Phoenix in the summer can feel like living inside an oven. With temperatures regularly soaring above 100°F, finding ways to stay cool is essential. Luckily, Phoenix offers plenty of options to beat the heat and have a blast doing it. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these tips and activities will help you stay refreshed and entertained all summer long. Plus, using our professional transportation services can make your outings even more enjoyable and stress-free.
Water Parks & Pools to Beat the Heat
Phoenix is home to some amazing water parks are perfect for cooling down. From family friendly water parks to resort pool parties, there’s a way to beat the heat of the summer for everyone.
Top Water Parks
- Hurricane Harbor: With a variety of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone at Hurricane Harbor.
- Oasis Water Park: Built across 7 acres at Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, this water park boasts 8-story thrill slides, a giant wave pool, a 25 person hot tub, the Valley’s only side-by-side active river, and Wild Cat Springs which is perfect for younger children.
- Golfland Sunsplash: This park offers a mix of water attractions and mini-golf, making it perfect for a full day of fun.
- Great Wolf Lodge: If you’re looking to make a splash out of the sun, Great Wolf Lodge in Scottsdale is a full indoor waterpark.
Pool Parties
- Lylo Swim Club: Lylo tempts locals and hotel guests alike by offering deliciously refreshing cocktails and an all-day menu of Sonoran-inspired eats. Open daily in Uptown Phoenix’s only boutique hotel. And if you’re a Disney World fan like me, be sure to try their adult Dole-Whip.
- Maya Day Club: Maya Day Club in Scottsdale is the ultimate playground for those who seek the perfect fusion of sun-kissed fun and sultry sophistication. With cabanas, poolside tables and its high-energy dance floor, Maya sets the stage for unforgettable parties where every moment can capture excitement over and over again. Maya Day Club is a favorite stop with our bachelorette and bachelor party groups.
- Oasis Pool Party: Enjoy the ultimate pool party series with celebrity guests and catch the hottest, internationally recognized DJs, LIVE at the Oasis Pool on select Saturdays of each month, May – September. The upcoming musical guest is Two Friends on July 27th.
Salt River Tubing
The Ultimate Cool-Down Adventure: Salt River Tubing is a summer staple in the Phoenix area. Imagine floating down a lazy river, surrounded by stunning desert scenery, with nothing but cool water and good company. It’s the perfect way to escape the heat and soak up some natural beauty. You may even spot some wild horses running along the riverbank!
Getting There: Getting to the Salt River can be a bit of a trek, but that’s where we come in handy. Imagine not having to worry about parking or coordinating carpooling. You can relax and enjoy the ride, knowing you’re in good hands.
Beat the Heat with Boat Excursions
Exploring Arizona’s Lakes
Phoenix might be a desert city, but it’s surrounded by beautiful lakes perfect for cooling off. Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, and Canyon Lake are all within driving distance and offer a variety of water activities.
Some of our favorite lake activities:
- Dolly Steamboat: take a nature cruise on Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake
- Westside Recreation: rent pontoons and other water equipment – they even have boats with slides!
- Paqua Park: a floating obstacle course on Lake Pleasant
- Lake Havasu: take a day trip to Lake Havasu to cool down in the water and check out the London Bridge
- Slide Rock: take a day trip to Sedona and to experience Slide Rock, a natural waterslide through the red rocks. Experience more of Sedona with one of our Sedona Tours!
Transportation Tips
Getting to these lakes is much easier with group transportation. No need to worry about having a designated driver or carpooling with multiple vehicles. We can take care of all the logistics, so you can focus on having fun. Our most popular options are our Mercedes Sprinters. The Mercedes party buses have limousine style bench seating and room to stand up and move around. Or we have executive style vans that have individual leather seats that provide luxury and comfort during your ride.
Stay Cool Indoors to Beat the Heat
When the heat becomes too much, heading indoors is a great option. Phoenix has a variety of air-conditioned attractions that offer both entertainment and education.
Museums and Galleries:
- Heard Museum: This museum showcases Native American art and culture. It’s a fascinating way to spend an afternoon and stay cool.
- Phoenix Art Museum: With a diverse collection of art from around the world, this museum is a great place to explore and beat the heat.
- Arizona Science Center: Perfect for families, the Science Center offers hands-on exhibits that are both fun and educational.
- Odysea Aquarium: Not only is the Odysea Aquarium a walk-through experience, there are touch pools, movie shorts, and the world’s only rotating aquarium which is an absolute can’t miss! Oh, and be sure to check out the restroom right through the front doors for a cool view.
Entertainment Venues: Indoor sports arenas, movie theaters, and escape rooms are also great options. Catching a movie or watching a local sports game can be a fun and refreshing way to spend a hot day. My go-to activity in the summer is catching a Dbacks Game at Chase Field. Nothing beats a hot dog and a cold drink while enjoying America’s pastime.
Dining and Shopping: Phoenix has numerous indoor malls and cool dining spots. Arizona Mills and Scottsdale Fashion Square are perfect for shopping and dining without breaking a sweat.
Evening and Night Activities
When the sun sets, the temperatures drop, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Evening hikes, nightlife, and other activities are perfect for enjoying the cooler weather.
Evening Hikes: Phoenix has some great hiking trails that are much more enjoyable in the evening. Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak are popular choices. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and a flashlight.
Nightlife: Phoenix has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and entertainment options. Whether you’re into dancing, live music, or just relaxing with a drink, there’s something for everyone. Popular areas around town include Downtown Phoenix, Mill Ave in Tempe, Old Town Scottsdale, and of course, Buffalo Chip in Cave Creek.
Transportation: Using chauffeured transportation for evening outings ensures you have a safe and reliable way to get home. No need to worry about designated drivers or navigating late-night traffic.
Beat the Heat with a Staycation
Phoenix is home to some world-class resorts that offer amazing amenities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat, a family friendly adventure, or an adults only pool party, there’s something for everyone.
Beat the heat with a staycation at some of these top spots:
- The Phoenician: Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician is the epitome of luxury.
- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain: This resort is perfect for couples or individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some tranquility.
- The Scott Resort and Spa: The Scott’s lagoon-like pools, complete with sandy beach areas, create a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
- Hyatt Regency Scottsdale – Gainey Ranch: with 10 swimming pools, a sand beach, and a three-story waterslide, this is a perfect option for families to enjoy.
Or, if you want some time out of the city, escape up north this summer to beat the heat!
Next Steps
Phoenix may be hot in the summer, but with these tips and activities, you can stay cool and have fun. Whether you’re tubing down the Salt River, boating on a lake, or enjoying an indoor attraction, there’s something for everyone. And our transportation services, getting around is easy and stress-free. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to beat the heat!
A 25% non-refundable deposit blocks your vehicle of choice off the schedule. The remaining balance is charged to the card on file 10 days prior to your trip.
