With temperatures often climbing into the triple digits, the key to enjoying Arizona this time of year is choosing activities that either keep you cool indoors or let you experience the desert in a safe, engaging way. These activities stand out as some of the best things to do in Arizona during the summer because they strike the perfect balance between fun, comfort, and local experience.
Explore World-Class Museums
Arizona has a surprisingly strong museum scene, perfect for escaping the summer heat. In Phoenix, the Heard Museum offers an incredible look into Native American art and culture, while the Musical Instrument Museum, also known as MIM, is one of the most unique museums in the country, featuring instruments from around the world. Museums are a great way to stay cool while still experiencing Arizona’s history and creativity.
Visit Entertainment Attractions Like SEA LIFE Aquarium
If you’re traveling with family, or just want something fun and interactive, head to SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium in Tempe. It’s an indoor attraction featuring sharks, sea turtles, and hands-on exhibits that make it both entertaining and educational. Nearby, you’ll also find LEGOLAND Discovery Center, making this area a great stop for a full day of indoor fun.
Take a Cultural Tour
Summer is a great time to dive into Arizona’s rich cultural history. Guided cultural tours, especially in places like Scottsdale, Sedona, or on Native American lands, offer insight into local traditions, art, and history. You can explore ancient ruins, learn about desert survival, or experience storytelling and heritage that goes back thousands of years.
Visit a Ghost Town
Arizona’s Wild West history comes to life in its ghost towns. Places like Goldfield Ghost Town near Phoenix or Jerome near Sedona offer a glimpse into old mining days, complete with historic buildings, saloons, and scenic views. Early mornings or evenings are best during summer, and many towns have shops, tours, and even staged gunfight shows.
Cool Off at a Water Park or Natural Lake
When the desert heat peaks, water parks are a must. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix and Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe are popular spots with wave pools, lazy rivers, and high-speed slides. These parks are perfect for cooling down while still enjoying the outdoors. For a more laid-back escape, nearby lakes offer boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and wake surfing with scenic desert views in every direction.
If you’re looking to stay cool indoors or embrace Arizona’s unique culture, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of summer in the desert.
Stay Close to Arizona’s Best Summer Activities
Arizona summers run hot, but there's no shortage of ways to stay cool and make the most of the season. Museums, water parks, aquariums, and historic ghost towns are spread across Scottsdale, Phoenix, Sedona, Mesa, Tempe, Surprise, and Gilbert, with enough to fill a week without repeating yourself. A Bella Palazzo vacation rental puts you close to all of it, with the space and amenities to decompress when the day is done.
