Fun ways to stay cool in Boston during the 2024 heatwave

There’s a surprising number of pools open to the public in Boston, and we’re not talking about the giant puddles on Morrissey Boulevard. We’ve got picks like the Colonnade Hotel’s rooftop pool, which is a party complete with cocktails and food to order—just be sure to get there early, it’s one of the few hotel pools open to non-hotel guests (weekdays only). The InterContinental Boston also offers day passes to its indoor, heated lap pool that gets lots of natural sunlight. For a family-friendly day at the pool, try the Veterans Memorial Pool in Cambridge, which is free to all. Want something different? Check out our complete list of the best pools in Boston if you want to take a dip over the next few days.

If time and traffic can’t spare you a day trip to Cape Cod, it’s still possible to find a sandy spot to lay down your towel beside the ocean. The classic choice is Revere Beach, the first ocean beach for the purpose of public recreation to debut in the United States. Take the Blue Line to Wonderland, and pack light: You’re going to want to order a beach-friendly lunch from the original Kelly’s Roast Beef, a New England summer must. Or, cool off in Southie at Carson Beach as well as the nearby M and L Street Beaches. Take the Red Line to the JFK/UMass station. If you want to venture further afield, pack your sunscreen and hit the picturesque beaches of Boston’s North and South Shores, all less than an hour’s drive from downtown. Check out our roundup of the best beaches near Boston for more local recommendations.

Ice cream isn’t a permanent fix for the heat, but it sure can help! And when it comes to the best ice cream in Boston, we set the bar high. What better time than now to revisit favorites like New City Microcreamery, Toscanini’s and Honeycomb Creamery. And on weekends for the rest of the summer through Labor Day, Harvest restaurant is hosting an ice cream cart pop-up on its perfect patio.  

Of course, sometimes it’s just too hot to even be outside, even at the pool or beachside. That’s when it’s time to head to places with ice cold AC, like Boston’s incredible museums. Plan a visit to one of our world class museums this summer. The Museum of Fine Arts, Institute of Contemporary Art and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum all have wonderful exhibits on show right now in addition to their stunning permanent collections. Or maybe a more unusual museum is your speed?

The Encore Boston Harbor Resort and Casino is a quick hop from downtown Boston on a ferry (what's cooler than a boat ride on the harbor?!), or an easy drive (traffic willing) with free parking. Cool in the summer, you can spend an afternoon at the gaming tables, enjoy a meal in one of the award- winning restaurants like Red 8 or Rare Lounge, get totally pampered at the five-star spa—or just window shop and people-watch in the climate-controlled tower.

When you can’t sit still any longer, head to one of our local bowling alleys and arcades, like Kings Dining and Entertainment, with locations in Back Bay, the Seaport, Dedham and Burlington. You’ll find luxury bowling with table service drinks and bits, retro games like skeeball and big screen TVs everywhere. There’s also Urban Wild in Charlestown for bowling, Game On in Fenway where you can shoot a few hoops at, and Puttshack in the Seaport where you can work on your (mini) golf game. All offer food and drink, so make a day of it! If gaming isn't your vibe, find our full list of picks of the best indoor activities in Boston.