What To Do In Phoenix This Summer

While the rest of the world is awaiting the beautiful weather that accompanies summer, Arizonans are preparing for their annual heat wave. With temperatures over 100 degrees pretty much every day in the summer, all people from Arizona are looking for one thing: a way to get outside but stay cool at the same time.

There are many ways to explore Arizona, from hiking to lounging by the pool, so we’ve partnered with Crocs to get a good summer bucket list going. People don't often realize that Phoenix, Arizona is full of culture, delicious food, and the home to the best brewery in the United States (as voted on by the Travel Channel)! Now, most Phoenix natives are getting their pools ready for summer and prepping for the high temperatures, so when in doubt, make friends with someone who’s got a pool (it’s not that hard, we promise). Otherwise, these locations are the best way to explore all the fun you can have in one summer in the Southwest.

Best Outdoor Dining

Four Peaks

You really can’t visit Arizona without stopping off at Four Peaks Brewing Company on 8th Street in Tempe. In October, Four Peaks was voted America’s Favorite Craft Brewery by the Travel Channel viewers. Yes, people voted this brewery the best in America. Stop by for a Kilt Lifter or an 8th Street Ale. They have a patio, they always play the biggest sports games, and their Bavarian pretzels are the best -- so you don't have much to lose.

Postino Wine Cafe

With locations in Arcadia, Central Phoenix, Gilbert, and Tempe, Postino is a great place to relax and, of course, drink wine. While you drink your wine, you should throw in an order of the bruschetta. There are 11 different types, and it’s possibly the best bruschetta you can get short of being in Italy -- but maybe I'm biased. Bring your friends for a solid patio hang-out.

O.H.S.O.

Want to eat food, drink beer, and play with puppies? O.H.S.O. has a huge patio and dogs are totally welcome. There are locations in Scottsdale and Arcadia, and both of them serve weekend brunch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Sundays, starting at 3 p.m., they hold a backyard BBQ. And did we mention that their craft beer and wine list is extensive and delicious?

Best Outdoor Performance Venues

Ak-Chin Pavilion

Formerly known as Cricket Pavilion in Arizona, Ak-Chin is one of the main concert venues in the Phoenix area. You'll want to secure your tickets before you head to a show, because things tend to sell out fast. This summer appears to be for country-lovers, so put on your cowboy boots and enjoy some drinks on the lawn.

Best Place To Have Fun By Foot

South Mountain

For tons of hiking trails ranging from beginner to expert, South Mountain is the place to go. There are a wealth of different trails and entrances to the mountain, but it doesn't matter which one you choose. After all, they all lead to a beautiful view of Phoenix when you get to the top.

Best Outdoor Nightlife

Culinary Dropout (The Yard)

Culinary Dropout (The Yard) has three locations -- in Tempe, Phoenix, and Scottsdale --and they have a covered patio full of couches, firepits, and games. Their Tempe location has corn hole and ping pong, but if you're the relaxed type, you can just lounge around on the couches with your friends. The food is delicious, too.

Casey Moore’s Oyster House

Casey Moore’s is a major Arizona State University hot spot during the school year, but during the summer, students become more scarce. Stop by and you'll find enjoy a more mature clientele, a busy outdoor patio area, and a great selection of drinks.

Best Outdoor Festivals

Independence Day Music Festival

Many Arizona festivals happen in April and October on account of the heat, but there is always the Independence Day Music Festival, which place on July 3-4. The event takes place at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale, and you can get your tickets online. This year, Wilco plays with Dr. Dog, and Little Big Town plays with Brandy Clark.

Best Places To Cool Off

Wet at The W Scottsdale

Make a reservation at The W in Scottsdale for one of their weekend pool parties. They have a DJ every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and your only job is to lounge around and drink with your friends. Pro tip: There is a dress code, so be mindful, and look fab.

Release Pool Parties at Talking Stick Resort

Want a little concert with your swimming? Like The W, Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale hosts a weekly pool party all summer long. The party is called "Release," and they too have a DJ along with an impressive concert stage. Last year, it was voted the best pool party in Arizona -- because, yes, people rate those types of things.

Best View

The Top of Camelback

Yes, hiking South Mountain is fun, but the best views in the city are atop Camelback Mountain. The trails are rather difficult compared to South Mountain, but the harder the climb, the better the view.

Elements Deck at Sanctuary

Make a reservation for the Elements Deck at Sanctuary Resort. A meal here won't be cheap, but it's all forgiven when you are sitting on the deck during an Arizona sunset. The dining patio is situated on one of the most beautiful Arizona views you have ever seen.

Images: Four Peaks Brew, Postino Wine Cafe, Sunjules, Culinary Dropout, el_barbon_grande, Instagram; Ak-Chin Pavilion; Salt River Fields / Facebook; Salem Sakkijha; Sasha Kuznetsova; Lisa Holmes.

This post is sponsored by Crocs