Summer is sunshine, good vibes, and Vitamin D coursing through our bodies, making us stronger and happier. Well, in theory. It’s also when you step out the door and are immediately assaulted by the broiler breath of heat in your face and turning you to ash like a vamp being staked.
Stakecation? Sorry
Nearly 33% of homes in Phoenix, and most apartment complexes, have pools which is a great way to keep from shriveling in the sun, but that still leaves the majority of Arizonans scrambling to find other affordable ways to enjoy summer. As of early 2025, real wages rose only about 1% year-over-year, while consumer prices climbed about 2.4%, leaving families juggling higher grocery bills, rent, and debt.
Fortunately, Arizona is rich in diverse landscapes, culinary nosh, and cultural adventures that won’t bury you in debt. Whether you're cruising the lake or drifting off under a blanket of stars to the soothing sound of mountain lions sniffing around your tent, you’ll find memorable, budget-friendly experiences close to home.
Things to do in or around Phoenix
For those sticking it out in the hotter parts of Arizona, the safest options are to stay inside or somewhere you can easily cool down, with plenty of access to water to avoid heat exhaustion.
1. Stay at a Local Resort
Arizona has a LOT of resorts. Even just within the metro area, you'll find some of the best the state has to offer. Arizona Grand Resort, Spa Royal Palms Resort, Omni Scottsdale Resort, and far too many more to list. Check out TripAdvisor to compare resorts around the Valley and find one that fits your budget while making you feel like you’re living the luxurious lifestyle.
Our Pick: Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort
$107 - 170 average/night between June + August
With beautiful views of the Phoenix North Mountain Preserve, this inclusive resort is centrally located in Phoenix. They have seven pools, private cabanas, scenic waterfalls, a dreamy golf course, soothing spa, on-site restaurant, and more. This resort will make amenities your new favorite word, and they even offer discounts for AZ residents.
2. Take in the Scenery
Native Southern Arizonans have evolved to be lizard-people who know the best spots to enjoy the sun without dying. Check out all of our Arizona State Parks to find the right adventure for you.
Our Pick: Lake Havasu
$20 – 25 for park entrance fee per vehicle, up to 4 adults
Lake Havasu has no shortage of fun. Swim, boat, kayak, fish, eat, cause chaos! There’s so much to do here that it’s great for a weekend getaway or a chill day trip to dip your toes in the water and catch a tan.
3. Visit a Museum or Learning Exhibit
Learning about history, art, science, and different cultures is both entertaining and enriching. Arizona is a major cultural hub with no shortage of exhibits. Check out Lonely Planet’s top 12 museums in Phoenix, the very Instagrammable Wonderspaces in Scottsdale, Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Science Center, or the increasingly popular Musical Instrument Museum.
Our Pick: Arizona Science Center
$30/average - Admission and exhibition costs vary widely
Arizona Science Center has so much going on. They make space for all ages and even have some risqué after hours exhibits for adults. There’s something here for anyone interested in how the world works.
Things to do in Northern Arizona
Not a fan of heatstroke and the desert? To those outside the state lines who really only know it from the movies, Arizona is thought of as desert, desert, and more desert. Locals know, however, that there’s so much more to this state than meets the cinematically-influenced eye.
4. Watch the Stars Dance
Did you know? In 2001, Flagstaff was designated the world’s first Dark Sky Place for its leading efforts in preserving the night sky and reducing light pollution. Since then, many Arizona communities have joined the Dark Skies Movement, such as Sedona, Camp Verde, Fountain Hills, Cottonwood, and more. These aren’t the only places for stargazing, but they are just about the best.
Our Pick: Wupatki National Monument Parking Lot
$25 per vehicle
A PARKING LOT?! I know, but hear me out. “Parking Lot” in the name does not cheapen the views. Spend the day exploring the trails around the park and the visitor center, and watch the sun go down and the stars come up for a couple hours in the parking lot with wide open views.
5. Get Ghosted in jerome
There are too many “haunted” places in Arizona to count, but a favorite for many is Jerome. Once a copper mining town, it lost its steam when the deposits dwindled and the mines closed down, and most of its residents taking off. Now it’s known for being a haunted attraction with some pretty cool scenery.
Our Pick: Jerome Ghost Walk
$45 for the Ghost Walk tour; up to $84 for other tours offered
Walk through the Holy Family Church, Jerome’s 1st Hospital Grounds, United Verde Copper Company Smelter and Haskins House to take in all the creep factor you can handle. If you’re looking to spend some cash and get scared out of your wits, you can also stay at the Jerome Grand Hotel which brings out all the paranormal enthusiasts.
Go Off the Beaten Path
Arizona has a lot going on. From haunted hotels to dinosaurs to bat caves, there’s always something interesting and unusual to find here if you drive off on some sketchy roads. If you’re exploring the wilderness, whether in the heat of the south or the cooler temps of the north, make sure to pack extra water and food to be safe.
For more ideas, check out Atlas Obscura for 219 things to do in Arizona.
Consolidate debt with a low-rate personal loan and make space in your budget to explore Arizona on your timeline, on your terms.
June 1, 2025
Published by SunWest Credit Union
