Scottsdale Summer 2026 Guide (50 Fun Things to Do)

What is there to do in Scottsdale this summer? Plenty! Having lived in this desert city for most of my life, I’ve learned how to make the most of our triple‑digit months. Scottsdale sizzles with fun in June, July, and August, with early morning outdoor adventures, refreshing ways to cool off during the hottest part of the day, and lively evenings once the sun dips. Whether you live in the Valley of the Sun or you’re planning a vacation to my hometown, this annual guide to Scottsdale in summer highlights the best things to do from morning to night.

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Outdoor Scottsdale Summer Activities

As a longtime resident, I know it’s best to get up early to enjoy outdoor Scottsdale activities during cooler morning hours before the heat peaks in summer. With the lack of sun at night and little moisture in the air to hold the warmth, desert temperatures can drop 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (11–17°C) between the hottest time of day and the coolest temps right before sunrise.

The best weather for outdoor play is from dawn (between 5 and 6 am) until it gets very toasty (around 9 or 10 am). No matter which outdoor activity you choose, it’s important to apply sunblock and stay hydrated with water or electrolyte beverages. Be sure to dress for hot weather and wear a brimmed hat for sun protection.

Hiking in the Sonoran Desert

Even in summer, a hike is worthwhile for soaking up some of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert beauty. Be sure to set your alarm to hit the trails close to sunrise.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway Trailhead

With dozens of hiking paths to choose from, you’re sure to find one that meets your hiking levels and desires, from the Bajada Nature Trail, a short loop with plant markers suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, to the Gateway Loop via Bell Pass and Windgate Trails, a multi-hour trek around the mountain. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway Trailhead is a popular starting point.

Pinnacle Peak Trail

Another pretty option is the Pinnacle Peak Trail. It’s perfect for hikers seeking a moderate hike with views of the granite summit for which it was named.

Quartz Trailhead

For a less crowded experience with more shade (and therefore a slightly higher chance of spotting wildlife like javelinas and rattlesnakes), check out Quartz Trailhead near Desert Canyon Elementary School instead. Keep your eyes peeled for the trail marker here. It’s across the street from the parking lot, just to the right of where the sidewalk starts.

Phoenix Zoo

The largest non-profit, privately owned zoo in the U.S. is home to popular residents like giraffes, orangutans, and elephants. Also, look for indigenous animals like coyotes, mountain lions, and Mexican gray wolves.

For 2026, the Phoenix Zoo has added more shade structures and misting zones along popular walkways, making summer visits more comfortable. Find expanded early‑morning Keeper Chats, too.

Summer Hours

Summer hours at the Phoenix Zoo start and end earlier than the rest of the year to take advantage of relatively cool mornings. From June 1 through August 31, 2026, visit the zoo from 7 am to 1 pm. Phoenix Zoo members can get a head start and enter as early as 6 am.

Family Zoo Activities

If you’re visiting Scottsdale with kids, then you’ll appreciate the family activities at the Phoenix Zoo. Children love the Harmony Farm petting zoo and playground, Enchanted Forest play area, and the zoo’s Endangered Species Carousel. Be sure to bring along swimsuits to cool off at the Leapin’ Lagoon and Yakulla Caverns splash pads, too. The Phoenix Zoo even offers a summer camp program for kids.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Families with young children will definitely want to visit McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. I grew up going to McCormick‑Stillman Railroad Park, and my kids loved it just as much. It’s a great place to spend the morning in Scottsdale in summer. True train lovers enjoy exploring indoor model railroad displays and outdoor full-sized train cars. Most attractions operate from 9 am to 7 pm in summer.

Paradise Pacific Railroad

The highlight at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is the Paradise Pacific Railroad. This ride-on miniature train chugs through an expansive grassy park.

Scottsdale Charros Carousel

The park’s Scottsdale Charros Carousel is lots of fun, too. Ride antique horses and two wheelchair-accessible chariots.

Playgrounds

A sizable playground filled with slides, climbing equipment, and swings pleases kids of all ages. Another smaller Old West-themed play area, designed for imaginative play, was my favorite as a child.

Picnics

Buy hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream at the onsite Snackstop. Or pack a picnic to enjoy an early lunch at shaded picnic areas.

Golf in Scottsdale in Summer

Golfers should plan to hit the links in the cooler morning hours in Scottsdale in summer, with tee times as early as 5 am. The Scottsdale area boasts more than 200 courses that are sure to please any golfer.

