8 Ways To Stay Cool in the Columbia Sun
There’s nothing like Maryland in the summer. We’ve got crabs, corn, snowballs, the Bay — and, at times, stifling humidity.
Luckily, when you live in Columbia, there’s plenty of fun ways to beat the heat and stay cool. Check out our top picks below!
If you’re looking for some culture…
Columbia Art Center
Feel like the heat is zapping your creative energies? Not to worry — Columbia Art Center will keep you energized, creating and air conditioned! With year-round classes and programs for all ages, there’s something for everyone at this community-focused art center. Learn more here.
Located at: 6100 Foreland Garth, Columbia, MD 21045.
Toby’s Dinner Theatre
You can’t beat dinner and a show! Toby’s serves up the drama alongside a buffet-style meal. Duck inside the shade and let yourself be transported by award-winning Broadway and original musicals. Check out the latest schedule of shows here.
Located at: 5900 Symphony Woods Road. Columbia, MD 21044.
Lakefront Summer Festival
This beloved summertime tradition — which offers free music and movies at the lakefront — is all about evening entertainment, so you can rest assured that the sun’s peak has come and gone. The concerts start at 6:30 at the earliest, and movies begin at dusk. Check out the full schedule here.
Located at: The Downtown Columbia Lakefront
If you’re looking for water fun…
Hopewell Mini WaterPark (HWP)
The Hopewell Mini WaterPark has an eight-lane pool with a large slide in the deep end, plus a mini waterpark with a Splash Pad area. Kids of all ages will have a blast while parents can enjoy the various shade structures available. All CA Play memberships have free access to HWP, but non-members are also welcome (more on admission fees here). Side note: CA also has 14 other neighborhood pools to choose from.
Located at: 9200 Rustling Leaf Columbia, MD 21045.
Indoor Pools
If you’re looking to make a splash without stepping foot outside, CA has five indoor pools (at four locations) to make it happen. These indoor pools are open year round for recreation, exercise and swim lessons. Check ’em out here.
Located at:
- Columbia Swim Center: 10400 Cross Fox Ln, Columbia, MD 21044.
- Supreme Sports Club: 7080 Deepage Drive, Columbia, MD 21045.
- Columbia Gym: 6151 Day Long Ln, Clarksville, MD 21029.
- Columbia Athletic Club: 5435 Beaverkill Rd, Columbia, MD 21044.
If you’re looking for adventure…
Columbia Ice Rink
Nothing says beating the heat like the frosty chill of the Columbia Ice Rink! There’s great options for skaters of all ages and abilities, plus programs available for hockey players and figure skaters. Learn more here.
Located at: 5876 Thunder Hill Road, Columbia, MD 21045.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
What exactly goes on in an indoor trampoline park, you may ask? All the fun flips and freestyle bouncing you’d imagine! Kids and adults alike will enjoy blowing off steam — there’s even a dodgeball court, Foam Zone, and Ninja Warrior course. Learn more here.
Located at: 7175 Oakland Mills Rd. Columbia, Md 20146.
Earth Treks
This state-of-the-art climbing gym offers a great way to stay active indoors. All ages will have a blast monkeying around in the largest bouldering area in the state. Learn more here.
Located at: 7125 Columbia Gateway Drive #110. Columbia, MD 21046.
Want more summer inspiration?
CA’s new web page is devoted to helping you have your best season yet — check it out here. Plus, you won’t want to miss the following blogs:
