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Top 5 Summer Activities in Tempe

Find the best of Tempe this season

By Veronica Leon, Editor-Publisher Macaroni KID Tempe July 10, 2023

Summer fun is officially underway in Arizona! And just in time for the season ahead, we’ve created a list of Tempe’s top 20 summer activities. Check out the roundup below and plan your fun in the sun and cool retreats for all to enjoy all summer long.

1. Head to Tempe Town Lake and Kiwanis Lake for a lovely boating excursion: 

Boats of all types can be rented at Tempe Town Lake, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, pontoon boats, pedal boats and electric boats. They open at 10 a.m. every day.

The Kiwanis Park location rents kayaks and pedal boats and is open on Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.

Boat Rentals at Tempe Town Lake | 72 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (855) 690-0794
Boat Rentals at Kiwanis Lake | 5203 S. Ash Ave., Tempe, AZ 85283 | (855) 690-0794


2. Head indoors to Arizona Mills, SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium:

SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium designed to provide a fun, interactive and educational experience for kids (and adults, too). Explore the 12 different habitat zones housing more than 32 tanks with thousands of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, jewel-colored fish, undulating stingrays, a huge slithery eel and graceful sea horses. An underwater tunnel provides a 360-degree view and the sensation of swimming underwater, surrounded by sharks and other deep ocean dwellers.

5000 Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, AZ 85282


3. Explore the Phoenix Zoo:
Get up early to beat the heat and plan a visit to the 
Phoenix Zoo. Favorite spots include a stop at Orang-Hutan, the Orangutan habitat, and the Sumatran tigers of the “Isle of the Tiger” habitat. And don’t miss a stop at the Camel Rides, a favorite of both the kiddos and adults.

455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, AZ 85008 | (480) 757-541


4. Rock Climb with Phoenix Rock Gym:

The Phoenix Rock Gym is located near Dorsey Lane and University Drive, this indoor rock climbing facility featuring high walls and an abundance of space to climb to your heart’s desire. From beginners to experienced climbers, everyone will have a great time at this air-conditioned location.

*Hours: Monday-Friday: 3-10 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
1353 E. University Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 921-8322


5. Escape Rooms: 

This summer, challenge your brain and compete with a team through one of Tempe’s escape rooms. Grab a group of friends (or co-workers), pick out your favorite theme at United Escapes of America and Inferno Escape Room, and try to beat the clock in 60 minutes or less!

United Escapes of America | 414 S. Mill Ave., Suite 112, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 666-5550
Inferno Escape Room | 1415 E. University Dr., A-105, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 567-0190