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How do you survive a day at Hurricane Harbor Phoenix? Here’s what we learned!
With summer finally here, I know how tough it can be to keep the kids entertained indoors when it’s scorching outside. Last summer, we decided to switch things up and planned a day trip to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix to beat the heat.
With so many slides and a lot of sun, we knew we needed a solid plan to make the most of our day. If you’re thinking of doing the same, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some tips and tricks that helped us have a fantastic time at Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. Let’s dive in and conquer those water slides together!
What is the Hurricane Harbor Phoenix known for?
Hurricane Harbor Phoenix is Arizona’s largest water park, with over 30 attractions, including exhilarating slides like the world-first Maximum Velocity and relaxing experiences such as lazy rivers and dive-in movies.
Splash Island and Soak’em Playground are dedicated areas featuring tamer slides, fountains, and water play structures, making them perfect for keeping young children entertained for hours.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, you can test your courage on the heart-pounding Tornado, a funnel-shaped slide that drops you through a vortex, or take a plunge on the Bahama Blaster, a high-speed slide with thrilling twists and turns.
Hurricane Harbor Phoenix offers a complete water park experience, providing a variety of slides, relaxing options, and family-friendly areas. With the backing of a well-known brand, it is a popular choice for a day of splashy fun in the Arizona sun.
Best Time to Go to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
The best time to visit Hurricane Harbor Phoenix depends on what you seek in a water park experience. If you can handle the heat, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for enjoying all the rides.
If you prefer cooler temperatures, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to October), but check for limited hours.
The water park is more crowded during peak season (summer months and weekends). To avoid long lines and large crowds, consider visiting on weekdays during the shoulder seasons.
How to Get to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
1. Car
Depending on your starting point, you have two main driving routes to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. The drive to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix typically takes about 27 minutes from most parts of Phoenix.
If you are in Central Phoenix or Glendale, you can take I-17 North and use Exit 217 for Pinnacle Peak Road. If you’re coming from California, you’ll take I-10 East and 101 North to I-17 North before taking the same exit for Pinnacle Peak Road.
2. Train
Valley Metro offers two bus routes that provide convenient access to the park, with stops near the park entrance. Utilizing these bus routes may require additional walking time, but they can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to driving.
For real-time schedules and trip planning, checking the Valley Metro website or app is recommended. Additionally, individuals can consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft from the bus stop to the park entrance for added convenience.
3. Ride-sharing
Using ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft is a hassle-free way to reach Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. Simply download the app and enter Hurricane Harbor Phoenix as your destination to view available ride options and estimated fares.
Once you’ve chosen your preferred ride option and confirmed the booking, the app will track your driver’s location and provide an estimated arrival time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey to the water park without any worries.
Where to Stay Near Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
1. Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix North Happy Valley
Address: 1940 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027, United States
Phone: +16234345556
Pricing: $$
The Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix North Happy Valley is a mid-range hotel with spacious rooms and microwave and refrigerator amenities. It also features an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine.
The hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers. It provides a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, and free WiFi. Additionally, it’s a pet-friendly hotel so you can bring your furry friend for fun.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix North/Happy Valley
Address: 2550 W Charlotte Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16235169300
Pricing: $
Book Now
The Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix North/Happy Valley offers spacious rooms perfect for families. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, fueling them up for a day of thrills at the park, and then relax by the outdoor pool after a long day of adventure.
This hotel’s unique combination of amenities and value includes free Wi-Fi, which allows guests to share their Hurricane Harbor adventures with friends and family back home.
3. Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley
Address: 2335 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027, United States
Phone: +16238798800
Pricing: $$
Book Now
Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley is a top choice for those wanting a pleasant stay close to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. Guests praise the friendly staff, clean rooms, and convenient amenities at this 3-star hotel.
The complimentary breakfast and 5:30 Kickback® are standout features at Drury Inn & Suites, which offer guests free appetizers and beverages. The hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub are also perfect spots to unwind after a day at the water park.
