We all know that summer can be fun… but it can also be HOT! As a mom of three, I try to avoid outdoor activities when the temperatures are rising. My kids do NOT handle the heat well. The heat can often lead to dehydration, sunburns, heat exhaustion, and the dreadful temper tantrums that occur while overheated. Luckily, here in South Central Pa, there are many indoor activities in the area that are exciting experiences for kids of all ages. Below I have listed five of my go to places where you can “beat the heat” and enjoy the cool indoor temperatures with your little ones.
The Turkey Hill Experience
Located in Columbia, PA off the Route 30 exit, the Turkey Hill Experience is a great way to eat and stay cool! Explore the company’s history, taste delicious Turkey Hill brand ice cream and iced tea, and even get the chance to create your own virtual ice cream flavor! What better way to cool down and escape the heat than eating ice cream?
Tiny Town
Tiny Town is hands down one of the best places to visit with young toddlers. Here, children can “visit” 11 uniquely designed playhouses. There is a grocery store, library, doctor’s office, gas station, and even a castle with a built in slide! Tiny Town also offers comfortable seating throughout, and is even equipped with a small cafe and coffee bar for parents observing their children play. Let your child cool down inside and let their imagination run wild!
READ: South Central PA Summer Bucket List: 50+ Things to Do!
Local Libraries
One of my favorite summer memories as a child is visiting my local library. I could spend hours inside picking out books to read that would then become entwined with my summer memories of reading outside or by the pool. With 17 local libraries within the Library System of Lancaster County, chances are there is one within your backyard! Each library offers summer reading programs for adults, children, and toddlers with enticing prizes to be had once completed. The children’s area of each library features a reading area, computers, a coloring area, and more. Each library independently offers a variety of events such as story time, baking camps, sewing classes, gardening clubs, toddler time, and more!
Lancaster Science Factory
Open seven days a week, the Lancaster Science Factory is an impressive hands-on, interactive science center for kids. A variety of STEM educational programs and workshops are held to create an educational outreach within the community. The factory holds over 75 interactive exhibits meant for children to touch and explore. Each exhibit relates to the STEM principles and aligns with state standards. Who knew learning and fun could go hand in hand?
Hands-On House
Hands-On-House is a children’s museum located in Lancaster. The museum is geared towards younger kiddos, specifically ages 2-10. There are different exhibits throughout the museum, such as the farmers market, farm, robotic arm and stem lab, amazing airways, construction zone, and even an outdoor adventure garden and playground. There are various classes offered throughout the year, such as arts-and-crafts classes, yoga, and read-alouds. These classes are free with a membership or with admission. Bonus! There is a private nursing station on hand, which I thought was great when I brought my two-week old along. Hands-On House is a great place to stay cool during the summer and keep your kiddo(s) entertained!
Where are your favorite places to go to escape the heat?
