Unless you’re living the cool life in Flagstaff and other mountain towns, chances are you got a taste of the summer weather this week. If your mind is already focusing on places to escape to and things to do when the temperatures get too hot, then you’ll want to check out this list of ideas to stay cool this summer.

1. Spend a few hours in paradise by visiting Fossil Creek near Strawberry.

You’ll find plenty of beautiful areas around the state but one of our absolute favorites is Fossil Creek, a picturesque oasis that sits near Strawberry. You’ll find crystal clear waters, lush landscapes, and hiking trails that are perfect for keeping cool on a summer afternoon.

For details about visiting, click this link.

2. Plan a kayaking trip at Knoll Lake.

Want to feel like you’re truly out in the middle of nowhere this summer? Then you’ll love a visit to Knoll Lake! This Rim Country lake is the perfect spot for kayaking, fishing, camping, or even just enjoying an afternoon picnic.

For details about visiting, click this link.

3. Enjoy a meal on the patio.

While it may be a little too hot to truly enjoy a patio meal in some parts of the state, others revel in their mild summer temperatures. When visiting places like Sedona, Show Low, and Flagstaff, be sure to opt for outdoor seating!

To read some suggestions, click this link.

4. Enjoy a walk along white beach shores when you visit Lake Havasu State Park.

White beach shores in Arizona? Yes, it’s true! While the sand was imported to the beaches of Lake Havasu State Park, it does give a relaxing, inviting atmosphere for all beach visitors.

For details about visiting, click this link.

6. Picnic and hike at the base of the San Francisco Peaks in Lockett Meadow.

Green, shaded, and cool, Lockett Meadow just north of Flagstaff is one gorgeous area year-round! During the summer, you can enjoy the mild summer temperatures, the sound of pines and aspens waving in the breeze, and lovely hiking trails.

For details about visiting, click this link.

6. Stay active this summer by checking out an incredible adventure park hidden in the pines.

Flagstaff Extreme is an adventure park sitting just south of its namesake city and is one of the coolest places to visit in the summer! You’ll have the opportunity to climb, jump, crawl, and fly through the pine trees in a safe environment. There are varying levels of difficulty so even if your knees get wobbly at the thought of standing more than three feet off the ground, you’ll find something you’ll love here.

For details about visiting, click this link.

7. Eat a pizza and some massive cookies at the top of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson.

Mount Lemmon is kind of a well-known hidden treasure. It’s sitting right within view of Tucson and locals know it’s the perfect spot for a quick relief from the summer heat but plenty of other Arizonans don’t know much about it. Perfect for hiking and camping in the summer, you can also grab a bite to eat at the Mt. Lemmon Cookie Cabin.

For details about visiting, click this link.

8. Find cooler temperatures and lovely views at Tonto Natural Bridge.

The world’s largest travertine bridge, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is one gorgeous area that’s lovely for a summer day. You can hike some short trails, see the bridge, and enjoy a picnic in the shade underneath the trees.

For details about visiting, click this link.

9. Enjoy a delightful dining experience by Oak Creek.

There are plenty of restaurants that sit along the banks of Oak Creek but none of them quite offer the experience you can find at L’Auberge de Sedona’s Cress. You can literally sit at the water’s edge while enjoying a candlelit dinner or a delectable brunch.

For details about visiting, click this link.

10. Another fun thing to do in the summer: head to a water park!

Arizona has some pretty cool water parks that are the perfect way to enjoy a summer day. Swim, splash, head down a slide, and float down some waterways for multiple ways to keep cool.

To read some suggestions, click this link.

11. If you’re not big on water parks, then try out a splash pad for quick relief from the heat.

If your kids can’t swim or you’re just looking for a bit of quick relief from the summer heat, try out a splash pad. There are some amazing ones found around the state that are free or very cheap and are fun for the whole family!

To read some suggestions, click this link.

What are some other incredible things you love to do in the summer here in Arizona? If you prefer to visit some natural beauties around the state, you’ll want to read 12 Amazing Natural Wonders Hiding In Plaint Sight In Arizona – No Hiking Required.