Summer Golf Pricing

Golfing prices plummet when the heat rises in Scottsdale. At luxury golf clubs like Troon North Golf Club and The Boulders, prices drop as much as 75 percent during the summer months. This makes it an ideal time for golfers on a budget to take advantage of top-tier courses.

Topgolf Scottsdale

If you want to get your golf fix but you’re not a morning person and don’t want to brave the Scottsdale summer heat, reserve a shaded bay cooled with fans and misters at Topgolf Scottsdale. Here, you can dine and drink while hitting micro-chipped golf balls at giant dartboard-like targets in an outfield.

Hot Air Ballooning

Get up very early in summer to enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Sun. Summer flights lift off around sunrise, with check-in typically beginning between 4 and 5 am. With 300 days of sunshine in Scottsdale per year, the area offers more flyable days than almost anywhere else in the country.

Floating above the desert in a hot air balloon is an experience you will long remember. My husband, Phil, and I did a sunrise balloon flight one summer, and it’s still one of our favorite Scottsdale memories. Choose from shared or private flights with Hot Air Expeditions and Rainbow Ryders.

ATV or Hummer Tour

Get your heart pumping by exploring the desert on four wheels. Stellar Adventures leads guided self-driven ATV tours or romps through the desert for passengers in a Hummer or M1009 Blazer. In Phoenix and Scottsdale in summer, these tours embark bright and early, around 7 or 8 am. Or you can book a sunset tour instead.

Explore Scottsdale by Segway

Why walk when you could explore Scottsdale by Segway?

Segway of Scottsdale

Segway of Scottsdale leads 2-hour morning tours through historic Old Town Scottsdale. Mics and earpieces in bright orange helmets help keep riders safe and informed. During your 6-mile tour, you’ll zoom past art galleries, the Civic Center Mall, Scottsdale Waterfront, and more. Tours start at 7:30 am during the summertime. (Participants must be aged 12 to 75.)

Scottsdale Segway Tours

In addition to 9 am morning tours of Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Segway Tours offers a Sunsets, Segways and City Lights option that departs at 6:45 pm. It’s ideal for exploring the city without the heat of the sun.

What to Do in Scottsdale on Hot Summer Afternoons

After a morning of playing outdoors, everyone will be ready to cool down. If you’re up for more exploring (or you can’t get moving before noon), then chill out with air-conditioned indoor Scottsdale summer activities. The afternoon is also the perfect time to splash in a swimming pool or water park, or beat the heat with a refreshing ice cream treat.

Arizona Boardwalk

The whole family could spend an entire day at the Arizona Boardwalk and never get bored. It is home to tasty restaurants, a handful of retail stores, and several attractions all in one spot.

OdySea Aquarium

The primary attraction at Arizona Boardwalk is the biggest aquarium in the Southwest. The 200,000-square-foot OdySea Aquarium houses intriguing sea creatures such as sharks, stingrays, otters, and penguins. Also enjoy a spectacular showcase of fish from oceans and rivers around the globe. Look for touch pools to get up close with rays and more.

Butterfly Wonderland

Also located within the Arizona Boardwalk campus, Butterfly Wonderland impresses vacationers at America’s largest butterfly conservatory. Wander through its lush indoor botanical garden filled with fluttering butterflies. Tip: Wear perfume or bright colors if you’d like the butterflies to land on you!

Museum of Illusions

Trick your eyes with an array of optical illusions at the Museum of Illusions Scottsdale. All ages will enjoy playing and learning about vision, perception, and the human brain at this attraction. This museum is a fun spot for a first date or outing with new friends because the interactive displays naturally encourage conversation and laughter.

Laser + Mirror Mazes

Kids love Laser + Mirror Mazes, featuring a challenging, laser-filled walk-through puzzle and a colorful, reflective labyrinth.

Cyber Quest Arcade

Treat your crew to video games galore at the Cyber Quest Arcade. Parents will appreciate that this arcade features only non-violent games. Save up your tickets to win prizes like plush toys — or even a Snoopy Snow Cone Machine, like my family did one time!

Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs

Dinosaur lovers will roar with delight at Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs. This educational attraction is packed with life‑size dinos and hands‑on activities that are fun for all ages.

UFO Experience

The UFO Experience is out of this world. Embark on an entertaining adventure of all things alien, from UFO sightings to alien “artifacts.”

Cluville Kids Escape Room

Designed especially for kids aged 6 to 14, Cluville Kids Escape Room encourages creative problem-solving and teamwork. Players work together to find hidden clues and solve puzzles, and escape from rooms with themes like Alien Invasion, Old Wizard, and Secret Potion. Be sure to check Groupon for discounted entry tickets before you go.

