Best ways to soak up the last bit of summer before fall comes to metro Phoenix
As we say goodbye to summer and get ready to say hello to fall, it's a good time to reminisce on all the fun things we like most about summer. Maybe it's listening to your favorite summer jams, eating your way through metro Phoenix ice cream parlors or just complaining about how hot it is.
Arizonians may feel a tinge of sadness as summer departs because it marks the end of a season characterized by abundant sunshine and the opportunity for outdoor adventures. The state's long, scorching summers offer a unique chance to explore the breathtaking desert landscapes, embark on hiking and camping expeditions, and enjoy the countless outdoor recreational activities that the heat permits.
But it's never too late to do all of the summer activities you haven’t done these past few months.
Here are a few things you can still do before summer is officially over.
Your ultimate summer 2023 bucket list: Here's how to have the most fun in Phoenix
Sip metro Phoenix's best micheladas
Get hits of spicy, sour and tangy as you drink the quintessential summer drink. Micheladas are beloved for their delightful contrast of coolness and heat, making them so very thirst-quenching. The savory flavor profile of a michelada enhances the overall summer experience, making it an excellent choice for sipping and savoring while enjoying the sun in poolside or outdoor gatherings. Here's where to get the best micheladas in metro Phoenix.
Make a big splash at a water park
Water parks are a classic summer activity for several reasons. They provide a refreshing escape from the heat combined with a wide range of attractions and activities for people of all ages. Water parks offer a diverse range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping surf simulators and water slides to meandering lazy rivers and gentle areas for little kids. Here's our guide to the 10 best water parks in metro Phoenix, including ones at hotels such as Great Wolf Lodge and Arizona Grand.
Treat yourself to the best local ice cream in metro Phoenix
Cool off with that crowd favorite, ice cream. You'll get immediate relief from the summer heat and the frosty, creamy texture provides bracing refreshment. Ice cream parlors around town offer a wide range of flavors and versatile toppings fit for anyone’s taste buds, and the nostalgia associated with childhood summer memories is a sweet bonus. Here's where to find the best ice cream shops in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Peoria and all around the Valley.
Go Salt River Tubing one more time
What’s the point of summer if you aren’t enjoying the great outdoors? Free your adventurous spirit by going Salt River Tubing one more time before they close for the season on Oct. 1. Float down the picturesque river, taking in the mountain scenery and spotting wild horses along the banks. The cool water provides relief from the heat, and you'll enjoy the camaraderie of tubing with friends or family. Salt River Tubing has new owners this year and they've implemented a variety of new features to improve the experience.
Cool off at a hotel pool party
Want a lively blend of relaxation, entertainment and social connection? Add hotel pool parties to your list! Put on your best poolside look and cool off in a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dancing, food and drinks. Whether you're a tourist seeking adventure or a local looking to embrace the summer vibe, these daytime and nighttime events are a fun way to cut loose as summer ends.
Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.Acosta@gannett.com. Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.
Support local journalism and subscribe to azcentral.com.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 5 ways to soak up the last bit of summer before fall comes to Phoenix
