The sun may be heating things up in Arizona golf communities, but that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of cool things to do! Whether you’re staying in town all summer and looking for fun “staycation” ideas, day trips, or just something to keep the kids amused for a few hours, we’re reviewing 10 cool summer sites and attractions in Arizona.
Head north! This is the obvious one when the temps stay over 100 for months on end. There are a ton of great things to do just a few hours-drive north of Phoenix and your Scottsdale golf homes.
- Snowbowl, minus the snow. Ride the chairlift and get breathtaking views of northern Arizona. Truly one of the best summer sites in all of Arizona. It could even be chilly enough for a jacket at the top of the non-extinct volcano. 11,500 feet above sea level. The lift runs daily from 10 am to 4 pm through Labor Day, then weekends to catch sights of the fall leaves.
- Explore the darker side. Tour the mile-long cave that was formed over 700,000 years ago, thanks to molten rock from nearby Hart Prairie. The cave is dark and cold, an average of 42 degrees in the summer. So bring lights sources and jackets.
- Visit the other rim. If you’ve been to the Grand Canyon, you’ve likely been to the South Rim. This is by far the most popular as it’s the closest to Flagstaff. However, the North Rim offers much better views and a different vibe. There are less services and it’s less developed, so in a way feels more natural. Hike less than a half mile for simply spectacular sights, then relax and have a drink or meal in the Grand Canyon Lodge. Do note that accommodations at the lodge tend to book up far in advance, so be sure you’ve made reservations, are camping or can return to home base in the same day.
- Turn up the excitement! Swing through the pines while you test your agility and fear of heights at the new Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course nested in the Fort Tuthill County Park. A course for adults and one for kids makes it win for all. Due to course participant restrictions, it’s strong encouraged to buy tickets and book your time online.
- Hot dog and s’mores, anyone? While you’re exploring the Coconino National Forest treasures, consider camping there, too. Camping has long been a summer staple for families, so why not start the tradition? The Mogollon Rim offers terrific campsites and views, too.
- Walk the bridge. If you camp near Payson and the Mogollon Rim, be sure to check out the Tonto National Bridge. At 183 feet tall, 440 feet long and 150 feet wide, the bridge could very well be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. Steep stairs, observation decks and easy hikes make the bridge perfect for just about everyone in your party to enjoy.
There is so much to explore in our northern neighboring areas, you could spend the entire summer and still not see everything. Coming up in part two of cool summer sites, we’ll look at four more local places to spend some of your summer. And of course, don’t forget to check the activities calendar if you live in an Arizona golf course community that schedules events. The pool parties, wine tastings and social activities are part of what makes living in these communities so cool!
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team – RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-405-4228
[email protected]
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