It’s no secret that Arizona temps can get pretty high during the summer months. While the heat might feel unbearable, that doesn’t mean we should be forced to retreat to our air-conditioned homes and hide away until we see glimpses of fall.
Fortunately, the Valley is a haven for refreshing places to escape and stay cool, with splash pads and waterparks galore that allow us to get outside and enjoy quality time with friends and family. We’ve rounded up a few of the very best splash pads and waterparks from around the Valley that you can enjoy with your own kiddos this summer.
Splash Pads
Westgate Entertainment District
At Fountain Park, the Westgate Entertainment District’s famed splash pad hot spot, a refreshing lot comprised of fountains and water jets sits in the center of the district, surrounded by lush gardens and serene lawn chairs that truly make the area a hidden paradise in the Glendale area. The fountain is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday evenings, guests can enjoy live entertainment from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. For more information on this splash pad, visit the official website.
Desert Ridge Marketplace
Following a $22 million renovation, the splash pad at Desert Ridge Marketplace serves as a charming and refreshing oasis in the middle of one of the Valleys most adored shopping center hotspots. The area is complemented by slip-free turf which ensures a safe play experience for the kiddos, allowing them to run wild and free. The splash pad is located near the AMC Theatres in the District, and is open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. For more information on this splash pad, click here.
Scottsdale Quarter
The luxurious Scottsdale Quarter features a beautiful, staple fountain that doubles as a splash pad for kiddos during the summer months. Located in the center of the shopping center on The Quad, parents are free to window shop at nearby retailers while their energetic kids splash around in cool waters. The splash pad is open during shopping center hours, which are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. For more information on this splash pad, visit the Scottsdale Quarter official website.
Luci’s at the Orchard
Nestled in a former citrus orchard is Luci’s, a darling restaurant and café. Aside from yummy food and a quaint environment, Luci’s is also home to a small but comfy North-Central Phoenix splash pad that sits just next to the orchard. Splurge, which is also located next to Luci’s, is a sweet gelato shop that serves up refreshing, icy treats – a perfect complement to an afternoon of splashing around in cool waters. For more information on this splash pad, visit the official website.
Waterparks
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor (formerly Wet ‘N’ Wild Phoenix) is, well, everything you’d expect it to be: wet, wild and really, really fun. This waterpark – arguably a bit of an amusement park in its own right, as well – is the best way to stay stylish and cool this summer. With heart-pounding waterslides, daring, raging rivers, daunting funnels fit to embark on in giant rafts and even racing slides fit to battle on against friends, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is sure to promise wild fun and memories for all. For more information on this waterpark, visit the official website.
Big Surf
Big Surf isn’t just home to guaranteed fun, but it’s also home to great history. The water-amusement park was the first to play host to America’s first wave pool. In 2012, the lot was even named a historical engineering landmark by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The historic waterpark offers everything: beloved waterslides, annual swim lessons, captivating water experiences and even boogie board lessons. For more information on this waterpark, visit the official website.
Oasis Water Park at Arizona Grand Resort
Stretching over seven acres, the Oasis Water Park is a beautiful and luxurious lot that features fun for the entire family to enjoy. Whether you’re relaxing down the lazy river’s currents, lounging poolside and soaking up some rays – with a drink in hand, of course – or you’re braving the staple eight-story tower that plays host for three adrenaline inducing slides, Oasis Water Park is a staycation dream. For more information on this waterpark, visit the official website.
Golfland Sunsplash
Golfland Sunsplash features more than 30 fun rides – some wet, some dry. While the park may be a great excuse to cool down and bask in the gloriously refreshing waters, it also has a lot of others fun components that make it the perfect place to take the kiddos. Additionally, Golfland Sunsplash features a designated mini golf area, an arcade, laser tag, bumper boats, a dry play center, splash pad and of course, their famed waterpark. Golfland is a place for all ages too, as it features smaller rides for children, a wave pool, a zero-depth water play area and a toddler pool. For more information on this waterpark, visit the official website.
