When the temperatures climb into the 90s (or even higher!), it can be tempting to stay indoors all day. But with a little creativity, there are plenty of ways to keep kids entertained while staying cool during a Merrimack Valley heat wave.
From splash pads and libraries to ice cream adventures and indoor play spaces, here are some of our favorite ways to beat the heat this summer!
💦 Splash Around at a Local Splash Pad or Spray Park
Nothing says summer like cooling off in the water! Many local parks offer splash pads or spray features where children can run through fountains and water jets while parents relax nearby.
Don't forget sunscreen, towels, water shoes, and plenty of water!
🏊 Spend the Day at a Local Pool
Community pools are a great way to cool off while getting some exercise.
Whether you're swimming laps, splashing with toddlers, or relaxing in the shallow end, pools offer hours of family fun.
📚 Visit Your Local Library
Your neighborhood library is one of the best places to escape the heat—and it's completely free!
Many Merrimack Valley libraries offer:
- Summer Reading Programs
- Story Times
- LEGO Clubs
- Pokémon Events
- STEM Activities
- Craft Workshops
- Family Movie Afternoons
- Magic Shows
- Animal Encounters
Libraries are air-conditioned, educational, and packed with summer fun.
🎳 Go Bowling
Bowling is the perfect rainy-day or hot-day activity.
Many bowling centers also feature arcade games, food, and family specials during the summer months.
🎬 Catch a Summer Movie
Many local theaters offer discounted family movies during the summer.
Grab some popcorn, enjoy the air conditioning, and introduce your kids to a favorite film—or discover a new one together.
🍦 Create an Ice Cream Trail
Turn dessert into an adventure!
Challenge your family to visit locally owned ice cream shops throughout the Merrimack Valley and vote on your favorites.
Try:
- Homemade waffle cones
- Frozen yogurt
- Soft serve
- Sundaes
- Milkshakes
🎨 Visit an Indoor Art Studio
Many local studios offer:
- Drop-in painting
- Pottery painting
- Canvas classes
- Slime workshops
- STEAM activities
Kids stay cool while creating something they'll be proud to bring home.
🧸 Explore an Indoor Play Space
Indoor playgrounds are lifesavers during extreme heat.
Kids can climb, slide, jump, and burn energy in a safe, air-conditioned environment.
🛍️ Take a Mall Adventure
Shopping malls aren't just for shopping!
Create a family scavenger hunt, enjoy lunch in the food court, browse bookstores, or let younger children enjoy indoor play areas.
🐠 Visit an Aquarium or Museum
Spend the day exploring fascinating exhibits while escaping the heat.
Popular options include:
- Hands-on children's museums
- Science museums
- Aquariums
- Local history museums
🍕 Plan an Indoor Picnic
Spread a blanket on the living room floor and enjoy lunch indoors.
Add music, board games, or a favorite movie to make it feel extra special.
🍪 Bake Together
Hot outside? Stay cool inside while baking.
Kids love helping make:
- Cookies
- Muffins
- Brownies
- Homemade pizza
- Fruit popsicles
🎲 Host a Family Game Marathon
Dust off the board games and challenge each other to a friendly competition.
Winner gets to choose dinner or dessert!
🎮 Have a Video Game Tournament
For older kids, organize a family tournament complete with snacks and prizes.
💧 Backyard Water Fun
If you don't have a pool, you can still cool off with:
- Sprinklers
- Water balloons
- Sponge tosses
- Kiddie pools
- Slip-and-slides
Sometimes the simplest activities create the best memories.
🚲 Ride Early or Late
If your family enjoys biking, walking, or hiking, head out early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
Always bring plenty of water and wear lightweight clothing.
🧺 Enjoy Dinner Outdoors
Skip cooking inside and enjoy an evening picnic once the temperatures begin to drop.
Local parks make wonderful dinner destinations.
🌅 Stay Out for Sunset
Finish the day by watching the sunset together.
Bring lawn chairs, bubbles, or a frisbee and enjoy the cooler evening air.
💙 Remember Heat Safety
Extreme heat can become dangerous quickly, especially for young children.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Drink water frequently.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (typically between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
- Use sunscreen and wear hats when outdoors.
Make the Most of Summer—Even During a Heat Wave
A heat wave doesn't have to put a damper on family fun. The Merrimack Valley is full of opportunities to stay cool while making lasting memories together. Whether you're discovering a new library program, cooling off with a scoop of ice cream, splashing in the water, or exploring an indoor attraction, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season safely.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy everything summer has to offer!
