As temperatures rise in Phoenix during summertime, it is important to have a list of ways you can beat the heat and enjoy the season. From kids to adults, Phoenicians have a variety of fun activities to choose from and venues to visit to stay cool this summer.
The Arizona Science Center is home to 120,000 square feet of space that houses permanent and traveling exhibits ranging from human life, information technology, the forces of nature, and many other intriguing topics. You will also find the state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium along a massive five story tall IMAX theater. Want a night out away from the kids? Be sure to check out Adult’s Night Out on the first Friday of every month where the Center is for adults only.
Another excellent site to see is the Phoenix Art Museum, one of the premier art destinations in the Southwest. Boasting an amazing collection of more than 17,000 pieces of work, the Phoenix Art Museum features modern, abstract and contemporary art, fashion design, photography, sculptures, and even special exhibitions. There is a little bit of everything at the Phoenix Art Museum. One of my personal favorites is the firefly exhibit by artist Yayoi Kusama called “You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies.”  True to its name, when you walk through this exhibit you are in a small, dark space filled with hundreds of teeny, tiny colored lights that seems as though you are surrounded by fireflies. My other favorite thing to see at the Museum is “Mass” by Cornelia Parker. This haunting installation was constructed from the charred remains of a Texas church that was struck by lightning. It hangs from the ceiling and gives a cubical illusion – a must-see! Admission is complimentary for all ages from 3 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and from 6 to 10 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Donations are always graciously accepted.
Now onto another fun indoor venue! Lucky Strike is the only venue in Downtown Phoenix where you can bowl in style while keeping cool. Here you will find the Lunch & Bowl special where you can enjoy a free game of bowling with your lunch Monday through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Even if you aren’t keen on bowling you can enjoy delicious libations while watching others strike out! Next door to Lucky Strike is a new place called Gypsy Bar. Gypsy Bar offers an interactive nightlife experience with its classic arcade games, DJs and cocktails in a bar/nightclub setting.
One of the most common and enjoyable summer pastimes is taking in a great flick. See what’s playing at AMC 24 located in the Arizona Center in Downtown Phoenix. AMC 24 features movies in 3D or just the good ole’ regular way. Along with goodies and treats you are sure to enjoy yourself here!
If you’re seeking outdoor activities, City of Phoenix pools are one of the most affordable ways to dive into summer – especially with cool and refreshing water. Pool admission prices are only $3 for adults and $1 for children (ages 0-17). Encanto Park located in Central Phoenix just northwest of Downtown Phoenix is home to a pool where you can try your athletic abilities during a water aerobics class or swim lessons, each for just $15! The City of Phoenix website lists many pool locations, hours, the dates each pool will be open, and other important information.
Regardless of where you go and what you do this summer, take time to try some of these suggestions and stay cool while having fun in Downtown Phoenix!
Arizona Science Center
600 E. Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 716-2000
www.azscience.org

Phoenix Art Museum
1625 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 257-1222
www.phxart.org


Lucky Strike Phoenix/Gypsy Bar
50 W. Jefferson Street #240
Phoenix, AZ 85003
(602) 732-5490
www.bowlluckystrike.com/locations/arizona/phoenix
AMC Arizona Center 24
565 N. Third Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 307-5371
Encanto Pool
2125 N. 15^th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 261-8732
http://phoenix.gov/parks/pools/
* This post was written by both Alex Turley and Katie Brashear, Complex Director of Public Relations, Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel.