Maybe you haven’t noticed, but we’re in the middle of summer now, and days can get darn hot. Whether you don’t have air conditioning or it costs a gazillion dollars to run it, here are some ways to keep cool during the hottest hours without spending any money.
Go to the library
No, don’t roll your eyes at me. The library is not that boring place that you had to visit as a kid. Nowadays, libraries can be interesting places with many different things to do, and, even better, they’re always nice and cool. And free to visit. You don’t need a library card just to visit and read, but if you want to use their computers or other services, you do. The good news is that library cards are also free for locals, although if you’re from out of town, a few libraries will require a fee. Larger libraries nowadays sometimes even have creative tools like sewing machines, 3D printers, sound studios, laser cutters and the like. And some libraries have regular movie matinees, too. Check the website.
Shopping malls
Indoor malls are a traditional place of gathering, as we all know, but you don’t have to get up early and be a mall walker to take advantage of their cool air and seating. Now, keep in mind that shopaholics should not try this, because you won’t be able to resist the store windows or the inevitable “sale” signs. Check the website for your favorite mall and see if there are any free events you can enjoy while you’re there. And, if it’s a Tuesday afternoon, you might find a cheap classic movie as well.
Hotel lobbies
I’m probably not going to win any prizes from hotel owners for suggesting this, but hotel lobbies are typically public spaces available to anyone. (They won’t let you sleep there, though, and don’t make a mess.) There are always restrooms nearby as well. The first place that pops into my mind is the Grand Californian at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, because it’s beautiful and enjoyable even when it’s not hot. And has really comfy leather chairs you can sink down into with a book. There’s even a small area where kids can curl up on the floor and watch cartoons. And there’s always a place to eat — sometimes even in the lobby. The issue with hotels, however, is parking. You’ll have to pay a fee, unless you can find street parking.
Get in a pool
In L.A. County, water exercise sessions in a county pool are free for people 65 and older and also for the disabled. (Otherwise it’s $35 per month) At this writing, they were scheduled 11 a.m. to noon weekdays, and 8-9 a.m. on Saturdays (No Sundays). Find a list of pools at parks.lacounty.gov/aquatics.
In Riverside County, lap swimming for exercise is free for seniors at Sippy Woodhead pool and Hunt Pool from 11:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Learn more: riversideca.gov/park_rec/programs-sports/aquatics/pools
Find a Splash Pad
These gurgling spots to run in the cool water are designed for kids, but why not for everyone? Go for it.
- Los Angeles County: LA County has 23 splash pads open every day 10-7 through Sept. 30. Learn more here: parks.lacounty.gov/splash-pads
- Riverside County: riversideca.gov/park_rec/programs-sports/aquatics/splash-pads
- San Bernardino: ci.san-bernardino.ca.us/city_hall/parks_recreation/aquatics/splash_pads
- Ventura County: venturacomoms.com/featured/splash-pads-water-fun-around-ventura-county
Find a cooling center (These typically include community centers, churches, parks and the like.)
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- Los Angeles County: ready.lacounty.gov/Heat/
- LA City: climate4la.org/heat-relief-4-la/
- Orange County: ocgov.com/cooling-centers
- Riverside County: riversideca.gov/readyriverside/be-informed/hazards/extreme-heat
- San Bernardino County: dph.sbcounty.gov/extreme-heat-information-and-resources
- San Diego County: sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/PublicHealthPreparednesandResponse/cool-zones.html
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And drink some extra water while you’re at it!