my favorite spots to beat the Arizona heat and have a blast outdoors. There’s something incredibly fun and nostalgic about sliding down those natural red rock water chutes—every visit feels like a mini adven...
Slide Rock State Park | Natural Water Slide & Scenic Hiking in Arizona’s Red Rocks
Rescue Oasis Water Park quickly became one of my favorite summer escapes for cooling off and having a blast with friends and family. The variety of slides and splash zones keeps the fun fresh every time I visit, whether I’m chasing thrills on the big...
Rescue Oasis Water Park | Family-Friendly Splash Zone & Outdoor Fun in Arizona
Golfland Sunsplash is one of my favorite all-in-one summer hangouts to beat the Arizona heat and have nonstop fun. Whether I’m racing down thrilling water slides, cooling off in the wave pool, or challenging friends to a round of mini-golf, there’s a...
Golfland Sunsplash | Family Fun Waterpark & Mini Golf in Phoenix, Arizona
Revel Surf in Mesa is such a cool spot to escape the heat and catch some waves right here in the desert! I tried it with friends and was blown away by how fun and accessible the flowrider wave pool is—even if you’ve never surfed before, the instructo...
Revel Surf | Indoor Surfing & Flowrider Experience in Phoenix, Arizona
Surprise Aquatic Center is one of my favorite local spots to cool off and enjoy a fun, refreshing day by the pool. I love the mix of activities here—from swimming laps to relaxing in the splash area with the kids. The facility is clean, well-maintain...
Surprise Aquatic Center | Family-Friendly Swimming & Recreation in Surprise, AZ
Rose Lane Aquatic Center is a true hidden gem when it comes to beating the Arizona heat with a splash. I’ve enjoyed many relaxing afternoons here, whether swimming laps or just floating in the cool, clean water. The center has a welcoming community f...
Rose Lane Aquatic Center | Community Swimming & Fitness Facility in Phoenix, AZ
Foothills Recreation & Aquatic Center is one of my favorite spots to cool down and stay active during those hot Arizona days. I love the mix of amenities—from the refreshing pools and water slides to the fitness center and outdoor trails nearby. ...
Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center
Family Day Out: Adventures Everyone Will Love
Looking for activities the whole crew will love? This section is packed with exciting, family-approved fun—from splash-worthy water spots and interactive museums to epic playgrounds and unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, ente...
Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is such a quirky and entertaining spot that always brings a smile to my face! I love getting up close to the ostriches and other friendly farm animals—you can actually feed them right from your hand, which is such a uniq...
Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch | Family-Friendly Animal Adventure Near Phoenix
Out of Africa Wildlife Park is one of my favorite places to get up close and personal with incredible wildlife in a stunning desert setting. I’ve loved watching the live animal shows and feeding experiences—they’re thrilling, educational, and perfect...
Out of Africa Wildlife Park | Live Animal Shows & Safari Adventures in Arizona
Amadio Ranch is a wonderful hidden gem where I love escaping the city to enjoy some fresh air and nature. Whether you’re wandering the scenic trails, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking in the peaceful rural vibes, this spot feels like a quiet retre...
Amadio Ranch | Organic Farm, Homemade Pies & Community Events in Laveen, AZ
Tolmachoff Farms is one of those charming local spots that instantly feels like a little slice of country right here in Arizona. I love visiting during the cooler months for their fresh produce, pumpkin patches, and seasonal events that make every tr...
Tolmachoff Farms | Family-Friendly Fall Fun & U-Pick Produce in Glendale, AZ
Fountain Hills is one of my favorite spots to escape the heat and soak up some stunning Arizona views. The iconic fountain is mesmerizing to watch, shooting water high into the sky, and the surrounding park offers plenty of shaded areas perfect for r...
Fountain Hills Park | Iconic 560-Foot Fountain & Family-Friendly Recreation
Bearizona is such a unique and unforgettable way to experience wildlife right here in Arizona! I’ve driven through the park a few times and love how close you can get to animals like bears, bison, and wolves—all from the comfort of your car. It feels...
Bearizona Wildlife Park | Drive-Thru Safari & Walk-Thru Animal Encounters in Williams, AZ