It is important to stay cool during these super-hot days. Here are just a few ways to do that in Ames.
Go swimming
Go for a swim with the whole family at the Ames Furman Aquatic Center! There is no better way to cool down than to splash in the water. They have shallow and deeper pools, slides, and a lazy river!
Check out the library
The Ames Public Library is a great place to cool down with your loved ones. They have activities for kids and a huge selection of books to interest the whole family!
Explore Reiman Gardens
Take a walk through the indoor gardens, including an exciting butterfly garden! Look at the insects and buy something in the gift shop while you are there.
Eat ice cream
For a cold refreshing scoop of ice cream, stop by one of Ames’ delicious spots! We love Marmalade Moon’s homemade flavors! Check out other places to find a sweat treat in Ames to keep on treating yourself.
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Visit a museum
There are tons of air-conditioned museums in Ames! The Iowa State University Brunnier Art Museum inside the Scheman Building has a great display of art collections. Octagon Art Center For the Arts also has a great selection for viewing and purchasing.
Play indoor games
Too hot to play golf outside? We get it. Hit some balls at Inside Golf’s golf simulator. If you are not a golf fan, they also have axe throwing, bowling, and a baseball simulator. They even offer food and drinks!
Or head to Perfect Games for a perfect day of fun! They have arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and more. You can eat food and get drinks while having a nice time away from the heat!
Go out to eat
Bring the whole family to Hickory Park to eat tasty barbecue (and ice cream) and relax in the air conditioning. If barbecue isn’t your style, we also like Provisions Lot F and The Café. For more restaurants in Ames, click here.
See a movie
It’s a great time to go see a movie! With all the summer blockbusters coming out, there are more options than ever. See the new Barbie live-action, Oppenheimer, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, or one of the other great choices! Enjoy the reclining seats and some delicious popcorn at Cinemark 12 or the North Grand Cinema in Ames.
Shop down Main Street
Grab a book at Dog-Eared Books. Reading inside or in the shade is a great way to escape the heat. While in the area, stop by one (or both) of the Nook and Nest locations! They have a wonderful selection of home items and furniture. For a shopping guide, visit our Where to shop for summer essentials in Ames blog.
By Rachel Gantt, Marketing and Communications Intern
