Make Summer Nights Cooler

Yes, it’s hot. Yes, your flip-flops might melt to the pavement. But summer in Tempe doesn’t have to mean hibernating inside with the curtains drawn and the AC blasting. Several local spots have found ways to outsmart the summer with cool activities to put some fun back in the weekend.

The Alibi can be found on the rooftop of the Canopy Hotel in Downtown Tempe. Whether looking for a fun date spot or a cabana rental for a private poolside party, Alibi can hook it up. Every Friday night you can skip the searing heat with their TGIF Rooftop Pool Party all the way until Labor Day. Crafted cocktails and swank snacks are served with plenty of skyline and reverse happy hour runs from 8pm to close. There's no cover charge, but private cabanas are available for rent.

The Desert Botanical Garden is a hotspot for locals and visitors alike, but the summer tends to put a little too much emphasis on the HOT part. So the DBG created some fun opportunities to enjoy the gardens without feeling like you're on the sixth ring of hell. Flashlight Nights let visitors "soak in the enchanting nighttime vibes" rather than the relentless rays of sunlight. Different dates offer different themes, but the desert gardens at night are always something to behold.

Skysill Rooftop Lounge at The Westin offers DJ'ed events two days a week from 7 - 10pm with Throwback Thursday and Saturday Spins for fans of Insta-worthy views + poolside music. There's even a massive pool party on July 26. While tickets are not required to attend, daybeds and bottle service are currently open for reservations, but they won't be for long so get moving if you want to go big.