10 places to cool off

Susie Steckner
Special for arizonamoms.com
Apr. 29 2008 7:48 pm

Pools aren't the only cool spots for summer fun.

Check out these Valley kid friendly places to while away the hours during the dog days of summer.

AZ on the Rocks

This indoor gym offers kids 14,000 square feet of climbing terrain, a fun place to exercise and the perfect way to burn off energy.

Waterworld Safari

Spend the day exploring this sprawling park, with scores of water rides, play structures and cool attractions like lazy rivers. There's also an indoor game arcade.

Chandler Fashion Center

www.chandlermall.com

Here's a cheap way to spend a few hours with young ones. Hit the Starbucks inside Barnes & Noble for some caffeine or sweet treats, and then let the kids play at the store's Thomas train table in the children's books section. Just outside the mall entrance, head to the revamped indoor play area.

AMF Bowling Centers

www.amf.com

Bowl a few games, share some laughs and nosh snacks right at the lane. Grab dinner afterward and call it a day.

Mini Golf Paradise

www.funindoor.com

Play an 18-hole miniature course indoors that's open year round. You'll hit the links amid a colorful jungle setting. Look for on-line coupons.

Jeepers! Amusement Paradise

www.funindoor.com

This is an indoor amusement park with kid favorites, including a mini-roller coaster, bumper cars and safari jeep track. There are also plenty of games and a soft play area, plus food and drinks. Look for on-line coupons.

Arizona Museum of Natural History/Arizona Museum for Youth

Spend the day exploring two great kids museums, just a short distance apart. The natural history museum focuses on prehistoric Arizona and features a three-story mountain with life-like dinosaurs, territorial jail cells and more. The youth museum will keep kids engaged with cool art exhibits and lots of hands-on opportunities.

As you Wish Pottery Painting Place

www.asyouwishpottery.com

Escape the heat for an hour or so and explore your inner artist. Shelves are lined with pottery that appeals to kids and adults alike, from cars and piggy banks to picture frames and tableware. Pick out a piece, along with your favorite paint colors, and start creating. Your treasures will be glazed, fired and ready to pick up in a few days.

Kiwanis Wave Pool

www.tempe.gov

Check out this indoor swimming complex, complete with fun waves, a water slide, inner tube rentals and concession stand.

Pump It Up

www.pumpitupparty.com

Kids can bounce, slide and play on giant inflatable play structures in air-conditioned comfort. Popular for private birthday parties, locations also offer drop-in times.