10 Things to do in Phoenix in the summer
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When I first visited Phoenix, I was immediately struck by how the city comes alive in the summer. As someone who loves exploring new places, I found the sun-soaked days in Phoenix to be both energizing and inspiring. Despite the heat, I discovered that summer here offers a unique set of experiences that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Waking up to clear blue skies, I would start my mornings with a hike in the nearby desert trails, taking in the breathtaking views of cacti and rugged mountains. The city’s architecture fascinated me, especially when the sunlight cast dramatic shadows on the buildings. In the afternoons, I cooled off by visiting some of Phoenix’s fascinating museums and art galleries, where I learned about the rich history and culture of Arizona.
Evenings in Phoenix were my favorite. I enjoyed dining al fresco, sampling Southwestern cuisine under string lights, and later, joining locals at lively bars and music venues. There’s something special about the way Phoenix’s nightlife thrums with energy after the sun goes down.
If you’re planning to visit Phoenix in the summer, don’t let the heat deter you. The list below includes activities and places I discovered that truly made my summer in Phoenix memorable.
The best things to do in Phoenix in the summer
1. Visit The SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium
When the summer heat in Phoenix feels relentless, I’ve found a cool and fascinating escape. The highlight for me at SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium was walking through the long, blue 360-degree ocean tunnel; being so close to sharks, rays, and colorful fish was nothing short of magical.
Visiting with my family made the experience even more special. We spent extra time at the turtle rescue reef, watched blue rays glide overhead, and marveled at starfish displays. The staff was genuinely friendly and eager to answer my kids’ questions, making our visit both fun and educational.
If you’re looking for an adventure that’s perfect for all ages and a great way to beat the heat, SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium is a must-visit.
2. Get adventurous at the Salt River
No summer in Phoenix would be complete without an Arizonian Summer Adventure, and my absolute favorite spot for this is the Salt River. The first time I camped along the Salt River, I was amazed by how the desert landscape transformed at sunset and how peaceful the nights could be, even in the height of summer.
Camping here was surprisingly comfortable, with amenities that made it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. During the day, I joined a guided rafting tour, and navigating the gentle and sometimes wild currents was exhilarating.
For those who love land adventures, jeep tours and ATV rides through the Sonoran Desert are an absolute thrill. I even had the chance to ride horseback and channel my inner cowboy, spotting wild horses along the riverbanks, which felt like stepping back in time.
Whether you’re into rafting, tubing, kayaking, or exploring the desert on an ATV, the Salt River area has something for every adventurer. I recommend checking out Salt River Rafting and Arizona Outdoor Fun for tours; their guides made my experience truly unforgettable and helped me plan the perfect summer escape in the Arizona wilderness.
3. Explore wildlife at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park
One of my most memorable summer outings near Phoenix was a trip to the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium, and Safari Park in Litchfield Park. Although it’s a short drive from the city, it felt like I’d traveled all the way to the African savannah. The 215-acre park was alive with the sounds of exotic animals, and the summer heat only added to the authentic safari atmosphere.
What made my visit truly special was the variety of experiences. I loved feeding the giraffes at the Giraffe Feeding Station. It was incredible to be so close to these gentle giants. Taking the Australian Boat Ride and the African Safari Train gave me a chance to see many animals up close, while the Baby Animal Nursery melted my heart with its adorable residents.
The park also offered hands-on adventures like Lory Parrot Feeding and the Children’s Petting Zoo, which were hits with my family. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to discover, from the Tropics of the World Reptiles to the playful small mammals in Dragon World. My day at the Wildlife World Zoo was packed with fun, learning, and moments I’ll never forget.
4. Admire nature in Desert Botanical Garden
Before my visit, I assumed the desert was just home to cacti and a few hardy shrubs. But walking through the garden quickly changed my perspective.
I was blown away by the sheer diversity of plants, bursts of color everywhere, from blooming wildflowers to rare succulents and towering saguaros. The garden’s design made every turn a new discovery, and the geometric patterns of the Rotraut sculpture added an artistic touch that made me pause and admire.
The Cactus Clubhouse at the center of the garden was a highlight, especially for kids and anyone curious about how these plants thrive. What made my summer visit even more special was the live music drifting through the garden, bands and artists performed as the sun set, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
If you’re curious about the true beauty and variety of desert plants, I can’t recommend the Desert Botanical Garden enough. It’s a place where education, art, and relaxation blend perfectly for a memorable summer day.
5. Spend an enjoyable day at Golfland SunSplash
The first time I went there, I spent the morning playing mini-golf with friends, enjoying the friendly competition and laughter. When the sun got hotter, I couldn’t wait to cool off at the water park section. Speeding down water slides and relaxing in the wave pool felt like the ultimate summer refreshment.
