If this heat wave has you looking for ways to cool off, don’t sweat it. Check out one of the ways you can lower your temp while enjoying life in NOVA.

Chill in the shade

Shade is essential on sweltering summer days in Northern Virginia, and luckily, there are great places to enjoy the outdoors without baking in the sun. Two of our favorite shady escapes are Scott’s Run Nature Preserve and Fountainhead Regional Park.

Note: Many of the destinations featured in our hiking and park guides offer plenty of shade, making them great places to stay cool while spending time outdoors.

Where do you seek shade in NOVA?

Take a dip

If you’re looking for the classic outdoor pool experience, we recommend Warwick Pool in Alexandria. However, if you're looking to take your cooling-off adventure to the next level, Pirate's Cove Water Park in Lorton and Great Waves Waterpark in Alexandria are sure to keep the family occupied for hours on end.

If you don’t have time to have a whole pool day, splash pads are the perfect compromise. There are many located around NOVA, including the Mosaic District splash pad and the Fairfax City splash pad. Plus, check out these various locations around Arlington County.

Where’s your favorite swimming spot in NOVA?

Enjoy a cold treat

We would be remiss not to include a nice cold treat in our guide to cooling off.

Grab a sweet treat from locations like Great Falls Creamery, Sugar Mama’s Ice Cream, or the Scoop N' Scootery. If none of these options speak to you, check out our ice cream guide for more options around Northern Virginia.

Let us know, what’s your favorite ice cream shop in NOVA?

Last, but certainly not least, get yourself a cold beer. Some of our favorite spots include Audacious Aleworks Brewing, Lost Boy Cider, + Settle Down Easy Brewing — the perfect cap to a hot day.

Where do you opt to grab a cold beer in NOVA?