Boardwalk Carousel

Top off any visit to the Arizona Boardwalk with a spin on the Boardwalk Carousel. Ride one of 60 hand-crafted animals, like a panda, rhino, hummingbird, or traditional horse.

Boardwalk SkyWheel

The newest addition to the Arizona Boardwalk lineup, the Boardwalk SkyWheel debuted in the spring of 2026. Open year-round, the 80-foot-tall Ferris wheel‘s 18 enclosed gondolas are fully air-conditioned for a comfortable summer spin.

Scottsdale Museums

One of the best ways to cool off in the summer is to visit a local museum. In addition to year-round educational experiences, look for special summer programs at these museums in Scottsdale and the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Wander through the world-renowned Musical Instrument Museum with displays featuring songs, videos, musical instruments, and traditional costumes from around the world. In the evenings at the MIM (as locals call it), enjoy the Summer Concert Series, with more than 70 performances scheduled throughout summer 2026. Although technically located in Phoenix, MIM sits right on the Scottsdale border in the Desert Ridge area.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Celebrate cowboy culture and view Amerindian displays at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West in Old Town Scottsdale. Kids enjoy hands-on attractions like an oversized, Wild West-inspired board game, an optical-illusion painting great for photos, puzzles featuring southwestern animals, and art rubbings.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)

Appreciate modern and contemporary art at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art at the Scottsdale Civic Center. The museum features rotating exhibitions, immersive installations, and the iconic James Turrell Skyspace. Start here and then head to the Old Town Scottsdale Art Walk on a Thursday evening.

Additional Museums in the Phoenix Area

If you’re exploring beyond Scottsdale, here are some of the best museums in the Valley of the Sun.

• Arizona Museum of Natural History for interactive displays, including Dinosaur Mountain, in Mesa
• Arizona Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and the Dorrance Planetarium in Phoenix
• Phoenix Art Museum displays an impressive collection of local and global artwork
• Heard Museum with exhibitions of traditional and contemporary Native American art in Phoenix
• Children’s Museum of Phoenix for playful fun for kids aged 10 and younger

Taliesin West

Fans of architectural design will appreciate a visit to Taliesin West. Once the winter home of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, today it is the headquarters of his foundation. It’s open Thursday through Monday, June 1 – August 31, 2026, for self-guided audio tours. Be sure to bring your own headphones! Guided tours are available during cooler months.

Indoor Miniature Golf

With two indoor options, miniature golf is a cool activity during all seasons in Scottsdale.

Glow Putt Mini Golf

Kids love the glowing, playful displays at Glow Putt. This has long been one of my family’s favorite things to do for summer fun in Scottsdale. Sink a hole-in-one at the last hole to win another round of play on the house.

Puttshack Scottsdale

At Kierland Commons, Puttshack is an upscale mini-golf experience with exciting, tech-infused features that boost the fun factor and automatically keep score. Purchase cocktails and other drinks to enjoy while you play. Before or afterward, pull up a stool in the on-site bar to nosh on such menu items as wings, flatbreads, salads, and sandwiches. The entire family is welcome during the day, but all Puttshack locations become 18+ in the evening.

Scottsdale Fashion Square

While many of the shopping malls in Scottsdale are outdoors, Scottsdale Fashion Square offers more than 200 air-conditioned retail stores to please shoppers without stepping foot outside as they browse. Fashion Square specializes in high-end brands such as Neiman Marcus, Burberry, and Gucci. Meanwhile, bargain shoppers will be pleased to find favorites like H&M, Claire’s, and Windsor. Chill out and watch a film on one of 14 screens at Harkins Theatres Camelview while you’re there.

Outdoor Pools & Water Parks in Scottsdale

Scottsdale offers public pools with water‑park‑style features, including lazy rivers, splash areas, and waterslides. For full‑scale water parks, you’ll find the biggest options in the greater Phoenix area.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center

McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center features a pleasant lazy river, high and low diving boards, and a zero-entry splash play area. The center’s beloved winding water slide is closed for the summer of 2026 due to the replacement of the slide structure.

Eldorado Aquatic Center

The Eldorado Aquatic Center is home to a water playground with a slide for young children, a zero-entry pool, plus two full-sized water slides for bigger kids.

Water Parks in the Phoenix Area

For bigger thrills, head to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Phoenix and Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa. Hurricane Harbor features a wave pool, lazy river, and multiple slides. Meanwhile, Sunsplash offers a variety of water slides, plus indoor arcade games and outdoor mini golf.

Ice Cream

We all scream for ice cream, especially during a Scottsdale summer. Here are two of the yummiest spots for a sweet, chilly treat.

