4 Reasons Phoenix Summers Don’t Always Suck
Are there any two words that inspire more dread than “Phoenix summers?”
For a lot of people, summer is the time for rest, relaxation, and barbecues.
Not in Phoenix.
The snowbirds flock north, the temperatures skyrocket, and us locals are left with nothing but comically high electricity bills. But summers in Phoenix don’t have to be a drag. Here are a few things you can do to get out of the house and get your mind off the heat.
1. Salt River Tubing
The “least sustainable city in the world” isn’t necessarily known for its water supply. But there is one oasis in the middle of this desert hellscape: The Salt River. Salt River Tubing offers you a chance to take a leisurely outdoor trip without the threat of heat stroke. It’s located in Mesa, and the company offers round trip bus rides to the river with tube rentals. Floating trips last anywhere from two to five hours, so be sure to bring plenty of liquids (including water in addition to your favorite adult beverages). The Salt River attracts everyone from rowdy college kids to suburban families thanks to its promise of cool water and tame rapids, so grab your closest friends, a cooler, and plenty of sunscreen.
#Fray Life Tip: Glass containers are not allowed at Salt River Tubing. Make sure you leave the glass at home as coolers are inspected for contraband.
2. Pool Parties
A little heat doesn’t slow down Old Town Scottsdale. During the summer, it’s home to some of the wildest pool parties this side of Las Vegas. Old Town’s pool parties are filled to the brim with young crowds, free flowing drinks, and live DJ’s. Maya Day + Nightclub and Talking Stick’s Release remain popular options thanks to their big name headliners. The best pool party atmosphere, however, might be The W Scottsdale’s WET pool. This rooftop pool has private cabanas, misters, and a bird’s eye view of Old Town.
#FrayLife Tip: W Scottsdale pool parties run every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12PM to 6PM and are 21+.
3. Water Parks
Forget about the screaming children and the scorching hot pool deck. Phoenix’s water parks are well worth the hassle. Phoenix’s iconic water parks have a little something for everyone, from the thrill rides at Wet ‘n’ Wild to the lazy river at the Arizona Grand’s Oasis Water Park. Mesa’s Golfland Sunsplash, however, offers the best of both worlds. They have a 450,000 gallon wavepool, “bonzi” speed slides, and the five-story Sidewinder half pipe.
#FrayLife Tip: Cool off under the stars at Nightsplash. Sunsplash is open Wednesday-Thursday in June and July from 5pm-10pm.
4. Phoenix Rising
There’s no denying the appeal of an Arizona Diamondbacks game. Sure, you can down churro dogs and heckle droves of Dodgers fans. Before you fight Angelenos and downtown traffic, however, consider going to the new show in town. The Phoenix Rising Football Club, a member of the United Soccer League, offers a cheap alternative to an expensive ball game. Led by international superstar Didier Drogba, the Rising attracts loyal soccer fans all throughout the summer. Plus, they’re new stadium is right on the corner of the US-60/AZ Loop 101. It’s a win-win.
#FrayLife Tip: The Phoenix Fray holds $1 Beer Night during select home games. Check their schedule for more information.
What are some of your got- activities that help you make the most of summer in Phoenix, despite the heat? Show us how you have fun while staying cool by tagging us in your summer adventures with #FrayLife on social.
Need some more ways to stay out of the sun without sacrificing your fun? Hit up our favorite underground bars around Phoenix.
View More Articles By John Kuells
I have been trying to call your local number of 480-744-9011 and find out about the next pool parties and floating of the river. I keep getting disconnected. Can someone help please? Thank you.