Fun Activities to Stay Cool in Connecticut this Summer
June 14, 2016
Connecticut might be better known for its long New England winters than sweltering summer heat, but that doesn’t mean it’s wool caps and snowball fights all year long. No, as anyone who’s lived in Connecticut knows, the summer months usually range from a bit stuffy to downright scorching.
Luckily, we live in the age of central air conditioning. Doubly lucky for those of us who aren’t content to spend all summer inside (suit yourselves), there’s plenty of fun summer activities to help Connecticut kids, teenagers, and adults cool down. Looking for some ideas to beat the heat this summer? Keep reading to learn some of our favorite.
Take a Dip at One of Connecticut’s Gorgeous Beaches and Lakes
Connecticut’s Department of Energy & Environmental protection lists new fewer than 23 state parks with areas for swimming, many with on-duty lifeguards. Some of our favorites are the following:
- Indian Well State Park in Shelton: Features fresh water beach swimming, boat launch, hiking, and scenic waterfall views.
Lake Waramaug State Park in Kent: Features gorgeous, crystal clear fresh water swimming and 77 camp sites in case you have such a great time you don’t want to leave!- Quaddick State Park in Thompson: Connecticut’s Northeastern corner doesn’t get any more scenic than this lakeside park with swimming, boating, picnic tables, and plenty of lovely paths to walk.
- Mount Tom State Park in Litchfield: A freshwater beach sits at the base of scenic Mount Tom, with plenty of swimming and hiking for the whole family!
- Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison: Connecticut’s largest shoreline park, Hammonasset you can take a dip in the Long Island Sound, or enjoy biking, camping, fishing, walking trails, and more!
Get more information and find more parks at the DEEP website. And if you’re willing to ask around, we’re willing to bet there are some great swimming holes a little more off the beaten path!
See a Movie at One of Connecticut’s Local, Independent Theaters
Enjoy air conditioning and enjoy a day out? If it sounds too good to be true, it’s not. Just head to one of Connecticut’s great indie theaters! Check out some of the best:
- Edmond Town Hall Theatre in Newtown: For close to a century, residents of Newtown and surrounding communities have enjoyed taking in movies at the Edmond Town Hall. The refurbished 500-seat proscenium theater features digital projection and sound with second-run movies showing as many as seven days a week. Oh, and the best part? Tickets are only $2!
- Bethel Cinema in Bethel: Specializing in independent and foreign films, Bethel Cinema is a true film buff’s haven. You might not be able to find much for the kids, but there’s bound to be something for grown-ups looking for something new.
- Cinestudio in Hartford: Located on the Trinity College campus, although not a part of the school, Cinestudio is a single-screen theater with an emphasis on art films and cinema. A 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization since 2002, it’s the perfect place to cool off while taking in a little culture!
- Madison Art Cinemas in Madison: With a history in this shoreline community dating back to 1912, Madison Art Cinemas in Madison is another great place to enjoy the finer things while keeping cool in the summer. The theater plays first-run independent art and upscale foreign and domestic films, and boasts a unique interior décor unlike anything else in the state.
Get a Scoop or Two of Praline’s Own Made Ice Cream
Connecticut’s own Praline’s Own Made makes the best ice cream in the state – what better way to cool down in the summer? Praline’s has delicious seasonal flavors for summer like Donntella (hazelnut with chocolate), Orange Pineapple, Blueberry Schnapps, and more! Praline’s has
parlor locations in towns across the states, including these:
Come by for a scoop today!