Sweet Republic

For the best ice cream in Scottsdale, I recommend Sweet Republic. Their artisanal ice creams and sorbets tempt anyone who visits this ice cream shop. Look for four Phoenix‑area locations, including one in the same strip mall as Glow Putt, which makes a delicious post–mini‑golf stop.

Seasonal flavors rotate throughout the year. Look for summery flavors like Peaches & Cream ice cream or Watermelon Sorbet. Meanwhile, year-round offerings like Brownie Fudge Swirl and Real Mint Chip are always delightful. You can even get your sundae topped with a roasted handmade marshmallow.

Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor

In Old Town Scottsdale, you’ll find the sweet pink Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor. It’s the perfect place for parents to rest weary feet while kids play in the onsite vintage arcade.

This old-fashioned restaurant has been serving up sandwiches, soups, and, most importantly, ice cream since 1958. Get standards like a hot fudge sundae or banana split. Or, order one of their Super Fancy Sundaes. Mint lovers (like me!) will adore the Blarney Dream Sundae, made with mint syrup, vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, a scoop of butter pecan, whipped cream, and a cherry.

Scottsdale Spas

Take advantage of the best deals of the year on spa services in Scottsdale in the summer. What better way to cool off than with a relaxing massage, facial, or body treatment? I know… a dip in a refreshing spa pool!

As a Scottsdale local and devoted spa enthusiast, I explored every standout resort spa in town to uncover the most unique treatments and seriously serene settings. From hammams to salt rooms, guided meditations to signature smoothies, I created a curated collection of spa offerings in the Valley of the Sun. Need some me-time this summer? Take a look at my ranked list of the best spas in Scottsdale.

Scottsdale Summer Evenings

As the sun sets in the Sonoran Desert, temperatures begin to ease, making summer evenings in Scottsdale a welcome and lively reprieve.

Happy Hour

Kick off your summer evening with happy hour. Since my husband and I go out nearly every Friday night in search of drink deals and unique finds, I consider myself a Scottsdale happy-hour aficionado. Below are a few memorable choices.

Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen

This Arizona restaurant caters to gluten-sensitive eaters (like me) and ensures those with food allergies or other restrictions (like vegan) feel comfortable dining out. Healthy Hour at Picazzo’s runs from 3 to 6 pm daily. Enjoy discounted favorites like Mama’s Meat-Za Balls or Baked Brie. Hand-crafted cocktails, wine, sangria, and mocktails are also on special.

Wine Girl Scottsdale

For a Scottsdale girlfriend getaway or any night out with your gal pals, nothing beats Wine Girl Scottsdale in Old Town. Expect wine flights, feminine pink-and-white décor, and swings from which to sip. Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from open until 6 pm, with discounts on glasses of house wine, bar bites, and merchandise, plus half-off all bottles of wine.

Fish & Sips at Odysea Aquarium

Go under the sea for a unique happy hour of sorts at Fish & Sips at Odysea Aquarium at Arizona Boardwalk. Enjoy live music, food for purchase, and a full bar at this age 21+ seasonal event on specific Friday nights. Of course, you’ll see lots of sea life during this special happy hour, too. Fish & Sips takes place on June 12, 2026, from 5 to 9 pm. Check their website to see if additional dates are added this summer.

Scottsdale ArtWalk

Old Town Scottsdale is home to more than 100 art galleries, many showcasing work by Arizona artists and Southwestern creators. For over 50 years, the Scottsdale Arts District has been welcoming visitors to the Scottsdale ArtWalk on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 pm. Many galleries offer refreshments, live music, and special exhibits during this time.

Scottsdale Quarter Summer Concert Series

On select Saturday evenings in June and July, Scottsdale Quarter typically hosts its free Summer Concert Series on The Quad. The stage sits right by the Quarter’s signature splash fountain, a pretty place for kids to cool down and play while grown-ups enjoy the scenery and the tunes. Check the Scottsdale Quarter Events page for specific dates.

Best Scottsdale Hotels for a Summer Getaway

As the temperatures soar in Scottsdale, room rates at the city’s swanky hotels drop for the summer season. Many resorts offer deals from June through August, making it a fabulous time to soak up the luxury pools and amenities.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Want to visit the beach in Scottsdale? Head to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in North Scottsdale. You’ll find a white sand beach, six swimming pools, and two twisting waterslides. On weekends in summer, go gaga for Let’s Glo Pool Parties, Dive-In Movies, and Saturday night fireworks. You’ll also appreciate their swish world-class spa and championship golf course. This sprawling resort hosts fun activities all year, like the amusement-packed Christmas at the Princess during the holiday season in Scottsdale.

