Pool parties, vacations, BBQ's, after dinner walks, lake trips, waterpark fun, snowcones, and popsicles are summertime go-tos. There is so much fun to be had during summer! I know it can get hot but we do live in Arizona and, uh, this shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. So it's time to find your inner child and get creative!

What we have here are some fun ideas for you and the kiddos to stay cool and not melt away. No kids? No, problem...there is something fun for everyone! Local pools are a great way to keep cool and run some of that kid energy off! Most local pools are super affordable and some have summer passes to save extra. Remember the sunscreen and hats when you go or you'll be sorry later! Or why not step it up a notch and go to a water park? Any age loves a good water park!

If you're short on time and perhaps funds, a trip to target for an outdoor water feature can be a great solution! For our house, we bought an H2Go Splash Pad for the kiddos. This has been a hit in the morning, afternoons and night time. Why not invite some family or friends over and turn it into a fun BBQ with the laughter of kids and yummy smells from the grill! Oh goodness, I love summertime so much! Ok, focus Caren!

Want some airconditioned options? KTR is where my 11-year son and his cousin are all about this summer! If you don't know, check it out! Also, Urban Jungle, Jump Street, Skateland, AZ Ice, Ice Den, Children's Museum of Phoenix, Arizona Science Center, I.D.E.A. Museum, Octane Raceway and there is so much more. I mean about the classic good time of bowling? I'm awful at it but love going and thinking, 'this is it, I'm going to get the best score ever'! lol never happens but, it's still fun! 

Adult fun? Like fun things for adults...don't make it weird. *wink. Have you heard of this Ax throwing thing? I've heard a lot about and it sounds like a great time with friends. At least I'd leave the kids home because let's be real, taking care of kids and throwing axes do not sound like a good time to me, kinda sounds like a trip to the E.R. Thanks but, I'll pass! There are also botanical garden events that are pretty cool and chill. Concerts are always a fun option or even a stay-cation! Kayaking, floating the river, or hitting the lake for a day or two is always a good time when kept cool by water.

Along with fun things to do, you want some new fun summery recipes to compliment it. Below you will see some yummy, healthy summertime food and drink recipes to get the party started and keep it going!