We love summer as much as the next guy, but the Oklahoma heat can be brutally exhausting, especially for kids. From cool treats to splash pads pumping out plenty of refreshing water, here are eight ways to beat the heat and find family fun this summer.
- Splash around. Venture beyond the city for a day at one of Oklahoma’s best beaches.
- Hit up a community splash pad or pool or experience the water in a new way on a canoe or kayak.
- Stay entertained indoors by visiting a local museum. Science Museum Oklahoma is a Family Favorite! Several metro museums have kid-friendly exhibitions such as Chef Loretta’s Garden at First Americans Museum and Dale Chihuly: The Oklahoma Collection at Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Money-saving tip – Plan trips to a free metro museum. During the summer, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame invites families to participate in its Summer Thursdays, which feature complimentary admission plus fun for the whole family. Also, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art has free general admission in June. (Editor’s note: If you make the trip to Shawnee, check out the new multi-age park, KidSpace Park, which is now the third-largest park in the state.)
- Embrace some cool vibes at a local ice skating rink. There are two in the metro – Arctic Edge and Blazers Ice Center.
- Go underground. Caves generally bring a sense of awe and offer a very welcome break from the summer heat— plus they are just plain fun! Here are the two best places to explore caves with kids in Oklahoma. Or stick close to home and explore the underground tunnels in OKC!
- Try a new snow cone joint. Here are some local spots our readers recommend. Or, make your own healthy cool treat at home.
- Take a hike. Most hikes will be hot, but these waterfall hikes will be sure to cool you off! Also, try hiking to an Oklahoma swimming hole.
- Make your own slip-n-slide for a wild time or turn on the sprinklers and create a wet obstacle course.
Looking for even more summer-time family fun? Check out our dozens of resources to help you plan your perfect summer!
