Oh my lanta it is hot out!

Doesn't that looking calming and cool?!
Photo courtesy of fallcreekcabins.com

To help quell some of this insidious heat we thought that we’d share some of our favorite cool down spots and activities so that you can take a break from the heat.

The gym- Most of them have air conditioning, so you can get in your full workout while staying out of that oppressive heat

Water balloon fight- Oh sure, you can say you’re too old or “mature” to engage in this fantastically fun activity, but it’s a great way to cool off!

Biking by the water- One of the great things about Buffalo is that you can get to the water pretty quickly by foot, automobile, or bike.  We love taking late evening rides along the lake and/or river, it’s great exercise, the breeze feels amazing, and you can cool off with a cone and your feet in the water

Yummy!
Photo courtesy of
icecreampictures.org

Cold potato- A great activity we found on familyfun.go.com.  You poke a hole in a balloon, fill it up with water, and then toss it around to your friends.  The object of the game is to not be the one holding the balloon when it’s out of water!

Ice cream- Enough said!

Car wash- Something I always remember about being a kid is that if it involved a water hose, I was in! And that went double for getting to wash a car or bike.  Sure, as we age the luster of going out to manually wash a car or bike dulls, but if you have kids, it’s a great way to get them out of the house, cool them down, and get a free car wash!

The pool or beach- Always a staple and a sure way to cool down, but be sure that:

·         You’re swimming in a designated area

·         No one is ever swimming on their own

·         Children that cannot swim are wearing U.S. Coast Guard certified flotation devices

o   Be sure that an adult is in the water with them within an arm’s reach  in case the child needs help

·         Someone knows CPR and basic first aid

·         You have immediate access to a phone

·         For more information on water safety, click here

Creek walk- There are lots of creeks around WNY, and nothing is more cooling, relaxing, and fun then gathering up the family and walking in a creek and exploring! The most recent one I’ve visited is Eighteen Mile Creek.

So, don’t spend all of your summer shut inside with your air-conditioner this summer! There is lots of fun to be had!

Be sure to post your favorite summer cool down activities below to help your WNY neighbors have a more enjoyable season!

For tips on how to stay safe in the heat, click here.