This article is perfect for new Sun Devils trying to beat the heat. All of these can be planned relatively last minute as well.
1. Baseball Game
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Chase Field is super fun, and thanks to our retractable roof you can escape the heat! It's easy to get cheap, nose-bleed seats last minute. Even better, depending on who we're playing, you can get relatively good seats inexpensively.
2. Drive-In Movie
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West Wind Drive-In Theaters is one of the only drive-in theaters in the valley. It's super cute and is an experience in itself! General admission is actually cheaper than a lot of theaters nearby. I recommend grabbing some food and blankets and setting up a cute camp in the back of your car or truck.
3. Paddle Boating
Renting a paddle boat (or pedal boat) at Tempe Town Lake can be relatively cheap and such a cute, cheesy date (like in 10 Things I Hate About You!!). It's especially fun at night, but keep in mind they close at 8:00 on weekdays. Make a night of it and pack a picnic to eat by the lake after!
4. Stargazing
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It's difficult to properly stargaze in the valley due to light pollution, but the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory makes it easier! It's open on Friday and Saturday nights and is a great memory.
5. Ice Skating
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During the summer, Ice Den Chandler offers $5 Friday night public skating. This is the ultimate way to beat the heat! If you and your partner or friends end up loving it, I highly recommend City Skate during the winter. It's an outdoor ice skating rink in downtown Phoenix that's always decorated super cute for the holidays!
6. Old Movie Showing
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If you liked the idea of a drive-in movie, or you're just generally a movie lover, you have to check out Alamo Draft House. This is a dine-in theater (with really good food that can run a little pricey, heads up) that plays both new and old movies. I always keep an eye on their website because they often have really fun showings of things like sing-a-longs! The Tempe location is pretty close to the ASU campus.
7. Pottery Painting
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As You Wish is a pottery painting place in Tempe Marketplace that's super fun for a first date or a group of friends! I also love going there to make gifts. It can run about $30 per person once you account for the studio fee, so keep that in mind.
8. Night Hike
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Night hiking is super fun and can be great for escaping the heat as well. City Spot is a great, super light walk on South Mountain that leads to an amazing view of the valley. Just like paddle boating, you can make a night of it and pack some food!
