Categories > Guides and Tips
25 Fun Things To Do in Phoenix During Summer
- Play with friends at the 810 Billiards & Bowling.
- Embark on a science adventure at the Arizona Science Center.
- Explore interactive exhibits at the Children's Museum of Phoenix.
- Learn about American Indian Art at the Heard Museum.
- Get to know about the music industry at the Musical Instrument Museum.
- Admire world-class art at the Phoenix Art Museum.
- Explore a tropical rainforest in Butterfly Wonderland.
- Soar like a superhero at iFLY Indoor Skydiving.
- Bring your friends and family to Mavrix for a game night.
- Enjoy a medieval banquet at the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.
- Embark on an underwater adventure at the OdySea Aquarium.
- Explore and interact with art installations at Wonderspaces.
- Unleash your inner artist at Crayola Experience.
- Enjoy a world of creativity at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
- Enjoy hundreds of games at Main Event Tempe.
- Explore the underwater realm at SEA LIFE Arizona.
- Stroll amid wildflowers at the Desert Botanical Garden.
- Immerse in the beauty of nature at the Japanese Friendship Garden.
- Explore diverse animal habitats at the Phoenix Zoo.
- Explore the rich culture of the Hohokam people at the S'edav Va'aki Museum.
- Marvel at over 6,000 animals at the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium.
- Explore the wonders of the universe at the Lowell Observatory.
- Catch the Arizona Diamondbacks in Chase Field.
- Watch Phoenix Mercury at the Footprint Center.
- Go tubing on the Salt River.
The Phoenix sun turns into a fiery furnace come summer, but don’t let the heat melt away your plans!
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a chill seeker, or somewhere in between, Phoenix has something for you. So, read on for 25 epic ways to beat the heat and discover your Phoenix summer adventure!
1. Play with friends at the 810 Billiards & Bowling.
Website: https://www.810bowling.com/810-bowling-phoenix-az/
Address: 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602-358-7480
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
The 810 Billiards & Bowling is an entertainment hub with classic games, modern amenities, and a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect summer hangout for all ages.
Here, you can challenge your friends with a game of pool or bowling.
They also offer a full bar serving refreshing cocktails and mocktails, a delicious menu with pub fare and comfort food, and even live music on weekends. They’re open late, so you can enjoy a fun evening after the sun goes down.
| Pro tip: Book one of their private lanes with comfortable seating and dedicated servers. Celebrating a special occasion with friends and family is a great way. |
2. Embark on a science adventure at the Arizona Science Center.
Website: https://www.azscience.org/
Address: 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Contact details: 602-371-9900
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Arizona Science Center was designed by renowned architect Antoine Predock. The building has four levels of exciting hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium and a five-story, giant-screen theater.
You can explore the different parts of the body in “All About Me,” build robots in “MakerLab,” or blast off to space in the “Dorrance Planetarium.” Then, take a break from exploring and dine at the “Dinosphere Café” surrounded by prehistoric giants.
| Pro tip: The Science Center is near other Phoenix attractions like the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, and the Margaret T. Hance Park, so you can explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene after visiting the center. |
3. Explore interactive exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.
Website: https://childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/
Address: 214 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602-253-0501
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix has three stories of interactive exhibits designed to engage the minds and muscles of children. From climbing a 3-story “treehouse” to exploring supermarkets and studios, kids can unleash their imaginations here.
Kids can dive into the outdoor Foam Zone for bubble battles during summer. If you go before 11 AM, they can play with exhibits like a water table, garden, and fire truck exploration.
| Pro tip: Plan your visit for a weekday morning to avoid crowds and get the best parking spots. We also recommend packing lunch or snacks, as food options are limited. |
4. Learn about American Indian Art at the Heard Museum.
Website: https://heard.org/
Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-252-8840
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Heard Museum is home to one of the most extensive collections of American Indian art in the United States. It features some 40,000 fine artworks and cultural artifacts, with a focus on tribes of the Southwest.
Eleven galleries show the rich history of tribes like the Hopi, Navajo, and Apache. On Wednesday evenings, they hold the “Arts Alive!” program with music, dance performances, and hands-on art activities about Native American culture.
| Pro tip: After visiting the Heard Museum, stroll through the Historic Heard Square, just across the street, where you’ll find unique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes for the complete summer afternoon outing. |
5. Get to know about the music industry at the Musical Instrument Museum.
Website: https://mim.org/
Address: 4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Contact details: 480-478-6000
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
In the Musical Instrument Museum, you can explore interactive galleries and exhibits showcasing more than 8,000 instruments from over 200 countries. There are also collectibles from legendary musicians, which are must-sees for music lovers.
