Keeping Cool in the Neighborhood

AFFORDABLE SUMMER FUN AROUND MESA

Summer in Mesa means sunshine, blue skies, and plenty of triple-digit days—but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors or spend a fortune to enjoy the season. Whether you’re entertaining the kids, planning a date night, or looking for ways to stay active, Mesa offers plenty of affordable ways to beat the heat while supporting our local community. Here’s your guide to making the most of summer—Mesa style!

COOL OFF & MAKE A SPLASH

Nothing says Arizona summer like cooling off in the water. Mesa’s public pools and splash pads are an inexpensive way to have fun while escaping the heat.

Local Favorites:

• Skyline Aquatic Center

• Rhodes Aquatic Complex

• Eastmark Great Park Splash Pad

• Riverview Park Splash Pad

Many facilities also offer evening swim sessions, making them perfect for cooling off after sunset.

EXPLORE MESA BEFORE THE HEAT

Early mornings are one of the best times to enjoy everything Mesa has to offer.

Take a sunrise hike at Usery Mountain Regional Park, enjoy wildlife viewing along the Salt River, spot a relaxing morning at Saguaro Lake, or stroll through Downtown Mesa and discover local shops, coffee houses, murals, and restaurants.

It’s a great reminder that some of Arizona’s best adventures are right in our own backyard.

BEAT THE HEAT INDOORS

When temperatures soar, head inside for family-friendly fun.

Some local favorites include:

• Arizona Museum of Natural History

• i.d.e.a. Museum

• Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum

• Mesa Public Libraries

• Mesa Arts Center

Many offer affordable admission, free events, summer reading programs, crafts, and activities for all ages.

CREATE A BACKYARD STAYCATION

Sometimes the best memories happen at home. Try:

• Water balloon games

• Slip ’N Slides

• Backyard movie nights

• Homemade popsicles

• Family game nights

• BBQs with neighbors

• Ice cream sundae bars

Simple moments often become the memories we cherish most.

SUPPORT LOCAL THIS SUMMER

Summer can be one of the slowest seasons for many Mesa small businesses.

Instead of driving across town, explore your neighborhood by visiting:

• Local coffee shops

• Ice cream and frozen yogurt spots

• Family-owned restaurants

• Farmers markets

• Boutique stores

• Indoor entertainment centers

• Shopping local helps keep our community thriving all year long.

STAY SAFE IN THE ARIZONA HEAT

A little preparation goes a long way.

Remember to:

• Drink plenty of water.

• Wear sunscreen and a hat.

• Limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.

• Never leave children or pets in a vehicle.

• Walk pets early in the morning or after sunset.

• Check pavement temperatures before walking your dog—they can quickly become hot enough to burn paws.

MAKE THE MOST OF MESA THIS SUMMER

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy an unforgettable summer. From splash pads and mountain trails to museums, local restaurants, and evenings spent with family in the backyard, Mesa offers countless ways to stay cool while making lasting memories.

So grab a reusable water bottle, support a local business, invite the neighbors over, and enjoy everything our amazing community has to offer.

After all, the best part of summer isn’t how hot it gets—it’s the memories we make together.

MESA SUMMER FAVORITES

• Usery Mountain Regional Park

• Salt River Recreation Area

• Saguaro Lake

• Mesa Riverview Park

• Eastmark Great Park

• Downtown Mesa

• Mesa Arts Center

• Arizona Museum of Natural History

• Mesa Public Library

• Local Neighborhood Restaurants & Ice Cream Shops

SOURCES

City of Mesa Parks, Recreation & Community FacilitiesMesa Public Library

VISIT MESA

Maricopa County Parks & RecreationNational Weather Service Phoenix (Heat Safety)

PUBLISHED BY

East Mesa Community Magazine

Connecting neighbors, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the best of our community.