by Holly Freeland
holly@louisville.com
We’ve temporarily seen the last of the highs in the 60’s and 70’s here in Louisville. It’s time to make way for more “seasonable” weather, and that means 80-90+ degree weather. We’ve already experienced some of the hottest days in recent memory for late May and June and it promises to only get warmer!
Pack a bag and pack a suit (swim suit that is)
There are several water parks around the area with the most popular being Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom or Holiday World. In case you're not up for the whole amusement park atmosphere, here's some great alternatives!
- Louisville Metro Parks: With 4 public city pools, there’s one close to everyone. In case a pool isn’t what you’re after and instead want a trip to a “sprayground”, check out the 4 different locations around the metro for cooling down.
http://www.louisvilleky.gov/MetroParks/recreation/summerpools.htm
And, don’t forget the waterfront! In the heart of downtown, kids can play in the waterplay area and it offers plenty of open, green space for a day of relaxing!
- Jeffersonville, IN Aquatics Center: with 2 water slides, play area, full concession stand, 50-meter competition pool and plenty of room for sun bathers, this is a great family place just across the river.
2107 Middle Road
(812) 282-SWIM
- Canoe: Blue River, Cave Country Canoes. Take a lazy trip down Southern Indiana’s Blue River, roughly 30 minutes from downtown Louisville. They offer half day trips as well as multi-day trips for canoeing enthusiasts!
http://www.cavecountrycanoes.com
No thanks, damp clothes, but I have to be outside in this gorgeous weather!
We’ve all been there. You know it’s a great day but the last thing you want to do is spend the day in a wet bathing suit and sunscreen. How about spending some time outside having other people tend to you?
- O Shea’s: A Louisville original and hometown favorite, there’s never a bad day here! But, it’s great for weather and even a better place for people watching!
956 Baxter Avenue (502) 589-7373
-Tumbleweed on the River: Louisville’s own Tumbleweed brand at its newest location on the river. You’ll find great views, a peaceful atmosphere and see all the happenings along the river.
1201 River Road (502) 585-4107
- Avalon: Best of Citysearch outdoor dining winner in 2005, Avalon is a great place for salads and vegetarian dishes for those looking for a light meal during a hot day.
1314 Bardstown Road (502) 454-5336
-Louisville Bats Baseball: No, it’s not basketball season, but what about the second biggest team in the land? Louisville has always been known as one of the best cities for AAA baseball and with an award winning stadium and highly successful team, it’s a great way to be outside!
www.batsbaseball.com
I only have a minute, but something icy cold would be fabulous!
Everyone knows about Dairy Queen and Baskin Robbins. For a little something different, try one of the following local treasures:
-Diary Kastle: For over 40 years, a Louisville favorite. You won’t find fancy seating here, or the latest technology in ice cream. Instead, enjoy frozen treats the way they were originally designed!
575 Eastern Parkway
-Starlight Frozen Custard- add your own favorite toppings to this unique spin on ice cream.
4169 Shelbyville Rd
-Graeter’s: Originating in Cincinnati, Graeter’s has several locations throughout Louisville, and they are all city favorites!
-Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen: Louisville’s own ice cream dynasty! Get ice cream, sundaes or floats, or cakes and pies at any of their 9 metro locations!
Let’s stay home!
Whether you’re having a lazy day or just don’t feel like leaving the house, we’ve got a list of fun things to stay cool in your own back yard as well!
-Give the dog a bath. It’s a great way to keep your best friend cool and be outside enjoying the weather!
-Wash the car. Your significant other has been asking you to clean the car for as long as you can remember. Get some sun and cool down, all while doing a chore!
- Buy a baby pool for some one-person tanning/relaxing. Ok, so it may not meet your “neighborhood standards”, but a $10 blow up pool is a great way to have your own personal aquatic tanning oasis, right in your own back yard. Your neighbors might look at you funny, but you’ll be tan AND cool at the end of the day!