Kids can explore the “Crossroads of Continents” gallery, watch instrument demonstrations, or participate in hands-on activities. You’ll also enjoy a sensory feast in this museum with its musical performances like the robotic orchestra!
| Pro tip: Grab the “MIM Guide” at the entrance to get an audio commentary for each instrument and musical snippets as you explore the museum. |
6. Admire world-class art at the Phoenix Art Museum.
Website: https://phxart.org/
Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Contact details: 602-257-1880
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- First Wednesday of every month – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Phoenix Art Museum has become the largest art museum in the southwestern United States. It has over 17,000 objects of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art.
It’s a climate-controlled sanctuary where you’ll see European masterpieces by Monet and Rodi. On the other hand, kids will love the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which show masterpieces from different historical periods.
| Pro tip: Visit and avail yourself of their “Free First Friday promo.” The museum offers free admission every first Friday of the month from 6 PM to 10 PM. You should also dine at the “Palmera” restaurant for a delicious meal with a stunning view of the Phoenix skyline. |
7. Explore a tropical rainforest in Butterfly Wonderland.
Website: https://butterflywonderland.com/
Address: 9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact details: 480-800-3000
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Butterfly Wonderland is America’s largest butterfly pavilion, where 3,000 butterflies fly freely. Here, you can watch butterflies flutter gracefully among vibrant tropical plants, sip nectar from blooming orchids, and even land on your finger.
Visitors can learn fascinating butterfly ecology and conservation facts through 3D movies and informative displays. There are also interactive exhibits and feeding stations so you can learn more about the vital role of butterflies in ecosystems.
| Pro tip: Wear bright, colorful clothing to attract the butterflies since they’re naturally drawn to vibrant colors, making you a potential landing pad. |
8. Soar like a superhero at iFLY Indoor Skydiving.
Website: https://www.iflyworld.com/phoenix/
Address: 9206 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact details: 480-712-4359
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
iFLY is the world’s largest indoor skydiving operation. Here, you get to experience the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of an airplane. They have certified flight instructors who will guide you through your free fall experience.
The wind tunnel is a safe and controlled environment, reaching up to 170 mph and replicating the sensation of freefall skydiving. It’s an excellent place for a birthday party or a fun challenge for you and your friends.
| Pro tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can move around in quickly. Don’t forget to remove any jewelry or loose items before flying. |
9. Bring your friends and family to Mavrix for a game night.
Website: https://www.bowlero.com/location/mavrix
Address: 13245 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Contact details: 480-291-7500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Mavrix is an all-in-one entertainment complex with 22 bowling lanes, 85 arcade games, a laser tag arena, billiards and dozens of 4K televisions. They also have escape rooms and virtual reality experiences, which are must-tries for a group of friends.
As the sun sets, head to the rooftop bar and lounge for refreshing cocktails and incredible views of the Phoenix skyline. It’s also a live music venue that hosts events and entertainment, so check their calendar for something special during your visit.
| Pro tip: Mavrix can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so if you want to avoid the crowds and are looking for shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere, try going during the week or early in the day. |
10. Enjoy a medieval banquet at the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.
Website: https://www.medievaltimes.com/experience
Address: 9051 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Contact details: 480-291-7555
Operating hours: 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament will take you back to the 11th century and allow you to experience an evening of chivalry, sport, and pageantry. Here, you’ll enjoy a four-course meal while medieval Spain comes to life in tournament performances.
It’s a thrilling combination of dinner theater, history lessons, and interactive spectacle, so expect authentic jousting, live sword fights and falconry displays while cheering for your chosen knight.
| Pro tip: Avail of the “Feast of the Champions” upgrade for priority seating. It’s closer to the arena, so you’ll get the best view of the action and even a souvenir goblet. |
11. Embark on an underwater adventure at the OdySea Aquarium.
Website: https://www.odyseaaquarium.com/
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura Suite A-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Contact details: 480-291-8000
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
OdySea is the largest aquarium in Arizona, with more than 2 million gallons of water featuring 370 species and 65 exhibits. The top highlights of this underwater experience are the Russian Sturgeon touch exhibit, two stingray touch exhibits and a tide touch pool.
You’ll surely have a family-friendly experience with the SeaTREK underwater walking adventure or walk-about Animal Ambassadors. You should also stroll through the Pacific Rim Gallery and marvel at colorful fish darting through coral reefs.
| Pro tip: To beat the summer crowds and score the best deals, consider visiting the aquarium on weekdays or during the afternoon hours. Remember to purchase your tickets online to save time and avoid lines. |
12. Explore and interact with art installations at Wonderspaces.
Website: https://arizona.wonderspaces.com/
Address: 7014 E Camelback Rd #584, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact details: 480-718-2156
Operating hours:
- Monday and Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Wonderspaces is an evolving art show featuring immersive installations and a full bar inside Scottsdale Fashion Square. They partner with artists to deliver experiences to new audiences through touring shows.