After working up an appetite, grabbing a slice of pizza from their restaurant hit the spot. The fun didn’t stop there; the arcade offered a great break from the heat, and I found myself getting competitive with classic and new video games alike. Go-karts, bumper boats, and bumper cars added even more excitement to the day.
Golfland Sunsplash has something for everyone, especially families with kids. Every visit feels like a mini adventure, and it’s always a highlight of my summers in Phoenix.
6. Go for Indoor Skydiving
One of the most exciting indoor activities I tried during a Phoenix summer was indoor skydiving at iFly Phoenix. The professional skydivers explained how everything worked, helped me suit up, and gave a quick training session, so I knew exactly what to expect.
Stepping into the vertical wind tunnel was a rush! The sensation of floating and free-falling, all while being completely safe indoors, was absolutely exhilarating. It felt like real skydiving, but without having to jump out of a plane. For anyone who’s curious about skydiving or a bit hesitant to try the real thing, this experience is the perfect introduction.
I left iFly Phoenix with a huge smile, already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a unique and adrenaline-pumping way to beat the summer heat, I highly recommend giving indoor skydiving a try.
7. Visit the Oak Creek Canyon
Some of my favorite summer memories in Arizona involve following a water trail, and Oak Creek Canyon is the perfect place for this kind of adventure.
I joined a guided jeep tour to get the most out of the area, and it was a fantastic way to cover more ground while learning about the canyon’s history and natural beauty. For those who love to hike, the trails along the creek offer incredible views at every turn, with plenty of spots to pause and soak in the scenery.
Whether you’re up for a trek or want to relax by the water, Oak Creek Canyon is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the summer heat and enjoy some of Arizona’s best landscapes.
8. Spend relaxing time at the Japanese Friendship Garden
One of the most peaceful escapes I’ve found in Phoenix during the summer is the Japanese Friendship Garden.
The garden is filled with lush flora, beautifully arranged limestone rocks, and intricate Japanese carvings. The small waterfall and expansive water features create a soothing atmosphere that’s perfect for slowing down and enjoying the present moment.
I even saw a few visitors quietly meditating by the water’s edge, which inspired me to pause and soak in the tranquility.
Spanning 3.5 acres, the garden also features a traditional tea garden and tea house. I took my time wandering the winding paths, admiring the thoughtful landscaping and serene beauty. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect or simply want to experience a taste of Japanese culture without leaving Phoenix, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a hidden gem worth visiting in the heart of the city.
9. Visit The Phoenix Zoo
You would find a variety of flora and fauna in the Phoenix Zoo. The zoo has been spread over 125 acres and has a variety of sections where you would find animals living in natural habitats. The staff is very friendly and the atmosphere here is jolly.
Among the adventures, you will find Arizona Trail, Africa Trail, Tropics Trails, Children’s Trails, Camel Rides, Wild horses and much more. You can organize field trips, night camps and educational programs in the zoo as well. If you are an environment enthusiast, you would love the sanctuaries and reserves here.
10. Try some Craft Beers at Walter Station Brewery
Located on Washington Street in Phoenix is the Walter Station Brewery popular for the variety of its craft beer offerings and delicious food. They are also known for having non alcoholic beers and vegetarian food options.
Many fun events including Trivia nights and fun free play games are organized about which they always post on their Facebook page. Moreover, the Walter Station Brewery has live music and dj on the weekends.
Where to stay in Phoenix
During my summer stay in Phoenix, I chose to base myself in the Downtown neighborhood. And I couldn’t have made a better decision. Being at the center of the city’s historical and cultural hub meant I was always within walking distance of great restaurants, museums, and shopping. There was never a dull moment, and I loved the urban energy that Downtown Phoenix offers.
For accommodations, I explored a few different options:
Budget: On a tighter budget, I opted for SureStay Hotel by Best Western. The rooms were spacious, clean, and comfortable, and I appreciated the outdoor swimming pool for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. The free parking and airport shuttle were a huge plus, making it super convenient.
Mid-Range: Another time, I stayed at the Hyatt Regency in Downtown. It quickly became a favorite. Beautiful rooms with modern amenities and an unbeatable location. I enjoyed dining at the revolving rooftop restaurant, taking in incredible views of the city and mountains.
Luxury: For a special treat, I splurged on a stay at the Kimpton Hotel. The design and comfort of the rooms were top-notch, and the in-room spa services were a real luxury. My favorite spot was the rooftop pool and bar, where I could soak in stunning views of Phoenix.
Whether I was exploring art galleries, enjoying the city’s food scene, or relaxing by the pool, Downtown Phoenix gave me the perfect home base for my summer adventures. No matter your travel style or budget, you’ll find the right place to stay and plenty to do in this vibrant city.
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