Written by: Mia
Updated: February 11, 2026
Scottsdale summers get scorching hot, but this guide shows you how to stay cool while enjoying the city. Learn about waterparks, nearby rivers perfect for kayaking and tubing, evening movie theaters, and the best local ice cream shops to beat those triple-digit temperatures.
Scottsdale can be super hot – especially during June, July, and August – but with our tips and tricks, you can have fun, stay cool, and see tons of amazing spots in this bustling city! Check out our guide to beating the heat during summer in Scottsdale below.
Contents
- Head to a Waterpark This Summer in Scottsdale
- Take Part in Some Watersports
- Grab Popcorn for a Dine-In Movie
- Find the Best Ice Cream in Scottsdale
- Why You Should Book with Us at Scottsdale Rentals
Head to a Waterpark This Summer in Scottsdale
One of the best ways to beat the summer heat and stay cool during the triple-digit temperatures is to go to a waterpark with your kids in Scottsdale, AZ! Scottsdale is home to various water parks and outdoor park areas that are ideal for swimming, hopping in an inner tube, floating down a lazy river, or cruising down a high-speed slide into ice-cold water.
The Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale on North Pima Road is a fantastic spot to check out to beat the heat. This cool and laid-back spot has an indoor water park with areas for toddlers, small kids, and teens alike. You can cool off inside the warm room, filled with kiddie pools, slides, and games that are fun for the entire family.
Take Part in Some Watersports
If adrenaline and fun is really your speed, then we recommend checking out the numerous lakes and rivers that are just a short drive away from the downtown area of Scottsdale. Not only is this great for keeping your fitness up while on vacation, but you can also partake in kayaking, boating, canoeing with your partner, or stand-up paddleboarding through the water.
Just 30 miles away from Scottsdale is the flowing Salt River, which is the ideal spot for inner tubing, floating down the slow river, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding. The Lower Salt River is perfect for beginners who want to go at a slow pace. In contrast, the Upper Salt River is the best spot for avid kayakers who have experience with intense rapids, drops, and waterfalls.
Or, if you want to cruise down the river while looking out at the never-ending and picturesque Sonoran Desert, the Verde River near the Salt River is the perfect half-day trip for fishing, birding, animal-watching, picnicking, or taking photos of the incredible wildlife.
Grab Popcorn for a Dine-In Movie
We know that it can be super hot during the day. That is why heading out on the town in the evening is one of the best ways to see Scottsdale without breaking a sweat! We recommend going to one of the fun dine-in movie locations in Scottsdale like RoadHouse Cinemas to check out a family flick or action movie with your friends while enjoying craft cocktails and a full restaurant menu in comfortable reclining seats.
Find the Best Ice Cream in Scottsdale
Another way to stay cool during the hot summer months is to find the best ice cream in the entire city! Luckily for you, we have done the taste testing for you, so you can hit up the best spots for a post-dinner treat or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Head to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on East 5th Avenue right in the heart of the town to try some of their unique flavors, cool combinations, and crunchy waffle cones. We love the Fluffernutter Pie with vanilla marshmallow and oat pie crust, Powdered Jelly Donut with raspberry jelly, and the Maple Soaked Pancakes with salted butter and maple syrup cream.
Another popular sport that is a must-visit for families with kids is The Gelato Spot. We love this casual cafe that is like an Italian cafe, featuring gelato, coffee, and cool combos that you wouldn’t typically find in a normal ice cream shop. Head here for dinner to share one of their supersized pizzas and finish the evening with a cup of gelato and a tiny espresso. We love the pumpkin pie flavor and affogatos for an unforgettable treat.
Why You Should Book with Us at Scottsdale Rentals
As you can see, visiting Scottsdale during the super-humid and hot June and July months doesn’t have to be unbearable. In fact, this is oftentimes one of the most popular periods for tourists, as you can partake in watersports, go hiking, check out the downtown shops, and try some of the best drinks, ice cream, and food in the entire state.
And when you stay with us at Scottsdale Rentals, you can put your faith and trust in the hands of Scottsdale’s vacation rental experts. We offer luxury rentals, Scottsdale villas, pet-friendly homes, cute condos, vacation condos, and vacation homes to suit your needs.
While Scottsdale offers desert adventures, coastal escapes await at Ocracoke Island. Our vacation rental experts at Ocracoke Island Realty provide beachfront homes, family cottages, and pet-friendly properties perfect for your next getaway. Let us help you plan your ideal beach vacation.