Sizzlin’ Summer Survival Guide: 10 Fun Ways to Stay Cool in Hampton Roads
☀️💦🧊
When the temps rise in Hampton Roads, here are plenty of fun and free (or cheap!) ways to chill while making the most of summer.
1. 💦
Hit Up a Splash Pad or Sprayground
Perfect for kids and grown-ups who want to run through the sprinklers again (no judgment!). Try:
- Norfolk’s Northside Park Splash Pad
- Williams Farm Park in Virginia Beach
- Portsmouth City Park’s Splash Pad
2. 🍦
Cool Down with a Local Treat
Treat yourself to something sweet and frozen:
- Gelati Celesti or Lolly’s Creamery for dreamy ice cream
- Pelican’s Snoballs in Chesapeake or Suffolk for 100+ icy flavors
3. 🧊
Take a Break at a Local Cooling Center
Need serious AC? Hampton Roads offers cooling centers open to the public during heat advisories.
4. 🎬
Catch a Movie in the A/C
Escape the sun and enjoy some popcorn and a blockbuster. Bonus: Many theaters have $5 Tuesdays or free kids’ movie mornings during the summer.
5. 🏖️
Beach It—But Be Smart
Early mornings or late afternoons at Buckroe Beach, Ocean View, or Sandbridge are perfect times to soak up the salt air without melting. Bring a beach umbrella, lots of water, and reapply that SPF!
6. 📚
Chill Out at the Library
Local libraries are cool in more ways than one. AC + books + free kids’ events = the ultimate win. Many offer:
- Storytime and crafts
- Free summer reading challenges
- Teen hangouts and movie days
7. 🛝
Visit an Indoor Play Space
Let the kids burn energy indoors. Check out:
- Jump Trampoline Park (Newport News)
- Sky Zone (Chesapeake)
- FunVille Indoor Playground (Virginia Beach)
8. 🚤
Take a Water Cruise
Hop on a harbor cruise or paddleboat tour for fresh breezes and a fun way to sightsee. Try:
- The Elizabeth River Ferry
- Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise
9. 🎨
Get Creative Inside
Stay in and set up your own cool craft zone. Bonus: Make DIY popsicles, paint beach rocks, or even try water balloon painting in the yard.
10. 🐧
Meet the Animals at the Virginia Aquarium
It’s dark, it’s cold, and it’s full of sea creatures—what’s not to love? A great way to beat the heat and explore the underwater world.
Remember: Stay safe, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to check on pets and neighbors!
For a list of local cooling centers, click HERE.