It feels like it’s getting hotter and hotter, but there are ways to find relief. In Prince George’s, you can stay cool by spending the day out on the water, under the shade of treetops, in an air-conditioned theater, or so much more. Whether you’d rather enjoy ice cream as you stroll under the sun or stay inside to play, there’s a summer activity you’ll love in the region.

 

Put some of these activities on your calendar this season:

 

  1. Take in a show. Check out the calendar at the Prince George’s Publick Playhouse for the Performing Arts in Hyattsville. In the air-conditioned theater, you can enjoy music, dance, theater, historical drama, films, and educational programming. Before you take your spot among the 494 comfortable seats, look up at the ornate scene on the ceiling: a vision of the sky.

 

  1. Get under the treetops at Cedarville State Forest in Brandywine. This forest is 3,707 acres and contains over 50 species of trees, many of which provide welcome shade to visitors. This canopy, along with the waterway in the park, makes the space an excellent outdoor location for a hot day. In fact, the Piscataway Tribe used these lands for camping and hunting because of the mild temperatures it supports.

 

  1. Keep moving but stay cool at the Lanham Skate Center. You can drop in for open skate, take a class to learn the sport, or plan a party at the center. Whatever you choose, you’re bound to have a good time. Just don’t forget your helmet!

 

  1. Relax in style — and in a space with a perfectly comfortable temperature — at The Spa & Salone at MGM National Harbor. The spa boasts eleven treatment rooms, a full-service salon, and a fitness center. Book a custom massage for a personalized experience, or try one of the location’s specialties, like the blissful renewal treatment. Try the platinum hydrafacial or the oxygen facial to keep your skin looking bright and fresh.

 

  1. Get a scoop or two at Ice Cream Jubilee in College Park. Ask to try the limited-time flavors, like strawberry matcha latte or brown sugar boba, to get a brand new ice cream experience — or stick to the classics for something you know you’ll love. They even have non-dairy options, like a mango sorbet. Top your choice off with candy, whipped cream, sprinkles, or hot fudge.

 

  1. Get your exercise in and stay cool at the Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex in Landover. You can swim in the leisure pool, lounge along the lazy river, or take a swimming lesson to improve your skills. For free weights, strength training, cardio equipment, and group exercise, head to the fitness center. Kids will have fun in class at the gymnastics center.

 

  1. Bounce, play, and jump to your heart’s content at FunBox in Bowie. The space is packed with colorful, inflatable structures that kids (and kids-at-heart) can bound across, around, and along. Don’t miss Marshmallow Mountain, the Gumball Gallop, and the Ninja Wall — and bring a few friends to challenge at the obstacle course.

 

  1. Enjoy the water and the outdoors at the Ellen E. Linson Splash Park in College Park. The pool and splash pad are a great spot for kids to stay cool and bask in the sunshine. There are water slides, spray areas, picnic tables, lockers, and showers.

 

  1. Feel the breeze from the Potomac River as you ride the Spirit Park Carousel in National Harbor. The whimsical, colorful ride features 28 hand-painted creatures, along with two chariots for those who prefer a more solid seat. Ride the carousel, then hop over to the enclosed playground for extra fun.

 

  1. Reserve a kayak or a canoe at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. Getting out on the water is a great way to cool off; just remember sunscreen. You can paddle along the Anacostia River with a friend and look out for creatures who call this aquatic space home. If you’d prefer someone else do the heavy lifting, book a spot on one of the pontoon boat tours that leave from the park.

 

Stay cool and chill at one of these relaxing outdoor spaces.