When people think about Arizona in July, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the heat. And yes, there are definitely days when stepping outside feels like opening an oven.
But one of the things longtime Arizona residents know is that summer doesn’t have to mean staying inside until September. You just have to know when to go, where to go, and how to make the most of it.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy Arizona, even during the hottest month of the year.
Start Your Day Early
One of the best things about Arizona mornings is that they are surprisingly peaceful.
Before the temperatures climb, head out for a walk through your neighborhood, grab breakfast at a local café, or spend some time exploring one of your favorite parks. Getting outside before 9:00 a.m. can make all the difference.
It’s also one of the best times to appreciate those beautiful Arizona sunrises.
Find a Patio with Misters
Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you have to give up dining outside.
Many local restaurants have shaded patios with misting systems that make breakfast, brunch, or dinner much more comfortable. Whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a weekend meal with family, it is still possible to enjoy being outdoors.
Cool Off at the Pool
There is a reason pools are practically a way of life in Arizona.
Whether you spend the afternoon at your neighborhood pool, visit a local aquatic center, or enjoy a relaxing day at a resort, taking a swim is one of the best ways to cool down while still enjoying the sunshine.
Escape to Higher Elevation for the Day
One of the best things about living in the Valley is that cooler temperatures are only a couple of hours away.
Places like Prescott, Flagstaff, and Payson make great day trips when you’re ready for pine trees, fresh air, and temperatures that are often twenty to thirty degrees cooler than Phoenix.
Sometimes a quick change of scenery is all you need.
Support Local Businesses
Summer is a wonderful time to discover local shops, bookstores, coffee houses, and boutiques that you may not have visited before.
Exploring your community while supporting small businesses is a great way to stay cool and experience everything Arizona has to offer.
Catch an Arizona Sunset
If there is one thing that makes the July heat worthwhile, it is the sunsets.
As the temperatures begin to cool in the evening, head outside for a walk, visit a neighborhood park, or simply sit on your patio and enjoy the view. Arizona skies have a way of putting on a show this time of year.
Make the Most of Summer
Living in Arizona is all about adjusting your routine.
Instead of avoiding the outdoors altogether, many locals simply enjoy it during the cooler parts of the day. Morning walks, evening dinners, weekend road trips, and afternoons by the pool become part of the rhythm of summer.
That is one of the many reasons people love calling Arizona home.
The heat may be part of life here, but it certainly doesn’t stop us from enjoying everything our beautiful state has to offer.
