It's 117F outside, where can I take my family without melting ?! Okay...maybe 117 is a bit of an exaggeration, but the summers in Gilbert are no joke! The summer temperatures barely dip below 100 degrees which can lead to some long (and sweaty) months. It's too hot to be at the park, too hot to play in the yard, and too hot for any hikes...so what are you supposed to do all summer long? Here's a list of the ultimate things to do in Gilbert for families when it's too hot outside. I hope this helps to save some of your sanity this summer! :)
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Things to do in Gilbert for families when it's too hot outside:
The following summer activities can be found right in Gilbert! From air-conditioned fun to splashing through the sprinklers, I have you covered for a fun summer in Gilbert!
Splash Pads
What's better than running through the sprinklers on a hot day? Gilbert has two local splash pads to enjoy. There's a large one at Gilbert Regional Park with over 50 interactive water features or a smaller one right downtown at the Water Tower Plaza. Once you've exhausted both of those options, be sure to check out the rest of the splash pads in the neighboring cities!
Mesquite Aquatic Center
If your kiddos are at the age where they no longer find the splash pads exciting, they'll surely love the water slides and the diving board at the Mesquite Aquatic Center. The pool is open to the public between May 27, 2023, to July 22, 2023, from 1 pm-6 pm. There are some days that it closes early due to swim meets and it's closed every Sunday.
There is a small admission fee, but residents can also purchase a punch card that can be used at all 4 Gilbert pools.
Family Swim
For those of you who want to hide away from the hot summer sun completely, but still get some laps in, you can head to a family swim day at Goldfish Swim School. In addition to open swims, they also offer swim lessons for just the kiddos or the whole family!
The Paradox Escape Room
Playing a game at The Paradox Escape Room is a great way to forget that it's 117 outside. You'll be far too focused on the clues and escaping than that hot summer sun. Games start at $25 per person and are meant for ages 8 and up. There are 3 exciting games to choose from that vary in difficulty.
San Tan Village
Shop 'til you drop at San Tan Village. Okaaaay...so it's technically an open-air mall so you won't be completely escaping from the heat, but all the shops are fully air-conditioned :) There are over 100 stores and restaurants to check out!
Regal Gilbert Stadium 14
When the heat is too much to handle, what better way to cool off than by watching a movie at the Regal Gilbert Stadium 14? With comfortable seats and state-of-the-art sound and video systems, you can immerse yourself in your favorite movie and forget about the sweltering heat.
You can even treat yourself to some delicious popcorn and a refreshing (ice-cold) drink from the concession stand. Watching a movie in the comfort of an air-conditioned theater is the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy some quality time with friends or family.
Kids Empire
Ready for some serious air-conditioned family fun? Head on over to Kids Empire in Gilbert, AZ! This massive, indoor playground will keep both kids and adults entertained for hours. From the towering inflatable slides to the intricate obstacle courses, there's something to suit every child's interests.
Kids can even try their hand at laser tag or challenge their friends to a game of basketball. If they need a little break from all the excitement, there are also designated areas for quieter activities like arts and crafts. Prices start at 23 dollars per child (with 2 adults free), but there are also punch cards available if you think you will be a frequent flyer!
The Little Gym
The Little Gym has a variety of dance and gymnastic classes for all levels. In addition to their structured lessons, they also offer the opportunity to use the facility for parties, drop-in events, and summer camps!
Main Event
Main Event offers fun for the whole family on those hot summer days! With an array of activities to choose from, including bowling, laser tag, arcade games, billiards, and more, there's something for everyone here. And in case you work up an appetite from all that excitement, Main Event has a restaurant that serves up tasty bites and refreshing drinks.
Trampoline Park
If your kids are getting a bit antsy being cooped up in the house, a trampoline park will surely be your answer! There are two trampoline parks in Gilbert (Altitude and Urban Air) with foam pits, obstacle courses, basketball hoops, dodgeball, and of course...all the trampolines.
Fat Cats Gilbert
At Fat Cats Gilbert, you can spend your day trying to get a strike in the bowling alley, facing off against friends in laser tag or mini golf, or showing off your skills in the arcade. And when you're ready for a break, grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant or lounge!
Things to do near Gilbert for families when it's too hot outside:
If you are still looking for more ways to escape the heat, check out the following fun summer activities that are all within a short drive of Gilbert!
Golfland Sunsplash
This amusement park has everything you need to beat the heat and have a great time with friends or family. From fun water slides to the lazy river and wave pool, there's no shortage of water entertainment. And once you've had enough time in the sun, you can head inside for some fun at the arcade or laser tag.
Sealife
Looking for a fun and educational way to hide from the hot summer heat? Look no further than SeaLife Aquarium! Located just a short drive from Gilbert, SeaLife offers an immersive experience that's perfect for the whole family. Discover the beauty of marine life as you explore stunning exhibits and interactive displays, and get up close and personal with sea creatures of all shapes and sizes. Admission starts at just $14.99!
I.D.E.A. Museum
Located in Mesa, AZ (just 7 miles from downtown Gilbert), the I.D.E.A. Museum is a must for all creative toddlers! It's unique as it's meant for kids birth-four years of age (older kiddos can come with as helpers). Here, you'll find hands-on art projects and interactive play spaces. Admission starts at just $9.
Uptown Jungle Fun
Uptown Jungle Fun is another massive indoor playground featuring trampolines, climbing walls, obstacles, and ziplines! It's located in Chandler just 4 miles from downtown Gilbert. It's a great place to spend the day near Gilbert when it's just too hot outside!
Things to do in and near Gilbert, AZ for families when it's TOO HOT outside
I hope this list of air-conditioned and water fun near Gilbert, AZ helps save some of your sanity this summer! As a parent of young kiddos myself, I know that you can only hide away inside for so long. If I missed anything or you would like your business added to this list, make sure to send me an email at hello@allthingsgilbert.com.
