Cool Ways to Beat the Heat

Summer is a season of celebration in Delaware with outdoor festivals, live music, farmers’ markets and more, but, sometimes, you just need to chill. From ocean kayaking adventures to tax-free shopping sprees, Delaware has plenty of ways to beat the summer heat.

Water adventures : A day on the water is a summer staple adventure for Delawareans and vacationers alike, and getting off the boat and into the ocean or bay is a great way to stay cool. Try stand up paddleboarding at Cape Henlopen, skimboarding in Dewey Beach or jet skiing in the Rehoboth Bay. Away from the sand, Delaware waterparks like Killens Pond, Jungle Jims and Thunder Lagoon, are perfect family-friendly spots for the kiddos to cool down. With lazy rivers, fast slides and splashing fountains, you’ll keep the heat away. If you’d rather stay dry on a boat or in a kayak, paddle through the shady baldcypress trees of Trap Pond State Park or savor the salt breeze aboard a tour with Cape Water Tours and Taxi.

Cool eats : Step into a restaurant to enjoy a tasty meal in the a/c you’ve been in search of. Delight your tastebuds and enjoy the view of the Wilmington Riverfront at a restaurant like Iron Hill. Or, try a refreshing sip of freshly squeezed juice at The Juice Joint. If in search of fine dining while you cool off, visit Bardea in downtown Wilmington. Top off your meal with some tasty Delaware treats like “Grandma’s Gone Co-conuts” from UDairy in Newark or a milkshake piled high with toppings from Mug & Spoon in Rehoboth Beach.

Frosty brews : Throughout the year, Delaware’s craft beverage locations are a must-visit, but even more so during the summer when their frosty and iced beverages are a remedy for the heat outside. Use Delaware on Tap to guide you to Delaware’s top craft brew locations. Each stop gets you closer to a free prize! Be sure to try some of Delaware’s signature cocktails along the way.

Tax-Free Shopping : Shopping in an air conditioned store is a great escape on any summer day, especially when the shopping is tax-free. Step into Christiana Mall’s upscale shops, or browse the 100+ stores at the beaches’ Tanger Outlets, known for amazing deals on top name brands. Delaware’s top shopping streets of Newark, Dover, Milford and Lewes will have boutiques with fabulous finds you’ve been dreaming of. Finish off your shopping spree with a movie at Penn Cinema in Wilmington or Westown Movies in Middletown. Clear Space Theatre in Rehoboth Beach is suited for those with a taste for live entertainment.