There are also 13 immersive, interactive and conversation-provoking works currently on display. Individual artwork rotates every few months, creating an ever-evolving, year-round show.
| Pro tip: Wonderspaces often hosts special events and workshops during the summer, so check their calendar before you go to see if there’s any creative activity you’d want to join. |
13. Unleash your inner artist at Crayola Experience.
Website: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/chandler
Address: 3111 W Chandler Blvd Suite 2154, Chandler, AZ 85226
Contact details: 602-581-5370
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Crayola Experience is a cool and colorful oasis bursting with air-conditioned creativity, perfect for a summer getaway with kids. You or your kids can melt crayons into colorful masterpieces or ride the Rainbow Rider roller coaster here.
There’s also the Color Studio, where anyone can draw, paint, and color to their heart’s content. For an extra dose of fun, grab a Meltdown Milkshake at the on-site cafe, which is a colorful, delicious concoction and Instagram-worthy.
| Pro tip: It’s best to visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. Always wear comfortable shoes and bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated as you explore the whole place. |
14. Enjoy a world of creativity at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Website: https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/arizona/
Address: 5835 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 100, Chandler, AZ 85249
Contact details: 855-450-0558
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a family-friendly summer destination where children can enjoy a world of creativity in the indoor LEGO playground. You’ll see global and local landmarks made from over a million LEGO bricks here.
There are also fun and exciting LEGO-themed rides like Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice. Then, cool off in the 4D movie theater and enjoy thrilling LEGO adventures on screen.
| Pro tip: Book your tickets online for the best deals, preferably midweek or later in the afternoon. Pack a water bottle and snacks, as food options are limited inside the center. |
15. Enjoy hundreds of games at Main Event Tempe.
Website: https://www.mainevent.com/locations/arizona/tempe/
Address: 8545 S. Emerald Dr., Tempe, AZ 85284
Contact details: 480-753-1200
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Main Event Tempe is a 58,000-square-foot center home to 26 high-quality recreational bowling lanes, laser tag, a gravity high ropes course, billiards and shuffleboard tables, and over 125 interactive games.
It’s a destination for family fun, group outings with delicious comfort food at Rosie O’Grady’s Pub, or craft beer at The Yard. For adrenaline junkies out there, try out their virtual reality experiences and zipline that takes you soaring through the complex.
| Pro tip: Book your lane or activity in advance if you’re going with a group. You can also check out their weekday deals to save more money. |
16. Explore the underwater realm at SEA LIFE Arizona.
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/arizona/
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Suite 145, Tempe, AZ 85282
Contact details: 855-450-0559
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
SEA LIFE Arizona will make you walk through a 360-degree ocean tunnel and explore over 30 exhibits showcasing creatures from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the nearby Sea of Cortez.
Here, you’ll stroll in the tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and fish. You can also touch the velvety skin of a starfish or a horseshoe crab in the interactive touch pool while learning about marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts.
| Pro tip: For ocean enthusiasts, try their sleepovers and behind-the-scenes tours. |
17. Stroll amid wildflowers at the Desert Botanical Garden.
Website: https://dbg.org/
Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 480-941-1225
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre venue showcasing the world’s finest collection of arid plants from deserts. It houses more than 50,000 desert plants on display throughout five thematic trails.
Each trail illustrates topics such as conservation, desert living, desert wildflowers, plants, and people of the Sonoran Desert. They also have flashlight tours that reveal the nocturnal side of the desert.
| Pro tip: Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the garden pathways. |
18. Immerse in the beauty of nature at the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Website: http://www.japanesefriendshipgarden.org/
Address: 1125 N. 3rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602-274-8700
Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed every Monday)
The Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix is a 3.5-acre garden with a tea garden, a teahouse, a 12-foot waterfall, and a koi pond. It’s a joint project of the City of Phoenix and Sister City, Himeji, Japan.
The garden provides a place of beauty and tranquility through self-guided tours of meticulously crafted gardens, where you’ll learn about the symbolism behind every rock placement and bonsai tree.
Seasonal Delights: Escape the midday sun and Savor the quiet contemplation and the delicate flavors of matcha.
| Pro tip: Visit early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the peak heat and capture the mesmerizing light reflecting off the water. Then, indulge in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony under the shade of the teahouse. |
19. Explore diverse animal habitats at the Phoenix Zoo.
Website: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/
Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 602-286-3833
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Phoenix Zoo features over 3,000 animals, including Bornean orangutans, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, Komodo dragons, and Masai giraffes. It’s been a Phoenix institution since 1962, operating on 125 acres of land in Papago Park.
