IT’S HOT, FINALLY! 7 ways to beat the heat this weekend

Hello weekend! It’s time to relax and start celebrating the Fourth of July early.

It’s going to be sunny, hot and humid this weekend.

>> Check out the weekend forecast from our news partners at Stormcenter 7

Here are a few ways to cool down and have fun during the heat.

» How to prevent heat-related and life-threatening illnesses during extreme heat

» How quickly heat can kill your child or pet

1. SWIMMING POOLS

If a trip to the pool isn’t already part of your weekend plans, maybe it should be! The instant cool-down you feel when diving into a pool is hard to beat.

>> 7 of the best places to go swimming in Dayton you may not know about

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

2. INDOOR PLAY

When the air is too thick and the temperatures are too high to head outside for play, indoor fun saves the day. From recreation centers to laser tag to art studios, Dayton and its surrounding cities are full of kid- (and adult-) friendly activities that’ll keep you cool and entertained indoors.

>> Your guide to indoor play spaces close to Dayton

>> 40 things to do (indoors) in Dayton when it’s sweltering

Credit: Contributed

Credit: Contributed

3. WATER PARKS

Nothing says summer quite like having a blast on an epic water slide, floating on a lazy river and bobbing in a wave pool. Dayton is surrounded by water parks, including the newest big water play space in the area Aqua Adventures water park at Land of Illusion.

>> Waterpark adventures a short drive from Dayton

>> Where to paddle in Dayton and what to know before you go

4. VISIT A MUSEUM

Air conditioned and full of wonder, museums are a great educational alternative to uncomfortable outdoor play. Outstanding archives and collections have enabled Dayton to offer the community many ways to explore its arts, culture, history and heritage. Take your pick from aviation to local history and beyond, and it can all be found here.

>> 12 museums you must explore in Dayton

>> 4 reasons Dayton moms love the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

5. ENJOY A FROZEN TREAT

From creamy custards to crunch-laden cones, frozen treat establishments around Dayton are ready to shake, scoop and soft-serve all the frozen treats you need to beat the heat and chill out.

>> These are the best-loved small town ice cream shops around Dayton

>> Here are some of our favorite places to grab some yummy ice cream

6. SPLASH PADS AND SPRAY PARKS

Cool fun isn’t limited to the pool as the area has many parks with water play features.

RiverScape and Island MetroParks both have water play areas. Interactive water features can also be found in community parks throughout the Miami Valley including Dayton, Centerville, Oakwood, Kettering, Fairborn and Huber Heights. Bonus: splash pads and spray parks are free.

>> 4 breathtaking waterfalls near Dayton to visit

>> Your guide to Dayton area spray parks

7. WATER SPORTS

Dayton is famous for a little things. But did you know water recreation is one of them? This region is considered a destination for paddling for Dayton-area residents, but also attracts water sports enthusiasts from across the region. You don’t have to be an expert to join the fun. Five Rivers MetroParks has partnered with Whitewater Warehouse to offer paddlesport rental options at RiverScape MetroPark. Inflatable single and tandem kayaks as well as stand-up paddleboards will be available at designated times throughout the summer, including June 29 and July 5.

>> RiverScape offering paddlesport rentals

How do you beat the heat? Share your ideas with us at contact@dayton.com

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