4. Courtyard Phoenix North/Happy Valley
Address: 2029 W Whispering Wind Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16235808844
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The Courtyard Phoenix North/Happy Valley is designed to provide travelers with a comfortable and convenient stay. The spacious rooms have amenities such as a mini-fridge, microwave, and flat-screen TV with Netflix.
Families will find the Courtyard a great option, as it offers spacious suites and an on-site Bistro serving convenient meals. Moreover, the resort-style patio with grills provides the perfect setting for a poolside barbecue, which is best for families traveling with kids.
5. Studio 6 Phoenix – Deer Valley
Address: 18405 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85053, United States
Phone: +16028431151
Pricing: $
Book Now
Studio 6 Phoenix—Deer Valley is a budget-friendly extended-stay hotel with easy access to Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. Its contemporary rooms with kitchenettes make it ideal for longer stays or families looking to save on dining out.
Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and on-site laundry facilities, making it a practical and comfortable option for those seeking no-frills lodging. It provides a clean, convenient, affordable home base for your Hurricane Harbor adventure.
Where to Eat Near Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
1. Filiberto’s
Address: 17224 N 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85023, United States
Phone: +16027896400
Pricing: $
Website
Filiberto’s is a popular regional Mexican fast-food chain known for its delicious and affordable burritos, tacos, and other Mexican favorites. It uses fresh ingredients and offers a variety of options to suit different tastes, from carne asada to veggie burritos.
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal after a day of thrills at Hurricane Harbor, you’ll likely find Filiberto’s location nearby. They’re an excellent option for those craving authentic Mexican flavors at a reasonable price.
2. Times Square Neighborhood Family Restaurant
Address: 2602 W Deer Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027, United States
Phone: +16235828866
Pricing: $$
Website
Times Square Neighborhood Family Restaurant is a family-friendly Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere decorated with photos of New York City. It offers various delicious dishes, including thin-crust pizzas and classic pasta options.
On weekends, they serve breakfast until late morning. It’s also known for its friendly, family-style service, making it a welcoming spot for groups of friends or families with young children.
3. P.F. Chang’s
Address: 2420 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16237074495
Pricing: $$
Website
P.F. Chang’s is a popular restaurant chain known for its modern take on Asian cuisine. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and stylish dining areas, ideal for a casual family dinner or a fun get-together with friends.
The menu at P.F. Chang’s highlights wok-cooked specialties, including signature dishes like Chang’s Lettuce Wraps and Mongolian Beef. Additionally, the restaurant offers various sushi options, noodles, and tempting desserts like the Great Wall of Chocolate.
4. Mellow Mushroom Phoenix
Address: 2490 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16235801111
Pricing: $$
Website
Mellow Mushroom is a vibrant pizzeria known for its funky atmosphere and art-covered walls, which create a unique dining experience. The star of the show is its variety of pizzas, from classic favorites to creative options with unique toppings.
The menu includes delicious options like salads, calzones, and craft beers, ensuring there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds at Mellow Mushroom.
5. Streets of New York
Address: 1985 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16235828500
Pricing: $$
Website
Streets of New York brings the vibrant atmosphere of the Big Apple to Arizona through its decor and menu, offering a unique dining experience.
Patrons can savor authentic New York-style pizzas with thin crusts and ample toppings, as well as a variety of classic Italian fare, including calzones, strombolis, and sandwiches.
What to Do Near Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
1. Go on an underwater world at SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona.
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Suite 145, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14805657072
SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona is an interactive aquarium that spans over 26,000 square feet and showcases diverse aquatic life worldwide. Visitors can explore a 360-degree ocean tunnel home to sharks, stingrays, and rescued sea turtles.
Guests can engage in hands-on experiences at the touch pools with starfish and other sea creatures up close. The touch pools also serve as an engaging platform to learn about the importance of preserving our oceans and marine life.
2. Explore the Antelope Canyon.
Address: Highway 98, Milepost, 299, Page, AZ 86040, United States
Phone: +19286910244
Antelope Canyon is a must-see natural wonder sculpted by wind and water erosion over millions of years. It’s famous for its smooth, colorful walls and magical play of light and shadow created by the sunlight filtering through the narrow openings.
