It sounds like we have at least two more days of the Amazon jungle heat and humidity; with three days of it behind us already, I’m sure there are more than a few people getting mid-summer cabin fever (if they’re lucky enough to have air conditioning). While it’s possible to face this heat–I’m still doing my daily bike commute, though I pack a lot more water than usual–it’s not very pleasant.
How can you keep cool and still have fun?
Outdoor adventures are made bearable–even enjoyable–with a little water. We’ve mentioned before the regional parks in the Dakota County and Three Rivers systems: lots of beaches and boats help you cool off and have fun. We’ve also mentioned the great outdoor pools in the Twin Cities, especially the Highland Park Aquatic Center in St. Paul and the Jim Lupient Water Park in Minneapolis. The great thing about swimming when the dew point is hovering in the low 80s? No goose bumps when you get out of the water! There’s simply no space left in the air for more water to evaporate into!
If you’re looking for something more on the inside, check out Edinborough Park in Edina: space for kids to run and climb and shout, with air conditioning! Or on the northwest side, check out Maple Maze in Maple Grove, with a big climbing structure for older kids and a special toddler space too. You can use your outdoor voice indoors! (File these away for winter, too, when cabin fever will surely strike again.)
Museums are always cool as well, in more ways than one. You can easily burn off some energy and learn a little, too, at the Science Museum, or explore the kid-sized ant hill and block-moving factory at the Children’s Museum. Or why not venture off the beaten path a little, with a trip to the Pavek Museum of Broadcasting, a sure hit with the budding broadcaster in your house?
Keep cool and beat the heat!
