We love summer as much as the next guy, but the heat can be brutal and exhausting, especially on the kids. From air-conditioned movie theaters to splash pads pumping out plenty of refreshing water, here are eight ways to beat the heat and find family fun this summer.

1. Try a new snow cone joint. Here are ones our readers recommend and our Editor’s Picks, highlighting stands throughout the Oklahoma City area

2. Visit a children’s museum. Enjoy some frugal fun at a local FREE museum and stay up-to-date with all the current exhibits at area museums with this handy list. Even if you’ve visited all the museums in the Oklahoma City area, here are four incredible museums in the state tailored specifically to kids.

3. Play inside. Here’s a handy list of indoor play places in the OKC metro and a our Editor’s picks for indoor entertainment.

4. Go underground. Caves generally bring a sense of awe and they offer a very welcome break from the summer heat—and they are just plain fun! Here are the two best places to explore caves with kids in Oklahoma.

5. Splash around. Our guide to  splash pads and pools in the Oklahoma City area is guaranteed to keep you cool. Or, venture beyond the city for a day at one of Oklahoma’s best ‘beaches’.

6. Stay entertained indoors. This guide to indoor summer fun reveals summer specials at area bowling alleys, movie theaters and other indoor attractions to keep you cool (and save you money) all season.

7. Take a hike. Most hikes will be hot, but these waterfall hikes will be sure to cool you off! Also try hiking out to an Oklahoma swimming hole.

8. Swim indoors. Some days, even a trip to the pool will seem too hot. That’s when our list of indoor pools in the OKC metro will come in handy.

Looking for even more summer-time family fun? Check out our dozens of resources to help you plan your perfect summer!