The best things to do in metro Phoenix and beyond for the July 4th weekend

The Fourth of July lands on a Tuesday this year and that means an extra long weekend for anyone lucky enough to also be taking Monday off.

Whether you're ready to celebrate Independence Day by heading to a fireworks blowout with family and friends, chilling at an adults-only pool party or packing the car and setting off for some part of Arizona that's cooler, greener or has a great swimming beach, we've got you covered. 

Here are the best things to do in metro Phoenix and around Arizona for Fourth of July 2023, plus some money-saving tips to fight the high cost of gas.

Where to see fireworks in metro Phoenix

It's going to be a very colorful year for Fourth of July fireworks displays in the Valley. Cities from Glendale to Tempe to Mesa to Queen Creek are planning some booming events. Our guide to the best Fourth of July celebrations in metro Phoenix covers all the fun, including live music, rides, laser lights, food trucks and more.

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Here are two things fireworks fans should know for 2023: The Fabulous Phoenix 4th celebration at Steele Indian School Park is back for the first time since 2019. And if you're used to going to the July 4 fireworks at Tempe Town Lake, you'll need to adjust. Tempe's fireworks have moved to a new location this year.

Need a vacation? 10 places to rent a cool cabin in Arizona this summer

Best Arizona road trips for July 4

It's not too late to plan a last-minute getaway to someplace in Arizona that's cooler than Phoenix. From Prescott to the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, here are the best weekend getaways that have a lot to offer on the July 4 weekend. You'll find fireworks, a laser light show, a rodeo, festivals and much more.

What to know if you're flying or driving this weekend

If you're heading out of town this weekend, you're not alone. AAA predicts that 50 million Americans will be traveling over the Fourth of July. Here's what to expect on Arizona highways this weekend, as well as tips to help ease you through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Road tripping? Save some money on gas

If you're heading out of town for the holiday, gas prices are probably on your mind. Yes, they're lower than they were last summer. But who doesn't want to save a buck when they can? Gas loyalty programs are easy to join. Our guide to five of the most popular ones explains how.

Cool your kids off at a splash pad

There are countless splash pads across the Valley where kids can whoop it up. Some are simple, with gently bubbling water jets. Others are elaborate, with slides, water spouts and separate areas for the littlest visitors. Here are a dozen of the most popular splash pads around metro Phoenix.

All the best water parks in metro Phoenix

From lazy rivers to exhilarating slides, this guide to metro Phoenix water parks tells you where they are and what's offered at each park. Want to staycation at a Phoenix or Scottsdale resort? This guide to hotel water parks with the best slides and other amenities has you covered. We've got a guide to getting hotel-pool day passes, too. New for 2023: The iconic Phoenician resort is offering day passes for the first time in its history.

5 tips for staying safe on July 4th:Think that sparkler won't hurt you? Think again.

Adults: Cut loose at a day or night club pool party

Grab your friends and your best swimwear and head to one of the hotels and clubs throughout Phoenix and Scottsdale that host parties with DJs, live music and specialty cocktails. To elevate your experience, reserve a day bed or private cabana. Here are the best pool parties for summer 2023. 

Go tubing on the Salt River

Salt River Tubing offers outings of 1½ to four hours on a calm stretch of the lower Salt River. Here's our guide to Salt River Tubing in 2023. The new owners have added several enhancements since last year, including fast passes so you can spend less time standing in line.

Reach me at jill.cassidy@arizonarepublic.com or follow me on Twitter @JillHikes.

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