Hotel Valley Ho

If you’re looking for a party vibe, Hotel Valley Ho brings it. This retro resort in Old Town Scottsdale rocks a hip 1950s mid-century aesthetic and a buzzing pool scene. The OH Pool turns into an adults‑oriented party zone on summer weekends, complete with DJs, cocktails, and a lively social crowd.

The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

Pool lovers flock to the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in North Scottsdale for its Adventure Water Park, home to the Kierland FlowRider simulator for surfing in the desert, a 900-foot lazy river, and a 110-foot waterslide. The resort also offers an adults-only pool with a hot tub for quieter lounging. Rent a poolside cabana to relax in shaded luxury, or go all out with your very own Tommy Bahama Relaxation Reef private “island.”

Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort

Cool down at the 2.5-acre water playground at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale, complete with a sand beach, 10 swimming pools, 20 fountains, and 45 waterfalls. Daredevils will love their three-story, high-speed water slide. There are also over a dozen fireworks shows planned at this Central Scottsdale resort throughout summer 2026. What’s more, the Grand Hyatt is home to one of my favorite spas in the Valley, Spa Avania, and the beautiful Gainey Ranch Golf Club.

Great Wolf Lodge Arizona

The Great Wolf Lodge Arizona at Talking Stick is home to the state’s first indoor water park. Expect multiple waterslides, an expansive treehouse-themed splash pad with a giant tipping bucket, play pools, and a lazy river. Families also enjoy the outdoor water play area with fountains galore. Even if you’re not spending the night at this kid-focused resort, you can purchase Single-Day Great Wolf Lodge Passes to experience the splashy fun.

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Guests of all ages seeking pampering, delicious restaurants, outdoor activities, and gorgeous desert scenery will adore the Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North. This resort features three pools — a shallow children’s pool, a family pool, and a pool just for grown-ups. Tucked away in North Scottsdale next to Pinnacle Peak Park, Four Seasons is where to go to escape it all. Read my guide to Four Seasons Scottsdale.

Scottsdale Summer FAQ

Is Scottsdale too hot to visit in summer?

Scottsdale gets very hot in summer, with the average daily temperature around 105°F (43°C). It is still a great time to visit if you plan around the heat. Early mornings and evenings are the most comfortable times to explore, while mid‑day is best for pools, spas, and indoor attractions.

Are Scottsdale resorts cheaper in summer?

Yes. Scottsdale resorts often discount summer rates by about 40-70 percent, with many luxury properties dropping from winter highs of $400–$900+ to $100–$250 in June through August. Many Scottsdale spas and golf courses also offer lower prices in summer.

What should I pack for a trip to Scottsdale in summer?

Pack breathable clothing like shorts, lightweight pants, sundresses, linen tops, golf shirts, and lightweight activewear. A brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for the strong desert sun. For resort time, pack a swimsuit and a lightweight cover‑up. Bring hiking shoes with good tread for hitting the trails. At night, most people wear fashion sneakers or dressy sandals. Indoor spaces can be chilly, so include a light jacket or sweater for restaurants and museums. Electrolyte packets and a refillable water bottle are helpful in the summer heat.

Can you hike in Scottsdale in summer?

You can hike safely in Scottsdale in the summer only in the mornings. Start close to sunrise and carry plenty of water. Avoid mid‑day and afternoon hikes entirely.

What are the best indoor things to do in Scottsdale in summer?

Popular indoor activities include OdySea Aquarium, the Musical Instrument Museum, Butterfly Wonderland, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale spas, and indoor dining. These are ideal for mid‑day when temperatures peak.

Explore More of Arizona in Summer

Take a look at my comprehensive list of things to do in Scottsdale with kids for even more fun in the Valley of the Sun.

Headed to Northern Arizona? You’ll definitely want to read my Grand Canyon tips.

Visit a quaint college town and gateway to the Grand Canyon with this list of the best things to do in Flagstaff, and these Arizona Snowbowl summer activities.

To experience America’s biggest ghost town, check out my tips for visiting Jerome, Arizona.

Discover the charms of Arizona’s territorial capital in my guide to Prescott.

Save These Scottsdale Summer Activities

Be sure to save this list of fun things to do in Scottsdale in summer. Simply pin the image above to Pinterest. I hope you’ll follow Colleen Travels Between on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Would you like to experience a Scottsdale summer vacation? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

A Note from Colleen: This article was originally created in partnership with Experience Scottsdale. It has been updated for 2026 without compensation. All opinions are mine, as always.

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