Staples’ advertising its new plethora of school supplies could only mean one thing: summertime is coming to a close. Despite the abundant supply of TI 84 calculators and stacks of printer paper, summer is not over until that first attendance bell rings. Thus, savor each remaining day of summer with these last hurrah events happening around the Valley.
Arizona Water Parks
Arizona’s water parks, such as Wet’n’Wild and Sunsplash, are quickly approaching their close dates. With hours shortening in preparation for the school year, make your last splash this summer before its too late. Enjoy a variety of attractions for individuals of all ages: from adrenaline seekers to lazy river folks. Twist and turn, loop and swivel your way down several slides that will have you waiting back in line for more. Enjoy your last summer float across the lazy river or catch your final wave in any one of the Valley’s wave pools. Enjoy a day of sun and water before its time to get back to the books.
For additional information on Sunsplash visit: http://www.golfland.com/mesa/.
For additional information of Wet’n’Wild visit: http://www.wetnwildphoenix.com/.
Salt River Tubing
What better way to end summer than spend a day tubing the beautiful Lower Salt River rapids? This recreational paradise gives individuals a chance to experience natural wonders such as wild horses, blue herons and majestic mountains all while floating in mountain-stream waters. Grab a few friends, lather on some sunscreen and head down to Salt River Tubing and Recreation for one last float down the rapids.
Details: 9200 N. Bush Highway, Mesa. $12 for shuttle only, $15 for tube and shuttle.
For additional information visit: http://www.saltrivertubing.com/.
Experience Nature
Escape the heat and spend a night at the Desert Botanical Garden’s Flashlight Tour. The garden has been hosting the flashlight tour all summer long and only has a few shows left. This event is great for families, friends, and botanists alike. Grab a flashlight and witness Arizona’s night-blooming plants and nocturnal creatures at 10 different discovery stations. Join the adventure any Saturday at 7 p.m. until September 10.
For additional information call: 480.941.1225 or visit: http://www.dbg.org/.
Music to my Ears
With summer coming to a close, The Musical Instrument Museum’s 2011 Summer Series only has a few performances left. Performances include something for everyone, such as the world-renowned Kronos Quartet, jazz artists Lee Konitz, Sheryl Bailey and Michael Kaeshammer. Other performances include Broadway show tunes, opera, West African drumming, Japanese arts and much more. Don’t miss out on the MIM’s last beats and tunes of summertime.
Purchase tickets online, in person at MIM, or by calling the MIM Ticket Office at 480.478.6000. http://www.themim.org/.
Sweet Republic
There is nothing more satisfying than a refreshing ice cream cone on a hot summer’s day. Although ice cream is delicious year-round, summertime seems to make this delectable treat even more delectable. Sweet Republic has several flavors of artisan ice cream, yogurt and sorbet that will tantalize your taste buds. So lounge by the pool, turn the music up and chow down on your favorite flavor before the cooler fall months come rolling in.
Details: 9160 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale. 480.248.6979. http://sweetrepublic.com/home.html.
