Summer in the Phoenix area is no joke — the sun is strong, the temps are high, and flip flops might melt to the pavement. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside and wait for cooler weather to return. In fact, the Valley of the Sun offers plenty of exciting, refreshing, and air-conditioned experiences that make summer here surprisingly enjoyable!

Whether you’re planning a visit or looking for a local staycation, here are some of the best things to do when it’s hot out — plus, where to stay to make the most of your trip.

  1. Cool Off at a Water Park or Splash Pad

Nothing says “Arizona summer” like a day in the water.

  • Hurricane Harbor in Glendale features towering slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers — perfect for thrill seekers and chill seekers alike.
  • Traveling with little ones? Local splash pads like Rio Vista Community Park and Pioneer Community Park in Peoria offer shaded seating, water jets, and plenty of space to run around.

  1. Explore the Desert… Indoors

Beat the heat while still getting your Sonoran Desert fix.

  • The Desert Botanical Garden opens early in the summer months so you can stroll the trails before the heat hits, and it often hosts evening events under the stars.
  • Visit the Arizona Science Center or Heard Museum for immersive, air-conditioned culture and science experiences.

  1. Treat Yourself to Something Cold

Local spots serve up sweet relief:

  • Novel Ice Cream (Phoenix) offers wildly creative flavors in their famous donut cones.
  • Frost Gelato in Glendale is a favorite for creamy, Italian-style gelato made fresh daily.
    Craving something refreshing and local? Hit up AZ Pops for handmade popsicles with real fruit and bold flavors.

  1. Tee Off Early (or Stay Inside!)

Golfing in Phoenix is unbeatable — if you go early.

  • Many local courses offer sunrise tee times with discounted summer rates.
  • Prefer AC with your 9 holes? Try Topgolf in Glendale or check out one of the many indoor golf simulators around the Valley.
  1. Stay Cool and Entertained

When in doubt, make it a movie or game day.

  • Catch a matinee at Harkins Theatres or AMC Arrowhead 14 in Glendale — with reclining seats and ice-cold AC, of course.
  • Try indoor fun at Uptown Jungle Fun Park (Peoria) or Main Event (Avondale), where laser tag, bowling, and arcade games bring the fun indoors for all ages.

Bonus: Stay Somewhere That Feels Like Home

Looking for the perfect summer basecamp?


Stay with us!
Our properties in Peoria and Glendale are not only comfortable and spacious, but thoughtfully designed to be your home away from home. Whether you’re traveling for work, vacation, or a bit of both, you’ll love the private pool, cozy furnishings, and unbeatable location near all the area’s top attractions.

Don’t let the summer heat keep you away — the greater Phoenix area is full of things to do, eat, and explore year-round. And with the right place to stay, it’s even better.

Book your stay with us today and make your summer one to remember.

AzBnb Glendale AZ, Peoria AZ