Top 5 Indoor Activities in Tempe for Kids This Summer

Summer in Arizona brings scorching heat, making indoor outings essential for family fun. Fortunately, Tempe offers a wealth of engaging indoor activities perfect for young children. As a local parent and family activities enthusiast, here are my top 5 recommendations to keep kids entertained all season long:

1. SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium at Arizona Mills – A thrilling destination for young explorers, featuring over 5,000 sea creatures in themed exhibits designed to captivate children's imaginations. Purchase tickets online in advance to save 20% per ticket. Enhance the day with shopping and dining at Arizona Mills, including the kid-favorite Rainforest Cafe, ideal for short attention spans.

2. As You Wish Pottery at Tempe Marketplace – Unleash creativity as you select unpainted pottery—plates, bowls, mugs, cookie jars, figurines, and more—and customize it with vibrant paints like crackle or puffy varieties. Staff glaze and fire your pieces for pickup in about three days. Studio fees: $8 for adults, $6 for kids 12 and under, plus pottery cost. A fantastic bonding experience!

3. Kiwanis Wave Pool at Kiwanis Recreation Center – Enjoy indoor water fun without the sun. This expansive pool features 3-foot waves and a double spiral slide. Rent tubes or rafts for added excitement. Open daily 1:00–5:00 p.m.; $7 adults, $5 kids 2–12.

4. Storytime at Barnes & Noble – Held several days weekly at 10:00 or 11:00 a.m. at Tempe Marketplace (free; check online calendar). Spark a love for reading with interactive sessions, then explore nearby kid-friendly spots like Red Robin, Paradise Bakery, Portillo’s, or Lucille’s BBQ.

5. First Saturdays for Families and Family Fun Day at ASU Art Museum – First Saturdays (ages 4–12) offers free, drop-in creative projects tied to current exhibits (next: August 2nd; materials provided). Family Fun Day (July 12th) features art projects, booths, and performances linked to the Funny Papers exhibit on comic strip history.