Arizona summers are hot, uncomfortable and sunny. When it is 115 degrees all you want to do is cool off and try not to melt. Let’s get started!
Take the edge off with some sweet, frozen treats around town. The Sugar Bowl is a local favorite. Decorated like an old school diner, The Sugar Bowl is serving up some of the best ice cream in Scottsdale out of a bright pink building. They have classic dishes like banana splits, floats and your simple scoops. It’s a classic Scottsdale spot that attracts tourists and natives alike.
A Cool Treat!
Cool Gelato Italiano is tucked away in the Scottsdale Mall, between the Scottsdale Museums of Performing Arts and Contemporary Arts. It’s a tasty little spot serving up gelato that will be sure to cool you off on a hot summer day. We love the pistachio, tiramisù, and raspberry flavors.
If you don’t mind a little bit further of a trip, you have to check out Sweet Republic. Honestly, everything that Sweet Republic makes is amazing. One of our favorites is the Campfire S’More Sundae (2 scoops of Belgian Chocolate, roasted marshmallow, whip & hot fudge in waffle bowl). They have sundaes, milkshakes, floats and scoops. Everything is made with fresh local ingredients and there are always at least 20 flavors.
A Chill Pill? Nah, a Chill Pool
Take a dip at the OH Pool Bar + Cabanas at Hotel Valley Ho. The cabanas are available for rental Sunday-Friday for non-hotel guests. There is a minimum of 8 people for a cabana, and a maximum of 16 for a the double cabana. Round up some friends to splash at one of the coolest pools in the valley.
Maya Day + NightClub is an incredibly popular spot in Scottsdale offering both indoor and outdoor club experiences with pool parties during the daytime, DJ’s and more. It’s a fun, lively, young place and the pool parties are a great time.
Escape the Heat
Forget about the heat while having a laugh at Stand-Up Scottsdale. Stand-Up Scottsdale is one of our favorite comedy clubs. It is a cozy, intimate space featuring comedians from across the country, as well as local comedians on the rise. Cover charges are low and they have yummy simple food. It’s a great place to escape the heat.
If you are a comedy fan, you can also check out The Scottsdale Comedy Spot. The Scottsdale Comedy Spot is a locally owned and comedy venue offering improve showcases, open mic nights and travelling comedians. It’s an independent spot with classes in stand-up, improv, sketch, acting, and more. It’s a local favorite!
Art lovers should seek refuge at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA). SMoCA displays art from around the world. Contemporary art, architecture and design can be seen in their 9-12 rotating exhibits. It’s a beautiful museum with educational events, tours and features that help you get the most out of your visit. It’s a wonderful way to get you out of the sun and into art.
What do you think? What are your favorite summer things to do in Scottsdale? How will you keep it cool this summer? Where will you go? What will you do? Let us know in the comments below where your summer refuge is! We want to hear from you!
