🌞 20 Cool Ways to Beat the Heat in Maricopa County This Summer

Let’s face it—Arizona summers are no joke. But while the temps climb into the triple digits, the Valley of the Sun offers endless ways to chill out, cool off, and soak up the fun. Whether you’re splashing in wave pools or floating the river, there’s no reason to stay cooped up.

Here are 20 fun, family-friendly, and oh-so-cool ways to stay cool this summer in Maricopa County.

1. 🌊 Splash Into Hurricane Harbor Phoenix

Glendale, AZ
The Valley’s largest water park! With adrenaline-pumping slides, a lazy river, and a massive wave pool, it’s a summer must.
👉 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310

2. 🚣 Float the Salt River

Grab a tube and cruise the Lower Salt River in Mesa. It’s refreshing, scenic, and totally Arizona.
👉 Start at Salt River Tubing – 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215

3. 💦 Ride the Slides at Golfland Sunsplash

Mesa, AZ
With over 30 water attractions and night splash events, this classic park offers nonstop thrills for all ages.
👉 155 W Hampton Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210

4. 🧊 Chill at Ice Den Scottsdale or Chandler

Skate your way to coolness with public sessions and icy temps. Bonus: hot cocoa in the summer feels rebellious.
👉 Scottsdale: 9375 E Bell Rd | Chandler: 7225 W Harrison St

5. 🌴 Visit Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Pack your paddleboards, jet skis, or picnic baskets for a water-filled lake day. Rentals available!
👉 41835 N Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown, AZ 85342

6. 🏖️ Escape to Bartlett Lake

Less crowded than other lakes, this hidden gem is perfect for wakeboarding, kayaking, or chill boat days.
👉 20808 E Bartlett Dam Rd, Rio Verde, AZ 85263

7. 🏊‍♂️ Dive into a Local City Pool

From Desert Oasis Aquatic Center in Chandler to El Mirage Splash Pad, city pools across the Valley offer low-cost fun.
👉 Check your local Parks & Rec website for hours and pricing

8. ☁️ Explore the OdySea Aquarium

Scottsdale, AZ
Get face-to-fin with sharks, otters, and stingrays in a cool 72°F indoor wonderland.
👉 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

9. 🎳 Strike It Cool at Main Event or Bowlero

Enjoy cosmic bowling, arcades, and food—all in chilled, neon-lit spaces across the Valley.
👉 Multiple locations in Tempe, Avondale, Gilbert, and Glendale

10. ❄️ Experience the Arizona Science Center’s “Forces of Nature”

Phoenix, AZ
Let the interactive wind tunnel and fog machine zone cool you off while learning something new.
👉 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

11. 🍨 Cool Treat Crawl – Local Ice Cream Favorites

Try local legends like:

Sweet Republic (Scottsdale)
Novel Ice Cream (Phoenix)
Churn (Midtown PHX)
Treat yo’self with small-batch scoops, milkshakes, or boozy floats!

12. 🧊 Snow Room at Joya Spa, Omni Scottsdale

Yes—it’s real snow. Book a luxury spa day and step into their 40°F snow room after a steam.
👉 4949 E Lincoln Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253

13. 🎥 Take in a Movie at a Dine-In Theater

Cuddle up with a cold drink and popcorn at:

Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square
AMC Esplanade
RoadHouse Cinemas (Scottsdale)

14. 🌧️ Visit Butterfly Wonderland

It’s lush, cool, and peaceful. Plus, misty air inside keeps it rainforest-fresh.
👉 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

15. 🍷 Sip and Chill at a Cold Tasting Room

AZ Wine Collective (Gilbert)
The Whining Pig (multiple locations)
LDV Winery Tasting Room (Old Town Scottsdale)
Wine flights > heatwaves.

16. 🎮 Dive Into Virtual Reality or Arcades

Places like Legacy Adventures Park and Dave & Buster’s offer all-ages gaming, food, and A/C.
👉 Tempe Marketplace, Desert Ridge & more

17. ☕ Visit a Desert-Themed Café with Cold Brews

Try Provision Coffee in Uptown or Sip Coffee & Beer Garage in Arcadia for trendy interiors and icy lattes.
Perfect for coworking or escaping the sun.

18. 🌌 Night Swim at a Resort Pool

Resorts like The Camby, JW Marriott Desert Ridge, and Arizona Grand host public night swims and DJ pool parties.
Day passes available on ResortPass!

19. 🐬 SeaLife Arizona Aquarium

Located in Arizona Mills Mall, this smaller aquarium is a great cool-down for families and little ones.
👉 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282

20. 🌄 Sunset at Dobbins Lookout (South Mountain)

Drive up in the evening, roll down your windows, and take in the breeze and golden desert skies—perfect way to end the day.
👉 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042

💧 Stay Cool, AZ-Style

Whether you’re floating the river, catching indoor thrills, or sipping iced lattes in A/C, Maricopa County offers endless ways to enjoy summer without melting. Try a few, or turn this list into a local challenge with your friends and family!

If you’re new to the area—or considering relocating—reach out to Allicia Roza-Carrozza at BestOfAzHomes.com for insider tips, neighborhood recommendations, and where to live near your favorite summer spots!