The temperatures are in the triple digits and there's a good chance your electricity bill is as well, but don't let that get you steamed. Luckily there are a handful of things to do to keep cool while the sun is trying to beat you down- and none of them include putting on a luchador mask and challenging the sun to a showdown.
First on the list is SWIMMING... and good news, because a lot of the pools that were closed last year are open this year. There are about 17 public pools open around the metroplex and some of them even offer swim lessons at a reasonable price. For a list of open pools in your area check out http://www.dallascityhall.com/Parks/pdfs/Dallas_Pool_Legend_2011.pdf If the kids are bothering you for something a little more exciting there is always the Splash Parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, NRH20 and some lesser known (and not as crowded) places like Hawaiian Falls and even more budget friendly is Bahama Beach Family Waterpark which boasts "Duck Races" on special days and whose admission is cheaper than most! To check on those duck races and ticket prices visit:
If you adults are in need of something more exciting there are the FREE to the public pool parties on Sundays at the Belmont Hotel from 1-5. Kid friendly and also with a poolside bar. And speaking of free...
If FREE is your magic word and you're wanting a little changeup from the pool- try one of the many Spray Parks around town- which is just what it sounds like....bubbling, spraying, jetting fountains that are kid and people friendly and FREE. You can find a list of them here:
Once you've had your fill of splashing around in the sun check out some indoor events that are air-conditioned and kid friendly such as Storytime Saturdays at Cliff Notes Bookstore. Storytime usually starts at 10:30 on Saturday mornings, Check their facebook page to stay current on events:
The first Saturday of the month at TrammelCrowAsianArtCenter is a free family day! Check out the exhibits and do FREE yoga with your kids as part of their Yogiños: Yoga for Youth series. More info:
Surely that's a great start to turning off the air conditioner, getting in some family fun over the summer and saving a little on your electricity bill...which will ease the burn on your wallet just a little bit. Don't forget the SPF and to stay on top of your water. Disfruta! Have a fun and safe summer everyone!
Kathy Wiesner
Phillip Morales
Patricia Rodriguez
Rita Berumen
Clavel Gutierrez
Mi Escuelita Preschool
Fabian Campos