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Ultimate Guide to Summer Family Fun in Tempe, AZ: Wave Pools, Aquariums & Adventures

As the school year ends, summer beckons with endless possibilities. Keep boredom at bay in Tempe, AZ, with our curated list of family-friendly activities that promise fun from June through August.

Kiwanis Wave Pool

Arizona summers mean pool time, and Tempe's Kiwanis Wave Pool stands out as a top indoor destination. Affordable entry—$7 for adults, $5 for kids 2-12—includes wave action, slides, and tube rentals. No sunscreen needed indoors. Visit the Kiwanis Wave Pool website for current hours and details.

Splash Pads

Tempe's splash pads offer free, refreshing play for all ages.

At Tempe Marketplace, the splash pad features pop-up fountains, nighttime lights, and shaded seating for parents with coffee or treats nearby. Open daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m., pair it with shopping, dining, or free live music in The District on Friday/Saturday nights.

Kiwanis Park's splash playground, opened in 2018, complements the wave pool, batting cages, boat rentals, and more.

Big Surf Waterpark

America's original surf lagoon at Big Surf reopens each summer (typically early May). Enjoy toddler zones, adrenaline-pumping slides, Waikiki Beach waves every three minutes, and surf lessons. On-site food and drinks available. Check the Big Surf website for hours, tickets, and promotions.

SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium

Escape the heat at SEA LIFE Arizona in Arizona Mills, home to over 5,000 marine creatures including sharks, stingrays, and clownfish. A serene family outing amid the summer bustle.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona

Adjacent to SEA LIFE, this LEGO haven sparks creativity with build zones, rides, 4D Cinema, LEGO City Play, DUPLO Farm, and the Dino Explorer adventure—featuring dino hunts, builds, and learning. Kid-friendly café on-site. Buy combo tickets online at arizona.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/tickets/. Shop Arizona Mills afterward.

Phoenix Zoo Prowl & Play and Early Hours

The enhanced Phoenix Zoo offers water play near Monkey Village and the lake/carousel. Summer "Prowl & Play" evenings (check dates like early June/August) feature after-hours games, train rides, and activities. From early June, doors open at 7 a.m. for cool morning picnics and animal viewing.

Flashlight Tours at Desert Botanical Garden

Experience summer nights (typically late May–early September, Saturdays 7–9:30 p.m.) with guided flashlight tours. Discover nocturnal desert life at interactive stations. Included with admission or membership—pleasant temps and magical vibes.

Family Art Exhibition at TCA

Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA) Gallery hosts annual summer family exhibits like DRAW, exploring drawing in art, science, fashion, and architecture. Highlights:

  • Meet local artists in summer studios;
  • View diverse drawings, from portraits to robotic art;
  • Create with unique materials on-site;
  • Join free all-ages workshops.

Museums

Beat the heat indoors: Hall of Flame Fire Museum (1725–20th century gear), Arizona Historical Society Museum, Pueblo Grande Museum (Hohokam site with summer camps/reading in June/July), Arizona Science Center, and Children's Museum of Phoenix. Check websites for schedules.

Make the most of your Tempe summer! For more, visit the Tempe Tourism website or call 800-283-6734.

Travel Notes
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    As summer approaches in the greater Phoenix area, Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe stands out as a must-visit spot. The park officially opens for the season on Saturday, May 9. Check details on hours, seasonal passes here. Visit Big Surf’s deal page for specials like half-price admission the first three weekends in May (bring non-perishable food for St. Mary’s Food Bank) and free entry for moms on Mother’s Day. What sets Big Surf apart—beyond being a premier waterpark in the desert—is its appeal to

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    Searching for one-of-a-kind treasures like a unique shirt, necklace, or lamp? Tired of ubiquitous styles from chain stores? Explore Tempes vibrant vintage shops for distinctive finds. Browsing these spots is an adventure—you never know what gems await. Here are top recommendations in Tempe, backed by local favorites. Buffalo Exchange – 227 W. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 968-2557 Just blocks from Downtown Tempe and ASU, Buffalo Exchange offers mens and womens clothing from trendy design

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    Arizona summers in Tempe bring intense heat, but with the right activities, you can stay cool, entertained, and comfortable. Discover our curated list of reliable ways to beat the scorch and enjoy the season. 1) Cool off at Tempes splash pads. The Tempe Marketplace Splash Pad, in the heart of The District at Tempe Marketplace, offers shaded seating for parents, nearby shops, and restaurants. Grab an iced drink or treat from spots like MoJo Yogurt or Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Open daily 7 a.m.