When it comes to summertime in Scottsdale, it’s all about staying cool. One of the best ways to do that is by seeking outdoor water activities the whole family can enjoy. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of the best water activities for the kiddos (and the young at heart!). From sky-high water slides to splash pads, your family will be playing all summer long with these Scottsdale vacation adventures!

Waterslides

Nothing says wet-and-wild thrills like waterslides, and you’ll find some of the best at Scottsdale-area resorts. Kids can race down two towers of fun at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, climb a three-story slide at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa or zip down the 197-foot waterslide at The Phoenician.  

Dive-In Movies

Combine two of your favorite things – movies and swimming – with summertime dive-in movies! Among the resorts offering these poolside, family-friendly flicks for guests are the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and The Phoenician.

River Floats

Scottsdale boasts eight lakes and rivers within an hour drive. The options for getting out and exploring nature via water are vast – kayaking, boating, stand-up paddleboarding and more! Grab your sunscreen and plan to spend the day outdoors.

Is floating along a manicured river more your style? Grab an inner tube and take a ride down the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa’s 900-foot Lazy River. The resort’s water park also includes a 110-foot-long waterslide, children’s play area and Flowrider surfing simulator.

Splash Pads

With upscale retailers, fabulous restaurants and lush outdoor areas, Scottsdale Quarter is a great shopping destination year-round. But in the summertime, the cool pop-jet fountains on the center's quad make a splash with kids of all ages. 

The City of Scottsdale also offer splash pads at several of its city parks, including Paiute Park, Florence Ely Nelson Desert Park, Chesnutt Park and Pima Park. The kids will love alternating between the playground and the splash pad. 

Waterparks

If you need somewhere to spend an entire day, we highly recommend waterparks. These sprawling venues are filled with waterslides, wave pools, surfing simulators and more! Big Surf has been serving up family fun for more than 50 years and offers attractions for tykes and teenagers alike. Nearby, the Great Wolf Lodge boasts Arizona’s only indoor waterpark, which kept at a temp of 82 degrees year-round. And while they may not have “waterpark” in their name, many of Scottsdale’s resorts have large pool complexes and offer day passes for guests not staying overnight.