Upper Antelope Canyon is known for its narrow passageways and beautiful light beams. At the same time, Antelope X is less crowded and offers a wider variety of rock formations, making it a photographer’s paradise.
3. Visit the Phoenix Zoo.
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States
Phone: +16022863800
The Phoenix Zoo offers a unique opportunity to see animals worldwide thriving in carefully recreated habitats. Visitors can immerse themselves in different ecosystems and get close to a diverse collection of fascinating creatures.
Additionally, the zoo features special exhibits like Stingray Bay and a giraffe feeding platform, providing unique and interactive experiences for the whole family.
4. Be mesmerized by desert beauty at the Desert Botanical Garden.
Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States
Phone: +14809411225
The Desert Botanical Garden spans 140 acres and boasts over 50,000 desert plants from various regions of the world. Visitors can explore themed trails showcasing cacti, wildflowers, and desert trees, all thoughtfully arranged to mimic their natural habitats.
This botanical paradise offers a peaceful retreat into the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Here, you can immerse yourself in the garden’s tranquility and marvel at its stunning contrast to the thrills of the nearby slides and wave pools.
5. Hike through stunning desert landscapes on the Apache Trail.
Address: 151 W Superstition Blvd, Apache Junction, AZ 85117, United States
Phone: +16025296891
The Apache Trail in Arizona offers breathtaking vistas of the Superstition Mountains. Indigenous tribes initially used this historic route, which later became a vital transportation link during the Gold Rush era.
Exploring the trail provides insight into Arizona’s rich history, including ghost towns, remnants of mining operations, and the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine.
Where to Shop Near Hurricane Harbor Phoenix
1. Hurricane Harbor Souvenirs and Necessities
Address: 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310, United States
Phone: +16232012000
When visiting Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, stop by Hurricane Harbor Souvenirs and Necessities near the main gate. They offer a wide selection of souvenirs, essentials, snacks, and drinks to enhance your water park experience.
Here, you can find everything from colorful T-shirts, hats, and beach towels to pool accessories like goggles and floaties. They also have a variety of snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout the day.
2. Happy Valley Towne Center
Address: 2501 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +16028660900
Happy Valley Towne Center offers a diverse mix of national and local stores to cater to all your shopping needs. The open-air mall features popular retailers like Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Lowe’s, and Barnes & Noble.
Happy Valley Towne Center provides a convenient shopping experience with ample parking and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a casual meal or a sweet treat, the restaurants offer plenty of options to refuel during your shopping excursion.
3. Shops at Norterra
Address: 2450 W Happy Valley Rd #1142, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Phone: +14803875678
The Shops at Norterra offers diverse stores featuring trendy apparel, sporting goods, and unique souvenirs. The open-air lifestyle center provides a delightful escape under the Arizona sun, with walkways, eateries, and entertainment options.
Visitors can choose from a tempting array of restaurants and fast-casual eateries and catch a movie at the Harkins Theater. It’s a one-stop destination for post-hurricane harbor fun.
4. CACTI & CAMO a lifestyle boutique
CACTI & CAMO is a lifestyle boutique in Arizona that offers a unique collection blending the rugged spirit of camouflage with the beauty of the desert. Its locally inspired treasures capture the essence of the desert Southwest.
Their curated items include trendy camouflage jackets, flowy dresses adorned with cactus prints, handcrafted jewelry featuring desert stones, and hats perfect for the Arizona sun.
5. Whozitz and Whatzitz Unique Gifts and Cards
Address: 1235 E Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, United States
Phone: +16023745963
Whozitz and Whatzitz Unique Gifts and Cards is a unique store near Hurricane Harbor, Phoenix. It offers an eclectic mix of merchandise, including Arizona-themed souvenirs, fantastical creatures, quirky jewelry, and locally made crafts.
The store’s whimsical atmosphere and friendly staff make it a delightful place to find unique treasures and souvenirs to remember your Phoenix trip. This hidden gem is not your ordinary gift shop; it’s a haven for those seeking unique and unusual finds.
