Ah, Yuma – a sun-soaked gem in southwestern Arizona known as the sunniest place on earth. With summer temperatures frequently soaring past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, finding ways to cool off and stay entertained can be a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of fun indoor activities to escape the sweltering heat. Here are our top five suggestions that your family can enjoy without breaking a sweat:

1. Explore Yuma’s Rich History and Culture

Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

Although it’s primarily an outdoor location, the Yuma Territorial Prison Museum provides a great chance for families to dive into local history, complete with air-conditioned buildings to explore. The prison, which operated from 1876 to 1909, has a unique history. Be sure to bring along your sense of curiosity, as there’s a multitude of stories to be discovered about the infamous inmates and their lives.

The Yuma Art Center

For an entirely indoor cultural experience, consider a trip to the Yuma Art Center. It’s an artistic hub offering a range of workshops and exhibitions, which could inspire everyone from budding artists to experienced enthusiasts. The center also hosts various events that are family-friendly and great fun for kids.

2. Enjoy Indoor Recreation and Sports

Waylon’s Water World and Z Fun Factory

What better way to beat the heat than by diving into a water-filled adventure? Waylon’s Water World, while outdoors, is a great way to stay cool. And adjacent to it is the Z Fun Factory, an indoor-outdoor amusement park. Inside, you’ll find an arcade,  billiards, full restaurant and inside/outside bars. A perfect retreat when the sun becomes too much to handle!

3. Have an At-Home DIY Art and Craft Day

Not in the mood to venture outside? Why not channel your family’s creativity with a DIY arts and crafts day at home? There are countless fun projects online, such as DIY painted vases or homemade bird feeders. You could even consider themes inspired by Yuma’s unique desert landscape. These activities can spark imagination, are educational, and result in tangible creations that you can use as home decor.

4. Delve into the World of Books

Yuma County Libraries

Yuma’s libraries offer a fantastic resource for families. The Main Library and branches host various events throughout the year, including storytelling sessions, book clubs, and educational workshops. Even without an event, a trip to the library can be a magical adventure. Let your children select books that pique their interest and spend the day traveling to distant lands through the pages of a captivating book.

5. Indoor Movie Night

Finally, when the Yuma sun has set and the temperatures have slightly cooled, round off the day with a family movie night. Set up your living room like a cinema, make some popcorn, and choose a film that everyone will enjoy. There are numerous streaming platforms available, like Netflix or Disney+, offering a vast selection of films and series suitable for all ages.

With a bit of planning, the Yuma heat can turn into an opportunity for quality family time. So, whether you’re a history buff, a sports enthusiast, an aspiring artist, a bookworm, or a movie fanatic, there’s an indoor activity in Yuma for everyone to enjoy. Summer in Yuma doesn’t have to be all about beating the heat—it’s about making the most of every moment with your family, regardless of the thermometer’s reading.