When Phoenix’s summer temperatures soar, staying cool isn’t just a preference—it’s essential. With daytime highs often exceeding 100°F, finding comfortable indoor escapes becomes a top priority. Fortunately, Phoenix offers a selection of indoor activities for every age and interest, from cultural experiences to entertainment centers.
Whether new to the Valley or a longtime local, these indoor spots make it easy to enjoy Phoenix’s hottest season in refreshing comfort.
Phoenix Museums and Cultural Centers
Phoenix Art Museum
Art lovers will find an oasis of creativity at the Phoenix Art Museum. This expansive museum houses over 20,000 works, ranging from classic to contemporary pieces across American, Asian, European, and Latin American art. Highlights include seasonal exhibits that keep the collection dynamic, hands-on family programs, and even ArtWalk nights. Its interactive displays make it a wonderful destination for anyone looking to soak in some culture while avoiding the blazing heat.
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
At the Musical Instrument Museum, music enthusiasts can experience a global journey through sound. MIM showcases over 8,000 instruments from around the world, complete with interactive exhibits and live performances. Visitors can wear headphones and listen to the unique sounds of each instrument, and the Experience Gallery even lets guests play some of them! It’s a must-visit for families and music enthusiasts.
Heard Museum
Dedicated to Native American art and history, the Heard Museum provides a unique look into the heritage and culture of Indigenous communities in the Southwest. From traditional pottery and weaving to modern Native art, its exhibits are enlightening and beautifully presented. The museum also hosts events and workshops, providing hands-on learning experiences.
Phoenix Entertainment Centers
Octane Raceway
For thrill-seekers, Octane Raceway delivers lively action indoors. This unique venue features a 1/3-mile indoor/outdoor track for go-kart racing, with karts reaching speeds up to 45 mph. In addition to go-karting, Octane offers VR experiences, mini-bowling, and a wide range of arcade games. The Pit Stop Grill adds to the fun with a full menu, so you can easily spend hours avoiding the heat.
Main Event Entertainment
Main Event Entertainment is the ultimate Phoenix indoor fun center with various activities, including bowling, laser tag, billiards, and over 100 arcade games. Beyond gaming, Main Event also features dining options with family-friendly favorites, from pizza to wings, ensuring everyone is fueled for hours of play. It’s a great all-in-one stop for families or groups looking for an active day indoors.
Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Buster’s offers classic arcade games, newer VR experiences, and even multiplayer games for a more interactive experience. Sports fans can enjoy live games on large screens, and the in-house restaurant provides a menu that ranges from appetizers to full meals. It’s the ideal place for both family outings and gatherings with friends.
Phoenix Indoor Fitness and Sports
Indoor Trampoline Parks
Phoenix’s indoor trampoline parks, like Sky Zone and Altitude, let visitors bounce to their heart’s content on wall-to-wall trampolines. These parks offer more than just trampolining; activities include dodgeball, foam pits, and even fitness classes, making it a fun way to stay active. Many locations also offer “Glow Nights,” with black lights and music for a unique evening experience.
Climbing Gyms
For a climbing challenge without the desert heat, indoor gyms like AZ on the Rocks and Black Rock Bouldering offer walls and bouldering areas suitable for all skill levels. They provide courses, gear rentals, and even youth programs, so everyone from beginners to seasoned climbers can find something to enjoy. It’s a great way to stay active while engaging with Phoenix’s climbing community.
Ice Skating Rinks
A break from the desert climate, ice rinks like AZ Ice offer a truly refreshing escape. AZ Ice has public skating sessions, figure skating classes, and youth and adult hockey leagues. Skating here is a cool way to get active, and it’s especially fun as a family outing or a unique date activity in Phoenix’s summer months.
Family-Friendly Spots in Phoenix
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix has interactive exhibits across three floors designed to ignite creativity and learning. Kids can explore hands-on activities like the Noodle Forest, where thousands of pool noodles create a whimsical forest, or the Art Studio for crafts. It’s a fun, air-conditioned environment that keeps young ones engaged and cool, making it a perfect summer retreat for families.
Legoland Discovery Center
Legoland Discovery Center is a Lego paradise located in Tempe, just a short drive from Phoenix. With interactive rides, a 4D cinema, and multiple building zones, it’s designed for young builders and their families to explore and get creative. Kids can construct and race their own Lego cars, test building skills in the earthquake table, and even see miniaturized landmarks built from Lego bricks.
Movie Theaters and IMAX
Harkins Theatres
Phoenix residents know Harkins Theatres as a go-to spot to escape the heat and enjoy the latest films. With various locations throughout the Valley, Harkins has comfy reclining seats, a loyalty rewards program, and a snack menu that includes popcorn, nachos, and ice-cold drinks. It’s a classic way to beat the summer sun.
IMAX Theaters
For a truly immersive experience, Phoenix’s IMAX theaters feature massive screens and cutting-edge sound systems that bring movies to life. From popular blockbusters to nature documentaries, these theaters showcase films designed to make the most of IMAX technology, offering an exciting and comfortably cool experience.
Relaxing Indoor Activities
Indoor Shopping Malls
Shopping malls like Scottsdale Fashion Square and Arizona Mills provide more than just retail therapy. Scottsdale Fashion Square houses luxury brands, high-end dining, and an indoor play area for kids, while Arizona Mills has a range of outlets, a food court, and an aquarium. These malls have plenty of options to make a full day of your visit in air-conditioned comfort.
Spa Days
Treat yourself to various treatments to help you cool off and relax. Phoenix’s top-rated spas include JW Marriott’s Revive Spa and the Camelback Inn’s Spa. From massages to facials to full-body treatments, these spas are designed to provide a luxurious escape from the heat. Some even feature outdoor pools and lounges with shaded areas for a complete day of rejuvenation (go on…you know you deserve it).
Bookstores and Cafes
Local favorites like Changing Hands Bookstore and Lux Central Cafe offer a cozy and cool environment to escape the heat. Changing Hands features a wide selection of books, author events, and a small café for refreshments, while Lux Central is known for its artisanal coffee and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you want to browse or just relax, these spots provide a refreshing break.
Embrace Phoenix’s Cool Indoor Attractions
With many exciting and relaxing indoor options, staying cool during Phoenix’s summer heat is easier than ever. From museums to climbing gyms, there’s no shortage of ways to escape the high temperatures. So this season, make the most of Phoenix’s indoor attractions and discover new favorite spots to beat the heat.
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