There are interactive exhibits that give fascinating insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts on Arizona’s native species. Then, you can cool down at the Watering Hole splash pad or ride on the Endangered Species Carousel.
| Pro tip: Visit as early as 9:00 AM during summer to explore before the temperatures soar and witness animals at their most active state during these cooler hours. |
20. Explore the rich culture of the Hohokam people at the S’edav Va’aki Museum.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/sedav-vaaki
Address: 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85034
Contact details: 602-495-0901
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM
The S’edav Va’aki, formerly known as the Pueblo Grande Museum, is an archaeological site once inhabited by the Hohokam people. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark and a Phoenix Point of Pride, the city’s largest preserved archaeological site.
There are indoor galleries that take you through a prehistoric Hohokam archaeological site. The museum’s exhibits tell the story of the Hohokam people, their culture, art and architecture, and their relationship with the environment.
| Pro tip: Pack a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the archaeological site. Remember to check their website for special events and activities as you plan your visit. |
21. Marvel at over 6,000 animals at the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium.
Website: https://www.wildlifeworld.com/
Address: 16501 West Northern Ave, Litchfield Park, Arizona 85340
Contact details: 623-935-9453
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium is home to Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals, with 600 different species. Here, you can stroll through air-conditioned habitats like the Tropics of the World reptile house or the South Pacific Reef tunnel.
There are also stingray feedings, playful sea lion shows, or kayaks through a jungle filled with tropical fish. If you want to go on a safari adventure, visit the Safari Park and witness African lions or get up close with majestic giraffes on a feeding platform.
| Pro tip: Arrive early and catch morning feedings and shows for an extra treat. Consider purchasing the Safari Park drive-thru ticket in advance to avoid long lines, and remember to bring loose change for animal feeding stations! |
22. Explore the wonders of the universe at the Lowell Observatory.
Website: https://lowell.edu/
Address: 1400 West Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Contact details: 928-774-3358
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
The Lowell Observatory is located in Flagstaff – the world’s first International Dark Sky City, meaning you can look up from anywhere in the city to see the stars. The skies here are so clear that this is where Pluto was discovered in 1930.
You can get a peak of the cosmos through historic telescopes and explore exhibits that chronicle groundbreaking discoveries. For instance, you can learn about Clyde Tombaugh’s search for Pluto or Lowell’s quest for canals on Mars.
| Pro tip: Book tickets for evening programs or stargazing tours in advance, especially during peak season. If you’re visiting during the day, try the Planets Trail, which showcases scale models of the planets in our solar system. |
23. Catch the Arizona Diamondbacks in Chase Field.
Website: https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark
Address: 01 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-462-4600
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Thanks to the retractable roof, sports fans can catch the Arizona Diamondbacks play in Chase Field with less worrying about the summer heat. The Diamondbacks play at Chase Field from March to September.
You can also take a stadium tour, which will take you behind the scenes of Chase Field. Another must-visit is the D-backs Hall of Fame, located on the third floor of Chase Field, which features exhibits on the history of the Diamondbacks.
| Pro tip: Consider purchasing tickets in the upper deck for the best value, especially during weekdays. You can also watch Friday night games, as some feature post-game fireworks shows. |
24. Watch Phoenix Mercury at the Footprint Center.
Website: https://mercury.wnba.com/schedule/
Address: 201 E. Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: +1 602-379-2000
The Footprint Center (footprint center) is home to the Phoenix Mercury, making it a fantastic place to visit during the scorching Phoenix summer and witness some of the world’s best female basketball players showcase their skills.
Phoenix Mercury typically plays around 17 to 19 home games during the regular season. You can expect most games to be played on weekdays from Tuesday to Friday evenings.
| Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines, snag the best seats and enjoy pre-game festivities.Wear comfortable shoes and bring cash or a credit card for concessions. |
25. Go tubing on the Salt River.
Website: www.saltrivertubing.com
Address: 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215
Contact details: 480-984-3305
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Salt River Tubing & Recreation will make you float down the cool waters of the Salt River in the Tonto National Forest. They offer a variety of tubing trips to choose from, ranging from 2 to 5 hours in length.
The Salt River throws in exciting rapids, so hold tight as you navigate these mini-adventures. They offer tube rentals, shuttles to the launch point, and a snack bar for post-tubing refreshments for a hassle-free experience.
| Pro tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, because the earlier you start, the cooler the water. |
